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
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. Khachkar carving master class in Noratus
15-20 min
Khachkar ("khach" – cross, "kar" – stone, translated from Armenian) is a characteristic of medieval christian Armenian art, one of the most typical symbols of Armenian identity. Khachkars are most commonly used as memorials or tombstones. The biggest "collection" of khachkars in Armenia is in Noratus cemetery. There are several types of khachkars with different symbols, ornaments and meaning. The oldest khachkar known dates back to the year of 879 and is erected in Garni. It is dedicated to queen Katranide First, the wife of king Ashot First Bagratuni.
Armenian cross-stones art is included in UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
Today khachkar carving master class is popular especially among tourists for it gives an exclusive opportunity to learn the intricate motifs of crosses, rosettes and botanical elements, create a small souvenir with own hands and take a piece of the ageless country together with them.
Reservations should be made in advance.
Armenian cross-stones art is included in UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
Today khachkar carving master class is popular especially among tourists for it gives an exclusive opportunity to learn the intricate motifs of crosses, rosettes and botanical elements, create a small souvenir with own hands and take a piece of the ageless country together with them.
Reservations should be made in advance.
5. Mikayelyan Family Farm
50-60 min
Did you know that Armenia’s rich cuisine also includes some extremely tasty and natural artisanal cheeses? In Gegharkunik region there is a family farm, that makes its own milk from their own livestock in alpine pastures. And this natural milk is turned into a variety of cheeses. Here cheeses are made using wine and cognac coverings, also there are traditional types of Armenian cheeses, like the popular horats cheese and also some European varieties (parmesan type cheeses). Mikayelyan family farm has a spacious and comfortable space for visitors. Tour consists of visiting underground cheese cellar, learning about Armenian cheesemaking process, traditions and also tasting of different cheese types. Nice time in a beautiful and friendly atmosphere is guaranteed.
All the reservations should be made in advance.
All the reservations should be made in advance.
Inclusions
- Professional drivers
- Air-conditioned vehicles
- Bottled water
- Free pick-up & drop-off within Yerevan
- Vehicle & passengers insurance
- Extra stops on the route upon request
- Admission price covers Option 1 cheese tasting package
Exclusions
- Significant deviations from the route
- Alcoholic beverages if lunch option selected
- Audio guides
- 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
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