Group Tour: Hayravank, Noratus, Selim, Winery, Jermuk

If you’re planning a trip to Armenia and want an introduction to some of its most iconic sights without the hassle of planning every detail, this group tour covering Hayravank, Noratus, Selim, a winery, and Jermuk** might just be a good fit. Based on reviews and details from travelers who’ve experienced it, it offers a mix of stunning scenery, cultural highlights, and relaxing stops—all packed into a manageable day.

What we really like about this tour is how it balances beauty and history with taste and relaxation. First, the views of Lake Sevan from Hayravank are truly spectacular—you get that endless expanse of clear blue water and mountain backdrop that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a postcard. Second, the wine tasting at Arpi winery is a highlight; it’s a chance to enjoy Armenia’s unique wine culture in a relaxed setting.

One possible consideration is the price point of around $43 per person—it’s quite reasonable, but it’s important to factor in extra costs like lunch and cash for some purchases, since credit cards might not always be accepted at restaurants. This tour is best suited for travelers looking for a relaxed, day-long experience that mixes scenery, culture, and local flavors without the need to self-organize every detail.

If that sounds appealing, keep reading. We’ll walk you through what to expect at each stop and why it might become a memorable part of your Armenia trip.

Key Points

• Stunning Lake Sevan views from Hayravank make for a peaceful start.
• Khachkars at Noratus highlight Armenia’s intricate stone art and architecture.
• Passage through Selim Pass offers scenic mountain landscapes and a taste of local geography.
• Wine tasting at Arpi winery introduces you to Armenia’s unique viticulture.
• Jermuk Waterfall provides a refreshing, visual finale with its natural beauty.
• The tour is budget-friendly, offering excellent value for a full day of diverse experiences.
• Guides and transportation are well-reviewed, adding to a smooth journey.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive Into the Armenia Highlights Tour

Starting Point and First Stop: Hayravank and Lake Sevan

The tour begins with a pickup from a centrally located meeting point in Yerevan, setting the tone for a day of exploration. Your first stop is Hayravank, perched overlooking Lake Sevan, one of the largest freshwater high-altitude lakes in Eurasia. The view here is something travelers keep talking about—vast, peaceful, and breathtaking. We loved the way this spot offers a peaceful moment before heading deeper into Armenia’s scenic heart.

From the vantage point at Hayravank, you can snap photos of the lake’s shimmering surface, backed by distant mountains. The church itself is a historic site, dating back centuries, and the tranquil surroundings make it a perfect place to soak in the scenery and get some memorable pictures. Many reviewers mention how this is a strong start—beautiful enough to feel like a special secret, yet accessible and easy to appreciate.

Noratus: The Khachkars Collection

Next up is Noratus Cemetery, famed for its extensive collection of khachkars— Armenian cross-stones. These intricately carved stones are more than just memorials; they are a stunning form of Armenian craftsmanship and religious art. Visiting Noratus gives you a glimpse into the country’s deep connection to these stone crosses, some dating back hundreds of years.

We loved the way the khachkars tell stories through their symbols and carvings. It’s one of those places where history feels very alive, and you can spend a good amount of time wandering through the field of stones, imagining the stories they hold. As one reviewer said, the khachkars are considered the highlights of Armenian architecture, and you’ll probably agree once you see the detailed craftsmanship firsthand.

Pass Through Selim: Scenic Mountain Drive

The journey then takes you through the Selim Pass, a mountain route that links northern and southern Armenia. The drive itself becomes part of the experience, with panoramic views of rugged peaks and deep valleys. The pass is a favorite among travelers for its striking natural beauty—ideal for photo stops and just taking in the landscape.

This part of the tour is more about the journey than a specific site, but it gives travelers a chance to appreciate Armenia’s mountainous terrain and the engineering feat of passing through such a corridor. It’s a reminder of the country’s dramatic geography, and many find it both calming and invigorating.

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Tasting Armenian Wine at Arpi Winery

No trip here would be complete without sampling some local wine, and at Arpi Winery, you get to do just that. The wine tasting session lets you try Armenia’s own wines—perhaps less known internationally but deeply rooted in the country’s traditions. The guide will walk you through the different varieties, sharing stories about the winemaking process and Armenia’s ancient wine history.

Travelers consistently mention how this part of the tour is a highlight—an opportunity to relax, learn, and enjoy some delicious flavors. The price of the tour includes this tasting, adding great value for wine lovers and those simply curious about Armenian specialties.

