This short hike will take you from the village of Gosh to Gosh Lake, passing by the ancient Goshavank Monastery. In case you’re wondering, “Gosh, who’s Gosh?” He’s the guy who basically put this area on the map.

Mkhitar Gosh was an influential 12th century scholar, statesman, and priest who founded the Goshavank Monastery complex. If you haven’t figured it out yet, monasteries were very important centers of learning and culture in medieval Armenia. The lake and nearby village are also named after Gosh. While making your way on this trail (part of the Transcaucasian Trail route through Dilijan National Park), you’ll notice several medieval cross-stones, unique to Armenia, including one with a tree growing on top of it! You’ll also pass through an area where trees are covered in white handkerchiefs. This isn’t litter—tying a white cloth to a holy site is a common local practice thought to bring good fortune. It’s a pre-Christian tradition that survives today.