Vayots Dzor Areni Wine Route (Private Tour)
Areni, AM
80% of travellers recommend this
Highlights
- Visit the oldest winery in the world
- Sample a variety of Armenian wines
- Explore the T'rchuneri (Bird) Cave
- Tour the Noravank Monastery
- Enjoy the stunning scenery of Vayots Dzor
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Private Tour
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Tour Guide Included
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Duration 6-8 hours
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Wine tastings included
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Multiple language options
Experience the ancient tradition of winemaking in Vayots Dzor, just two hours south of Yerevan. Explore the Areni-1 Cave, home to the oldest known winery in the world, and learn about Armenia's rich wine culture that has been thriving for over 6000 years. Visit wineries like Momik and Old Bridge to witness the production process and indulge in tastings of local vintages. Immerse yourself in the stunning beauty of the Noravank Monastery, nestled on a ledge above the Amaghu River, offering breathtaking views against the backdrop of red rock cliffs. With a total duration of 360 to 480 minutes, this tour promises an unforgettable journey through time and taste, allowing you to discover the secrets and flavors of Armenia's winemaking heritage.
At a Glance
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Free cancellation
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6 hours
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Instant Confirmation
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Available in English, Italian, French, German, Spanish; Castilian
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Mobile voucher
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Small Group tour
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Guided
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Family friendly
Featured Reviews
Explore Armenia's ancient winemaking heritage on the Vayots Dzor Areni Wine Route, featuring tastings and visits to historic wineries and caves.
Included
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OtherTour Guide
What to expect
For centuries, the caves in this region were thought to be just simple caves. Children would play in them, but nobody knew much about these caves. But that all changed in 2007, when excavations began in Areni Cave.Excavations unearthed large complexes, which showed that this cave was once used for religious and economic purposes. A wine press was found in one room of the cave, where there is a hard place that drains into a jug. Traces of seeds, stems, and the compound that gives red wine its signature color were found, which led a wide array of scientists to conclude that the area was used as a winery about 6,000 years ago. Areni Cave is now recognized as the oldest winery in the world. Only in two km from the cave there is one of the most popular wineries of Armenia, Areni Wine Factory. The oldest leather shoe was also found in Areni Cave, stuffed with grass and stowed away for storage. It’s owner must have made it around 3,500 BCE, in a style that is still common to this day across the Caucasus and the Balkans. The oldest straw skirt in the world (3,900 BCE) and the oldest brain (4,000 BCE) have also been found in the cave, alongside ceramics, straw baskets, and ritual items. There were even skeletons found in jars, which may be from ritual sacrifices (though it’s the only case of ritual sacrifice ever found in Armenia).
30 minutes
Admission Included
Here you will have tour and Wine Tasting
60 minutes
Admission Included
Noravank means “New Monastery” in Armenian. However, today this name does not fit, as the monastery is already more than seven centuries old. The beautiful Noravank Monastery was built in the 13th century on the ledge of narrow winding gorge above the Amaghu River, near the city of Yeghegnadzor. The spare lines of the church contrast beautifully with the sharp red rock cliffs, and the dramatic scenery is one of the best reasons to visit Noravank. The monastery is sometimes called Amagu Noravank, to distinguish it from Noravank Monastery in the city of Goris. Amagu is the name of a small settlement which used to stand over the gorge.
45 minutes
Here you will have tour and Wine tasting.
45 minutes
Admission Included
The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.
Additional Information
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Not recommended for pregnant travelers -
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
What our experts say
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Visit Areni Wine Factory nearby. -
Try the local cheese with wine.
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Plan a lunch at a local tavern.
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Wear comfortable shoes for cave tours.
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Check out the scenery at Noravank Monastery.
More About this Experience
Introduction
Embark on a journey to the heart of Armenia's winemaking heritage with the Vayots Dzor Areni Wine Route tour. Nestled just two hours south of Yerevan, Vayots Dzor region is a treasure trove of wineries and vineyards. Get ready to indulge in a sensory experience as you delve into Armenia's unbroken tradition of winemaking, dating back an impressive 6000 years.What to expect?
During this immersive wine tour, you can anticipate a delightful blend of history, culture, and of course, exceptional wines. The tour begins at the world-famous Areni-1 Cave, the oldest known winery in existence. This ancient site will transport you back in time as you explore its fascinating interiors. Discover the remnants of a wine press and traces of red wine compounds, evidence that this cave served as a winery thousands of years ago. Next, you'll have the opportunity to visit renowned wineries along the Vayots Dzor Wine Route. Take a guided tour of their production facilities, witnessing firsthand the meticulous process of winemaking. Engage your senses as you savor a variety of local wines during captivating tasting sessions, immersing yourself in the rich flavors and aromas that define Armenian wine.Who is this for?
This exceptional wine tour is for anyone with a passion for history, culture, and, of course, wine. Whether you consider yourself a connoisseur or simply have a curious palate, this experience caters to all levels of wine appreciation. From solo travelers seeking new adventures to couples looking for a romantic escapade or even groups of friends wanting to share memorable moments, the Vayots Dzor Areni Wine Route promises an unforgettable experience for all.Why book this?
Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Armenian winemaking with the Vayots Dzor Areni Wine Route. What sets this experience apart is its unique blend of history, cultural significance, and, of course, incredible wines. Unearth the secrets of the ancient Areni-1 Cave, where winemaking traditions date back thousands of years. As you visit well-established wineries, you'll witness the dedication of passionate winemakers, who strive to cultivate ancient varietals and keep Armenia's wine culture thriving. Taste the fruits of their labor, savoring the remarkable flavors that have graced Armenian tables for centuries.Good to know
The Vayots Dzor Areni Wine Route tour is a full-day adventure, lasting anywhere between 6 to 8 hours. Remember to dress comfortably and wear suitable footwear, as some parts of the itinerary involve walking and exploring historic sites. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture the stunning landscapes and moments of your journey. To ensure a seamless experience, transportation will be provided along the Yerevan Highway, making it easy to reach the wineries and fully indulge in the region's wine culture.Reviews
Customers who have embarked on the Vayots Dzor Areni Wine Route tour have praised its unique blend of history, culture, and wine tasting. Immerse yourself in the captivating atmosphere of the Areni-1 Cave, discovering its ancient winemaking secrets. Witness the passion of local winemakers as they guide you through their production facilities, and enjoy the opportunity to taste a wide variety of local wines. Travelers have raved about the knowledgeable guides who offer insights into Armenia's winemaking traditions and the beautiful scenery that accompanies the tour. Overall, guests have expressed their satisfaction and rated this tour as an exceptional experience that combines education, pleasure, and a deep appreciation for Armenian wine.
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