Armenia's 9 Lives

4- Stops

➊ The Region of Kotayk is no exception when it comes to the beauty of landscape and nature. The region has everything to offer, including the assets to take you further back to the pagan past of the country. Only about 45 mins away from Yerevan, Geghardavank Monastery is truly unprecedented. Carved out of the cliff it is located on, the multi-chambered complex is a unique example of the medieval Armenian Christian architecture.

➋ The lunch with a stunning view of the Geghama mountain range will complete the first half of the day.

➌ Your walk in the courtyard of the Garni Temple will take you back almost 2000 years to the times when the locals worshipped multiple gods. The architectural style of the pagan past and the laid-back location will leave you recharged and well-traveled. And go figure! Those beautiful vertical column-like rock formations can be seen from very close!

➍ The journey becomes adventurous with a nice hike to the canyon of the Azat River. The famous Symphony of Stones will surely strike as something you have never seen before. The amazing volcanic-origin rock formations are a brilliant testimony to the tectonically active history of the vicinity.

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➊ The Region of Aragatsotn located towards the North-West of the country is also worthwhile to visit. The journey will take you to the slopes of Mount Aragats, currently the highest peak in Armenia with its 4090 meters of height. Saghmosavank Monastery, one of the architectural gems of the Armenian Christian history, is almost about to "fall into" the Kasakh river gorge. The south-eastern side of the monastery's courtyard opens up an awesome view to the canyon of the Kasakh river- a freakishly deep gorge with amazing multi-layered rock formations.

➋ On the way up, the mystical walls of the Amberd fortress will open their doors for you. As a unique example of the 11th-century Armenian municipal architecture and royal living, the fortress will disclose much related to life lived centuries ago in the area. The beautiful hike following the sightseeing will complete the didactic value of the visit and present to you more of the area's history. It will take you through the gorgeous river stream below the hill and take you to the remains of the ancient local cemetery.

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➊ The Western and central parts of the country would perhaps be the most stunning and elegant in terms of their landscape and agricultural traditions. They offer mouth-watering sweetness of fruits and wine. The day begins with the departure to the ancient Khor Virap Monastery located right beside the Turkish-Armenian border. The serendipitous location of the site allows the visitor to enjoy an unprecedented view of the Biblical Mountain Ararat.

➋ The trip continues further south-east to the beautiful Vayots Dzor region that stands out with its jaw-dropping nature. The intriguing wine-tasting organized in the village of Areni will ensure the elegant start of the gastronomic experience in the region. Areni is famous for its millennia-old wine culture and its astonishing landscape.

➌ The wine-tasting will transition into an authentic lunch that allow you to savor the delicious and rich Armenian cuisine.

➍ The calm and fulfillment of the preceding gastronomic experience will be complemented by the educational trip to the ancient Areni-1 cave where the history of the rich wine-making culture of the region will be presented to you. The road will then take you to the beautiful 13-th century Noravank Monastery.

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➊ The fourth day will take you to the depths of the emerald-green forests of Tavush, surrounded in the distance by tall, beautiful fog-covered mountains "protecting" the monastery and the village as a mighty stronghold. Keeping up with the theme of lakes and greenery, the trip will take you to the one of the most captivating landmarks in Armenia- the Parz lake (Parz meaning clear, transparent). The beautiful lake is in the peaceful depths of the forest, allowing the visitor to obtain an unlimited amount of fresh air and truly leave all the troubles behind. On the way there you will savor the magnificent looks of the town of Dilijan, Armenia's little Switzerland.

➋ This will be followed by the majestic Goshavank monastery located in a stunning village deep in the mountains. Located in the verdant Tavush Province, Goshavank Monastery is a breathtaking sight nestled amongst the rolling hills and forests of Dilijan National Park. The monastery was built in the 12th century and is a testament to Armenian craftsmanship and artistry of the time. Its stunning architecture, intricate carvings, and ornate decorations make it a true masterpiece. The complex includes several buildings, such as the Cathedral of Saint Gregory, the Church of Saint Astvatsatsin, and the Gavit, all of which are adorned with incredible carvings, frescoes, and sculptures.

➌ The overnight stay at Tufenkian Avan Dzoraget Hotel next to the Debed river stream will allow serenity and joy.

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➊ The 5th day of the trip well present to you the beauty of the North. A land of jaw-dropping cliffs, freedom and oxygen, the Regions of Lori and Tavush will set you free and stun with its religious heritage. After a captivating journey through remarkable mountain ranges, where you will also get to see two of the unique villages inhabited by Russian Molokans, Fioletovo and Lermontovo, and witness the local agricultural and architectural tradition, the stunning Haghpat Monastic Complex will amaze you with its architecture and history. The monastery has been a cradle of literacy and education, catering for the intellectual and spiritual needs of the local population for centuries.

➋ Following the scenic lunch at a local restaurant, the other gem across the gorge, Sanahin Monastery, will submerge you into a similar, but a varyingly authentic atmosphere. The beauty of its courtyard, fascinating chambers and tombstones will leave you speechless.

➌ The last stop will take you to the fun Armenian Alphabet Park where you will be told about the amazing story of the creation of the Armenian Alphabet in the 5th century and other linguistic facts about the Armenian language.

