Group tour: Lake Sevan, Hayravank, Noratus, Selim Caravanserai, Jermuk, Areni winery
Itinerary
Lake Sevan, Hayravank Monastery, Noratus, Selim Caravanserai, Lunch, Jermuk (mineral water gallery), Jermuk Waterfall, Hin Areni wine factory (tour and tasting)
1. Meeting point: Hyur Service (Head Office) – 96, Nalbandyan str., Yerevan
Departure time: 09:00
If hotel pick-up is not required, please let us know and be at the meeting point at least 30 min before departure.
2. Lake Sevan
High in the embrace of Armenia's mountains lies Lake Sevan – the blue heart of the land, beating in harmony with the winds and the sun. Legend tells that once a green valley stretched here, until the heavens shed their tears, filling it with shimmering water as a priceless gift to humankind.
3. Hayravank Monastery
20-30 min
Details: Hayravank Monastery
Perched on a steep cliff with a boundless view of Lake Sevan, Hayravank Church stands humble yet majestic in its simplicity. Its exact date of construction has been lost to time, but architectural features suggest it was built in the 9th century. Composed of roughly hewn stone, it bears no elaborate decoration, yet its stark austerity gives it a striking power and quiet charm. The stones seem to hold not only the imprint of ancient craftsmen's hands, but also the breath of winds carrying the scents of the lake and mountain herbs.
4. Noratus Cros-stones
30-40 min
Details: Noratus Cros-stones
In the heart of Gegharkunik, not far from the serene shores of Lake Sevan, lies Noratus a vast khachkar (cros-stone) cemetery where stone has become an eternal manuscript, written by the hands of ancient masters. Beneath the open sky stand hundreds of khachkars, each one a chapter of history, each a silent prayer carved toward the heavens. The most treasured are the finely chiseled monuments of the 13th-14th centuries, where delicate lines intertwine with deep symbolism, carrying the unmistakable signature of the craftsman. Walking among them, one feels time dissolve: some stones radiate stern majesty, others display fragile lacework, as if the carvings come alive beneath the sun's touch.
5. Orbelyan's (Selim) Caravanserai
10-20 min
Details: Orbelyan's (Selim) Caravanserai
For centuries, the Selim Pass served as a vital link of the Great Silk Road, connecting the bustling markets of Vayots Dzor and Gegharkunik. Along its winding mountain trails, long caravans of camels once moved slowly, loaded with silks, spices and other precious goods bound for the West. Exhausted travelers and their animals desperately needed rest and in 1332 Prince Chesar Orbelyan ordered the construction of a spacious caravanserai at the top of the pass.
Lunch stop
50-60 min
Optional lunch in the local traditional restaurant on own expense. One may choose between 3 different options:
Option 1 (vegeterian) – 10.76 USD per person
Option 2 – 12.42 USD per person
Option 3 – 13.52 USD per person
Option 1 (vegeterian) – 10.76 USD per person
Option 2 – 12.42 USD per person
Option 3 – 13.52 USD per person
6. Jermuk
40-60 min
Details: Jermuk
In the northeastern part of Vayots Dzor, cradled by mountain ridges and thick forests, lies Jermuk, a resort town whose name has long been synonymous with well-being and serenity. Here, in the hush of the highlands, springs emerge–each with its own taste and character, ranging from crystal-clear fresh water to mineral-rich flows that for centuries have been used to heal and restore strength.
7. Jermuk Waterfall
20-30 min
Details: Jermuk Waterfall
In the spa town of Jermuk, nestled in the picturesque valley of Vayots Dzor, one of Armenia's most enchanting waterfalls plunges into the gorge with sparkling streams. From a height of 68 meters it cascades in foamy whiteness, filling the air with mist and thunder, turning the landscape into a living symphony of water, rock and light.
8. Hin Areni wine factory
30-40 min
Details: Hin Areni wine factory
Vayots Dzor is a land where sun and stone have guarded the secret of wine for centuries and the village of Areni became the ancient key to that mystery. Deep within its caves, archaeologists uncovered the world's oldest winemaking complex proof that grape and man were bound together on this land thousands of years ago. Since then, every vine of Areni seems to carry the memory of the ages, offering berries filled with the fragrance of ancient Armenia.
9. Arrival point: Hyur Service (Head Office)
Expected return: 22:00 – 23:00
Inclusions
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Professional guide: ENG + RUS consecutively
-
Air-conditioned vehicles
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Bottled water & pastries
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Admission tickets
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Wi-Fi in the vehicles
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Vehicle & passengers insurance
Exclusions
-
Lunch cost (10.76 USD – 13.52 USD)
-
Hotel drop-off (final stop: our office)
Highlights
- Marvel at one of the largest freshwater high-altitude lakes in Eurasia
- Reveal the secrets of cross-stone art
- Discover the unique taste of Armenian wine
- Enjoy the fresh and clean vibes of the waterfall
Practical Info
How much time is foreseen to spend near Lake Sevan?
During this tour the access to the shoreline at Lake Sevan is not foreseen. Instead, you will have the chance to observe a fantastic panoramic view of the lake from Hayravank Monastery.
Is the flow of Jermuk waterfall high?
The volume of water at Jermuk waterfall is influenced by seasonal changes.
Are there any restrictions for this tour?
Yes, this tour might not be the best option for individuals with blood pressure concerns.
In case I do not drink wine, what should I do during the tasting time?
You're absolutely free to skip the wine tasting if you wish. Just keep in mind that this part includes an overview of the Armenian winemaking process and degustation of various wine types.
Can I pay for the lunch in the restaurant by card?
Please, have cash Armenian Drams with you: it is not always possible to pay for lunch in the restaurant by card.
What is the group size for this tour?
The group size varies, but typically ranges up to 18 participants.
Are there any clothing requirements or recommendations for this tour?
For the tour, it's advised to wear comfortable sports shoes and have weather appropriate clothing (taking a jacket or coat is always a good idea). Weather in the regions tends to be cooler than in Yerevan. When visiting churches/monasteries, women are requested to dress modestly, avoiding revealing clothing as a sign of respect.
Booking conditions
Cancellation & modification
Meet our Guides
Poghos Varzhapetyan
RU
HY
My name is Poghos Varzhapetyan. I've been working in tourism since 2016. I love traveling. As a tour guide, my goal is always to make guests fall in love with Armenia so much that at the end of the tour they don't say goodbye, but instead say, "See you again, Armenia!".
Arev Makhsudyan
HY
EN
My name is Arev (which means "Sun"). I am an English-speaking tour guide in Armenia, working since 2018. If you choose me as your guide, you will learn a lot about Armenian history, nature, culture, and traditions – and as a bonus, I'll perform Armenian traditional folk songs for you.
Tigran Balyan
RU
HY
EN
Hello, I am Tigran a guide in my wonderful and lovely Armenia ❤️ I am guiding in my country and with this passion I can share kindness, joy and smiles to my tourists. My experience is already 7 plus years and I enjoy architecture, wine and mountains in amazing Armenia.
Samvel Mkrtumyan
RU
HY
EN
Hi, I'm Samvel. With degrees in international relations and history, and years of connecting people from all walks of life, I've turned my passion for stories into guiding. I love revealing Armenia's hidden gems, sharing its quirky legends, and showcasing its breathtaking sights. It's fun, pal. Let's enjoy it together!
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