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
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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.

2. Sevanavank Monastery

50-60 min
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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.

3. Noratus Crosstones

30-40 min
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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.

4. Mikayelyan Family Farm

40-50 min
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Mikayelyan Family Farm Mikayelyan Family Farm Mikayelyan Family Farm Mikayelyan Family Farm Mikayelyan Family Farm Mikayelyan Family Farm Mikayelyan Family Farm Mikayelyan Family Farm Mikayelyan Family Farm Mikayelyan Family Farm Mikayelyan Family Farm Mikayelyan Family Farm Mikayelyan Family Farm Mikayelyan Family Farm Mikayelyan Family Farm Mikayelyan Family Farm Mikayelyan Family Farm Mikayelyan Family Farm Mikayelyan Family Farm Mikayelyan Family Farm Mikayelyan Family Farm Mikayelyan Family Farm
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.

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

Exclusions

  • Significant deviations from the route

  • Alcoholic beverages if lunch option selected

  • Audio guides

  • Wi-Fi in the vehicles

Booking conditions

Cancellation & modification

Meet our Guides

Inna Hovhannisyan

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

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!

Narine Vardanyan

Narine Vardanyan

HY EN

Hi or Barev. My name's Narine and I've been working as a tourist guide in Armenia since 2017. My greatest love and passion is my homeland – Hayastan! And I am here to create amazing experiences for everyone. I think my job is the best in the world. It offers the opportunity to meet new people, make them fall in love with new places, and create lasting memories. That's what I enjoy!)) Looking forward to showing you around beautiful Armenia.

Nelly Poghosyan

Nelly Poghosyan

HY EN

Hi! I'm Nelly, a certified tour guide. With work experience since 2012 and a unique set of skills – including deep patience, adaptability, and a sense of humor – I invite you to visit Armenia and explore this wonderful part of the world with me!

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