Armenian Heritage and Wine Tour
About this activity
Highlights
- Explore Khor Virap Monastery's ancient history
- Marvel at Noravank's stunning red cliffs
- Taste exquisite wines at Hin Areni Wine Factory
- Discover Jermuk's natural hot springs
- Enjoy scenic drives through Armenia's picturesque landscapes
Full description
Included / Excluded
- Private transportation from Yerevan
- Guided tours of Khor Virap Monastery, Noravank Monastery, and Jermuk
- Wine tasting at Hin Areni Wine Factory
- Meals and personal expenses
Itinerary
Khor Virap is the most famous pilgrimage site in Armenia, as it is directly connected with the adoption of Christianity. As a state religion, Christianity in Armenia was adopted in 301 due to endeavors of Saint Gregory The Illuminator, who, before converting King Trdat The 3rd to Christianity, was imprisoned in the dungeon, over which a church of Khor Virap monastery was built in the 17th century. From the monastery one can admire the stunning view of the Biblical Mount Ararat.
Passing a narrow road, surrounded by rocks of hundred caves, one discovers a scene of harmony of architecture with nature. The monastery, enshrined with fine architectural solutions and luxurious embellishments, is one of the brightest examples of Armenian architecture of the 13th century. Noravank consists of St. Karapet, St. Gregory The Illuminator churches and St. Astvatsatsin (Holy Mother of God) two-storey church, which is notable for its ideal constructive and sculptural work.
Vayots Dzor and Areni village in particular has been the cradle of Armenian winemaking for millennia. "Hin Areni" wine factory opens up the doors of this region to the world to showcase the historic and indigenous Armenian grape varietals. At the winery the historic traditions of winemaking are well combined with state-of-the-art modern equipment. "Hin Areni" wine factory has the capacity to process over 250 tonnes of grapes.
Jermuk mineral waters gallery and waterfall. The famous health resort Jermuk is in the north-eastern part of Vayots Dzor. The mineral waters of Jermuk have been famous for their medicinal properties since early medieval. A special drinking gallery, along which pump rooms with mineral water are lined up, has been constructed for visitors. The water temperature varies from 30 to 50 degrees C.
Important information
Know before you book
- Confirm your hotel pickup details at the time of booking.
- Be prepared for a full-day excursion with multiple stops.
- Inform the operator of any dietary restrictions or preferences in advance.
Know before you go
- Wear comfortable walking shoes for uneven terrain.
- Bring a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated.
- Dress in layers to adjust to varying temperatures throughout the day.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Accessibility
- Stroller Accessible
- Easy Public Transport
- Infants Required On Laps
- Infant Seats Available
Traveler reviews
Tatev and Khor Virap
Very good; interesting guide, a magnificent day, breathtaking landscapes, top-notch lunch!!
Incredible day out with Arakel
Arakel gave us the best day out exploring Khor Virap, Noravank, ancient Birds-Cave, Hin Areni wine factory. He was such a genuine guy, good English, good sense of humour, he even organised a surprise birthday cake at lunch for my partner for her bday. He’s a really good driver, and is really professional.
Tour with amazing scenery
Tamara and Karen were very friendly and tried ro make all our wishes possible! All over a good Tour! :)
Great landscape, quite touristic spots but still a nice Tour Experience
Karen, out driver, and Tamara were great and really into it. All in all it was well set but Most important, they were flexible and stopped at places we liked. Thanks
Very knowledgeable, pleasant, educated, positive. Perfect as a private guide for Armenia
Great way to explore Armenia with such an excellent guide
