Grand Piano Cottage – A New Place to Stay in Dilijan
People and nature have one thing in common they depend on one another. Just as people rely on nature, nature also depends on people. The key is finding harmony in that relationship.
If you’re planning your next weekend getaway, I suggest heading to Tavush Province, where I was once again reminded that our lives are inseparably connected to the nature of our homeland. Very often, we long to replace the stress of everyday life with experiences that are completely different from our daily routine.
This time, I find myself in Dilijan, surrounded by lush forests and nature’s vibrant palette of colors. I’m sure you already know what to do in Dilijan, but if you’re wondering where to stay, I have a recommendation for you.
My first stop is the Composers’ Creative House named after Edward Mirzoyan. It’s easy to find, as the road signs begin guiding you there as soon as you enter Dilijan. Even if you’re not a musician, it’s well worth a visit. Here, you can see the apple trees planted by world-renowned composers.
The celebrated Armenian painter Martiros Saryan also loved this place and often came here to admire its natural beauty. As the staff told me, Arno Babajanyan could often be found playing backgammon here, while the legendary ballerina Maya Plisetskaya enjoyed collecting mushrooms in the surrounding forest. Believe it or not, Dmitri Shostakovich composed the music for the film Hamlet right here.
And this is exactly where I’ll be staying at Grand Piano Cottage.
Դիլիջանյան առատ անտառների գրկում էլ գտնվում է քոթեջը։ Այս փառահեղ պատմությամբ և խոյակերտ սովետական ճարտարապետությամբ հսկա համալիրը ոչ միայն Հայաստանի, այլև ողջ Սովետական Միության պարծանքն էր։ Ճանապարհի հսկիչ անցակետից ներս ես մտնում ու զգացողությունդ այնպիսինն է, կարծես ժամանակակից մարդն այստեղ չի էլ եղել։ 21-րդ դարն անցել, սակայն շրջանցել է այստեղ գրեթե ամեն բան։
Nestled among Dilijan’s dense forests, the cottage is located within this remarkable historic complex. With its impressive Soviet architecture and rich history, the entire complex was once a source of pride not only for Armenia but for the entire Soviet Union.
As soon as you pass through the entrance checkpoint, it feels as though you’ve stepped into another era. The 21st century may have arrived, but it seems to have gently passed this place by, preserving its unique atmosphere.
Despite the challenging terrain, the architects found ingenious solutions, and from its very first year, the Creative House became highly successful and widely recognized. As its popularity grew, more cottages were gradually built throughout the grounds. One of those cottages is Grand Piano Cottage, where I chose to spend the night.
It truly is a unique place.
Why stay here?
This is the perfect destination for anyone seeking complete peace and quiet away from the noise of everyday life.
Thanks to the thoughtful architectural design, the cottages are spaced far apart, ensuring privacy and tranquility for every guest.
You rarely see other people or even the staff. Everything has been carefully designed so you can enjoy maximum peace and solitude.
You’ll receive a personal access code and check yourself in no waiting at reception.
If you’d like to cook, the cottage has a fully equipped kitchen. If not, you can enjoy delicious meals at the Composers’ House Restaurant nearby.
The evenings here are magical. Whether you’re sitting on the balcony or looking through the windows, you’re surrounded by the breathtaking forests of Dilijan.
Rainy weather? No problem the cottage is always warm and cozy.
Good to know
- Accommodation for up to 4 guests
- Price: AMD 40,000–60,000 per night (depending on the season)
- There is no television—and honestly, you won’t miss it. The scenery outside is far more entertaining than any screen.
Still thinking about it?
Pick up your phone and book your stay on Airbnb.
How to get to Dilijan
From Yerevan Northern Bus Station:
- Minibus: AMD 1,200
- ggShuttle: AMD 1,400
Distance from Yerevan: 99 km
Travel time: approximately 1 hour 30 minutes
