Armenia's Ancient Wonders Tour
About this activity
Highlights
- Khor Virap Monastery with Mount Ararat views
- Stunning architecture of Noravank Monastery
- Traditional wine tasting at Areni Winery
- Exploring ancient artifacts in Areni Cave
- Scenic drive through Armenia's picturesque landscapes
Full description
Included / Excluded
- Guided tour of Khor Virap Monastery
- Visit to Noravank Monastery
- Wine tasting at Areni Winery
- Exploration of Areni Cave
- Meals and personal expenses
Itinerary
starting and ending point
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.
As a result of studies, metal knives, fruit seeds, grain residues, rope, dishes, clothing, dried grapes and plums, dated to 4200-3500 BC, were found in the cave. The oldest leather shoe of the world was found right here. It is more than 5500 years old. Also, in the same area, there were found world’s oldest women’s skirt (3900 BC), as well as the first winery in the whole world.
Meeting point
Start Location
Hyur Service, 96 Nalbandyan poxoc, Yerevan 0010, Armenia
Important information
Know before you book
- Tour operates in all weather conditions; dress appropriately.
- Please be on time to avoid losing entry to attractions.
- Provide your hotel name and address at booking for pickup.
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 changing temperatures.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Accessibility
- Infants Required On Laps
- Stroller Accessible
- Easy Public Transport
Good to know
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
- Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
- The duration is approximate
- Seats will not be known in advance
Traveler reviews
History, beauty and religion in the mountains!
I truly enjoyed my tour with Arayig and Marina. They both delivered everything and more. The shuttle bus was very comfortable with Arayig and Marina did a great job explaining the different areas visited. Thank you both for a memorable time with my family 🙏💕
Tour with Araiyg and Marina
Very informative and helpful tour by Marina and Araiyg. Did an amazing job of taking the group to several historic landmarks and also explaining their historical significance along the way. High recommend! Շնորհակալութիւն
Wonderful time with Hyur Service
Had a wonderful group tour with our tour driver Arayig and guide Marina. Everything was timed perfectly and flowed flawlessly from one destination to the next. Highly recommend!
Old van and no air conditioning
Old van and no air conditioning when it is 33 degrees, it is an oven, the wine tour was very poor, the scenery, the monastery, and the church are divine, the food is also good.... But the guide lacks charisma and attitude to lead a tour, he is unfriendly and speaks with a slur, making it hard to understand him, the trip without air conditioning has been terrible. We did not like the guide's service.
Interesting tour
The tour was interesting. Guide Ike was telling a wonderful story. The program is full. Driver Karen was doing a great job with the mountain serpentine. I really enjoyed the experience.