Weekend Tour in Armenia

Set out on a weekend adventure to uncover the rich cultural tapestry of Armenia. This carefully curated tour whisks you away to the UNESCO-protected Geghard Monastery, where you’ll marvel at its striking architecture and uncover the site’s captivating history. Enjoy the age-old tradition of Armenian bread-making, learning to craft the iconic lavash under the guidance of local experts. As you wind through the picturesque Ararat Valley, gaze upon the majestic Mount Ararat, a sight that has enchanted visitors for centuries. With an engaging itinerary and expert-led experiences, this weekend getaway promises to leave you with a deeper appreciation for Armenia’s enduring heritage.

Good To Know

• Explore Armenia’s cultural heritage with a weekend excursion featuring a visit to the UNESCO-listed Gerhard Monastery and a hands-on Armenian bread-making class.
• Enjoy a scenic drive through the Ararat Valley, showcasing stunning landscapes and the iconic Mount Ararat.
• Convenient hotel pick-up and drop-off ensure a seamless touring experience, with an early start at 10:00 AM.
• Flexible cancellation policy and pricing options based on group size provide travelers with peace of mind and value.
• The tour offers accessibility options, including stroller access and infant seats, catering to families with young children.

Overview of the Excursion

This weekend excursion whisks travelers to some of Armenia’s most captivating destinations.

Over two days, guests will visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Gerhard Monastery and participate in a hands-on Armenian bread-making class.

The tour also includes a scenic drive through the Ararat Valley, allowing travelers to take in the region’s stunning landscapes.

With hotel pick-up provided for the touring days, the itinerary is designed to optimize the experience.

The early start time of 10:00 AM ensures a full schedule, while the third-day departure allows for evening flights to accommodate various travel plans.

Tour Start Time and Schedule

Kicking off at 10:00 AM, the tour’s early start allows for a full itinerary that accommodates various attractions across the region. The schedule ensures an efficient touring experience, with guests advised to be ready at the specified departure time.

Start Time	Duration	Attraction
10:00 AM	2 hours	Gherard Monastery
12:30 PM	1.5 hours	Armenian Bread-Making Class
2:00 PM	1.5 hours	Ararat Valley Drive
3:30 PM	1 hour	Hotel Drop-off
4:30 PM	–	Tour Ends

The well-planned schedule ensures guests can fully experience the tour’s diverse offerings within the two-day excursion.

Accessibility and Departure Details

What about the tour’s accessibility and departure details?

Travelers should note that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible. However, it’s stroller accessible and located near public transportation. For families, infant seats are available.

The tour departs on the third day, so evening flights are recommended for guests. After booking, you will receive confirmation details.

Cancellation and Refund Policy

The cancellation policy for this weekend tour in Armenia offers travelers a full refund if they cancel up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure.

This flexibility allows guests to easily change their plans if needed. The policy is designed to accommodate travelers’ needs and ensure timely cancellations to manage tour logistics effectively.

The key points about the cancellation and refund policy are:

1. Full refund available for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.
2. Flexibility for changing plans.
3. Timely cancellations help manage tour logistics.

Pricing and Group Size

The tour price starts at $500.00 per person. This base price can vary depending on the size of the group.

Larger groups may be eligible for discounted rates, while smaller groups may pay a premium. Regardless of group size, the tour offers excellent value given the comprehensive itinerary and high-quality experiences included.

Reviews of the tour have been overwhelmingly positive, with an overall rating of 5.0 out of 5 based on 2 reviews. The tour operator carefully vets all reviews to ensure authenticity, providing potential customers with confidence in the quality of the experience.

Gerhard Monastery Visit

One of the highlights of the weekend tour is a visit to the Gerhard Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This ancient Armenian monastery dates back to the 4th century and is renowned for its impressive architecture, intricate khatchkars (Armenian cross-stones), and rich cultural heritage.

Visitors can explore the monastery’s church, refectory, and other historic structures, learning about its fascinating history from the knowledgeable guides. The monastery’s scenic setting amidst the rolling hills and vineyards of the Ararat Valley adds to the overall enchanting experience.

Exploring this revered site is an opportunity to take in Armenia’s deep-rooted spiritual traditions and appreciate its enduring cultural legacy.

Here are 3 key highlights of the Gerhard Monastery visit:

1. Admire the monastery’s stunning 4th-century architecture and ornate khatchkars.
2. Discover the site’s rich history and religious significance with a guided tour.
3. Soak in the picturesque natural surroundings of the Ararat Valley.

Armenian Bread-Making Class

Participants explore the captivating world of traditional Armenian bread-making during this hands-on culinary experience.

Under the guidance of local experts, guests will learn the intricate techniques used to craft the renowned lavash, a thin, flexible flatbread that’s a staple in Armenian cuisine.

From kneading the dough to shaping and baking the bread in a traditional tonir oven, the interactive class offers a unique opportunity to take in the rich gastronomic heritage of the country.

This hands-on activity promises to be a highlight, allowing travelers to not only savor the fresh-baked bread but also gain a deeper appreciation for Armenia’s vibrant food culture.

Scenic Ararat Valley Drive

After exploring the rich culture and history of Armenia, the tour takes guests on a scenic drive through the captivating Ararat Valley.

The valley is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, with majestic mountains and lush vineyards as the backdrop. The drive offers:

1. Breathtaking views of the iconic Mount Ararat, the biblical resting place of Noah’s Ark.
2. Opportunities to admire the fertile agricultural landscape, where fruits, vegetables, and grapes thrive in the fertile soil.
3. Chances to stop and capture the picturesque scenery, including traditional Armenian villages and ancient monasteries nestled in the rolling hills.

This tranquil and visually stunning journey provides a perfect complement to the culture earlier in the tour.

The Sum Up

This weekend tour in Armenia offers a captivating blend of cultural exploration and natural beauty. Visitors will enjoy the remarkable Gerhard Monastery, learn the art of traditional Armenian bread-making, and witness the picturesque Ararat Valley. With an accessible schedule and flexible policies, this excursion promises an unforgettable experience for those seeking to discover the rich heritage of this stunning country.