Georgia and Armenia 2024/2025: Wine and Legends

Flight to Georgia

Our journey through the Caucasus begins with passport and baggage processing.

From the snow-clad peaks of the Caucasus to medieval castles and towers concealed in secluded valleys, the picturesque Alazani Valley with its vineyard-covered expanses, vast eastern steppes, the modern allure of Tbilisi, and timeless villages frozen in history – Georgia unveils a captivating blend of landscapes and cultural heritage.

This is a land where, as legend has it, God contemplated keeping its beauty solely for Himself.

Tbilisi

Today, our itinerary includes visits to ancient churches, the sulfur bath-laden Muslim quarter, the grand Shota Rustaveli Avenue adorned with landmarks such as the Parliament building, and the picturesque Rike Park, highlighted by its distinctive glass bridge.

To culminate our day, a dinner affair awaits, featuring captivating performances by Georgian dancers presenting a repertoire of spectacular acrobatic dances. Georgia’s allure and beauty unfold seamlessly from the very onset of our journey.

Gegeti Cminda Sameba, Mccheta, Tbilisi

On this day, our expedition follows the esteemed ‘Georgian Military Road’ northward. Along the route, we explore the medieval Ananuri fortress, strategically poised above the picturesque Lake Zhinvali.

Reaching the apex of our journey at the Cross Pass (2395 meters above sea level), we revel in the breathtaking panorama of lush slopes and the snow-capped peaks of majestic mountains.

The pinnacle, however, lies in our visit to the Cminda Sameba church at the base of Mount Kazbek, a destination facilitated by reliable off-road vehicles.

On our return, a detour takes us to Mtskheta, the ancient capital where the Christianization of Georgia commenced in the early 4th century through the endeavors of Saint Nino of Cappadocia.

Our exploration includes the Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, the holiest site in the country.

Kakheti, Sighnaghi

Georgia is renowned for its exquisite wines, and throughout the country, these traditions are not only alive but vigorously upheld.

The Kakheti region, specifically the Alazani Valley, stands out as a prominent winemaking hub. It is here that the finest grape varieties flourish, and local vineyards export their products to a global audience.

Our journey to Kacheti promises wine tastings featuring indigenous grape varieties, and a visit to Sighnaghi – a town reminiscent of the Italian Tuscany, known as the ‘City of Love.’ From the elevated plateau, we’ll raise a toast to the beauty of the country, gazing upon the Alazani Valley.

Our exploration extends to the steppe regions, leading us to the rock-hewn David Gareja Monastery, a UNESCO-listed site. Along the way, we’ll witness colorful rock formations and almond plantations.

Upliscyche, Gori, Achalciche

In the morning, our itinerary unfolds as we depart Tbilisi, setting our course towards the central and southern regions of the country.

Along the way, we will explore the ancient marvel of Uplistsikhe, a rock-hewn city dating back to the 5th century BCE, and Gori, notable as Stalin’s birthplace.

Continuing our expedition, we will venture into the Samtskhe-Javakheti region. Navigating the course along the Kura River, we will encounter the remnants of medieval ‘tsikhe,’ emblematic of Georgian fortresses.

Samtskhe-Javakheti, historically deemed the vulnerable flank of Georgia, witnessed frequent invasions, leading to the construction of defensive fortifications.

Our journey includes a visit to the meticulously restored Rabati Fortress in Akhaltsikhe, offering an interior reminiscent of a historical Turkish drama setting.

Gyumri

As we ascend the Kura River, our journey unfolds to the legendary Chertvisi Fortress, once besieged by the forces of Alexander the Great.

A short distance away, we encounter one of Georgia’s most captivating sites—the remnants of the rock-hewn city of Vardzia, a testament to the medieval era under the rule of Queen Tamar.

Traversing Samtskhe-Javakheti, we witness vast rural landscapes that have, over the years, become home to diverse ethnic and national minorities of Georgia.

Upon crossing the border into Armenia, our first destination is Gyumri, formerly Leninakan. Gyumri unveils notable landmarks such as the ‘Black Cathedral, the Sevberd Fortress—a 19th-century Russian fort shaped like a circle, and Victory Park, featuring a monument depicting Mother Armenia.

Kasach, Eczmiadzyn, Zwartnoc, Yerevan

As we approach Yerevan, the majestic silhouette of Mount Aragats, crowned with four peaks, graces the horizon. With Mount Ararat taken from the Armenians a century ago, Aragats now stands as the highest mountain within the borders of the Republic of Armenia.

