Private tour:The unique invitation to explore Armenia and Georgia in 2 days
Lake Sevan, Sevanavank Monastery, Dilijan, Haghartsin Monastery
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. Sevanavank Monastery
50-60 min
A marvelous scene opens in the north-western part of Lake Sevan, where the peninsula towers over the transparent surface of the lake. Sevanavank monastery was built on the peninsula in 874 by the order of king Ashot Bagratuni's daughter – princess Mariam. The silhouette of the churches against the background of the turquoise lake and blue sky casts unexplainable impression on the visitors.
3. Dilijan
20-30 min
Dilijan entices people with its unforgettable beauty and mild climate. The city stretches on the banks of Aghstev river, surrounded with mountains and forests. Dilijan has the fame of a health resort. The warm sun, fresh air and natural spas have great healing influence on people. Dilijan is also rich in interesting architectural monuments.
4. Haghartsin Monastery
50-60 min
Haghartsin monastery, situated in the woodlands of Tavush region, represents an indescribable example of blend of nature with architecture. It was founded in the 10-11th centuries, though new buildings were added in the 12-13th centuries. Now it consists of St. Grigor, St. Astvatsatsin (Holy Mother of God), St. Stepanos churches and some other buildings.The refectory, due to its skillful architectural composition, is of great interest. Near Haghartsin there used to grow a huge oak tree, almost at the age of the monastery, completing the whole scene. Unfortunately, only a small part of the hollow has remained till the present day, however, it is still of much interest among the visitors, and preserves the tradition, according to which, when one makes a wish and at the same time manages to pass through the tree (hollow), it is expected to come true in the nearest future.
Overnight stay
Tbilisi, Mtskheta, Jvari Monastery, Yerevan
1. Tbilisi
150-180 min
The capital of Georgia – Tbilisi, is located at the distance of 290 km north from Yerevan. The abundant vein of the layout of this city is Kura river, which, together with its flow, perfectly merges with the rhythm of the city. Tbilisi is always filled with vivid colors and happy mood. The city is rich with numerous historical-cultural monuments.
The tour starts with narrow streets, preserved from the early medieval region of Narikala, and ends with spacious Rustaveli Avenue. The modern shape of Tbilisi is a bright mixture of majestic cathedrals and ancient ruined castles, old neighborhoods and picturesque courtyards with openwork balconies, soviet buildings and ultramodern business centers, the contrast of which can be better seen from bird's-eye view by taking a cable car.
The tour starts with narrow streets, preserved from the early medieval region of Narikala, and ends with spacious Rustaveli Avenue. The modern shape of Tbilisi is a bright mixture of majestic cathedrals and ancient ruined castles, old neighborhoods and picturesque courtyards with openwork balconies, soviet buildings and ultramodern business centers, the contrast of which can be better seen from bird's-eye view by taking a cable car.
2. Mtskheta
60-70 min
Mtskheta, the first capital of Christian Georgia, is located at the mix-point of Kura and Aragvi rivers. Historical Monuments of Mtskheta are included in UNESCO World Cultural Heritage List. According to the legend, the city was founded by Mtskhetos – the son of Kartlos, who was the eponymous ancestor of the Georgians. One of the Hripsimean nuns – Nune (Nino), who got miraculously released in times of the massacre, fled to Mtskheta to preach Christianity there. First she cured King Mirian's sick son, then Queen Nana. In the 4th century, following the advise of Nune, King Mirian built the first wooden church, in the place of which Vakhtang I Gorgasali built a basilica in the 5th century. At the beginning of the 11th century in the place of the damaged basilica the temple of Svetitskhoveli (translated as a living pillar) was built. Another church – Samtavro monastic complex, was also built by King Mirian, however, it gained its modern look during the reign of Georgi I (11th century).
3. Jvari Monastery
30-40 min
As a part of Mtskheta city, Jvari (Holy Cross) monastery is as well included in the List of UNESCO's monuments. It was built in the first half of the 7th century in the very same place, where the preacher of Christianity Saint Virgin Nune (Nino) erected a cross. The scenery is described in Lermontov's poem "Mtsyri". The monastery is located on a steep cliff of 150 m high above the surrounding area. A wonderful view opens from here to Mtskheta city – to the mix-point of Kura and Aragvi rivers. Jvari monastery is a building with a square-formed cross plan, its edges are decorated with semicircular absids. The monastery ends up with a drum, having 8 round altars. The building was restored in 2007.
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
- Driver/Guide accommodation & meals
Exclusions
- Hotel accommodation
- Significant deviations from the route
- Alcoholic beverages if lunch option selected
- Audio guides
- Wi-Fi in the vehicles
What to expect
- Visit the "Blue pearl" of Armenia
- Admire the forests of the "Armenian Switzerland"
- See the most popular sites of the capital of Georgia
- Stroll along the cozy streets of the old town
- Feel the incomparable Georgian flavor
- Marvel at the 7th & 11th centuries' architecture
*200 steps to climb to Sevanavank
*600 m to walk down the hill to Haghartsin
*Residents of some countries (please, check the details at the office) may need to apply for the visa in advance to enter Georgia or/and to obtain one more entry visa to come back to Armenia
*Entry visa to Georgia or/and entry visa to come back to Armenia is NOT included
*Kindly have your Valid Passport with you for crossing the border & hotel check-in
Booking conditions
Cancellation & modification
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