Lori, in northern Armenia, is a high mountain plateau cut through by the spectacular Debed River canyon. The region is renowned for its UNESCO-listed medieval monasteries and its landscapes ideal for hiking.

The Debed Canyon

The Debed Canyon stretches from Vanadzor to the Georgian border, reaching depths of up to 350 meters in places. It is one of the most striking landscapes in northern Armenia, dotted with monasteries and historic remains.

Haghpat Monastery

Founded in 976 by Queen Khosrovanush at an altitude of 2,500 meters, Haghpat Monastery, surrounded by its fortified walls, is inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Sanahin Monastery

Located on a high plateau within the city of Alaverdi, Sanahin was built around the same time as Haghpat. Its name means “this one is older than that one”, reflecting a friendly rivalry between the two monasteries.

Sanahin Bridge

This medieval stone bridge spans the Debed River in Alaverdi and stands as one of the region’s architectural landmarks.

Vanadzor and outdoor activities

Vanadzor, the provincial capital, is an ideal base for hiking and rafting on the Debed River.

Practical information

Access: About 2 hours by road from Yerevan.
Best time to visit: May to October.
To pack: Sturdy walking shoes to explore the canyon.