Ultimate Armenia Discovery Gourmet & Walk 11D10N, Private Guided

Welcome to Armenia! Upon landing at Zvartnots International Airport in Yerevan, Armenia’s captivating capital awaits. Though the city brims with sights to explore, today you’ll be whisked to your luxurious home for the next two nights, The Alexander, a Luxury Collection Hotel. This elegant retreat blends modern charm with Armenian sophistication, offering indulgent amenities like a spa, pool, and fitness center to ease you into relaxation. Settle into your Superior King Room and unwind, taking in the vibrant views of Yerevan’s lively center.

This evening, we’ll gather for a welcome dinner at Dolmama Restaurant, where Armenia’s rich culinary heritage shines. Choose from signature tasting menus featuring delights like tomato and goat cheese salad, savory eggplant rolls, fresh Armenian salad, and hearty beef stew, setting the perfect start to our journey.

Begin your day with a city tour of Yerevan, Armenia's capital. It is one of the world's ancient cities, dating back to 782 BC. Yerevan is often called "The Pink City" because most buildings are designed with a pink volcanic stone called tuff.

We tour the city's centre, beginning at Republic Square, an iconic Yerevan landmark designed by the famed Armenian architect Alexander Tamanian in the early and mid-1900s. Here, you can check out the National Art Gallery and History Museum. Afterwards, we stroll the grounds of the Opera House—a cultural gem. We keep going and soak in the scenery of the tranquil Swan Lake before heeding the call of the city's coolest street, the Northern Avenue. Hike Cascade's stairs - a giant stairway with works of art exhibited at all levels of the complex and admire the panoramic vista of Yerevan and the biblical Mount Ararat from the top of the monument. We stop by a local restaurant serving tasty authentic Armenian cuisine for lunch.

Next, we visit Ararat Brandy Factory to savour some excellent Armenian brandy and wander around Yerevan.

We convene for a delectable dinner accompanied by folk music at a local restaurant tonight. The menu features two main dishes: tolma in grape/cabbage leaves and Veal loin with arista, along with appetisers, salads, and desserts.

Approx. 3 km (2 miles) walking, Elevation gain: 206 m (676 ft)

After a leisurely breakfast, we set off for Khor Virap Monastery, a historic site with Armenia’s closest views of Mount Ararat. Named "deep pit" for its origins, Khor Virap stands over a dungeon where Saint Gregory the Illuminator was held captive for 14 years, his faith shaping Armenia’s Christian roots. From here, the monastery reveals one of the most breathtaking views of the legendary Mount Ararat.

Our journey then leads us to Arnaghu village, where we embark on a hike through the Arpa Protected Landscape. This canyon is alive with vibrant plant life, hidden caves, and remnants of ancient winemaking. Recognized as an Important Bird Area, it’s also home to endangered species and the elusive Caucasian Leopard. As we climb through striking volcanic rock formations that change colors with the sun, we’re rewarded with panoramic views from the canyon’s high points and observation decks where Bezoar goats roam.

Our next stop is Noravank Monastery, a 13th-century masterpiece of Armenian art and architecture by renowned sculptor Momik. Its unique two-story design makes it one of the rarest monasteries in the world. From Noravank, we continue to the historic town of Goris, where we’ll unwind at the elegant Diana Hotel, a beautifully renovated retreat offering stunning panoramic views of the city. Take a refreshing dip in the indoor pool or rejuvenate in the Finnish, Turkish saunas and Russian bath.

Approx. 12 km (7 miles) walking, Elevation gain: 113 m (371 ft)

After a delightful breakfast at the hotel, we head to Tatev Monastery, one of the most amazing sights of Armenia. It is seated on the edge of a cliff surrounded by majestic nature. The best way to get to this gem of mediaeval Armenian architecture is to take the cableway called "The Wings of Tatev." This cableway stretches over the scenic gorge of the river Vorotan and is recorded in the Guinness Book of Records as the longest reversible aerial tramway in the world (5752 metres). However, we will use it on our way back since we will be hiking for about 12 kilometres from the Vorotan Gorge, navigating the Devil's Bridge, and hiking to the monastery. Following an excursion at the monastery, we take a cableway back to the Vorotan Gorge and drive to the Armenian Stonehenge called Zorats Karer or Karahunj. According to archaeologists, this is one of the world's most ancient observatories - used for astronomical purposes in prehistoric times.

