Day 01
Areni Wine, Noravank, Karahunj and Shaki Waterfall
- The excursion starts at 10:00 at the location you specified.
- The village of Areni, in the valley of the Arpa River, has been considered one of Armenia's winemaking centers since ancient times. Located in the Vayots Dzor region, it is home to two beautiful wineries at the entrance to the town, where you will have the opportunity to take an excursion and taste some of the best varieties of Armenian wine. Every October, a wonderful wine festival also takes place here, bringing together wine producers from across the Republic to present their products.
- Noravank Monastery, translated as "New Monastery," was built in the 13th century and is one of the oldest and most famous monasteries in Armenia. It is located on a slope near Areni and is surrounded by its famous red hills. In 1996, there was an attempt to add the monastery complex to the UNESCO World Heritage List. Some of the buildings in the complex were also created by the famous ancient sculptor Momik. The surrounding area is ideal for exciting walks among massive ridges and fantastic landscapes, where you can take amazing photos to remember your visit.
- The ancient astronomical observatory of Karahunj is located at an altitude of 1,800 meters in the Syunik region, near the city of Sisian. This complex of 223 stones, also called Zorats Karer (Stone Army), is believed by various sources to have more than 5,000 years of history and is often compared with Stonehenge in England. It is a fascinating place for lovers of history, astronomy, and wonderful walks in the fresh air.
- The fabulous Shaki Waterfall is located in the Syunik region and is surrounded by amazing mountains. The third-highest waterfall in Armenia, it has a height of 20 meters and forms an integral part of the Vorotan River, one of the country's largest rivers. Legend says that during one of the ancient wars, the enemy captured 100 Armenian beauties and led them to his commander as concubines. Among them was a beautiful blue-eyed girl named Shake, who, to avoid this fate, jumped and crossed the river. When the soldiers chased her, a rock rose in the river, blocked their path, and formed a waterfall that helped her hide. After that, the waterfall was named Shaki in her honor.
- The excursion ends at the location you specified.
