Group Tour: Lake Sevan, Hayravank, Noratus, Jermuk, winery

Experience the Best of Armenia in a Day: Lake Sevan, Historic Monasteries, and Wine Tasting

Imagine waking up early in Yerevan for a full-day adventure that takes you into the heart of Armenia’s breathtaking mountain scenery. For just $43 per person, this guided tour offers a carefully curated itinerary that includes Lake Sevan, known as the “blue pearl,” along with historic monasteries like Hayravank, the art-filled Noratus Cemetery, the mineral springs of Jermuk, and a chance to sample local wines at a traditional vineyard. The trip lasts about 13 to 14 hours, making it a full but rewarding day that packs in scenic views and cultural insights.

Two things we love about this tour? First, the way it balances natural beauty with cultural heritage—you’ll get stunning views of the high-altitude lake and its medieval church complex, along with a walk through a UNESCO-recognized khachkar forest. Second, the inclusion of a renowned Armenian winery makes this experience feel authentic and delicious—a perfect way to end the day.

A possible consideration? The tour involves a fair amount of movement, with several stops and some walking (including climbing 200 steps at Sevanavank). If you prefer a slower pace or have mobility issues, it’s worth planning accordingly.

This tour suits travelers who want an immersive snapshot of Armenia’s landscapes and history without the hassle of organizing multiple separate visits. It’s especially good for those with limited time who still want to see the highlights, and for those interested in wine tasting and local culture. If you love scenic drives, historic sites, and sampling local specialties, this trip delivers.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery at Lake Sevan, Armenia’s “blue pearl,” with crystal-clear waters and mountain backdrops
• Rich cultural stops like Hayravank Monastery and Noratus Cemetery, showcasing Armenian religious and artistic traditions
• Scenic drive through the Selim Pass, a historic trade route with dramatic mountain views
• Health and wellness aspect at Jermuk, famous for its mineral waters and medicinal springs
• Authentic wine tasting at Hin Areni Winery, where ancient grape varieties are celebrated with modern techniques
• All-inclusive value with guide, transportation, bottled water, pastries, and wine tasting—no hidden fees

A Closer Look at the Itinerary: What to Expect and Why It Matters

Starting Point: Hyur Service in Yerevan

Your journey begins at Hyur Service’s convenient meeting point near the city center. The departure time is 9:00 am, giving you the whole day to explore Armenia’s scenic and historic treasures. The first impression? The vehicle is air-conditioned, comfortable, and equipped with WiFi—handy for sharing photos or catching up on messages after a day of sightseeing.

Lake Sevan: The “Blue Pearl”

The first major stop is Lake Sevan, one of the world’s highest freshwater lakes, perched about 1900 meters above sea level. With its vast expanse of turquoise water, it’s easy to see why it’s called the “pearl” of Armenia. The lake is volcanic in origin, and the surrounding mountains tower over it, creating a truly postcard-worthy vista. You’ll have about 20 minutes here to soak in the views, walk along the shore, and perhaps snap some photos of the medieval Sevanavank Monastery perched on the peninsula.

The hike to Sevanavank involves climbing roughly 200 steps, which offers rewarding panoramic views but might be tiring for some. Remember, the landscape is rugged and glorious, so comfortable shoes are recommended. The nearby area has small cafes and shops, but most travelers come for the scenery and tranquility.

Hayravank Monastery: A Quiet Mountain Retreat

Next, you’ll visit Hayravank Monastery, a 9th-century church built on a high rock overlooking Lake Sevan. The site’s location on a promontory makes it a perfect spot for quiet reflection and stunning photos. Its construction is modest, but the setting and age make it a highlight for history buffs and those who appreciate atmospheric ruins. Expect about 40 minutes here—just enough time to wander around and absorb the peaceful mountain ambiance.

Noratus Cemetery: A Living Museum of Cross-Stones

The Noratus Cemetery is a true highlight—an open-air museum featuring hundreds of khachkars (Armenian cross-stones). These carvings date from the 9th to 14th centuries and showcase some of the best preserved and most intricate examples of this unique Armenian art form. Some khachkars are embroidered with detailed patterns, making Noratus a visual feast and a UNESCO-listed cultural treasure.

Travelers often comment on how moving and fascinating this site is; it’s an open-air history lesson that reveals the spiritual and artistic identity of Armenia. It is also a great place to witness how tradition endures over centuries.

Selim Pass: A Historic Mountain Route

Driving through the Selim Pass, you’ll experience a landscape that has historically been a vital trade route. Built in 1332, the caravansary here was a resting place for traders crossing the mountains. Today, the pass offers dramatic views of rugged peaks and valleys, with its winding roads and old stone building adding a sense of adventure. The brief stop (about 20 minutes) gives you a chance to appreciate this historic mountain crossing.

