Day trip to Jermuk Noratus, Selim Pass, Wine Tasting

Exploring Armenia with a guided day trip offers a chance to see some of the country’s most beautiful sights without the hassle of planning. This tour, which covers sites from Lake Sevan to Jermuk, promises a mix of history, stunning scenery, and local flavors—all within a manageable 11.5 hours. We’re especially drawn to the small group size and professional guides, which tend to make these trips more personal and engaging. However, some travelers note that the lunch could be better for the price. This tour is ideal for those who want a comprehensive taste of Armenia’s natural beauty and cultural treasures in one day, especially if you enjoy storytelling and good company.

Key Points

• Beautiful scenery from Lake Sevan to mountain passes and waterfalls.
• Authentic experiences like tasting Jermuk mineral water and Armenian wine.
• Small group size ensures a more intimate, relaxed atmosphere.
• Knowledgeable guides provide context and stories behind each site.
• Comfortable transportation with Wi-Fi adds convenience and connection.
• Value for money considering the inclusion of entrance fees, tastings, and guide service.

A Well-Rounded Day Trip into Armenia’s Natural and Cultural Heart

This tour offers a chance to see some of Armenia’s most striking sights in a single day, making it perfect for travelers short on time but eager to get a comprehensive snapshot of the country’s landscapes and history. Starting from a central meeting point in Yerevan, the journey quickly sets a relaxed tone with a guided exploration of Hayravank Monastery. Perched on Lake Sevan’s shores, this ancient site offers both spiritual serenity and picturesque views that are ideal for photos and quiet reflection. The guided tour lasts about 45 minutes, enough to soak in the simple beauty of this monastery, which is less crowded and commercialized than some of Armenia’s more famous religious sites.

Next, the tour takes you to Noratus Cemetery, home to the largest collection of medieval khachkars—Armenian cross-stones that are both religious symbols and cultural treasures. The 30-minute guided look at the cemetery gives insight into Armenia’s rich craftsmanship and history. You’ll see intricately carved khachkars dating back centuries, providing a tangible connection to Armenia’s spiritual and artistic traditions.

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Crossing the Vardenyants (Selim) Pass

From Noratus, the drive continues through the striking Vardenyants (Selim) Pass. At an altitude of 2,410 meters, this mountain route offers breathtaking panoramic views that will make your camera work busy. The 40-minute sightseeing stop here is a highlight for many, offering sweeping vistas across Armenia’s rugged terrain. Travelers often mention how this part of the trip encapsulates the raw beauty of Armenia’s mountains and valleys, making it one of the most notable moments of the day.

While the drive through the mountains can be exhilarating, some reviews caution that the road may be narrow and winding—so if you’re prone to car sickness, it’s worth bringing some motion sickness remedies.

Jermuk: Waterfalls and Healing Waters

Arriving in Jermuk, a town famous for its natural beauty and mineral waters, marks the start of the most visually impressive part of the tour. The Jermuk Waterfall is a stunning 72-meter cascade that some call “Mermaids Hair,” a nickname that perfectly captures its flowing, delicate appearance. The 45-minute stop here allows plenty of time for photos and just taking in the power of nature.

After the waterfall, visitors visit the Mineral Water Gallery. Here, the tour provides an opportunity to taste the town’s signature Jermuk mineral water, renowned for its therapeutic qualities. Many travelers find this tasting session quite authentic—it’s a chance to connect with a local tradition that has been valued for centuries. One reviewer noted that the company provides bottled water and a local sweet called “Gata,” adding a small but pleasant touch to the experience.

A Toast to Armenia’s Wine Heritage

To wrap up the day, the tour includes a wine tasting in Areni, an ancient Armenian wine region. The tasting lasts about 30 minutes, letting you sample Armenian wines and get a sense of the country’s long-standing wine-making tradition. The reviews reveal that this is a highlight for many, especially given the reputation of Armenian wines for quality and history. The guide usually explains the different varieties and the significance of wine in Armenian culture, making it an educational moment as well as a tasty one.

