Activity highlights: hiking, cycling, culinary adventures, horse riding and 4WD. On this tour, you will walk at Hermits' Trail, go back in time horse riding in Tavush, head into perfect wilderness by 4WD and cycle to Mount Aragats to meet friendly Yezidi shepherds.
Tour Itinerary:
Day 1: Yerevan New and Old
The day starts with a quick pre-tour orientation meeting with your tour leader followed by an introductory cultural tour of Yerevan, new and old. We start our exploration with the Republic Square with it magnificent buildings enhanced by singing fountains, continue to Erebouni Fortress, the birthplace of Yerevan. Explore the impressive ruins and drive to the Railway Station to see the beautiful monument of David of Sasun, national hero. On to Mashtots Avenue, past Blue Mosque and huge fruit market to reach Cascade.
Later we drive to the south, catch our last view of Mount Ararat and descend to the sleepy town of Yeghegnadzor. After the drive, here is a chance to relax and enjoy the peace and quiet of our lodging. Overnight: Guesthouse in Yeghegnadsor, Meal plan: Breakfast
Day 2: Hiking at Hermits Trail
We offer a unique option this afternoon, hiking the Hermits' Trail. Transfer by jeep to Jafar hill station to start the day’s hike. After an hour's walk you can see Noravank Monastery in the distance – a sudden and dramatic sight amid surreal red rocks.
Continue walking and come to a pleasant picnic area under rosehip trees, where there is time to relax, enjoy your lunch and share your thoughts. After rest continue to reach an abandoned military point, walk down the gorge, cross the river and hike your last hour to reach Noravank. This is around 5 hours' hike through exciting terrain, ranging from steep rocky paths down to tree-studded ravines, then to open, grassy hilltops. Take a guided tour of the monastery, examine the exquisite carvings and precious cross-stones. Transfer for overnight to your secluded mountain camp in magic Gnishik gorge (full facilities - fresh water supply, shower, toilets, sleeping and dining tents, camping stools and tables provided). Overnight: Mountain camp, Meal plan: Breakfast, dinner.
Day 3: Food, Glorious Food
After a short but absolutely fantastic drive in the mountains we reach the village of Mosrov. A full day dedicated to Armenian cuisine in an authentic home setting where time at table is sacred and food is celebrated. Hands-on cooking demonstration at the kitchen of the farmhouse with the hostess who teaches us traditional Armenian family recipes demonstrating cooking techniques passed down through generations (English translation by your guide).
For those feeling energetic there is an opportunity to explore caverns of Mosrov decorated with stalactites and stalagmites of amazing color and diversity (caving gear provided). Dinner with local wine at farmhouse, the head of the family will act as your toastmaster governing the event according to age-old rules of Caucasian hospitality. Back to mountain camp for overnight. Overnight: Mountain camp, Meal plan: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 4: Into the Wilderness by 4WD
Wake up to the aroma of hot coffee. We start early to beat the heat of the day. Today’s ride follows the spectacular route of Her-Her trail. You'll be amazed by what a four-wheel-drive vehicle can do: traversing mud, holes and hillsides so steep you'll have to fight to stay in your seat!
It starts with gravel tracks across high altitude plains and remote villages, is followed by hard climbs but the thrill of visiting this land of rugged beauty is ample reward. This is a hard but rewarding trip, with extended periods at high altitudes, a real extreme day. Transfer to Yeghegnadsor guesthouse for overnight. Overnight: Guesthouse in Yeghegnadsor, Meal plan: Breakfast
Day 5: Swim and Relax at Lake Sevan
Early morning transfer to Lake Sevan. There has to be a day off on your holiday and this is it! Enjoy on your own at the beach or relax in a coffee shop catching up on your post cards. For nature lovers there is the option of bird watching at Gulls' Island. If you choose this option, your bird watching guide will pick you from the hotel and drive to the area. Among those you may see are such attractive species as White-tailed Eagle, Rough-legged Buzzard, Three-toed Woodpecker, Hazel hen. Overnight: Hotel at Lake Sevan, Meal plan: Breakfast
Days 6-7: Hiking and Horse Riding
Transfer to Tavush, a tiny subtropical heaven at the north-east of Armenia. Walking and horse back are perfect ways to step back in time to discover hidden gems and feel at one with nature. We embark on the Pilgrims’ Trail to discover ancient fortifications perched on the edge of rocks, the dramatic Corridor of Giants, a passage cut into the steep cliff face offering fantastic views of the “Country of Stones”. We proceed to an ancient shrine housing a unique “workshop” of khachkars, Armenian cross-stones. We examine the half-ruined stones, chat with friednly craftsmen, have lunch and refresh at a beautiful spring nearby. We have two local outfitters so the group can be split according to activities – hiking or horse riding. Trips are around 3-4 hours, at the height of 1,300 – 1,600 m.
We use 4WD to travel to the start and end of walks/rides, affording us flexibility to follow the trails based on the ability of group. We spend overnights at forest cabins at Lastiver hidden away in the heart of the forest (full facilities - fresh water supply, shower, toilets). Overnights: Forest cabins, Meal plan: 2 Breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners
Day 8: Heart of Rural Armenia
Departure from Ijevan, a leisurely day at Dilijan Nature Park capturing the spirit of rural Armenia, a chance to explore the enchanting scenery of the area, paddle at Crystal Lake or go souvenir hunting at Dilijan's atmospheric Shamamberyan Street with small shops of local artisans. Try local cuisine with its distinctive Georgian influence – khinkali, khachapuri and a wide variety of berry vodkas. Evening back to Yerevan. Overnight: Hotel in Yerevan, Meal plan: Breakfast
Days 9: To Aragats on Two Wheels
The day starts with a short transfer to start of Ashtarak highway. Get your bikes out and start your ride through lush villages of Ashtarak and Byurakan famous for their beautiful orchards and superb fruit. Continue by a virtually uninhabited road that leads to the intersection of two mountain streams, admire the wild landscape as you continue to Amberd Fortress. Sitting impressively on a hill, the fortress overlooks the area and is well worth a visit. Continue to meet Yezidi shepherds living in their high-mountain yailas. Most Yezidis follow a curious blend of pagan and Christian traditions and are extremely friendly with visitors. Transfer back to Yerevan. Overnight: Hotel in Yerevan, Meal plan: Breakfast
Days 10: Free Day in Yerevan
Free day to explore Yerevan at your own pace. You may wish to wander in the labyrinth of Vernisage arts and crafts market, climb up to Mayr Hayastan monument to get a bird’s eye view of the city or climax your day with a visit to Yerevan Brandy Company to explore the secrets of making the delicious, internationally acclaimed beverage, the favourite of Sir Winston Churchill. Overnight: Hotel in Yerevan, Meal plan: Breakfast.
Member discount:
10% discount for InfoHub customer. Request a free gift certificate.
Notes:
Airfare is not included in the tour price.
This tour has available departures every month from May to October
* 7 October 2008
* 14 May 2009
* 11 June 2009
* 9 July 2009
* 6 August 2009
* 3 September 2009
* 1 October 2009
Tour price includes:
- Accommodation for 10 nights
- Meals as specified in the itinerary
- AdvenTour tour leader/driver, local guides
- All sightseeing and activities as per itinerary
- All transfers in comfortable 4WD vehicles
- Full facilities on camping days
- Travel permits in protected areas
- Luggage handling
- Outdoor Armenia information kit
Also see tour packages in:
Europe
Armenia
Multi-activity
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