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➊ The flat region of Armavir is undoubtedly the country's religious inspiration. Located in the Ararat valley, it opens an uninterrupted view the stunning Mount Ararat. The short journey to the region ends with an educational visit to the St. Hripsime Church. Located at the doorstep of the town of Vagharshapat (which is where the Holy See of the Armenian Apostolic Church is located), the church takes you far back to the earliest accounts of Christianity in Armenia. The informational details are then complemented by the paced journey throughout the Mother See of Holy Ejmiatsin. In site, the full account of the adoption of Christianity as a state religion will be delivered to you and will get the chance to see the oldest cathedral in the world- the Mother Cathedral of Ejmiatsin.

➋ After a session of fine dining at a homey local restaurant, the journey will continue to the ruins of the one-of-a-kind Zvartnots Temple. The unique architecture and residential courtyard of the temple will leave you amazed.

➌ Discover the heartbreaking story of the Armenian Genocide on a tour to Yerevan's Armenian Genocide Museum. You will be taken on a journey through the museum's powerful exhibits, providing a unique insight into the tragic events that took place in the early 20th century. Upon arrival at the museum, you will be greeted by a solemn memorial dedicated to the victims of the genocide. As you step inside the museum, you will see a variety of artifacts, photographs, and documents that bear witness to the atrocities committed against the Armenian people.
Your guide will lead you through the museum's exhibits, providing context and historical background to the events depicted. You will see firsthand the impact that the genocide had on Armenian culture, art, and society, and how it continues to shape the Armenian identity to this day. The tour will conclude with a visit to the nearby Tsitsernakaberd Memorial, where you can pay your respects to the victims of the genocide and take in stunning views of the city.
This day tour to Yerevan's Armenian Genocide Museum is a must for anyone interested in Armenian history, culture, and the human experience.

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➊ The entire seventh day of the trip will be dedicated to Gegharkunik Region, which is the largest region of the country. It will stun you with its elegant velvety alpine nature and its turquoise gem, the beautiful Lake Sevan. The trip is an adventurous round-trip ride around the lake, with interesting stops at several notable sites that reveal the best of the region's nature. The Noratus peninsula, which is the trip's first site, is a unique historical landmark. Being one of the four peninsulas of the lake, it holds the largest collection of cross-stones in the country. Cross-stones are perhaps the most uniquely Armenian sculptural structures. They will amaze you with the intricacy of their styles and designs.

➋ After a lovely authentic lunch serving the local fish, the trip will take you through a revitalizing ride around Big Sevan, the larger part of the lake. The stops taken to take photograph do not need to be limited by any number.

➌ Some more gorgeous views and scenery are waiting for you at the Mashtotsner forest near the Sevan Peninsula. The tall pine trees and the delicious water springs of the area will take you closer to the nature than you have ever been. The vicinity allows an amazing view of the lake and the Sevanavank Monastery on the Sevan Peninsula. If there is enough time and energy left, you can visit the Monastery as well. Dating back to the 9th century, the monastery is one of the oldest in the country, also offering a stunning view to the entirety of the lake.

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➊ The day's first destination is the Erebuni Fortress where you will see the ruins of Yerevan's oldest settlement. The trip through the site's museum will educate you further on the history of the area. The journey will then bring you to the beautiful Cascade Complex, which is a beloved place for evening walks and leisure. The park of modern and creative sculptures will freely captivate your attention and make you fall in love with the place. The following part of the trip which will happen on foot and will take you to the Saryan Park of Paintings, the Opera House, Abovyan street, the oldest street of the city, and the Republic Square.

➋ The Opera House will you leave you amazed with its unique look and astonishing capaciousness. There, you will be told the astonishing history of the building and interesting facts about it. This musical story will be the continuation of the soul-enriching spectacle of beautiful paintings at the Saryan Park. The enlightening walk will then take you to the Abovyan Street, which is the oldest street of the city. Along the way, you will the see the beautiful Moscow Cinema and some of the oldest surviving city of the old town center. Just a few more minutes and you are at the Republic Square- the heart of the city. It has always been the main square of the city (in different sizes, of course) and will take you to the imaginative world of Soviet architecture. The beautiful fountains and unique buildings will give you a full idea of the perception of time and space in the Soviet. You will then be given free time to enjoy the rest of your time shopping or having something to eat or drink on the Northern Avenue.

➌ The didactic and educational experience of the city tour will be complemented by a nice gastronomic experience at the Ararat Brandy Factory. The spirity air of the museum will prepare you for the heart-warming brandy tasting, preceded by the educational tour through the factory's museum. Learn and drink!

A tour to Vernissage, Yerevan's famous souvenir market, is a must-do for any visitor looking to take home a unique piece of Armenia. Located in the heart of the city, Vernissage is a bustling outdoor market where local artisans display and sell their handmade crafts, artworks, and souvenirs.
During the tour, you will have the opportunity to wander through the colorful stalls and explore the variety of items for sale. From intricately carved wooden figurines to beautifully woven carpets, there is something for everyone at Vernissage.
As you stroll through the market, you will also have the chance to meet some of the vendors and learn about the stories behind their creations. The market is known for its friendly and welcoming atmosphere, and many visitors find themselves striking up conversations with the vendors and making new friends.