Symphony of Rocks feat. Water Festival VARDAVAR | 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

Meet at AUH Terminal A at 04:30 AM for direct flight to Yerevan, at 06:30 AM. After arrival and immigration, we grab a quick coffee and begin our journey to the Vayots Dzor Province with some dramatic highland landscapes on the way.

Our first stop is the Khor Virap Monastery, the most iconic landmark in Armenia. Set against the backdrop of Mount Ararat, this monastery marks the site where Saint Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned for 13 years before converting the Armenian king to Christianity. This event led to Armenia becoming the first country to adopt Christianity as its official religion in 301 AD. The monastery’s location near the Turkish border provides unforgettable views and a strong sense of Armenia’s spiritual and historical identity.

We continue to the village of Yeghegis, where we begin our ascent to Smbataberd Fortress, built in the 7th century at 2,000 meters above sea level. The 3 km hike takes approximately 1.5 hours, with some steep sections, but offers yet another set of breathtaking panoramas. After exploring the fortress, we hike 3.5 km to the Tsakhats Kar Monastery, dating back to 989 AD. Known as "Tsaghkats Kar" or “Flowering Stone,” the monastery is covered in intricate stone carvings and sits high above the valley, overlooking the southwestern branch of the Vardenis mountain range.

Time to descend to the village of Artabuynk and back to Yeghegis. Check-in at a charming mountainside hotel, followed by dinner and an evening at leisure.

Overnight in Yeghegis.

Day 2 // SATURDAY

After breakfast, we depart early for Tavush Marz, driving past Lake Sevan, one of the largest freshwater high-altitude lakes in the world and a national treasure of Armenia. We begin our hike near Lake Parz, starting at 1,220 meters and gradually ascending to 1,600 meters, before descending slightly to Gosh Village at 1,570 meters. This 5.6 km trek (approx. 2.5 hours) winds through lush forests and peaceful trails, ending in a beautiful village known for its medieval architecture and serene atmosphere.

In the afternoon, we drive back to Yerevan, check into our hotel, and enjoy the evening at leisure.

Overnight in Yerevan.

DAY 3 // SUNDAY

Today, we take part in Vardavar, one of Armenia’s most joyful and unique festivals. On this day, people of all ages throw water on each other—buckets from balconies, garden hoses, and playful ambushes from kids are all part of the fun. It’s a cultural experience like no other, rooted in ancient traditions but loved by modern Armenians alike.

After shower and check out, we head to a village home for a hosted lunch, where we’ll witness the traditional Lavash-making process in a stone oven and enjoy a hearty, home-cooked Armenian meal. Then we visit Garni, the only remaining pagan temple in Armenia, dedicated to the sun god Myrth. From the temple, we begin a short walk into Azat Gorge, also known as the "Symphony of Stones", famous for its natural basalt column formations that resemble a giant organ. A stop at the Azat Lake viewpoint wraps up our outdoor adventure.

Our trip would not be completed without traditional Armenian dinner and wine tasting before evening transfer to the airport for our return flight home. Back at AUH around 00:30 AM.

Activities: trekking, sightseeing, playing water festival, 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: 2230 AED excl. flights from Abu Dhabi until JUNE 30th.

Specifically excluded: visa if applicable, entry fees if any, dinners.

Visa: Most of passports eligible for free or e-visa. Visa on arrival for UAE residents.

It is sole responsibility of participant to secure entry to country of destination at the time of travel.

See yah in Armenia x

Trekkup Crew
Whatsapp 050484823