Welcome to
Yerevan
Khor Virap, Noravank & Areni-1 Cave with Wine Tasting Group Tour
- Duration8 hours
- Max Travelers19 people
- Free CancellationUp to 24 hrs
- CategoryAdditional fees, Best Conversion
Overview
Begin your journey at Khor Virap Monastery, where breathtaking views of Mount Ararat create an unforgettable start.
Continue to Armenia’s renowned wine region and explore the Areni-1 Cave, where archaeologists discovered the world’s oldest known winery (over 6,000 years old) and a 5,500-year-old leather shoe.
Visit the stunning Noravank Monastery, a masterpiece of medieval Armenian architecture set among dramatic red rock cliffs.
End your day in Areni village, the heart of Armenian winemaking, with a tasting of local wines. Experience wine where it was first created and enjoy a perfect blend of history, culture, and flavor.
Gallery
Itinerary
Although there are various historical landmarks in Armenia, the oldest and most well-known is probably the Biblical Mount Ararat. This is why our tour promises a spectacular view from the closest spot possible.nnKhor Virap monastery is located about an houru2019s drive away from the capital Yerevan, and offers an amazing view of Armeniau2019s defining symbol u2013 the majestic Ararat. u201cKhor Virapu201d translates as u201cdeep dungeonu201d, and was built of the place of the former royal prison, located on the historical site of Artashat. It was this prison in which they kept Gregory the Illuminator, the first Armenian Catholicos, for a whole 13 years. Therefore, it comes as no surprise that this place is one of the most sacred spots for Armenians around the world. Likewise, itu2019s also the closest point to the Mount Ararat from Armenia; very often this spot becomes the number 1 reason to visit our country!
Another place that canu2019t be missed is Noravank. It is one of the gems of medieval Armenian architecture, nestled high among the stunning brick-red cliffs in the end of the Gnishik Canyon. Here you will see the one and only depiction of God the Father in Armenia, which is just as astonishing as the face of Jesus Christ that appeared on the dome of the Churchu2019s narthex. Built by Orbelian noblemen, it stands out among our churches as the sepulcher of this noble family, making it unique since it was absolutely prohibited to bury people inside a church since the 5th century.
The tour will take you to the Areni u2013 1 u201cBirdsu201d Cave. In 2008, archeologists discovered several of the worldu2019s oldest artifacts, including a leather shoe and a winery. The site, overlooking Arpa River near the town of Areni, is claimed to date mostly to the Early Bronze Age (around 5,000-6,000 years ago). It also contains evidence of elaborate burial rituals and agricultural practices.
What concerns the u201cfinishing touchu201d to this tour, you will be given a chance to taste and even purchase Armeniau2019s renowned Areni wine, made from the oldest grape variety in the whole world. The wine is available in several wineries in the actual town of Areni itself, which we will make a stop at before finishing the trip.nnAs part of the tour, guests will taste the most famous dishes of traditional Armenian cuisine. The dishes are unique with their taste and appetizing aroma, characteristic only for Armenian cuisine.
Good to know
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adultu2019s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
For security reasons the trip might be modified or cancelled in case of bad weather conditions.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.