Practicalities and Comfort

The entire trip is set in comfortable vehicles equipped with Wi-Fi, which makes the long drives more enjoyable. The group size is kept to up to 19 people, helping to foster a more relaxed, chatty atmosphere. The tour begins and ends at the Alexander Tamanyan statue near the Cascade Complex, a central and easily accessible meeting point.

The price of $40 per person is quite reasonable considering the inclusion of guide service, entrance tickets, tastings, bottled water, and a small sweet. Lunch, which costs an additional $6 to $14, is not included, and some reviews mention that the meal might not be remarkable for the cost. If you’re a foodie, you might want to bring some snacks or plan for a more substantial lunch after the tour.

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Authentic, Well-Organized, and Fun—Mostly

What stands out most about this tour are the knowledgeable guides. Several reviews praise guides like Anastasia for their storytelling skills, energy, and ability to keep the group engaged. As one traveler from Portugal put it, “Anastasia is the best guide ever,” highlighting how a personable guide can make all the difference.

The scenery, from the peaceful lake shores to rugged mountain passes and cascading waterfalls, is truly spectacular. It’s easy to see why many travelers remark on the stunning views and the feeling of connecting with Armenia’s natural beauty.

The wine tasting is another well-received element, giving visitors a taste of Armenia’s ancient winemaking traditions. Plus, the inclusion of local specialties like Gata adds a cultural touch that helps travelers feel more immersed.

However, some practical concerns are raised—the lunch could be more satisfying, and the driver’s safety has been questioned in a few reviews, with reports of dangerous maneuvers and non-working safety belts. It’s worth noting that safety should be a priority, so keep an eye on the driver’s behavior and don’t hesitate to voice concerns if necessary.

Who This Tour Suits Best

This day trip appeals most to those who want a rundown of Armenia in one day. It’s perfect for history buffs, nature lovers, and wine enthusiasts alike. The relatively small group size and professional guides make for a comfortable experience, especially if you’re traveling with family or friends. If you enjoy storytelling, scenic drives, and authentic local flavors, this tour offers good bang for your buck.

It might not be ideal for travelers seeking a gourmet meal or a very slow-paced, in-depth exploration of each site. Those who prefer more leisure time, or who are very price-sensitive about lunch, might want to consider bringing their own snacks or planning a meal afterward.

Summary: A Solid Armenian Adventure

This day trip from Yerevan offers a well-rounded introduction to Armenia’s scenic landscapes, historic sites, and cultural traditions. With a focus on authentic experiences like tasting mineral water and Armenian wine, the tour provides both educational insights and memorable sights at a reasonable price.

The combination of stunning mountain views, historic monasteries, and natural waterfalls makes this a great choice for those who want a taste of everything Armenia has to offer without committing to multiple days. The small group setting and professional guides elevate the experience, making it more personal and engaging.

While the lunch may leave some wanting more, the overall value and the quality of the guiding make this an attractive option. Whether you’re visiting Armenia for the first time or want a convenient way to see key sights, this tour delivers a balanced mix of scenery, culture, and local flavor in just one day.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 11.5 hours, starting and ending at the Alexander Tamanyan statue near the Cascade Complex in Yerevan.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers guide service, entrance tickets, bottled water, a local sweet called Gata, comfortable vehicles with Wi-Fi, and a wine tasting. Lunch is optional and costs between $6 and $14.

Is the group size small?
Yes, the group is limited to up to 19 participants, which helps keep the experience intimate and relaxed.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Based on reviews, guides like Anastasia and Arminian are very well-regarded for their storytelling, language skills, and ability to keep the group engaged.

What is the highlight of the trip?
Many would say the Jermuk Waterfall and mountain pass views are the most memorable, complemented by the cultural experience at Noratus and the wine tasting.

Is the transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour uses comfortable vehicles with Wi-Fi, making long drives more pleasant and connected.

This tour is a fantastic way to see Armenia’s highlights comfortably and affordably, especially if you love combining scenery, history, and local flavors in one adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: