Along the M6 in Lori province
From the Northernmost border crossing (Bagratshen – Sadakhlo) follow the M6 which is the main road but still a two lane road along the river with mountain views on both sides. It has many local roads running stretches alongside it if you want a detour.
Akhtala monastery
With it’s dramatic setting on the edge of a cliff, the Akhtala monastery is first up along the M6. Take a right over the river in the town of Akhtala. The church served as a fortress in defending the north-western regions of Armenia and it is one of the best preserved in the country.
Haghpat and Sanahin monasteries
Take the H25 to visit the Haghpat monastery and while in town, take the small hike to the small Kusanats Church.
Follow the H25 to get back on the M6. Shortly after you will reach the Sanahin Monastery, which is also a Unesco heritage site. It’s a short way-and-back detour from the main road.
Arevatsag Gorge
In Sanahin, take the H35 up the hill. You’ll pass the villages of Odsoen and Arevatsag. From there, take the bumpy road passing the canyon. The Arevatsag Gorge is a good place for some exploring and photos, also popular for hiking or mountain biking. Continue on the semi paved road and eventually you’ll be reunited with M6.
Arevatsag to Vanadzor
After Arevatsag you can choose to take a detour via the H23, which takes you higher over the Pushkin pass, where the landscape is more open and you’ll pass over green and brown hills. The M6 passes through a pine forest before arriving in Vanadzor, a medium sized town with a wide range of accomodation available.
In june 2024 a section of 31 kilometers of the M6 between Alaverdi and Vanadzor was flooded. Bridges were destroyed and the main border crossing was temporarily closed.
