Private tour: Lake Sevan, Hayravank, Noratus, Khachkar carving master class, Mikayelyan Family Farm
Lake Sevan, Hayravank Monastery, Noratus Crosstones, Khachkar (cross-stone) carving master class, Mikayelyan Family Farm
1. Lake Sevan
Today, this vast expanse, covering 1400 square kilometers, keeps the silence of centuries in its depths. Twenty-eight rivers bring their waters to Sevan, yet only one – the Hrazdan – carries them away, as if guarding the lake's precious wealth. Mountains rising to three thousand meters form its silent frame, while the crystal-clear water shifts from sky-blue to deep sapphire, mirroring the moods of the heavens. At dawn, the lake is brushed with gold; at sunset, it wears shades of crimson and violet, becoming a living mirror of the sky.
Since ancient times, Sevan has been revered as sacred – prayers were lifted on its shores, rituals were performed and blessings sought from its spirit. In its clear depths seems to dwell the very soul of Armenia – proud, pure and eternal. And if one listens closely to the gentle lapping of the waves, they may hear an ancient voice telling stories of a land where water and sky are bound forever by love.
2. Hayravank Monastery
20-30 min
From its threshold, the sound of Sevan's waves blends with the timeless echoes of prayers and the distant tolling of bells. Hayravank appears to merge with its surroundings, standing as a guardian over the lake's waters and the serenity of its shores.
Legends tell of pilgrims who came here seeking protection and blessings before embarking on long journeys. Even today, the church welcomes visitors with an atmosphere of stillness and contemplation, where past and present meet on the cliff's edge, broken only by the whisper of the wind and the gentle splash of water.
3. Noratus Crosstones
30-40 min
Noratus is often called a "symphony of khachkars" and indeed, every ornament and motif here seems to echo in harmony with the wind and the whisper of the mountains. It is one of the few places where the art of khachkars can be seen evolving through centuries, reflecting both the joys and sorrows of the Armenian people.
Legends say the soul of the master lives within each stone and thus they continue to "breathe" even after centuries have passed. Recognized by UNESCO as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, Armenian khachkar art lives on here, ensuring that the memory of medieval Armenia will forever speak to those who come to listen.
4. Khachkar carving master class in Noratus
15-20 min
The oldest known khachkar, dated back to 879, was erected in Garni in honor of Queen Katranide I, marking the beginning of a thousand-year tradition. There stands a real story of true love, which takes us back to history. The Armenian king Ashot the Great and Katranide had nine children, whom they raised in love and family warmth, living a long and happy life. Once upon a time the king returned from the war to the palace and found his wife dead. To the question where his wife was, in hell or heaven, the Catholicos said that he must receive the answer from God. The king erected a cross and forty days later roses started to bloom around it: she had found her rest in paradise.
The ornaments, where the cross intertwines with rosettes and floral motifs, seem to come alive in the sunlight, turning stone into a living chronicle. It is no coincidence that the art of khachkar carving has been inscribed on UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage list, for it embodies the spiritual richness and resilience of the Armenian nation.
👉 Reservations should be made in advance.
5. Mikayelyan Family Farm
50-60 min
Here you will find both classic Armenian varieties – among them the remarkable "հorats" cheese – and European-inspired types reminiscent of parmesan. A special pride of the farm are the cheeses matured in wine and brandy coats, which give them a truly unique taste and aroma. Visitors are invited not only to taste this delicacy but also to witness the fascinating process of its creation: the tour includes an introduction to cheesemaking, a visit to the underground cellar and stories about the rich traditions of Armenian dairy culture. In a spacious and welcoming hall, tastings are held where each bite unveils a new shade of flavor.
The atmosphere is warm and friendly, as if you were visiting old friends. A trip to the farm is more than an excursion – it is a genuine gastronomic journey into the heart of Armenia.
👉 All the reservations should be made in advance.
Inclusions
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Professional drivers
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Air-conditioned vehicles
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Bottled water
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Free pick-up & drop-off within Yerevan
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Vehicle & passengers insurance
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Extra stops on the route upon request
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Admission price covers Option 1 cheese tasting package
Exclusions
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Significant deviations from the route
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Alcoholic beverages if lunch option selected
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Audio guides
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Wi-Fi in the vehicles
What to expect
- See the "Blue pearl" of Armenia
- Observe the unique Christian heritage
- Reveal the secrets of cross-stone art
- Get info about the special technique of Armenian cheese production
Booking conditions
Cancellation & modification
Meet our Guides
Gayane Harutyunyan
Armenia should be visited with an open heart. As your guide, I don’t just offer tours – I create meaningful experiences that connect you deeply with Armenia’s history, culture, and people. With genuine love for my country, passion for its stories, and local insight, I make every journey personal, engaging and unforgettable – turning every place into a living memory you’ll carry with you.
Nina Manukyan
Hello! My name is Nina, I am a guide at "Hyur Service" company. I am happy to introduce guests to Armenia – its history, culture and ancient traditions. For me as a guide, it is very important that every tour is clear, engaging and comfortable. Together we will explore famous landmarks, create beautiful memories and of course, take lively photos :) I will be happy to become your guide in Armenia. Travel with "Hyur Service" and discover Armenia not only with your eyes, but also with your heart.
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.
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.
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