Armenia’s Coziest Experiences in February

2025-01-14 18:28

While February brings the chill of winter to Armenia, it also sets a stage for cozy and heartwarming experiences. From traditional comfort foods to exploring snow-covered landscapes and enjoying serene retreats, Armenia in February offers a charm for travelers seeking warmth amid the cold. February is a month that celebrates love and connection, and what better way to mark this special time than by planning a romantic escape?

Here are some of the most delightful experiences you can enjoy this month.

Warm Up With Traditional Armenian Winter Dishes

When the temperature drops, Armenians turn to their culinary traditions to stay warm. February is the perfect time to savor hearty dishes like khash, a traditional soup made of simmered beef bones, served with garlic, radish, and lavash bread. It’s more than just a meal – khash is an experience often shared with friends and family during long, jovial gatherings in the morning for the breakfast.

Another must-try winter dish is harissa, a comforting porridge made of cracked wheat and slow-cooked chicken or lamb, symbolizing patience and resilience in Armenian culture. Pair these dishes with a glass of mulled Armenian wine, spiced with cinnamon and cloves, and you’ll have the perfect winter meal to chase away the chill.

Celebrate Romance With a Valentine’s Day Getaway

February is a month of love, and Armenia’s picturesque towns and scenic landscapes make it an good destination for couples. Consider a romantic retreat to Dilijan, known as the “Little Switzerland of Armenia,” where you can stay in charming guesthouses nestled in lush forests. Stroll through the historic Sharambeyan Street, visit the Haghartsin Monastery, or cozy up by the fireplace in a mountain lodge.

For sport activity, head to Tsaghkadzor, a popular winter resort town. Couples can enjoy skiing down snowy slopes during the day and end the evening with a romantic dinner at one of the town’s cozy restaurants.

Romantic Destinations to Visit

Lake Sevan: Imagine the scene of a partially frozen Lake Sevan, the snow-covered mountains reflected in the icy waters. You may find there cozy cafes nearby, serving warm tea or Armenian coffee.

Dilijan – The Little Switzerland of Armenia: Known for its lush forests and tranquil atmosphere, Dilijan is an ideal romantic retreat. The snow-covered trees and charming wooden houses create a magical ambiance, perfect for couples seeking peace and serenity far from city daily routines.

Yerevan City: The capital city offers a mix of vibrant urban life and quiet corners. Stroll through the beautifully lit Republic Square with its singing fountains or climb the Cascade Complex for a panoramic view of Yerevan with Mount Ararat in the distance.

Couple-Friendly Activities

February is all about sharing experiences, and we offer plenty of activities for couples.

Wine Tasting: Many places in Yerevan serve locally produced wines made from unique indigenous grape varieties like Areni. You’ll discover rich reds, crisp whites, and even fruit wines, each with distinct flavors reflecting Armenia's volcanic soils and mountainous terrain. Wine tastings are often accompanied by snacks, including local cheeses, lavash bread, and dried fruits.

Spa and Wellness Retreats: After exploring the winter scenery, unwind together with a relaxing spa session. Several resorts in Armenia offer wellness treatments using local herbs and products.

Shop for Handmade Armenian Crafts

February is also an excellent time to support local artisans by shopping for traditional Armenian crafts. Visit markets and workshops to find handwoven carpets, intricate silver jewelry, or locally made pottery. These crafts make wonderful keepsakes or thoughtful gifts to bring back home.

The Art of Armenian Carpets

Armenian carpets are masterpieces of cultural heritage that have been crafted for centuries. Woven with skill and care, these carpets often feature symbolic patterns and motifs, such as pomegranates, birds, and intricate geometric designs. Each region of Armenia has its style of carpet-making, with variations in colors, patterns, and weaving techniques. By purchasing a handwoven carpet, you’re not only bringing home a valuable gift but also contributing to the livelihood of local weavers who have mastered this craft over generations.

The Beauty of Silver Jewelry

Armenian silversmiths are renowned for their detailed craftsmanship and ability to create jewelry that blends ancient motifs with modern aesthetics. Whether it’s a pair of delicately engraved earrings, a pendant featuring Armenian cross designs, or bracelets adorned with semi-precious stones, these pieces often carry spiritual and cultural significance. February is a wonderful time to visit local workshops and meet silversmiths who are happy to share their techniques and the stories behind their creations. A piece of silver jewelry makes for a meaningful keepsake or a thoughtful gift for a loved one.

Armenian Pottery

From beautifully painted clay dishes to decorative ceramic vases, local pottery is both functional and artistic. These items are often adorned with intricate patterns inspired by medieval manuscripts, traditional embroidery, and nature. In many cases, you can watch artisans at work in their workshops, shaping and painting each piece by hand. Bringing home a piece of Armenian pottery allows you to preserve a small but meaningful part of the country's artistic legacy.

Where to Find Armenian Crafts

Yerevan offers numerous places where you can find authentic handcrafted items. Local markets, such as Vernissage Market or the shopping center in the North Avenue, are treasure troves of artisanal crafts. Here, you can browse a wide variety of products, meet the artisans in person, and even hear the stories behind their work. For a more immersive experience, you can visit craft villages and workshops in smaller towns like Dilijan, Gyumri, or Goris, where you can watch the artists at work and even participate in crafting sessions.

Despite the cold outside, that can sometimes drop as low as -20 Celsius, the people of Armenia know how to create warmth through their traditions, food, and culture. This February, trade the hustle of your daily routine for the tranquility, beauty, and warmth. Sharing a romantic moment by a fireplace, exploring snowy monasteries, or sipping mulled wine at a local restaurant will turn out to be very rewording. Pack your warmest clothes, bring your sense of adventure and exploring a new, and that will be more than enough.

Vahagn Tatoyan