Day trip to Jermuk Noratus, Selim Pass, Wine Tasting

An Authentic Armenian Day Trip: What to Expect From the Jermuk Noratus, Selim Pass & Wine Tasting Tour

If you’re looking to explore Armenia beyond Yerevan’s bustling streets, a day trip that combines history, nature, and local flavors might be just what you need. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the detailed reviews and itinerary paint a vivid picture of a well-rounded, value-packed experience. What I love about it? The chance to see iconic sights like Lake Sevan and Jermuk Waterfall, the intimacy of small group sizes, and the opportunity to taste Armenia’s famous wine. One potential drawback? The tour’s long duration of over 11 hours might be a stretch for some travelers, especially with a packed schedule. But if you’re eager to pack in a lot of Armenia’s highlights, this tour seems like a smart choice. It’s ideal for curious travelers craving a blend of history, nature, and local culture in a day.

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Good To Know

• Affordable Price: At just $40, the tour offers great value for a full day of exploration.
• Diverse Sights: From ancient monasteries and medieval khachkars to stunning waterfalls and mountain passes.
• Small Group Experience: Up to 19 travelers, making it more personal and flexible.
• Expert Guides & Comfortable Transport: Guides like Anastasia are praised for their knowledge and enthusiasm, while vehicles are equipped with Wi-Fi.
• Local Tastes: Includes wine tasting in Areni and bottled water, plus a snack of local “Gata.”
• Timing & Flexibility: The itinerary covers many highlights efficiently, though it’s a long day with some noted safety concerns in reviews.

Exploring Armenia’s Scenic & Cultural Treasures in One Day

This tour combines a lovely mix of Armenia’s natural beauty, historic sites, and culinary delights. It’s designed for travelers who want to maximize their day without missing key sights, and who appreciate guided insights along the way.

Starting Point & First Stops: Lake Sevan & Hayravank Monastery

We begin at the Alexander Tamanyan statue near the Cascade Complex, a quick meeting point with easy access. From there, the journey takes us to Hayravank Monastery, perched on the cliffs of Lake Sevan. This place isn’t just about religion; it’s about the view. Standing on the terrace of Hayravank, you’ll see the vast expanse of Armenia’s “Blue Pearl” shimmering below. One reviewer loved the guided 45-minute tour here, mentioning how the guide beautifully explained the monastery’s history and architecture.

The next stop is the Noratus Cemetery, famous for its large collection of medieval khachkars (stone crosses). This site is a photographer’s dream and offers insight into medieval Armenian culture. Visitors like Piotr from Poland noted the guided 30-minute tour was informative, although some felt that more time exploring other parts of the cemetery would be nice.

Crossing Mountains: Vardenyants (Selim) Pass

After Noratus, the journey takes us through Vardenyants (Selim) Pass, one of the most scenic mountain passes in Armenia, sitting at 2,410 meters altitude. Your vehicle will wind through dramatic landscapes with sweeping views of the mountains and valleys. Expect about 40 minutes for sightseeing here. Reviewers consistently praise the vistas, with one saying, “You’ll love the views from the pass—it’s like being on top of the world.” The drive here is a highlight, offering excellent photo opportunities.

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Jermuk & Its Natural Wonders

Next, we arrive in Jermuk, a town famed for its thermal waters and waterfalls. The Jermuk Waterfall itself is a spectacular sight—72 meters high with a misty cascade that some call “Mermaids Hair.” The 45-minute stop here gives plenty of time to snap photos and soak in the natural beauty.

The Mineral Water Gallery provides a tasting experience where participants can sample Jermuk’s renowned waters. Tour guides often emphasize their therapeutic properties, making it a memorable moment of the trip. Reviewers appreciated the guided 15-minute tour here, with one noting that the water’s taste was surprisingly refreshing, even if the experience was brief.

