Armenia: Between Monasteries and Fortresses of Vayots Dzor – Vayots Dzor, Armenia

EXPERIENCE

At the beginning of the day, your guide will greet you at your hotel to drive you to Vayots Dzor province, the door to the southern region of Armenia. After a two-hour drive, you will reach Amaghu Trail from where you will start trekking towards the magnificent Noravank Monastery and gaze at the red cliffs that are reminiscent of the American West. Later, a comfortable vehicle will be waiting for you near Noravank to drive you to the cave of Areni, where you will discover the millennium-old remains that characterize the authenticity of the regional viticulture.

Afterwards, your exploration will continue in the village of Artabuynk, from there you will take the road to the monastery of Tsakhats Kar, a marvel of Armenian architecture, built in the 10th and 11th centuries. This monument will take you back to the times of the Bagratuni Kingdom when Armenia struggled for its survival with Arab invaders and then with Mongols. Next, you will descend the monastery and pass on to the Smbataberd fortress, which offers a stunning panoramic view from its location. It was erected in honor of King Smbat Bagratuni, who was the hero of the final Armenian victory against the Arabs. You will have a picnic in the nearby area, and walk towards the medieval village of Yeghegis, where the monuments of the ancient cemetery are located.

On your way back to Yerevan, you will stop at the winemaking village of Areni, where a local farmer will invite you to taste delicious local wine paired with aperitifs. You will arrive back at your hotel in the evening.

HIGHLIGHTS

Discover the incredible canyons, valleys and mountains of Armenia
Explore a significant monument of Armenian history
Reward yourself with a good local wine

Discover more exciting & fun things to do in Vayots Dzor