National Parks by Car: Where Nature Meets the Open Road

Explore Armenia and Georgia’s most scenic drives through protected natural treasures.

Introduction

There’s something magical about a road that winds through forests, climbs into mountains, and ends beside a lake surrounded by silence. In Armenia and Georgia, national parks are not only for hikers — they’re made for drivers too. Each park has its own rhythm: the hum of the tires on asphalt giving way to gravel paths, the scent of pine and damp earth sneaking through the open window. With a reliable rental car from HomyCars, nature lovers can explore these untouched landscapes freely, comfortably, and at their own pace.

Dilijan National Park, Armenia

Just a two-hour drive from Yerevan, Dilijan National Park is a masterpiece of green. Locals call it “the Armenian Switzerland” — and for good reason. The drive itself, along the M4 highway, is an experience: winding roads shaded by forests, with the air turning cooler as you climb into the mountains.

Within the park, the road network leads to some of Armenia’s most peaceful spots — Parz Lake, Haghartsin Monastery, and several scenic viewpoints overlooking the valley. Roads here are paved and well-maintained, making it ideal even for compact cars or sedans.

Once inside, families and couples often switch from wheels to walking — hiking short trails, renting bicycles, or setting up a picnic by the lake. Spring and early autumn are perfect seasons: misty mornings, warm afternoons, and forests glowing with color.

Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park, Georgia

Crossing into Georgia, Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park offers a completely different atmosphere — vast, wild, and deeply forested. It lies around 160 km from Tbilisi (about a two-hour drive), and the trip is as smooth as the road itself. The entrance near Borjomi is clearly marked, with several well-paved access routes.

Drivers can enjoy gentle forest roads that snake between hills and connect to camping areas, picnic zones, and trailheads. While hiking is the park’s main draw, parts of it can be explored comfortably by car, particularly the routes near Likani and Atskuri. Keep an eye out for wildlife: deer, foxes, and even bears occasionally appear in the distance.

For travelers craving a break from city life, Borjomi offers mineral springs, cozy guesthouses, and the kind of fresh air that makes you linger longer than planned.

Other Protected Areas Worth the Drive

Armenia’s Gems

• Khosrov Forest Reserve: One of the oldest nature reserves in the world, located just 60 km from Yerevan. Though entry is regulated, guided drives along designated routes reveal ancient monasteries and mountain vistas.

• Lake Sevan National Park: Perfect for lakeside drives, beaches, and scenic viewpoints. You can easily combine it with a Dilijan route for a full-day trip.
   

Georgia’s Natural Highlights

• Lagodekhi Protected Areas: A paradise for eco-travelers on the eastern edge of Georgia. Roads are partially paved and accessible for SUVs; waterfalls and forest trails await.

• Mtirala National Park: Near Batumi, this subtropical wonderland features lush greenery, rivers, and short off-road sections — ideal for adventurers with 4x4s.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• When to Go: Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) offer mild temperatures, clear skies, and vivid colors.

• What to Drive: Sedans and compact SUVs are perfect for Dilijan and Borjomi routes; for mountain parks or unpaved tracks, opt for a 4x4.

• Plan Stops: Both Armenia and Georgia have well-marked picnic areas and guesthouses near park entrances.

• Travel Smart: Check park regulations before driving inside — some protected areas limit vehicle access to reduce environmental impact.

Conclusion

In Armenia and Georgia, the open road is the gateway to wilderness. You don’t have to trek for miles to feel nature’s pulse — sometimes, all it takes is turning the ignition and heading toward the mountains. With HomyCars, every journey becomes an adventure: from serene lakes to ancient forests, from winding asphalt to the quiet trails beyond.

Because here, nature truly meets the open road.