Explore the ruins of the mysterious Forty Children Monastery on this medium hike. Starting from Dsegh and ending in Tsater, this trail is part of a larger trail network connecting the two villages to Tumanyan, Kobayr, Odzun, and Kurtan.

The trail starts in the village of Dsegh, the birthplace of Armenian writer Hovhannes Tumanyan and home to the Tumanyan House Museum. From Dsegh, head down into the valley, where you’ll find the ruins of the 13th century “Forty Children” Monastery (known as “Karasun Mankants” in Armenian). According to legend, sometime in the 17th century a group of 40 children sought refuge in the complex from invading Turks, and were never seen again. Take a closer look at the surrounding khachkars (cross-stones) before continuing into the valley. 

After passing underneath a marked bridge in the valley, you’ll find yourself on the main road. Follow the road a little ways up until you reach the Tufenkian Avan Dzoraget hotel, where you can stop for a coffee. From there, make the gentle climb up to the village of Tsater and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. In Tsater, follow the sign to a small spring pouring forth from a little tunnel. From Tsater, you can choose to continue into the town of Tumanyan via the Goats, Goats, Goats trail. You can also head towards the village of Kurtan via the Twin Fortresses trail.