Relaxed Barbecue Days in Green Dilijan

Outdoor barbecues, Armenian-style

In Armenia, getting together around a khorovats (barbecue) is almost a ritual. Friends and families pile into cars, bring marinated meat, lavash, fresh herbs, and homemade salads, then spend long hours eating, talking, and making toasts. Kids run around, elders linger over tea or strong Armenian coffee, and no one is in a hurry.

Why Dilijan is perfect for a BBQ

Dilijan, often called the "green lungs" of Armenia, is ideal for this kind of relaxed gathering:

• Cool forest air and shade from thick beech and pine trees
• Gentle hiking paths so you can walk before or after eating
• A calmer, slower vibe than Yerevan, especially on weekends
• Nearby villages where you can pick up fresh bread, cheese, and seasonal vegetables

Many picnic spots around Dilijan National Park offer:

• Picnic tables and benches
• Toilets and drinking water (bottle refill or fountains)
• Playgrounds or open areas for children
• Shelters for shade or light rain
• Parking close to the grilling areas

Planning your outing

Locals usually arrive before noon to secure a good spot, set up the mangal (grill), and enjoy a long, unhurried lunch. To make planning easier, you can use our website’s filters to check which nearby places have amenities like restrooms, playgrounds, picnic tables, fire pits, or drinking water—so you know exactly what to bring from home and what you’ll find on-site.