Along the route, we’ll be captivated by the grandeur of Kasagh Canyon and visit the Sagmosavank Monastery, perched elegantly on its rim.

In the vicinity, an intriguing monument celebrating the Armenian alphabet manifests as large stone letters strewn across a hill. A unique phenomenon awaits us as we stop the car uphill – it defies gravity, a rare experience occurring in only a handful of places globally.

Our next destination is the Amberd Fortress, aptly named the ‘Fortress in the Clouds,’ standing at an elevation of 2300 meters, often embraced by ethereal white clouds.

Subsequently, we proceed to Echmiadzin, where the ‘Mother Church,’ a cathedral dating back to the 4th century, unfolds its historic foundations.

Our journey to Yerevan includes a stop at Zvartnots, where we explore the ruins of a medieval monastery complex, offering a panoramic view of Mount Ararat.

In Yerevan, our itinerary features a brandy tasting experience at Ararat and an insightful tour of the distinguished distillery crafting this globally acclaimed spirit.

This visit provides a deep dive into the intricacies of the production process, the company’s illustrious history, and its visionary plans for the future.

Yerevan

This day is dedicated to exploring Yerevan, the capital of Armenia.

Our exploration of the city begins at the famous Cascade, from the top of which we’ll admire a stunning panorama of Yerevan with Mount Ararat in the backdrop. We’ll stroll along Freedom Square, past the Opera House, and continue along the elegant Northern Avenue to Republic Square—the heart of the city.

We’ll also delve into a somber chapter of Armenian history by visiting the Tsitsernakaberd Genocide Memorial Museum, which commemorates the tragic events of 1915.

Garni, Geghard, Chor Virap

On this day, we embark on a captivating journey through Armenia’s cultural and historical landmarks. Our initial stop is Garni, home to a Hellenistic temple dedicated to the sun god, a testament to ancient architecture dating back to the 1st century AD.

Continuing our voyage, we traverse a short distance to visit the Geghard Monastery, a remarkable rock-cut complex originating from the 4th century.

Our southward route leads us to the Chor Virap Monastery, perched atop a hill with historical significance as the site of the former dungeon near the ancient capital, Artashat.

Further south, amidst the striking red rock canyons of the Vayots Dzor region, we encounter the Noravank Monastery. Here, we delve into the legend of Momik, the sculptor captivated by the daughter of Prince Sjunik.

Our journey culminates in the town of Jermuk, renowned for its spa and mineral water springs, or, as per reservations, the city of Goris.

Zorac Karer

Our journey commences towards Tatev, where we will embark on the world’s longest cable car ride. This expedition unfolds at the heart of Armenia’s medieval and modern heritage.

Along the scenic mountainous route, we make a captivating stop at the ‘Devil’s Bridge,’ revealing a hidden, picturesque cave.

Heading north, our path leads to the megalithic tumulus and purported astronomical observatory known as Zorats Karer or the ‘Armenian Stonehenge.’

Our next destination is the medieval caravanserai, Selim, an atmospheric stop along our journey. Situated at an elevation of approximately 1900 meters, we are greeted by the mesmerizing view of Lake Sevan.

Travelling along the lake’s southern shore, we explore the Noratus cemetery, a testament to Armenia’s rich cultural heritage.

For the night, we retreat to a lakeside hotel on the shores of Lake Sevan.

Sewanawank, Haghpart

In the morning, we will spend time by Lake Sevan, exploring the Ahtamar Peninsula with the ‘Black Monastery’ of Sevanavank.

We will then traverse the surroundings of Dilijan, often referred to as the ‘Armenian Switzerland.’ Near the town of Alaverdi, we will ascend to the hilltop, home to the UNESCO-listed Haghpat Monastery, once inhabited and frequented by the renowned Armenian composer and poet, Sayat Nova.

Our journey continues as we cross the border in Sadakhlo, re-entering Georgian territory. In this borderland, the notable presence of Muslims, predominantly Azerbaijanis, becomes evident.

Traveling northward, we complete the circuit on our map, returning to the capital of Georgia – Tbilisi.

Departure from Tbilisi

As we wrap up our journey, having meticulously packed our belongings and reminisced about the enriching experiences, it is now time for our return flight.

We will convene at Tbilisi’s Shota Rustaveli Airport, ensuring our presence about 2 hours prior to the scheduled departure.

We trust that the allure of Georgia and Armenia has left a lasting impression, and we extend an invitation for you to accompany us on future explorations. Could Greece be your next destination of choice?

Georgia and Armenia 2024: Wine and Legends