2-Day Cultural Escape to Tatev Monastery

Your journey begins in the morning as your professional guide and driver meet you at your hotel in Yerevan. Depart the capital and head south toward the Ararat Plain, where one of Armenia’s most iconic religious sites awaits—Khor Virap Monastery. Meaning “deep pit,” Khor Virap stands near the Turkish border and is steeped in religious and historical significance. According to Armenian tradition, Saint Gregory the Illuminator, the figure who brought Christianity to Armenia, was imprisoned here in a deep underground cell for 13 years. His release marked a turning point, leading to Armenia becoming the first nation to adopt Christianity as its state religion in 301 AD. Aside from its spiritual importance, the site offers spectacular views of Mount Ararat, the biblical resting place of Noah’s Ark, dominating the skyline.

Continue your journey to the village of Areni, nestled in the heart of the Vayots Dzor wine region. This area is famous for its ancient winemaking traditions, dating back over 6,000 years. At a local winery, enjoy a guided tasting of Armenia’s renowned fruit and berry wines, including pomegranate, cherry, apricot, and the traditional Armenian spirit oghi (fruit brandy). Learn about the unique techniques still used in rural vineyards that connect modern production with ancient traditions.

The next stop is the fascinating village of Khndzoresk, located on the steep slopes of a gorge in the Syunik region. Discover Old Khndzoresk, a once-flourishing cliffside settlement where hundreds of cave dwellings were used as homes and refuges for centuries. Accessible via a suspension footbridge, the caves are a testament to human adaptability—some stacked atop one another, with the roof of one cave serving as a garden for the next. Villagers lived in this terraced cave network until the mid-20th century, making it one of Armenia’s most unique historical habitats.

By evening, arrive in the nearby town of Goris, known for its stone houses, cultural charm, and dramatic natural surroundings. Check in to your hotel and relax for the night in this peaceful setting.

After breakfast, set out for one of the highlights of southern Armenia—the magnificent Tatev Monastery, a masterpiece of medieval Armenian architecture dating from the 9th to 13th centuries. Your approach to the monastery is an experience in itself: ride the “Wings of Tatev”, the longest reversible aerial tramway in the world, soaring above the Vorotan Gorge. This 5.7 km cable car journey provides jaw-dropping panoramic views of lush forests, deep ravines, and cascading cliffs.

Perched dramatically on the edge of a basalt plateau, Tatev Monastery once served as a key religious, educational, and political center of the region. It housed one of the most influential medieval universities in Armenia and was a stronghold of knowledge and spiritual leadership. As you explore the complex, admire the refined stonework, defensive walls, and ancient structures that still resonate with centuries of monastic life. The setting is nothing short of breathtaking—a true sanctuary suspended between sky and earth.

On the way back to Yerevan, make a memorable stop at Noravank Monastery, another architectural gem nestled among the red cliffs of the Arpa River gorge. Built in the 12th century, Noravank is famous for its narrow staircases carved into the exterior of the Surb Astvatsatsin (Holy Mother of God) Church, which rise vertically up the façade. This serene and photogenic site was also once the residence of Armenia’s celebrated medieval architect and sculptor Momik, whose intricate khachkars (cross-stones) can still be admired around the complex.

In the evening, return to Yerevan where your driver will drop you off at your hotel, concluding your enriching and unforgettable two-day exploration of Armenia’s southern treasures.