Group Tour: Hayravank, Noratus, Selim, Winery, Jermuk

This guided tour through Armenia’s Gegharkunik Province promises a meaningful mix of natural beauty, ancient architecture, and local flavor—all for just $43. While we haven’t personally joined, reviews consistently highlight its value, knowledgeable guides, and the variety of sights covered in a single day. It’s a great choice if you want to get a well-rounded introduction to Armenia’s highlights without the hassle of planning each stop yourself.

What makes this tour particularly appealing? It’s the combination of stunning panoramic views of Lake Sevan, one of the largest freshwater high-altitude lakes in Eurasia, and the chance to explore remarkable khachkars at Noratus Cemetery—a true window into Armenian artistry. Plus, the visit to Jermuk Waterfall offers a refreshingly natural break, and the wine tasting at Arpi Winery adds a delightful local touch.

However, keep in mind that this is a full-day experience with a packed itinerary, so it’s not ideal if you prefer a slower pace or additional free time at each site. Also, some expenses like lunch are not included, so bringing cash for meals is advisable. If you enjoy cultural, scenic, and culinary experiences all in one day, this tour fits the bill beautifully.

This experience is best suited for travelers who want an affordable, comprehensive day trip that delivers Armenia’s diverse appeal in a manageable format. Families, first-time visitors, or anyone eager to tick several key sights off their Armenia list will find it particularly valuable.

Key Points

• Stunning Views of Lake Sevan: The tour begins with panoramic vistas from Hayravank, perfect for photo enthusiasts.
• Cultural Depth: Visiting the Noratus Cemetery reveals Armenia’s intricate cross-stone art and its historical significance.
• Scenic Drive Through Selim Pass: Enjoy breathtaking mountain landscapes on this scenic route.
• Wine Tasting Experience: At Arpi Winery, you’ll sample authentic Armenian wine, appreciated by reviewers for its uniqueness.
• Natural Wonder of Jermuk Waterfall: A highlight that provides both beauty and a chance to relax amidst nature.
• Professional Guides and Comfortable Transport: Guides speak both English and Russian, ensuring clear, engaging commentary, with air-conditioned buses and Wi-Fi.

The Itinerary in Detail

Hayravank and Lake Sevan

Your day kicks off at Hayravank Monastery, perched above the famous Lake Sevan. From this vantage point, you’ll get sweeping views of the “blue pearl” of Armenia. The monastery itself is centuries old, with a simple yet powerful presence that invites reflection. The reviews praise the spectacular scenery here, with one traveler noting, “We loved the way the view of Lake Sevan was integrated into the sightseeing—it’s breathtaking from up there.” It’s a gentle start that sets a peaceful tone for the day.

Noratus Cemetery and Khachkars

Next, you’ll head to Noratus, home to what many consider the most impressive collection of khachkars—ornate cross-stones that form an open-air museum of Armenian religious art. The khachkars here date back centuries and showcase intricate carvings, each with its own story. Reviewers appreciate the authenticity of this stop, with one mentioning, “The guide explained the symbolism behind the carvings, making the experience both beautiful and educational.” This site offers a tangible connection to Armenia’s spiritual and artistic traditions.

Pass Through Selim

Driving through the Selim Pass introduces you to Armenia’s rugged mountain landscape. The route is often highlighted for its picturesque scenery, with panoramic views that will make your camera happy. It’s a quick but memorable drive that adds a bit of adventure to the day, especially for those who love mountain vistas.

Arpi Winery and Wine Tasting

One of the tour’s culinary highlights is a visit to Arpi Winery. Here, you’ll taste local Armenian wine, which guests frequently describe as “distinctive and flavorful.” The guided tasting provides insights into Armenia’s ancient wine-making traditions, and it’s a chance to sample varieties you might not find elsewhere. The reviews note the high quality of the experience, with one traveler saying, “The wine tasting was the highlight, and the guide shared interesting facts about each type.” It’s a genuine opportunity to connect with Armenia’s long-standing winemaking culture.

Jermuk and the Waterfall

The last main stop is Jermuk, a resort town famous for its mineral waters and natural beauty. The highlight here is the Jermuk Waterfall, affectionately called “Mermaid’s Hair” by locals due to its flowing cascade. The waterfall’s fresh, crisp air and scenic surroundings have earned it rave reviews—they describe it as “refreshing and stunning,” a perfect spot for photos and some quiet time. Travelers often comment on the clean, rejuvenating environment, making it a fitting end to the active day.

What’s Included and What to Budget for

The tour’s price of $43 per person offers excellent value considering the variety of sights, the guided experience, transportation, and wine tasting. The included amenities—professional guides speaking English and Russian, air-conditioned transport, bottled water, pastries, Wi-Fi, and admission tickets—are all geared at making the day smooth.

However, you’ll need to budget extra for lunch, which ranges from 3900 to 4900 AMD (about $10-13). Reviewers recommend bringing cash in Drams because card payments might not always be accepted at restaurants. The flexibility to reserve and pay later adds convenience, especially if your plans change.

Group Size and Duration

The tour is designed for convenience, with a group size that allows for easy interaction and personalized attention. It’s a full-day experience, so be prepared for a fair bit of traveling—roughly 8 hours overall. The start point is conveniently located near the corner of Nalbandyan and Tumanyan streets in Yerevan, with the tour ending back at the same spot.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

Multiple travelers have praised the guides’ knowledge and friendliness. One reviewer, Helena, appreciated how the guide shared “all the most important information as well as some anecdotes and legends,” emphasizing the educational aspect of the trip. Another traveler mentioned that the guide, who spoke both English and Russian, made the experience engaging and informative.

The driver also earned praise for smooth, safe driving through the mountain passes. The group size typically keeps the tour intimate and friendly, making it easier to ask questions and share experiences.

The scenery and sites stood out the most, with many guests noting that Jermuk Waterfall was particularly memorable. One said, “Jermuk was very, very fantastic,” highlighting how the natural beauty leaves a lasting impression.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors wanting a broad taste of Armenia’s natural beauty, history, and culture without the stress of organizing multiple trips. It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate scenic drives, engaging guides, and local culinary experiences like wine tasting.

Because it covers a lot of ground in a single day, it’s perfect for travelers with limited time but a curiosity to see diverse sights. It’s also a good value for the price, especially with the included admissions, guide, and tasting. However, if you prefer more free time at each site or want to explore the towns more leisurely, this might feel a bit rushed.

The Sum Up

This guided tour through Gegharkunik Province offers a well-rounded snapshot of Armenia’s natural, cultural, and culinary highlights. From the panoramic vistas of Lake Sevan to the ancient khachkars at Noratus, and from the scenic mountain drives through Selim Pass to the rejuvenating waters of Jermuk, you’ll experience Armenia’s diverse charm in one affordable package.

The inclusion of wine tasting at Arpi Winery and a knowledgeable guide make this tour not just sightseeing but an insightful journey into Armenian traditions. For travelers eager to see iconic sights without the hassle of planning, this trip provides excellent value, comfort, and authenticity.

If you’re after a balanced, engaging, and affordable introduction to Armenia’s highlights, this tour ticks many boxes. Whether you’re a culture lover, nature enthusiast, or just want a fun day with a friendly group, it’s likely to leave you with lasting memories and plenty of photo opportunities.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour is a full-day experience, approximately 8 hours, including travel time between sites.

Is lunch included in the price?
No, lunch costs between 3900 and 4900 AMD ($10-13). It’s recommended to bring cash in Drams, as credit card acceptance isn’t guaranteed at restaurants.

What languages do guides speak?
Guides speak both English and Russian, ensuring clear and engaging commentary for diverse travelers.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins on the left side of Nalbandyan and Tumanyan corner in Yerevan and concludes back at the same meeting point.

What is included in the tour?
You get professional guides, air-conditioned transportation, Wi-Fi, bottled water, pastries, admission tickets, and wine tasting.

Is the group size suitable for couples or solo travelers?
Yes, the group size is generally manageable, making it comfortable for couples, solo travelers, and small groups.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making bookings flexible and risk-free.

This Armenia day trip offers a balanced blend of history, scenery, and local flavor, perfect for travelers wanting a meaningful glimpse of the country’s treasures without breaking the bank. Whether it’s your first visit or a repeat trip, this tour promises a memorable experience full of vibrant sights and authentic tastes.