Shuttle to the health resort Jermuk, a 4-star hotel popular for its hot mineral springs with healing properties. You have free time to explore the town—you can stop by the Jermuk Water Gallery and experience the town's healing water firsthand or walk the scenic Nature Trails. Or stay behind in your hotel and swim in the indoor pool or succumb to a soothing massage at the spa (Spa treatments are at own expense).

We begin with a leisurely morning, spending time at the hotel for spa treatments. Then, we drive to Areni Wine Factory, the oldest winery in the world, dating back to 6100 BC. Archaeologists discovered indicators of large-scale wine production, including a wine press, clay jars, fermentation vats, and grape seeds. Here, we taste delicious Armenian wine from the unique grape sort Areni.

Areni-1 cave is a must-see in Armenia since the world's oldest winery and oldest leather shoe were discovered here during the 2011 excavations—it offers a glimpse into ancient human life. From here, continue to Yeghegis, relishing a scenic drive through the heart of the Vayots Dzor region, navigating jagged mountains, verdant vineyards, and picturesque villages.

You’ll stay at Hotel Arevi, your home, for the next two nights. Yeghegis Valley's gorgeous landscapes surround this hidden gem, providing scenic mountain vistas. Relax and prepare for a delightful dinner tonight.

Approx. 7 km (4 miles) walking, Elevation gain: 300 m (984 ft)

Today, we begin our hike from the village of Yeghegis up to Smbataberd Fortress. Smbataberd is an impenetrable fortress in the southeast of the village of Artabuink. It was built in the 5th century on a narrow mountaintop protected by canyons on three sides. During our hike, stand in awe of the gorgeous view of the Vayots Dzor region. Arriving at the fortress, the remarkable view of the Taksar Mountains takes our breath away.

After that, we continue our hike to the mediaeval Tsakhats Kar Monastery. Despite being practically destroyed, its ruins remain unique and picturesque. There are two groups of structures here: The western, which includes the churches of St. Godmother and St. Hovannes, is much older than the eastern, with the churches of St. Karapet and Holy Sign. Numerous khachkars may be seen around the monastery as well. Today's hike will end in Yeghegis.

After breakfast, we head to the Noraduz Cemetery, the largest graveyard with khachkars in the world. Khachkars (Armenian cross-stones) are the most remarkable heritage of Armenian architecture inscribed on the UNESCO List of Intangible Cultural Heritage. The cemetery contains around 900 khachkars of various ages and architectural solutions. On our way to Noraduz, we make a short stop at Selim Caravanserai. It was built in the 14th century to bridge the passes of Europe and the Middle East and accommodate travellers and their animals while crossing the Silk Road.

Moving on, we visit Milkaelyans' Family Farm, a unique family farm in Armenia where you can taste various types of cheese with wine made by traditional technology and enjoy the warm hospitality of the Mikaelyan family.

Then, we continue to Sevan Lake. From the peninsula of Sevan, we may climb the stairs to Sevanvank Monastery and enjoy the view of the blue-eyed lake above the hill, one of the world's largest freshwater high-altitude lakes.

Continue to Dilijan, often called "Armenian Switzerland" due to its rich nature with verdant green forested areas, and drive to Dilijani Tun Hotel & Restaurant, a breathtaking hotel set in the Tavush, one of the most beautiful places in Armenia. Bask in views of the mountains and the horizon from your terrace.