Jermuk: Mineral Waters and the Waterfall

Finally, the tour concludes in Jermuk, a resort town famous for its mineral waters and scenic waterfalls. The most renowned site is the “Mermaid’s Hair” Waterfall, which, as one reviewer notes, is a visual treat—water cascading down rocks in a way that looks almost like flowing hair. The clean air and lush surroundings make Jermuk a refreshing end to the day.

The town’s mineral waters are believed to have healing properties, so if you’re interested, you might find some local spots to taste or even purchase bottled water. The waterfall is easily accessible, and many visitors enjoy the calming atmosphere here, making it a fitting finale to your Armenia adventure.

What’s Included and What to Budget For

The tour price of $43 per person offers great value, especially considering the inclusion of professional guides (in both English and Russian), air-conditioned transportation, Wi-Fi, admission tickets to sites, bottled water and pastries, and a wine tasting. This means you don’t have to worry about extra costs for entrance fees or snacks, which are covered.

However, there are some expenses to keep in mind. Lunch isn’t included, and prices range from 3,900 to 4,900 AMD (approximately $10-13 USD). Travelers should bring cash in Armenian Drams, as credit card payments may not be accepted everywhere at the restaurant. This is a practical tip that can help avoid inconvenience during the day.

Considering the overall experience and the number of stops, the tour offers excellent value—especially if you want an accessible way to see a variety of Armenia’s highlights without the stress of self-organizing.

Comfort and Group Size

Guides are praised for their knowledge, and transport is air-conditioned, which makes the long drive comfortable. The group size isn’t specified explicitly, but reviews suggest it’s a manageable, friendly group, making it easier to ask questions and socialize.

Duration and Pacing

The day is well-paced, with enough time at each stop to enjoy the surroundings without feeling rushed. The whole experience takes most of the day, allowing you to soak in the scenery and culture fully.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a balanced day of nature, history, and local flavor. If you’re keen on seeing iconic Armenian landscapes, exploring cultural relics, and sampling local wine—all without the hassle of planning a complex itinerary—this tour hits the spot.

It’s especially suitable for those who appreciate a relaxed pace, since there’s no overly strenuous activity involved. The stops are scenic and accessible, making it a good choice even if you’re traveling with less mobility.

People who value guides with good knowledge and enjoy group settings will find this tour particularly enjoyable. While not specifically tailored for families, there’s no reason why it wouldn’t suit older children who can keep up with the pace and still appreciate the sights.

The Sum Up

If you’re looking for an affordable, well-organized way to explore some of Armenia’s most notable sights in a single day, this tour from Yerevan is worth considering. It offers a compelling mix of breathtaking scenery, cultural insights, and local flavors at a reasonable price. The stops at Lake Sevan, Noratus khachkars, and Jermuk Waterfall each offer a different taste of Armenia’s natural beauty and heritage.

The inclusion of a wine tasting at Arpi winery is a highlight for many, adding a relaxed, enjoyable element to the day. The tour’s reviews consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and smooth logistics, making it a dependable choice for travelers wanting a stress-free experience.

However, it’s not a tour for those expecting a full-day culinary or adventure experience, nor for travelers with tight budgets who need to cover extra expenses. It’s best suited for those who want a thoughtfully curated introduction to Armenia’s highlights, with enough flexibility to enjoy each stop.

This tour strikes a good balance between value and variety, making it a solid pick for anyone wanting an overview of Armenia’s scenic and cultural treasures without overcommitting.

FAQs

Is lunch included in this tour?
No, lunch is not included. Expect to pay around 3,900 to 4,900 AMD (roughly $10-13 USD) at a restaurant. It’s best to bring cash in Drams since credit cards may not be accepted everywhere.

How long does the tour last?
While the exact duration isn’t specified, the tour covers several stops and is described as a full-day experience, ending back at the starting point in Yerevan.

What language are guides available in?
Guides speak both English and Russian, with the tour offered in these languages.

What’s the best way to prepare for the trip?
Bring cash for lunch and any souvenirs, wear comfortable clothes and shoes for walking, and have your camera ready for scenic views and interesting sights.

Are the stops suitable for children?
While not specifically tailored for families, the stops are generally accessible and involve minimal physical exertion, making it suitable for older children and teenagers.

Is the transportation comfortable?
Yes, transportation is air-conditioned, which is appreciated during Armenia’s warmer months.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans change.

If this sounds like a good fit for your Armenia trip, it might be worth booking ahead. It’s a chance to see a good slice of what makes Armenia special, all while keeping things simple and enjoyable.

You can check availability for your dates here: