The Ancient Wine Route

Discover the deep roots of Armenian winemaking

This 8-day journey takes you from the legendary Ararat Brandy Factory in Yerevan to the ancient caves of Areni, blending daily premium tastings with UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Duration: 8 Days / 7 Nights

Included: 4* Hotels, Private Driver, English-speaking Guide, All Breakfasts.

Not Included: Flights.

Daily Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Yerevan

• Arrive at Yerevan International Airport.

• Meet your private driver and transfer to the hotel.

• Overnight in Yerevan.

Day 2: The Capital’s Treasures & Legendary Brandy

Explore Yerevan, one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities. We begin with a panoramic view from the Mother Armenia Monument, followed by a visit to the Matenadaran, home to one of the world’s richest collections of medieval manuscripts.

• Cultural Highlights: We walk through the Cascade Complex (a massive open-air modern art museum) and pay respects at Tsitsernakaberd, the Armenian Genocide Memorial.

• Tasting: In the afternoon, we visit the legendary Ararat Brandy Factory. You will learn about the centuries-old tradition of Armenian brandy and enjoy a guided tasting of their finest reserves.

• Overnight: Yerevan

Day 3: The Spiritual Heart & Modern Vineyards

A day of contrasts, moving from ancient spirituality to modern viticulture. We travel to Echmiadzin, the spiritual center of the Armenian Apostolic Church.

• The History: Visit the Zvartnots Temple (7th-century ruins, UNESCO Site), St. Hripsime Church, and the Echmiadzin Cathedral—considered the oldest Christian cathedral in the world.

• The Wine: In the afternoon, we head to the Armavir region to visit Karas Wines. You will tour their stunning vineyards and facilities, learning how they blend ancient heritage with modern methods. The visit concludes with a guided wine tasting of indigenous and international varieties.

• Overnight: Yerevan

Day 4: The Southern Route – Khor Virap, Areni & Noravank

We head south to Khor Virap Monastery, famous for its iconic view of the biblical Mount Ararat and as the site where St. Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned.

• Ancient Origins: We explore the Areni-1 Cave, where archaeologists discovered the world's oldest leather shoe (5,500 years old) and the oldest known winery (6,000+ years old).

• The Canyon: Our journey continues to Noravank Monastery, a masterpiece of medieval architecture set dramatically within a narrow red rock canyon.

• The Tasting: We visit Trinity Canyon Vineyards in the Vayots Dzor region. You will explore the unique high-altitude terroir and enjoy a guided tasting of premium wines made primarily from the indigenous Areni grape.

• Overnight: Yerevan

Day 5: Alpine Lakes, Forests & Boutique Wines

Today we head to Lake Sevan, Armenia’s largest freshwater lake, located at 2,000 meters above sea level. We visit Sevanavank Monastery on the peninsula for beautiful lake views.

• "Armenian Switzerland": We continue to Dilijan, famous for its dense forests and alpine landscapes, to visit the hidden Haghartsin Monastery.

• The Tasting: We stop at Hovaz Wine Rooms to explore Dilijan's growing gastronomy scene. In a cozy setting, you will taste curated local Tavush and Armenian boutique wines.

• The History: On the return, we stop at Noratus Village to see the largest collection of khachkars (traditional Armenian cross-stones).

• Overnight: Yerevan

Day 6: Garni Temples & Cave Monasteries

We depart for the Kotayk region, stopping first at Charents Arch for a spectacular view of Mount Ararat.

• The Temple: Visit Garni Temple, the only preserved Greco-Roman pagan temple in the region, known for its Hellenistic architecture.

• The Monastery: Continue to Geghard Monastery (UNESCO Site), renowned for being partially carved into the surrounding rock cliffs.

• Local Experience: Participate in a traditional lavash baking master class to see how Armenia's UNESCO-listed national bread is made.

• City Culture: Back in Yerevan, we explore the History Museum of Armenia and stroll through Vernissage, the vibrant open-air handicrafts market.

• Overnight: Yerevan

Day 7: Canyons & The Cradle of Wine

After breakfast, we visit the magnificent medieval monasteries of Saghmosavank and Hovhanavank, perched dramatically above the deep Kasagh River Gorge.

• The Wine: We continue to Van Ardi Winery in the foothills of Mount Aragats for a guided tour and tasting of wines that combine modern techniques with ancient traditions.

• The Heritage: In the afternoon, visit the Wine Museum in Sasunik village to see archaeological exhibits spanning 6,000 years of winemaking history.

• Evening: We return to Yerevan for a visit to a traditional food market.

• Overnight: Yerevan

Day 8: Departure

After breakfast, check out from your hotel. We will provide a transfer to the airport for your return flight.