Approx. 7 km (4 miles) walking, Elevation gain: 234 m (768 ft)

Prepare yourself to discover the lush town of Dilijan. Following a short tour of the historical part of the town, we head to Goshvank Monastery. The mediaeval monastic complex of Goshavank, built in the 12th century, is named after the great Armenian scientist, historian, and politician Mkhitar Gosh. The monastery used to double as a religious and important educational and cultural centre. The view of the monastery is majestic because of its location in one of the most picturesque places in Armenia. From here, we begin hiking along the stunning trails of Dilijan National Park, heading to Lake Gosh.

We savor lunch, accompanied by a masterclass on preparing "gata." This popular Armenian multi-layered dessert with a very soft and delicate flavour has become the symbol of Armenian cuisine. Afterwards, we visit Haghartsin Monastery, one of the most mysterious places in the country, located high in the woody mountains in Dilijan National Park. We lose ourselves in the heart-stopping beauty of the surrounding mountains.

Next, we head to the North of the country. On our way there, we pause for tea at Fioletovo, a village where Molokans (local Russian minorities) live. Here, we relish a special samovar tea, talking to the community representatives and getting acquainted with their traditions and daily lives.

Our home for tonight is a hotel nestled against the backdrop of the enchanting Debed River Gorge, surrounded by the raw beauty of the Lori Region, Tufenkian Avan Dzoraget. Settle into your room and bask in the river views. You can peruse the services of the spa centre before convening later. Tonight, we savour the taste of traditional Armenian and Georgian dishes such as chakhokhbili (chicken with onion and tomatoes).

We begin the day with a visit to the UNESCO-listed monasteries of Haghpat and Sanahin, built in the 10th century. Both monasteries were major educational and spiritual centres in the Middle Ages. Then, we stop for coffee or tea (your preference) at Zarni-Parni, a cave castle complex in the Lori region. It is seated in a forest canyon with a magnificent view of the gorge. The castle's ancient caves have become a historical museum, where one can find several rare ancient agricultural tools and household items.

Following that, we continue to the organic vineyards of Van Ardi Winery. We enjoy a guided tour through the vineyards and winery, listening to the winery's history and Armenian winemaking. We are also introduced to their viticulture and winemaking process. Then, we return to the patio and taste three different types of wine.

Afterwards, we join a shuttle to the Seven Visions Resort, our luxury 5-star hotel in the heart of Yerevan. This hotel fuses cultural heritage with modern designs, providing spacious rooms with thoughtful touches and elegant Art Deco styles. After settling in, go for a swim in the panoramic open-air pool to cool off and marvel at city views or experience what a 5-star service in the hotel spa feels like again. If you’re feeling energetic, a well-equipped tennis court is on the 4th floor.

Approx. 9 km (6 miles) walking, Elevation gain: 350 m (1,148 ft)

Grab breakfast at the hotel before heading to Geghard Monastery, a stunning monastery of mediaeval Armenian architecture. This unique monastic complex, part of which is carved in the rock, is included in UNESCO's World Heritage list. This monastery has unbelievable acoustics - in some places, you can hear the sound for up to 40 seconds, the mystery of which has not yet been revealed. From the village of Goght, we hike to the spectacular Garni Canyon, a composition of gorgeous vertical peaks and natural rocks of breathtaking beauty. It is hard to believe that these neatly and symmetrically carved stones could have been created by nature, not by human hands, since they comprise huge paradoxically symmetric hexagons and pentagon basalt columns (nearly 50 metres high).

From the canyon, we ascend to the pagan temple of Garni, one of the country's famous tourist attractions. The temple was constructed in the 1st century AD by the Armenian king Trdat I. It was dedicated to Mihr, the Armenian pagan god of the Sun.

Tonight, we savour a delightful farewell dinner in a local traditional restaurant and cheers to our marvellous adventure so far.

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast and savour a leisurely morning. Enjoy your hotel's facilities and say your goodbyes before it's time to check out. Then, join a scenic transfer shuttle to the airport, where your trip ends.

NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation.