Discovering the Heights of History and Adventure

Areni, nestled in the heart of Armenia’s Vayots Dzor Province, is a treasure trove of history and adventure waiting to be explored. As the sun rises at 07:37 on November 9th, the day promises clear skies and a blazing sun, with temperatures soaring to 45.6°C. But fear not, for the thrill of discovery and the cool embrace of history await you.

Start your journey with the Tatev Adventure tour, available from 08:00 to 21:00. This isn’t just a trip; it’s a journey through time and space. The Tatev Monastery, perched high on the mountains, offers breathtaking views that will make your heart race. The world’s longest tramway, the Wings of Tatev, will take you on a ride above the clouds, offering a perspective of Armenia that few get to see. As you glide over the landscape, the heat of the day melts away, replaced by the cool winds of the mountains.

Reviewed at 2023-10-17: Amazing trip - don’t let the duration turn you off - An utterly amazing trip and well worth the money. We started early in the fog which lasted most of the trip! We missed Shaki (the waterfall) because of the fog, but we did see Mount Ararat (various views on the way out and the way back), we did go on the cable car ride (still in fog!) and we did love the monasteries and all the history. Our last stop at Noravank was outstanding.

Embrace the Spirit of Armenia

As the sun reaches its zenith, the heat intensifies, but so does the adventure. The Full-Day Monastery Tour is your ticket to a day filled with awe and wonder. Available from 09:00 to 23:00, this tour takes you to the heart of Armenia’s spiritual and cultural heritage.

Begin at the Khor Virap Monastery, the closest point to the biblical Mount Ararat. The views here are nothing short of spectacular, and the history is palpable. Next, journey to the Noravank Monastery, a unique two-story complex surrounded by towering mountains. The architecture here is as breathtaking as the landscape, offering a cool respite from the midday sun.

Reviewed at 2024-10-12: Fantastic Scenery - Had a wonderful day with so many breathtaking sites. Artur was an excellent driver and was so kind and thoughtful. Would highly recommend!

Savor the Flavors of Areni

As the day winds down and the sun sets at 17:48, it’s time to indulge in the flavors of Areni. Known for its wine, this region offers a tasting experience that is as rich and diverse as its history. The Tatev Adventure tour includes a wine tasting session that will tantalize your taste buds with a variety of red and white wines, fruit-flavored wines, apricot brandy, and vodkas.

The cool evening breeze provides the perfect backdrop for this sensory journey. As you sip on the local wines, the stories of the day come alive, each flavor telling a tale of the land and its people. This is more than just a tasting; it’s a celebration of the culture and spirit of Areni.

Reviewed at 2023-09-13: Great sites and local wines - Our guide Garnik was great and very knowledgeable. He even took us to an extra wine tasting by a local where we were able to buy fruits, wine, and sweets.

In Areni, every moment is an adventure, every sight a story, and every taste a memory. So, pack your sunscreen, embrace the heat, and get ready to explore the coolest spots in Areni this November.