



Private Tour to Lake Sevan, Dilijan, Haghartsin Monastery with Optional Tolma Making Master Class and Wine Tasting in Yerevan, Armenia
Add color to your day with a private tour to Lake Sevan, Dilijan, and the 10th-century Haghartsin Monastery. Enjoy a tolma cooking master class and optional wine tasting at Ijevan winery, experiencing Armenia's nature, history, and flavors in one unforgettable trip.
Highlights:
- Visit the "Blue pearl" of Armenia: Lake Sevan
- Haghartsin Monastery
- Unforgettable beauty and mild climate of Dilijan
- Wonder at unique forests of Armenia
- Learn the culinary secrets of Armenian traditional cuisine
- Taste flavorful Armenian wine
Includes:
- Professional guide
- Transportation by a/c vehicle
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off (within Yerevan)
- Vehicle and passengers insurance
- Bottled water
- Tolma master class and food tasting
Not included:
- WiFi in the vehicles
- Wine tasting
Please note: The price for solo traveller is 256 EUR. For the group of two - 257 EUR.
Pay on spot wine tasting:
- Option 1: 3 types of wine at 6.19 EUR p/p
- Option 2: 3 types of wine and 2 types of brandy at 8.67 EUR p/p
- Option 3: 3 types of wine and a 20-year-old brandy at 12.38 EUR p/p
Unforgettable Day Exploring Armenia's Natural Beauty, History, and Flavors
Add some color to your day with this private tour! Your adventure kicks off with a visit to Lake Sevan, the shimmering jewel of Armenia's mountains and one of Eurasia's largest high-altitude freshwater lakes. Nestled around 1900 meters above sea level, this volcanic lake is a striking sight, cradled by towering 3000-meter peaks and dotted by the historic Sevan peninsula with its medieval churches. After soaking in the serene beauty, the road leads you to Dilijan, affectionately known as "Armenian Switzerland", a town wrapped in forests and blessed with a gentle climate. Here lies the 10th-century Haghartsin monastery complex, recently restored thanks to generous donations from the ruler of Sharjah, a gesture born from admiration during his visit. If you're up for it, you can dip your hands into a tolma master class - the art of making these lovingly rolled Armenian stuffed delicacies - before rounding off your day at the Ijevan winery where an optional tasting awaits, wrapping up the tour on a deliciously smooth note.
Quick Tips for Your Lake Sevan Tour Adventure
Before you grab your backpack or camera, here are a few nuggets to keep in mind for a smooth, enjoyable day:
- Dress comfortably and in layers: Mountain weather can flip on a dime, so pack a light jacket even if it's sunny.
- Footwear that's sturdy but comfy is your friend - some walking on uneven ground is expected around the monastery and lakeshore.
- Bring a bottle of water and sunscreen to stay hydrated and protected under that high-altitude sun.
- The tour is mild physically but expect moderate walking, especially around the monastery grounds and Lake Sevan peninsula.
- Best time to visit is late spring through early autumn when the weather is pleasant and the surrounding forests are lush.
- Optional wine tasting is a treat, but consider your itinerary post-tour to enjoy responsibly.
With these tips in your back pocket, you're all set for an effortlessly enjoyable experience.
More Facts About This Experience
Lake Sevan isn't just a pretty face - it's a vital part of Armenia's cultural heart and eco-system. The lake supports diverse flora and fauna, including an endemic fish species, the Sevan trout. The Sevanavank monastery on the peninsula, built in 874 AD, offers panoramic views and a peaceful spot for reflection. Meanwhile, Haghartsin monastery's architecture melds smoothly with the dense Tavush forest around it, creating a serene blend of history and nature. Legend has it that making a wish and passing through the hollow of an ancient oak near Haghartsin brings good luck - a neat little tradition that visitors often try their luck with.
For practicalities, Haghartsin monastery is open daily from 9 am to sunset; modest attire is recommended as a sign of respect. The Ijevan winery, dating back to 1951, traditionally operates tours and tastings on a daily basis, providing a glimpse into Armenia's rich winemaking heritage.
Pair This Tour with Nearby Experiences
If you want to expand your Armenian adventure, consider these gems: A personal tour of Garni Temple and the Geghard monastery, where ancient rock formations meet sacred architecture, or wander through Yerevan's bustling Vernisage and Hrazdan flea markets for handmade souvenirs and local artistry. Don't miss out on a Yerevan city tour coupled with the legendary ARARAT Brandy Factory to understand Armenian culture through its historic sites and signature spirits. These tours complement the Lake Sevan day perfectly, rounding out your cultural and sensory journey.
Who Will Love This Experience?
This tour is a fantastic pick for solo travelers craving a mix of nature, culture, and cuisine without a hitch. Couples and small groups of friends will find it refreshing and immersive, while families with teens may appreciate the blend of history and hands-on cooking. If you're someone who likes to dig a little deeper than surface sightseeing, yearns for authentic culinary experiences, or just enjoys the tranquil beauty of an Armenian lake, this is tailor-made for you.
There's something irresistibly particular about this tour - you see, it feels like strolling through Armenia's living postcard, where each stop packs a punch of beauty, history, and flavor. Like an old friend with a cool story, Lake Sevan invites you to slow down and savor, making this tour not just an outing but a warm embrace of Armenian soul. So why wait? Go on, find your guide and dive into a day that charms, educates, and leaves you with memories as vibrant as the lake's own blue depths. After all, as the idiom goes, it's high time you added this pearl' to your travel treasure chest.