Private tour: Lake Sevan, Noratus, Mikayelyan Family Farm, Sevanavank Monastery
Lake Sevan, Noratus Crosstones, Mikayelyan Family Farm, Sevanavank Monastery
1. Lake Sevan
60-70 min
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.
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.
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. Sevanavank Monastery
50-60 min
From the northwestern shore of Lake Sevan, a breathtaking panorama unfolds: a peninsula rises from the shimmering surface, crowned with ancient temples. Here, in 874, at the command of Queen Mariam, daughter of King Ashot Bagratuni, the Sevanavank Monastery was built – the spiritual guardian of Armenia's blue jewel.
Against the boundless blue of the sky and the turquoise waters of Sevan, the churches of the Holy Apostles and the Holy Mother of God seem to float between earth and heaven. The stones of their walls have absorbed the whispers of monastic prayers, the murmur of winds and the chime of bells drifting over the water. For centuries, the monastery was not only a place of devotion but also a fortress shielding the peninsula from enemy raids. Legends tell of precious manuscripts and relics hidden within its walls, saved from times of peril.
Today, standing atop the peninsula, one can watch the light dance upon the waves while distant mountains embrace the majestic landscape. Sevanavank remains one of Armenia's most iconic symbols – a place where the beauty of nature and the grandeur of spiritual heritage merge into one.
Against the boundless blue of the sky and the turquoise waters of Sevan, the churches of the Holy Apostles and the Holy Mother of God seem to float between earth and heaven. The stones of their walls have absorbed the whispers of monastic prayers, the murmur of winds and the chime of bells drifting over the water. For centuries, the monastery was not only a place of devotion but also a fortress shielding the peninsula from enemy raids. Legends tell of precious manuscripts and relics hidden within its walls, saved from times of peril.
Today, standing atop the peninsula, one can watch the light dance upon the waves while distant mountains embrace the majestic landscape. Sevanavank remains one of Armenia's most iconic symbols – a place where the beauty of nature and the grandeur of spiritual heritage merge into one.
3. Noratus Crosstones
30-40 min
In the heart of Gegharkunik, not far from the serene shores of Lake Sevan, lies Noratus a vast khachkar 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.
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.
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. Mikayelyan Family Farm
40-50 min
Did you know that Armenian cuisine is famous not only for its meat dishes and fragrant herbs, but also for its natural and exceptionally delicious homemade cheeses? In the Gegharkunik region, the Mikaelyan family farm turns fresh milk into cheeses that blend centuries-old traditions with modern craftsmanship.
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.
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
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
- Admission price is calculated for "Option 1" cheese tasting package
- 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
Garnik Mirzoyan
RU
I'm Garnik, and I've been working as a tour guide in Armenia since 2016. If you're tired of far-fetched stories and have a good sense of humor, we'll get along perfectly. Discover Armenia from the inside – in very hospitable hands.
Gayane Movsisyan
HY
EN
Hi! I am Gayane Movsisyan, a tour guide since 2017. I work with great enthusiasm, eager to present my country in the best possible way and to create unforgettable moments for our guests.
Inna Hovhannisyan
RU
My name is Inna – and yours? Let's get to know each other! Come to Armenia, and believe me, you'll get to know not only me but also my Armenia together with me! :)
Ruzanna Hovhannisyan
RU
HY
While in Armenia, all your senses will be awakened: the wild nature and man-made masterpieces, the unique scent of mountain air, the unforgettable taste of Armenian cuisine, and the soothing sound of the duduk. And to experience all this, you simply need to come to Armenia! Welcome!
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