CPE Article: The Small Switzerland

Picture credit: https://travelask.ru/questions/315388-v-dilizhana-na-mashine 

Be that an image on TV, a photo or a painting, we marvel at scenes of breathtaking nature and secretly wish we were there in occasional pursuit for safe haven, away from chaos and hectic routines of city squares. It seems that no matter how urbanized we’ve become, we are instinctively driven to the rough natural surroundings that were home to our ancestors for centuries. I was lucky enough to be born and raised in Armenia, which provided an easy access to the pristine and breathtaking environment of Dilijan, a town in the north of the country.

Although I visited Dijlan when I was at school, it was during my revisit there at a mature age that I appreciated the real majesty of the place. As I emerged from a long tunnel, the only passage to Dilijan, I found myself in a completely different world with its own atmosphere. A world, where the everlasting fog forever perches on the steep slopes of the terrain and the air is filled with the piercing scent of the pine forests that adorn the slopes of the hills. Downhill, in the gorge, the town stretches alongside a creek that lulls the inhabitants with its enchanting gargle. Finding myself in the grip of that grandeur made me feel less entitled and immensely proud of my country.  

As well as renowned for its beauty, Dilijan prides itself on being a desired spot for eco and wellness tourism. Yearly, the area attracts scores of visitors, mainly from abroad, who venture for hikes to explore the unique flora and fauna. Besides, residents rejuvenate in one of the numerous spa resorts in Dilijan, since the water there is said to have special healing properties. Undoubtedly, tourism is the economic mainstay of the area.

For its bushy mountains, dense forests and giddy heights, Diijan has taken the name ‘Small Switzerland’, but is no inferior to Switzerland itself. Dilijan allures everyone--from intrepid hikers to romantic souls. But for me it is there, in the depth of my heart, where I cherish this green oasis and reminisce about the time I first beheld its beauty.



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