Spiritual Highland

The most comfortable of our journeys: gentle stages to the holiest places of the first Christian nation — Etchmiadzin and Zvartnots, the rock monastery of Geghard, the temple of Garni and the basalt organ pipes of the Symphony of Stones, Khor Virap against the backdrop of Mount Ararat and the quiet sand dunes of Goravan, finally Noravank and a wine tasting in the ancient Areni-1 cave. Rich in culture, barely any off-road sections, excellent cuisine and top-class hotels. Ideal for a first visit to the Caucasus.

1. 1

   Yerevan & Etchmiadzin

   Arrival in Yerevan, a gentle start at the oldest cathedral in Christendom in Etchmiadzin and the ruins of Zvartnots.

2. 2

   Geghard, Garni & Symphony of Stones

   The rock-hewn monastery of Geghard, the pagan temple of Garni and the thundering basalt organ pipes of the Symphony of Stones — high above the gorge, the quiet monastery of Havuts Tar keeps watch, barely visible.

3. 3

   Khor Virap & Goravan

   The dungeon of Khor Virap set against the Ararat panorama, followed by a detour into the quiet sandy semi-desert of Goravan.

4. 4

   Noravank & Areni

   Red gorges, the monastery of Noravank and a wine tasting in the 6,100-year-old Areni-1 cave; overnight in the heart of Vayots Dzor.

5. 5

   Departure

   A leisurely drive back through the vineyards of Vayots Dzor to Yerevan, departure.