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Lake Sevan, Hayravank, Noratus, Selim Caravanserai, Jermuk, Areni winery

Group tour: Lake Sevan, Hayravank, Noratus, Selim Caravanserai, Jermuk, Areni winery

Full-day

Duration: 13-14 hours

Start time: 09:00

Tour language: English, Russian

Start & end point: 96, Nalbandyan str.

251 reviews

99% recommended

This full-day tour from Yerevan unfolds as a long and varied route through two contrasting regions, where the lakeside heritage of Gegharkunik gradually gives way to the mountain roads, spa-town atmosphere and wine culture of Vayots Dzor. Over 13-14 hours, it weaves together Sevan scenery, monastic landmarks, khachkar artistry, caravanserai history and regional flavours into a day rich in both cultural depth and changing landscapes.

The first stop is Lake Sevan, followed by Hayravank Monastery above the shore and the striking field of khachkars (crosstones) at Noratus. After crossing the Selim Pass and visiting Orbelyan's (Selim) Caravanserai, the route allows time for an optional lunch break before continuing to Jermuk, known for its mineral water gallery and the waterfall called "Mermaid's Hair". The day concludes at "Hin Areni" Wine Factory, where a tour and tasting introduce local winemaking traditions.

Deposit

To secure the booking, full payment is required.

Cancellation

In case of cancellation at least 24 hours before the start time, the paid amount is refunded. In case of later cancellation or no-show, no amount is refunded.

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Number of people

Adult (age 8+)
Child (age 3-8) 50% discount
Infant (age 0-3) free of charge

Preferred language:

Price per person

0 USD

43.82 USD

Total price

43.82 USD

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Same tour privately

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

3. Hayravank Monastery

20-30 min Read more: 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 Read more: 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 Read more: 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) – 10.75 USD per person
Option 2 – 12.40 USD per person
Option 3 – 13.50 USD per person

6. Jermuk

40-60 min Read more: 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 Read more: 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 Read more: 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

Professional guide: ENG + RUS consecutively
Air-conditioned vehicles
Bottled water & pastries
Admission tickets
Wi-Fi in the vehicles
Vehicle & passengers insurance

Exclusions

Lunch cost (10.75 USD – 13.50 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.

Meet our Guides

Manya Gevorgyan

RU HY EN

I have been a tour guide since 2015. To this day, every excursion is a great source of positive energy for me. During the tours, you will not only get acquainted with the sights, the country's history, and its architectural features, but also feel the full charm of the Armenian emotional mindset and lifestyle.

Anahit Aslanyan

Education – musical-pedagogical and cultural studies. I have worked in the fields of tourism, education, and culture in Russia and Armenia. Currently, I work as a guide at the Armenian Genocide Museum-Institute and in the company "Hyur Service". As a person with a humanities education and a cultural studies mindset, I strive to present my homeland as comprehensively as possible so that visitors gain a general impression of the history and art of the Armenian people. I pay special attention to mental and cultural characteristics to make every visitor's stay in Armenia comfortable and positive. I continue to study and share new knowledge.

Anahit Ghazaryan

My name is Anahit Ghazaryan, and since 2015 I have been in a state of love! I am in love with Armenia, and I always want to talk about it! Come visit! I guarantee it will be beautiful, easy, delicious, and fun! Let's discover Armenia together, enjoy it, and fall in love! I don't like legends and tell them only when absolutely necessary, and only those that feature real historical figures! Since I was born in the middle of the last century, I talk about some events not as a historian, but as a witness!

Armine Julhakyan

RU HY

Hello! I'm Armine, your guide in Armenia. With me, you'll discover not only the famous landmarks but also the hidden gems of my country.

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