Jermuk: The Mineral Water Spa Town

The trip continues to Jermuk, famed for its mineral springs and health resorts. The town’s pump rooms and drinking galleries are popular with locals and visitors alike, who come to enjoy the reputed medicinal properties of its waters. You can sample the mineral water straight from the springs; the temperature varies from 30 to 50°C, making it perfect for sipping or even washing your face for a refreshing experience. Here, you’ll have about an hour to relax and take in the mountain scenery.

Hin Areni Winery: A Toast to Armenia

The tour culminates at Hin Areni Winery, where centuries-old grape varieties are cultivated and transformed into wines that reflect Armenia’s long viticultural history. The modern winery combines traditional methods with contemporary equipment, processing over 250 tonnes of grapes. The tasting session is included in the price, offering a selection of local varietals that you’re unlikely to find elsewhere. Travelers consistently praise the wine and the authenticity of this experience, with one reviewer noting, “The historic traditions of winemaking are well combined with modern techniques.” It’s a perfect way to end a day of exploration.

Returning to Yerevan

After the winery, the group heads back to the starting point in Yerevan, arriving approximately in the late afternoon or early evening. The entire experience is designed to maximize sightseeing while minimizing travel fatigue, with a comfortable vehicle and a knowledgeable guide throughout.

Why This Tour Offers Incredible Value

For $43, this tour packs a lot into a single day—transport, a professional guide, all entrance fees, bottled water, pastries, and even wine tasting. Considering the amount of scenery, history, and culture packed into 13-14 hours, it’s an excellent deal for travelers wanting a rundown of Armenia’s highlights without the hassle of planning multiple trips.

You’ll appreciate the expert guidance of a knowledgeable guide (one reviewer called Khachatur “wonderfully informed”), ensuring you learn about each site without feeling rushed or lost. The inclusion of wine tasting adds a memorable local flavor that goes beyond just sightseeing, giving you a taste of Armenia’s proud winemaking traditions.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

If you’re someone who loves stunning landscapes and historical sites, this trip is a perfect fit. It’s ideal if you enjoy guided tours that combine storytelling with sightseeing, especially when exploring ancient monasteries and culturally significant sites. Travelers who value authentic experiences, such as sampling local wine at a working winery, will find this particularly appealing.

It’s also suited for those with a moderate level of mobility—be prepared for some walking and climbing steps, but the sites are accessible for most. If you prefer a more relaxed pace, just plan for some extra rest afterward.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This Armenia day trip offers a well-rounded glimpse of the country’s natural beauty and cultural richness. The scenery at Lake Sevan alone makes it worthwhile, but the addition of monasteries, ancient khachkars, and the mineral springs of Jermuk makes it a truly immersive experience. The wine tasting at Hin Areni provides a delightful taste of local traditions, perfect for those interested in Armenia’s culinary heritage.

What sets this tour apart is its value and comprehensive coverage—you’ll leave with beautiful photos, a deeper understanding of Armenia’s history, and the taste of local wine in your hand. It’s best suited for travelers who are eager to see a lot in a day, appreciate scenic drives, and enjoy cultural storytelling.

Overall, if you want a fun, informative, and scenic day with friendly guides and a taste of Armenia’s best, this tour offers a good balance of sights, stories, and flavors.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children can participate, but they must be accompanied by an adult. The tour involves walking and some climbing, so consider your child’s mobility and stamina.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes a professional guide (English and Russian), air-conditioned transportation, bottled water, pastries, all admission tickets, WiFi on the vehicle, insurance, and wine tasting.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included, but you will have the chance to buy food nearby the stops. Lunch costs around 3,900 to 4,900 AMD (about $10-13 USD).

How long is the total duration?
The tour lasts approximately 13 to 14 hours, starting at 9:00 am and returning in the late afternoon or early evening.

What is the maximum group size?
Up to 49 travelers can join, so expect a comfortable group size with plenty of opportunity to ask questions.

Do I need to prepare for weather conditions?
Yes, dress appropriately for the weather. Sunscreen is recommended in summer, and comfortable shoes are advised because of walking and some climbing.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance.

Is there any physical difficulty involved?
Some site visits involve walking, climbing stairs, or uneven surfaces. Travelers with mobility issues should consider these factors.

What happens if it rains?
The tour operates in all weather conditions; bring suitable clothing for rain or shine.

Where does the tour end?
It concludes back at the starting point in Yerevan, so you don’t need to worry about additional transportation arrangements.

If you’re eager to explore Armenia’s natural splendor and deep-rooted history in one satisfying day, this tour offers a fantastic balance of sightseeing, culture, and local flavor—all at a reasonable price. It’s a great way to get a broad yet intimate taste of what makes Armenia special.