Near Goris, practically on the city’s doorstep, lies an extraordinary natural wonder affectionately dubbed the “Armenian Cappadocia”—though locals simply call it the Stone Forest. This surreal landscape unfolds like something out of a dream: curly-haired sheep graze peacefully in the shadow of strange stone spires, some of which were inhabited by people until the mid-20th century. The verdant, terraced slopes evoke distant echoes of Machu Picchu, lending the scene an air of timeless enchantment.
The rock formations of this mystical terrain came into being over hundreds of thousands of years through a slow and relentless process of natural erosion. Wind carved its signature into the volcanic bedrock, sculpting these colossal masses into whimsical cones, slender spires, and fantastical columns that now rise like ancient sentinels above the valley. These geological marvels, believed to be tens of thousands of years old, owe their formation to tectonic shifts that shaped the region’s dramatic topography.
What makes this “Armenian Cappadocia” truly exceptional, however, are the mysterious holes and tunnels carved into the rock faces. These openings form a kind of natural labyrinth, inviting exploration and igniting the imagination. At the base of several stone pillars, one can find narrow passageways that connect one geological structure to another, offering visitors a unique and slightly surreal way to traverse the area. Scattered across the terrain are numerous caves, each one deepening the sense of wonder and mystery that defines this place.
Within the city of Goris itself, a specially built observation platform provides an unforgettable panoramic view of the Stone Forest. From this vantage point, one can fully grasp the sheer scale and awe-inspiring beauty of this natural masterpiece. It’s the perfect starting point for a hike through the rock formations or simply a quiet moment to take in the magic of the Armenian highlands.
