Each summer, the town of Jermuk comes alive with the Mineral Water Festival, a celebration deeply rooted in the region’s geothermal heartbeat. Situated in Armenia’s highland southeast, Jermuk is famed for its mineral-rich springs, which have drawn visitors seeking natural healing waters for centuries. The festival offers more than just tastings—it’s an invitation to step into the hills where bubbling springs dare you to explore and the landscape remains fiercely authentic.

The Mineral Water Festival usually unfolds over several days, blending cultural events with outdoor activities designed to connect visitors with the source of Jermuk’s famed waters. Expect guided hikes that ascend through pine and juniper forests, where the air carries the cool, sharp scent of earth and resin. Trails range between 5 to 12 kilometers with elevation gains of 200 to 400 meters, presenting a steady incline that tests stamina without overwhelming.

Paths lead hikers toward various mineral springs, some marked by old Soviet-era iron fountains and others veiled by wildflowers and moss. The currents of local streams seem to pull at your boots, rushing with an unrelenting energy that contrasts with the calm of the surrounding hills. Along the way, vendors offer sips of freshly drawn mineral water, each source distinct in taste and temperature—a practical reminder to stay hydrated while rewarding you with natural mineral benefits.

Festival events include mineral water tastings, live music, and insightful talks on the science behind Jermuk’s bubbling sources. Local artisans also showcase crafts inspired by the environment and the town’s history. For those planning their visit, the best times fall between late June and early September when weather is warm but not scorching, and the town buzzes with cultural vitality.

Wear sturdy hiking boots as the terrain can be rocky and uneven. Layered clothing is advisable due to rapid temperature changes from sunlit clearings to shaded forest patches. A daypack with water bottles is essential; while mineral springs are abundant, carrying personal hydration keeps you ready for any stretch of trail.

Parking and accommodations cluster near the town center, making the festival accessible for day trips or longer stays. For adventurers seeking more, nearby trails extend into the surrounding mountain ranges, offering quiet moments away from festival crowds. These paths maintain the same character—firm but inviting—and encourage respectful interaction with nature’s powerful presence.

The Mineral Water Festival is a practical yet immersive experience. It’s not only a celebration of wellness but a call to engage actively with the terrain and waters that have nurtured Jermuk for generations. Hikers and cultural enthusiasts alike will find value in both the festival’s spirited atmosphere and the surrounding landscape’s rugged sincerity.