Private Tour: Jermuk, Noravank, Areni, Khor Virap

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Armenia’s stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage with this private full-day tour. Explore the iconic Khor Virap monastery, marvel at the breathtaking Noravank Monastery, and discover the picturesque Jermuk Waterfall. Indulge in a delightful wine tasting experience at the renowned Areni Winery, where you’ll savor the unique flavors of the local Areni Noir varietal. Uncover the hidden gems that make Armenia a truly captivating destination – all with the convenience of round-trip transfers and comfortable transportation.

Key Points

• Explore the historic Khor Virap monastery, offering stunning views of Mount Ararat, and learn about the site’s spiritual significance.
• Discover the architectural marvel of Noravank Monastery, nestled in a remote gorge with intricate carvings and a unique two-story church design.
• Visit the captivating Jermuk Waterfall, a 72-meter cascade in the renowned health resort town.
• Indulge in a wine tasting experience at the renowned Areni Winery, featuring the renowned Areni Noir varietal.
• Enjoy round-trip transfers from Yerevan and comfortable air-conditioned transportation throughout the private full-day tour.

Tour Overview

This private full-day tour allows visitors to explore three of Armenia’s top attractions – Khor Virap, Noravank, and Jermuk.

At Khor Virap, guests can marvel at the stunning views of Mount Ararat. The tour then heads to Noravank Monastery to admire its 13th-century architecture.

Finally, it concludes at the famous health resort of Jermuk, home to the majestic Jermuk Waterfall.

Round-trip transfers from Yerevan, comfortable air-conditioned transportation, and a wine tasting at Areni Winery are included, ensuring a seamless and memorable experience.

Exploring Khor Virap

The tour begins at Khor Virap, a historic Armenian monastery nestled at the foot of Mount Ararat.

This 17th-century sacred site offers stunning views of Turkey’s iconic mountain, believed to be the resting place of Noah’s Ark.

Visitors can explore the chapel, climb the tower, and learn about the monastery’s rich history.

Khor Virap is particularly significant as the site where Gregory the Illuminator, the patron saint of Armenia, was imprisoned for 13 years before converting the king to Christianity.

This powerful spiritual connection makes Khor Virap a must-visit destination on any Armenian cultural tour.

Discovering Noravank Monastery

Next, the tour transports visitors to the awe-inspiring Noravank Monastery, a 13th-century architectural gem nestled in a remote, gorge-like setting.

Visitors are captivated by:

1. The monastery’s striking red-and-yellow tufa stone facades, decorative khatchkars (Armenian cross-stones), and intricate carvings.
2. The small but intricately designed Church of the Holy Mother of God, which features a unique two-story design and stunning interior frescoes.
3. The stunning natural surroundings, with towering cliffs and the Amaghu River winding through the dramatic gorge below.

After exploring this remarkable site, the tour continues on to the next destination.

Visiting Jermuk Waterfall

Leaving the stunning Noravank Monastery behind, the tour now takes visitors to the famous health resort town of Jermuk.

Home to the impressive Jermuk Waterfall, this natural wonder cascades down a height of 72 meters, creating a serene and invigorating atmosphere. Visitors can admire the powerful flow of water and enjoy the surrounding natural beauty.

The town of Jermuk is renowned for its mineral springs and is a popular destination for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation.

The tour provides an opportunity to experience this picturesque location and its captivating waterfall.

Indulging in Wine Tasting

After exploring the serene Jermuk Waterfall, the tour now takes visitors to the renowned Areni Winery for a delightful wine tasting experience.

The Areni region is renowned for its exceptional wines, and the winery offers a unique opportunity to sample some of the finest local vintages.

The wine tasting includes:

1. A guided tour of the winery’s facilities, providing insight into the production process.
2. Sampling of 3-4 different Areni wines, including the renowned Areni Noir varietal.
3. Expert commentary from the winemakers, sharing the history and characteristics of each wine.

Comfortable Transportation

Departing the Areni Winery, the tour now focuses on the comfortable transportation arrangements. Travelers are picked up and dropped off directly at their Yerevan hotel, ensuring a seamless start and end to the day. The air-conditioned vehicle with onboard Wi-Fi allows for a relaxing journey, enabling passengers to stay connected and refreshed throughout the tour.

Feature	Benefit
Hotel Transfers	Convenient pickup and drop-off
Air Conditioning	Comfortable travel experience
Wi-Fi Connectivity	Stay connected on the go

The 8:30 AM start time provides ample time to explore the day’s destinations without feeling rushed.

Included Amenities

Along with the comfortable transportation arrangements, this private tour also includes several amenities to enhance the overall experience.

The tour features:

1. A wine tasting at the renowned Areni Winery, allowing guests to sample the region’s renowned vintages.
2. A delicious lunch included in the tour package, ensuring travelers are well-fed during their excursion.
3. Complimentary Wi-Fi on board the air-conditioned vehicle, enabling passengers to stay connected and share their experiences in real-time.

These inclusions aim to provide a comprehensive and enjoyable tour, catering to the diverse needs and preferences of the travelers.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

The tour is priced from $295.00 per person, with the exact cost varying based on the group size.

Booking confirmation is received upon reservation. Travelers can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the experience starts.

However, the tour operator has received a complaint about perceived scams related to tour cancellations and additional charges. Visitors should thoroughly review the cancellation policy and ask questions if anything is unclear.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps during the transportation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Tour to Visit Other Sites?

Yes, you can customize the tour to visit other sites. The tour operator may be able to accommodate additional stops or modify the itinerary to suit your preferences, though it may come at an additional cost.

How Much Luggage Can I Bring on the Tour?

The tour allows for a reasonable amount of luggage. Participants can bring standard carry-on sized bags, as the vehicle has ample storage space. However, it’s best to avoid large or bulky items that could be difficult to transport.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Children or Seniors?

The tour operator doesn’t explicitly mention any discounts for children or seniors. However, it’s best to inquire directly with the tour provider to see if any discounted rates are available for those groups.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour operator doesn’t offer an option to extend the tour duration. However, customers can request additional time at specific sites or customize the itinerary for an additional fee, subject to availability.

Can the Tour Be Rescheduled in Case of Bad Weather?

The tour can be rescheduled in case of bad weather, though this is subject to availability. Guests should contact the tour operator as soon as possible to discuss alternative dates and make the necessary changes.

The Sum Up

This private tour offers a captivating exploration of Armenia’s iconic attractions. From the breathtaking Khor Virap monastery to the stunning Noravank Monastery and the picturesque Jermuk Waterfall, travelers will enjoy the country’s rich history and natural wonders. The winery visit and wine tasting experience completes the journey, providing a delightful culinary component. With comfortable transportation and included amenities, this tour promises an unforgettable day of discovery in Armenia.