Privétour naar de kloosters Sanahin, Haghpat en Odzun, "Mendz Er-grot"

I would like to thank the staff of tourist company of Jan Armenia, especially Nelli, who did offer our this trip, for the nice cooperation during our stay in Yerevan, where we enjoyed a guided tour of Yerevan's most notable places - the building of the Armenian National Opera, Cafesijan Center for the Arts, Republic Square, as well as in the Taverna Restaurant we were able to participate in the preparation and baking of the Armenian national cake Gata and, of course, tasete it. I can say with absolute certainty - you will definitely like and taste it! However, the most memorable part was the tasting of Armenia's most famous wines, where we could taste and taste the various wines on offer. We also chose the Private trip to Dzoraget Canyon - the tour company employee Nelli, was very responsive and by combining our wishes and her offer, a very fulfilling but wonderful adventure was created, which I would recommend to all tourists who want not only to see, but also to enjoy Armenian hospitality and an unforgettable experience and feelings! The trip to Dzoraget Canyon in the Lori region became the highlight of our Armenia trip, accompanied by a very knowledgeable and qualified guide (and driver in one) Tigran, who pampered us all day long with historical stories and fascinating legends about every object we passed - Mount Aragat, the city of Spitak, the Haghpat Monastery complex with a special atmosphere, which did not skimp on the wonderful sunset views of the mountains and the historical facts of the Odzun church building. In the village of Odzun, we tasted the wonderfully delicious Armenian national dishes at the B&B Odzun restaurant with the very friendly and hard-working owner Sergej, where we took part in baking an Armenian fruit pie, which we then tasted at the end of the rich lunch. But the most memorable was the wonderful and also challenging trek in the mountains along the Dzoraget canyon on horseback. Right from the beginning, the weather promised to be harsh, as it rained and thunder made its appearance every now and then. However, together with the instructor of the horses, we still decided to go to the mountains to enjoy unforgettable sensations! Despite the fact that we were wet and soaked through, we returned after 2 hours happy and satisfied. We thank the organizers of this offer, as well as the tour company's wonderful, intelligent and very knowledgeable guide Tigran, as well as the horse groomer and owner, as well as everyone else involved! Best Regards Ineta from Danmark/Latvia

Thursday 7th Visited the Haghpat Monastery and Sanahin 10-13th centuries UNESCO heritage sites in the fall. About 35 km from Georgian border. Stunning views from this mountain location. Haghpat is regal with commanding views and Sanahin is so beautiful and serene capturing all the fall colors. Haghpat lies on a dissected plateau and ascent to and from the river is quite a climb. I was fortunate to be accompanied by Lilit who is a very knowledgeable guide and provided detailed descriptions of the complex and Byzantine ecclesiastical and traditional vernacular architecture of the Caucasian region. And importantly the history. If you have an accomplished guide it adds so much more to the experience. The monasteries were important learning centers for centuries. Haghpat Monastery was once one of the largest centres of science, with a rich collection of manuscripts plus places for copying and studying. Monks could study medicine, astronomy, music, literature, etc One of the handful of Armenian khachkars to feature Jesus Christ is on display at Haghpat Monastery. Not too far from the monasteries is the 5-7th Century Holy Church of Odzun perched on top of a high plateau. Three naves of pink felsite basilica and barrel vaulted roof with a later 19th century of two small bell towers addition is a charming sight. We were fortunate enough to meet the engaging priest who gave us a personal tour, and I suspect he does this often. Please note that the 175 km drive in view of road works made this a long day and probably added an hour to our drive. The positive side was that Lilit used this time to provide me with her impressions of current and past history and culture of the Armenian people which made it very personal. Ruben, our driver, was diligent at navigating his way through all the road constructions safely, and we all had great fun stopping at the bakery on the way there. These sites are amazing and time well spent if you are interested and intrigued by Armenia’s history and culture. Highly recommend Jan Armenia Tours and Lilit and Ruben who made me very welcome and ensured that I had a great time.