Symphony of Rocks | Weekend in Armenia (FROM AUH)

Armenia, located in the South Caucasus, is somewhat an extraordinary place, frozen in time living in its own rhythm. The history of first country in the world to adopt Christianity as the state religion, is shrouded in legends. It was in Ararat that Noah's Ark stopped, it was here that the miracle of Saint Gregory the Illuminator happened, who managed to survive in a cell under the monastery of Khor Wirap.

"Ararat" is first and foremost the name of the holy Armenian mountain on which, according to tradition, Noah's Ark settled. However, the story unfolded so that it is now located in the territory of Turkey. From Armenia, you can only admire its snow-covered peak from a distance, in good weather. Fortunately, there are many places worth visiting in Armenia. There are so many temples, monasteries and khachkars here that it is impossible to give their exact number. Nevertheless, each of these objects is gorgeous, beautiful and unique in its own way. Khachkars, literally "stone crosses", began to be forged in Armenia right after the adoption of Christianity. They were to replace pagan temples, later they also decorated crossroads, gardens and tombstones.

Established in 782 BC, Yerevan is older than Rome, considered the cradle of civilization, by 29 years! The capital of Armenia, despite its longevity, does not have a charming old town. It delights with something completely different - a mixture of modernity with places that perfectly remember nearly 70 years of communism.

Amazing Caucasus nature, hospitable inhabitants, world-class monuments and intriguing history is what awaits us on this short, spring weekend trip.

Lets go!

Day 1 / FRIDAY
Meeting at AUH Terminal A at 04.30am for direct flight at 06:30am.
Immigration procedure, grab a coffee and drive to the only remaining pagan temple in Armenia devoted to the God of Sun – Myrth. Trekking from the temple to Azat Gorge. It obtained the name "Symphony of Rocks" due to spectacular views. The fantastic landscape of the canyon will shake our imagination. Family hosted lunch in village house with watching of “Lavash” (Armenian traditional flat bread baked in stonemake oven) making process, testing authentic Armenian food, get acquainted with local village life. Further on we head back to capitol with a stop at Azat Lake. Dinner and rest or hit the city lights for anyone who is not tired.

Day 2 / SATURDAY
After breakfast head out towards Vayots Dzor province; the road trip offers stunning views of the landscape along the way, making it a visually memorable experience. At the village of Yeghegis, we start our ascent to Smbataberd. It was founded in the 7th century and is located 2000m. The ascent is steep in places, can be perceived of medium difficulty, but the distance is only 3 km, and it takes some 1.5 hours to complete. After viewing the magnificent scenery of Smbataberd, we will go to Tsakhats Kar Church, which is located 3.5 km from Smbataberd. Tsakhats Kar was built in 989 and is also called Tsaghkats Kar (Flowering Stone), because the church is completely covered with enchanting ornaments. From Tsakhats Kar, opens a splendid view to the south-western fork of the Vardenis mountain range.
Descent to the village of Artabuk, then the vehicle will take us to the village of Yeghegis, overnight in picturesque hotel in the mountains. Check in, dinner, evening at leisure.

DAY 3 / SUNDAY
Today we head to Tavush Marz, passing by the legendary subject of Armenian proud - Sevan lake. We will start our hike near Lake Parz at an altitude of 1220m all the way to 1600m, continuing to 1570m where we will find the picturesque Gosh village. It's a lovely place with unique charm. Today's trek is 5.6 kilometers, around 2.5 hours.
Time for lunch at one of the local guesthouses where we will be served traditional Armenian dishes. On the way we will visit the Goshavank (New Getik) monastic complex, which was built in the 12th-13th centuries AD. Departure to Yerevan for return flight home. Bye, bye Armenia! Back home shortly after midnight, 00:30.

Activities: trekking, sightseeing, encounter of ancient Armenian culture.
Grade: Easy, available for everyone.
Accommodation and meals: 3 star hotels, double sharing. Dinners excluded (breakfasts and lunches included). Single room subject of extra cost and availability.

Cost: 2100 AED excl. flights / 2950 AED incl. flights from Abu Dhabi (Wizz Plus) until APR 30th.

Specifically excluded: visa if applicable, entry fees if any, dinners.
Visa: Most of passports eligible for free visa.

See yah in Armenia x

Trekkup Crew
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