Group tour: Lake Sevan, Hayravank, Noratus Crosstones, Selim Caravanserai, Jermuk, Hin Areni wine factory
Lake Sevan, Hayravank Monastery, Noratus Crosstones, Orbelian's (Selim) Caravanserai, Lunch stop, Jermuk (mineral water gallery and waterfall), Hin Areni wine factory
1. Lake Sevan
The fascination and the "pearl" of mountainous Armenia is Lake Sevan, which is one of the world's greatest high altitude fresh-water lakes. It is about 1900 m above sea level. The lake is of volcanic origin and is surrounded with mountains of 3000 m and higher. The beautiful landscape and the crystal water serve nice preconditions for excellent rest.The lake is also famous for its peninsula and medieval church complex, built in 874.
2. Hayravank Monastery
20-30 min
The church of Hayravank is built on a high rock on the shore of Lake Sevan. There is no written testimony concerning the date of its foundation, however, according to the constructional solutions, it has gained its place among the 9th century architectural pillars. This cozy church is built of roughly hewn stone and looks rather modest.
3. Noratus Crosstones
30-40 min
The art of khachkar (cross-stone) is the most original manifestation of Armenian medieval culture. Noratus, truly considered to be a forest of khachkars and an open-air museum, displays hundreds of khachkars, the most stunning of which are the so-called "embroidered" ones, typical to the 13th-14th centuries. This is a unique place, where one can reveal the development of khachkarial art in its historical process. Armenian cross-stones art is included in UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
4. Orbelian's (Selim) Caravanserai
10-20 min
The Selim pass, connecting Vayots Dzor and Gegharkunik regions, has been an important trade route from times immemorial. The long caravans with loaded camels were passing this way. Perceiving the necessity of having a place to stop after long and tiring journeys, the Armenian duke Chesar Orbelian in 1332 ordered building a caravansary on this long serpentine road of Selim pass. This is a three-nave building, lightened only through the windows on the ceiling as, out of security concern, they foresaw no windows on the walls and even nowadays the mysterious darkness seems to keep some rumors from those far away days...
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) – 3900 AMD per person
Option 2 – 4500 AMD per person
Option 3 – 4900 AMD per person
Option 1 (vegeterian) – 3900 AMD per person
Option 2 – 4500 AMD per person
Option 3 – 4900 AMD per person
5. Jermuk
40-60 min
The famous health resort Jermuk is in the north-eastern part of Vayots Dzor. The mineral waters of Jermuk have been famous for their medicinal properties since early medieval. A special drinking gallery, along which pump rooms with mineral water are lined up, has been constructed for visitors. The water temperature varies from 30 to 50 degrees C.
6. Jermuk Waterfall
20-30 min
The 68 m high Jermuk waterfall is located in the resort town of Jermuk, Vayots Dzor province. There is rather interesting legend, connected with it, according to which, on the steep cliffs of the waterfall there used to live an Armenian nobleman, who had a daughter as pretty as a picture. Handsome man from all above the world kept asking her to marry them, however the girl's heart belonged to the son of a shepherd. Each day they met late at night, she threw a long rope down into the gorge so as the boy could climb to reach her house. There came a day when the nobleman found out their secret, and so he cursed his daughter, saying: "If ever you meet this boy again, then I want you to turn into a mermaid and never to be able to get out of the water". Right on the day of their next date, when the boy came to meet the nobleman's daughter, instead of using the rope, she threw her long hair towards him and the curse came to pass: the girl became a mermaid and her hair turned into a waterfall.
That is why Jermuk waterfall is sometimes referred to as "The mermaid's hair".
The most favorable season to visit waterfalls is from the end of March till June, as the water flow force is on its highest level during that period.
That is why Jermuk waterfall is sometimes referred to as "The mermaid's hair".
The most favorable season to visit waterfalls is from the end of March till June, as the water flow force is on its highest level during that period.
7. Hin Areni wine factory
30-40 min
Vayots Dzor and Areni village in particular has been the cradle of Armenian winemaking for millennia. "Hin Areni" wine factory opens up the doors of this region to the world to showcase the historic and indigenous Armenian grape varietals. At the winery the historic traditions of winemaking are well combined with state-of-the-art modern equipment. "Hin Areni" wine factory has the capacity to process over 250 tonnes of grapes.
Inclusions
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Professional guide: ENG + RUS consecutively
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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
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Lunch cost (10.41 USD – 13.08 USD)
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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
Frequently Asked Questions
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
Hayk Harutyunyan
Dear friends! We work for 11 months in order to have 22 days vacation, and you've decided to choose Armenia to turn your vacation into a holiday! Our team has prepared everything to provide the best service, and with me, you'll unzip Armenia's picturesque beauty, architectural and natural monuments, as well learn a lot about the history and geography, economics and social issues, culture, and nature of our Homeland.
Tigran Balyan
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
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!
Manya Gevorgyan
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.
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