Vahe Mayilyan is a fourth-generation woodcarver and hiking guide from Tavush. Vahe organizes woodcarver classes for visitors in his workshop in the center of Ijevan, making jewelry (also with local semi-precious stones), kitchen utensils, and sculptures. Vahe demonstrates his woodcarving skills on pieces of wood and roots, which he collects during his hiking tours.
Vahe organizes various hiking tours in the Ijevan region, during which you will discover the wonderful nature of the region, get acquainted with the history of the place, as well as collect semi-precious stones. At the end of the walk, you can go to Vahe's workshop and make jewelry with the stones you have collected, If you wish.
One of the most impressive directions offered by Vahe is the hike leading to Mantashaberd or Ashot Erkat Fortress (Station), to the top of a steep cliff, where you reach through the Ijanyan forests. The hike starts near the town of Ijevan, passes through forested areas, reaching Ashot Erkat Fortress. The way back passes near the mysterious caves. The length of this fascinating route is 14 km.