Khor Virap, Areni & Noravank: Sacred Monasteries & Wine
Description
This tour offers a perfect blend of spiritual, cultural, and culinary experiences. Visit the historic Khor Virap Monastery with its stunning view of Mount Ararat, explore the cultural treasure of Noravank, and enjoy wine tasting in the famous Areni region. Our friendly local drivers aren’t professional guides, but they provide all the essential information, assist you throughout the day, and ensure your trip is comfortable, flexible, and stress-free. Unlike crowded group tours, this is a private, personalized experience, allowing you to explore at your own pace, take photos, and fully enjoy Armenia’s beauty and heritage. Highlights: • Visit Khor Virap & Noravank Monasteries • Wine tasting in Areni • Breathtaking views of Mount Ararat and the Armenian countryside • Private, comfortable transportation • Flexible itinerary with plenty of photo opportunities
Tour Options
Itinerary
The Khor Virap is an Armenian monastery located in the Ararat plain in Armenia, near the closed border with Turkey.Khor Virap's notability as a monastery and pilgrimage site is attributed to the fact that Gregory the Illuminator was initially imprisoned here for about 14 years by King Tiridates III of Armenia. Saint Gregory subsequently became the king's religious mentor, and they led the proselytizing activity in the country. In the year 301, Armenia was the first country in the world to be declared a Christian nation.[2][5][6] A chapel was initially built in 642 at the site of Khor Virap by Nerses III the Builder as a mark of veneration to Saint Gregory.
Areni village is located about 120 km from Yerevan on the banks of the river Arpa. At the entrance to the village, right at the road on the left side a private smal wine factory "Areni" is located, which you can visit to get acquainted with the production process, taste the local wines.
Noravank is a 13th-century Armenian monastery, located 122 km from Yerevan in a narrow gorge made by the Amaghu River, near the town of Yeghegnadzor, Armenia. The gorge is known for its tall, sheer, brick-red cliffs, directly across from the monastery. The monastery is best known for its two-storey Surb Astvatsatsin (Holy Mother of God) church, which grants access to the second floor by way of a narrow stone-made staircase jutting out from the face of building, one of the earliest examples of cantilever architecture.
Highlights
What's included
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Reviews(8)
Overall it was very good. I just wish there was too easy a wine tasting place and lunch time. As for the driver, I was glad he was right and safe. They stopped by places I didn't plan to visit and Wagamama listened.
Our guide was very informative and knowledgeable. Provided extra direction to us around at each sight to make sure we experienced everything. He was flexible to make an extra stop at Magellan Cave and a local restaurant in Areni. We appreciated being in a mini-van and not in a large tour bus, it was a wonderful experience.
We booked this tour because it was a private car so we could spend more time doing things we wanted without having to wait for a group. It is totally worth it. We aren’t photo takers much so we spent more time exploring and chatting with our guide. He was the absolute nicest person and so down to Earth. Conversation during the drive time was hilarious. We probably enjoyed the conversation more than the tour! lol. Thank you Bayk for the incredible time. We really enjoyed the entire day and were engaged until the final site. We highly recommend this tour!
Our three-day tour guided by Mr. Levon and Arthur through the beautiful landscapes of Armenia was nothing short of amazing. Their profound knowledge of Armenia's rich history and culture brought each destination to life, making our journey incredibly insightful. From exploring ancient monasteries to sampling fine wines at a picturesque winery, every experience was carefully curated to showcase the best of Armenia. Their friendly demeanor and professionalism made us feel like old friends exploring together. We were mesmerized by the snow-capped mountains, serene lakes, and charming old towns that we visited. It was truly a memorable adventure, thanks to Mr. Levon and Arthur's expertise and hospitality. Highly recommended for an authentic and unforgettable Armenian experience!
They are accommodating and prompt. Regarding finances and as a professional, Sir Levon is a trustworthy tour guide. It truly demonstrates their concern for the safety of their clients that he gave us advance notice before we arrived at the location. They go above and beyond in their tour services. Until our next travel. Shnorhakalut’yun.
Second time travel with Memory Maker! And yet, still the best. This time, not a lone traveler anymore. 😍 Thank You Ms. Teresa and Levon, and for the rest of your team for making this trip so memorable.
We love our stay in our armenia with the help of our tour guide we enjoy our stay, we enjoy the places,food recommendation by levon highly recommend Memory Maker travel tours in armenia.
Gor was a decent tour guide, and his English was better than many! We appreciate his effort to drive us around in the countryside and tell the stories of the places we’ve visited. He also checks on us regularly and sensitive with our needs. Felt safe and enjoyed the experience. He suggested to eat in a restaurant and we enjoyed it!
