Hayravank is a wonderful starting point for exploring Lake Sevan and its surrounding attractions. Its proximity to the water, ancient monasteries, and local wineries makes it perfect for travelers looking for memorable day trips. Among the many options, the Yerevan: Lake Sevan Gourmet Day Trip with Tastings and Lunch stands out for its combination of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and delicious food. We love how this tour combines visits to historic sites like Hayravank Monastery with exclusive tastings of artisan cheeses and local Armenian wines, all topped off with a lakeside lunch featuring fresh fish. It’s a full sensory experience that balances history, taste, and stunning landscapes.
Another popular choice is the A One-Day Culinary Journey from Yerevan, which offers a more comprehensive focus on Armenian wine and cheese culture, including visits to Manukyan Winery and Mikaelyan Farm. For travelers interested in a more intimate, gastronomic experience, this tour provides exclusive tastings and an engaging guide, though it’s more expensive and shorter in duration. Both options showcase the rich flavors of Armenia and are ideal for food lovers or those wanting a deep dive into the local food scene.
Below, you’ll find detailed descriptions of each tour to help you decide which best matches your interests and travel style.
1. Yerevan: Lake Sevan Gourmet Day Trip with Tastings and Lunch
This 8-hour scenic day trip takes you from Yerevan into the heart of Gegharkunik Province, highlighting the beauty of Lake Sevan and its surrounding sites. The tour includes a visit to the Hayravank Monastery, a peaceful 9th–12th-century religious site offering sweeping views over the lake. It’s a photographer’s dream and a chance to soak in some Armenian spirituality.
Next, the tour visits Noratus, known for its ancient khachkars (cross-stones), which give a tangible sense of Armenia’s long history. The highlight for many is the stop at a local farm, where you can taste artisanal cheeses aged in wine, brandy, and grape leaves—an authentic and flavorful experience. The tour then continues to a lakeside restaurant to enjoy fresh Lake Sevan fish, renowned for its delicate taste and preparation.
The afternoon culminates at a castle winery, where you can indulge in an exclusive Armenian wine tasting, discovering the rich tradition behind the country’s vintages. The tour’s balance of cultural sites, culinary delights, and scenic views makes it a fantastic choice for travelers wanting a comprehensive day by the water.
The value for money is strong for those keen on combining history, food, and wine. The tour is suitable for those with a full day to spare, and the small-group setting enhances the experience.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a well-rounded, deliciously scenic day with superior local food and wine tastings in a relaxed setting.
2. A One-Day Culinary Journey from Yerevan
Priced at $458 per person, this 6-hour tour focuses on Armenia’s wine and cheese culture. It begins with a drive to Lake Sevan, but the real focus is on exploring Armenia’s wine-making traditions. The tour includes a visit to Manukyan Winery, where you’ll enjoy exclusive tastings of local wines, and Mikaelyan Farm, known for its artisan cheese production.
Throughout the day, your guide introduces you to Armenia’s culinary heritage, sharing stories behind each tasting. The experience is immersive, with opportunities to learn about the local farming practices and the history of Armenian viticulture. This tour is perfect for those who want a deeper understanding of the country’s gourmet culture and are happy to spend a shorter time on the water.
The key advantage of this tour is the personalized tasting experience and the chance to visit specific, highly regarded wineries and farms. However, the higher price reflects the exclusivity and detailed focus on wine and cheese. It’s best suited for culinary enthusiasts or travelers interested in Armenia’s wine heritage.
While it covers fewer sites than the other tour, the quality of the tastings and storytelling makes it a memorable adventure. The tour’s shorter duration suits those with limited time but a strong interest in Armenian food culture.
Bottom Line: For wine and cheese lovers looking for an intimate, educational experience, this tour offers a premium taste of Armenian gastronomy.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Hayravank
When deciding between these tours, consider your budget, time, and interests. If you want a full day of sightseeing, historical sites, and a diverse experience, the Yerevan: Lake Sevan Gourmet Day Trip provides a comprehensive look at Lake Sevan’s natural and cultural treasures, plus excellent food and wine. Explore it here.
For travelers primarily interested in Armenian wine and cheese, with a shorter and more exclusive experience, the Culinary Journey is ideal. It’s perfect if you already plan to spend part of your trip exploring Yerevan’s food scene and want to deepen your knowledge with expert tastings. Check it out here.
Practical considerations include budget constraints, with the gourmet day trip being more affordable, and your time availability, since both tours are around 6-8 hours but differ in focus. Booking early is recommended, especially in peak season, to secure your spot and avoid disappointment.
Final Thoughts
Both tours in Hayravank offer unique ways to enjoy Armenia’s rich landscape and flavors. Whether you prefer a balanced mix of cultural sites and scenic views with gourmet food, or a focused journey into Armenia’s wine and cheese heritage, there’s a good fit for you. For travelers who want a well-rounded full day, the Yerevan: Lake Sevan Gourmet Day Trip delivers. If your main interest is culinary craftsmanship, the Culinary Journey provides an immersive tasting experience.
In any case, these tours are a fantastic way to deepen your understanding of Armenia’s history, agriculture, and local traditions. Book early, plan your day around these experiences, and enjoy everything Hayravank has to offer.