Wine Tasting & Local Flavors

The trip culminates with a wine tasting in Areni, a village famous for its red wine and unique grape varieties. For many, this is a highlight—sampling Armenia’s ancient wine traditions in a cozy setting. Visitors praise the 30-minute wine tasting session for its variety and knowledge shared by guides. Plus, the inclusion of bottled water and a sweet local “Gata” snack adds to the experience.

Return & Reflection

The tour wraps up back at the Alexander Tamanyan statue, where many reflect on the diversity of the day—from ancient monasteries and medieval khachkars to mountain panoramas and waterfalls. It’s a full day, but the organized schedule ensures you see as much as possible.

Practical Details & What Makes It Special

The Transportation & Group Size

Traveling in comfortable vehicles equipped with Wi-Fi makes the long hours more bearable. The group size maxes out at 19 people, striking a balance between intimacy and social vibe. This smaller size often translates into more flexible interactions with guides and better chances to ask questions or take photos.

Guided Experience & Language

Guides like Anastasia or Arminian are praised for their knowledge, humor, and ability to keep the mood lively. Tours are available in English and Russian, catering to diverse travelers. One reviewer appreciated Anastasia’s energy, saying she kept the group lively with jokes and dancing.

Cost & Value

At $40 per person, this tour offers excellent value considering the number of sights and activities included—guided tours, entrance fees, tastings, bottled water, and snacks are all covered. When comparing price and inclusions, it’s clear this tour provides a lot for its modest cost, especially given the diversity of experiences.

Timing & Duration

Spanning over 11.5 hours, it is a substantial day. While this may be a lot for some, most reviews note that the organized schedule keeps the day flowing smoothly. Still, travelers should prepare for a long day with plenty of walking and sightseeing.

Potential Drawbacks & Considerations

A few reviews highlight safety concerns—particularly with the driver making some risky passes and having multiple phone calls during the ride. Plus, some felt that the lunch could be improved in quality or variety for the price. Since lunch isn’t included, it’s worth bringing snacks or planning for an early or late meal.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for travelers eager to see Armenia’s highlights without the hassle of planning. It suits those interested in a blend of history, nature, and local cuisine. It’s also ideal for small groups who enjoy guided commentary and the opportunity to ask questions. If you don’t mind a long day and want to avoid the more touristy bus crowds, this tour strikes a good balance between value and authentic experience.

Final Thoughts

This full-day tour provides a well-rounded taste of Armenia’s natural beauty, historical sites, and unique local products. The inclusion of professional guides, comfortable transport, and a variety of stops makes it appealing for first-time visitors wanting to maximize their time.

While it’s a lengthy day with some safety concerns noted by previous guests, the overall experience seems to be highly regarded—especially for those who enjoy scenic drives, cultural sites, and wine tasting. The price point makes it accessible, and the small-group setting ensures a more personalized experience.

If you’re curious about Armenia’s diverse landscapes and rich cultural tapestry, this tour offers a genuine window into the country’s soul—packed with photogenic spots, tasty treats, and stories that will stay with you long after the day ends.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 11.5 hours, providing a full day of sightseeing and activities.

What is the meeting point?
Meet your guide next to the Tamayan monument near the Cascade Complex in Yerevan.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, but there is a break for about an hour to grab a meal or snacks on your own.

What is the group size?
The tour accommodates up to 19 people, ensuring a more personal and flexible experience.

What languages are available for guides?
Guides speak English and Russian, offering smooth communication for most travelers.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance tickets to the sites visited are included in the price.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a hat, and a camera are recommended. Bringing some snacks or water is also a good idea, especially given the long hours.

How safe is the vehicle ride?
Most travelers report the vehicles are comfortable, but a few reviews mention concerns regarding the driver’s safety practices. It’s advisable to stay alert during the drive.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Given the long duration and some physical walking, it’s best suited for older children or teenagers who can handle a full day of sightseeing.

This Armenia day trip offers a compelling mix of scenic beauty, cultural insights, and local flavors, making it a worthwhile addition to your itinerary. Whether you’re after stunning vistas, historical knowledge, or simply a fun day out, this tour has a lot to offer.

You can check if your dates are available here: