History, Culture, Hiking
History, Culture, Hiking
This journey offers a perfect balance of nature, history, culture, and cuisine, ensuring an immersive and unforgettable experience of Armenia.
Exploring Yerevan: Armenia’s Historic and Cultural Heart
We begin our journey in Yerevan, Armenia’s vibrant capital, where we gain an initial insight into the country's rich and ancient history. A walking tour through Yerevan will take us through the city's most iconic landmarks, including Republic Square, the Cascade, the Opera House, and the Blue Mosque. We will also visit Tsitsernakaberd, the Armenian Genocide Memorial, where we will reflect on the country’s past and resilience. To experience the rich traditions of Armenian craftsmanship, we will explore Vernissage, a lively open-air market filled with handmade jewelry, carpets, ceramics, and paintings created by local artisans.
From Pagan Roots to Christianity: Garni Temple, Geghard Monastery & Khor Virap
To understand Armenia’s deep historical and spiritual roots, we will explore its transition from paganism to Christianity. Our trip includes a visit to the Garni Temple, the only standing pagan temple in Armenia, which showcases the country's Hellenistic influences. Here, we will learn about Armenia’s pre-Christian heritage and its ancient traditions. We will then visit the nearby Geghard Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where we will discover the spiritual and historical significance of Christianity in Armenia, the first nation to adopt it as a state religion in 301 AD.
Another key religious site on our journey is Khor Virap, one of the most iconic monasteries in Armenia. Located at the foot of Mount Ararat, this monastery offers breathtaking views of the biblical mountain and holds deep historical significance as the site where Saint Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned for 13 years before converting Armenia to Christianity. Visiting this sacred place allows us to connect with one of the most defining moments in Armenian history.
Gyumri: Armenia’s Cultural and Artistic Capital
Continuing our journey, we will visit Gyumri, Armenia’s second-largest city, famous for its artistic spirit, 19th-century architecture, and warm hospitality. Here, we will stroll through the charming old town with authentic architecture, exploring its unique black stone buildings.
Hiking: Mountains, Lakes & Monasteries
Our hiking adventures will take us deep into Armenia’s breathtaking nature. We will trek through the Dilijan National Park, hiking to the picturesque Parz Lake and Gosh Lake, surrounded by lush forests. Another hiking destination is Dimats Mountain, offering spectacular panoramic views of the lush landscapes of Tavush province. A true highlight of the trip will be our ascent to the southern summit of Mount Aragats, Armenia’s highest peak, offering spectacular panoramic views, or a relaxing day at the shores of Lake Sevan, one of the largest high-altitude freshwater lakes in the world.
Along the way, we will visit Armenia’s most awe-inspiring monasteries, including Haghartsin, hidden deep in the forests of Dilijan, and Noravank, dramatically set within red rock canyons. These sites will allow us to connect with Armenia’s spiritual heritage while being surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.
Food & Drinks: A Taste of Armenia
Armenia’s rich culinary heritage will be an essential part of our journey. We will take part in an authentic lavash baking workshop, learning how to make Armenia’s traditional flatbread in a village setting. No trip to Armenia would be complete without indulging in its world-famous beverages – we will enjoy a wine tasting experience, discovering Armenia’s ancient winemaking traditions, and visit the Yerevan Brandy Factory, where we will learn about the brandy-making process from grape selection to distillation and aging. Throughout our trip, we will savor traditional Armenian cuisine, experiencing the rich flavors of local specialties.
Day 2
Exploring Armenia's Historical Context, Geopolitical Landscape, and Security Concerns. Visiting Yerevan Brandy Factory
Day 3
Hiking from Parz lake through Gosh village to Gosh lake / Trans Caucasian Trail. Visiting Haghartsin Monastery.
Day 4
Trip to Khor Virap and Noravank Monasteries, Areni Cave, Armenian Wine Tasting and Dinner in a Vineyard
Day 6
Trip to Garni Temple, Symphony of Stones and Geghard Monastery, Lavash Baking Workshop
Day 7
Trip to Gyumri: the City of Red Tuff, Church, walking tour, writers street, black fortress
The trip price is €1,490. Included in the price:
- 8 overnight stays in a twin room in higher-quality 4-star hotels
- Breakfast for all days
- 6 meals (lunch and/or dinner)
- All entry fees to attractions and activities
- Transport for all days
- Water and snacks
- German, English, Russian and Armenian-speaking tour guides, as well as professional hiking guides
A single-room supplement of €245 applies.
We also recommend allocating approximately €50 for tips, which will be distributed among restaurant staff, guides, hotel personnel, the driver, and other service providers.