Armenia itself is a former Soviet republic, in the mountainous Caucasus region between Asia and Europe.
Among the earliest Christian civilizations, it's defined by religious sites including the Greco-Roman Temple of Garni and 4th-century Etchmiadzin Cathedral, headquarters of the Armenian Church.
Armenia offers a range of winter sports activities.
The Armenian ski resort of Tsaghkadzor, is located an hour from the capital, Yerevan offers a range of activities for skiers and snowboardes.
The Tsaghkadzor ski season runs from mid-December to the end of March and attracts skiers seeking diverse challenges.
The Azat Reservoir area has downhill skiing in Tsakhkadzor with Yeghipatrush offering cross-country skiing.
There are also a range of natural hot springs throughout the country with Jermuk, a three-hour drive from Yerevan, having 20 mineral springs reaching up to 64º C.