Overview
The Getik valley is one of Armenia’s undiscovered gems. Beginning from the former spa town of Dilijan, this 2-day ride combines the full length of the valley with a quiet loop along the eastern shore of Lake Sevan and a final spectacular descent back into Dilijan, all on good and mostly quiet roads. A hardened road rider could complete this in a day, but we recommend 2 days to enjoy the scenery, the hospitality and the sights along the way.
Route Description
Head east from Dilijan along the M4 main road towards Ijevan. After some 17km, turn right (signposted Chambarak) to begin the long, gentle ascent of the Getik valley. The forested gorge soon opens out, giving way to alpine ridges and meadows on both sides of the road. Several family-run B&Bs operate along the valley in Martuni, Getik and Chambarak, or cross the Chambarak Pass at the top of the valley to reach Lake Sevan, where an excellent lakeside campsite (with equipment available for rent) can be found a short detour towards Shorzha.
Ride northwest along this quieter section of the lakeside road to the large village of Tsovagyugh, perhaps making a detour to the excellent bakery on the main road just to the west. Continue north on the old but still good paved road over the Sevan Pass. It’s all downhill from here: beware of the occasionally heavy traffic as you rejoin the main road and swoop down the switchbacks into Dilijan for a rewarding post-ride meal at one of its many fine restaurants.
