Lake Sevan Gourmet Tour Cheese, Fresh Fish and Wine

Explore Armenia’s Scenic Lake Sevan and Its Surroundings

The Lake Sevan Gourmet Tour offers an engaging 8-hour journey through Armenia’s picturesque landscape at a price of $195 per person. This private experience from Yerevan includes a comfortable hotel pickup, guided visits to notable sites, and tastings of local cheeses, fish, and wines. The tour is ideal for those seeking a mix of cultural sights and culinary delights, providing a well-paced itinerary that balances sightseeing with tasting experiences.

This tour shines in its focus on Armenia’s culinary and historical treasures. Its stops include iconic landmarks like Hayravank Monastery and Noratus, as well as unique gastronomic experiences such as artisanal cheese tasting at a farm and a guided wine tasting at a wine castle. The full-day excursion promises stunning views, authentic flavors, and the chance to learn about local traditions — perfect for travelers eager to explore Armenia beyond the typical sights.

Key Points

• Duration and Price: An approximately 8-hour private tour costing $195 per person.
• Cultural Highlights: Visits to Hayravank Monastery and Noratus, Armenia’s largest collection of khachkars.
• Culinary Experiences: Cheese tasting with 10 types of cheeses and 5 types of aged meats at a local farm.
• Fresh Fish Lunch: Enjoy Sevan’s famous fish at a lakeside restaurant.
• Wine Tasting: Guided tour and sampling of 5 Armenian wines at a wine castle.
• Convenience: Includes pickup, transportation, and a guide service.

Scenic Lake Sevan and Its Mountain Backdrop

The tour begins with a visit to Lake Sevan, often called Armenia’s “Blue Pearl”, where travelers can marvel at the vast lake surrounded by striking mountain scenery. The 30-minute stop involves no entry fee and offers plenty of opportunities for photos of the expansive waters and mountain peaks. This setting sets the tone for the day, emphasizing Armenia’s natural beauty.

The lake’s serene environment and breathtaking views make it an ideal place for a relaxed start, with the added benefit of being accessible and easy to include in a day trip. Its prominence in Armenia’s geography makes it a must-see for visitors, especially those interested in stunning landscapes.

Visiting Hayravank Monastery for Peaceful Lake Views

Next, the tour takes you to Hayravank Monastery, a 9th to 12th-century religious site that offers peaceful surroundings and remarkable lakeside views. The 30-minute visit lets you explore the monastery’s ancient stone architecture and enjoy sweeping vistas of Lake Sevan.

This site is notable for its tranquil ambiance and historical significance. The monastery’s location on a hill provides vantage points overlooking the lake, making it a favorite for those wanting a moment of reflection amid historical surroundings. Access is free, allowing for a relaxed and contemplative stop.

Discovering Noratus and Armenia’s Largest Khachkars Collection

The next stop is Noratus, an open-air museum home to Armenia’s largest collection of khachkars — intricately carved stone crosses that showcase Armenia’s artistic craftsmanship. This 30-minute visit offers insight into Armenia’s spiritual and artistic traditions, with many khachkars dating back centuries.

This site stands out for its visual impact and cultural richness. The large outdoor display of carvings provides a glimpse into Armenia’s historical devotions and artistic skills, making it a highlight for history buffs and art lovers alike.

Artisanal Cheese Tasting at a Unique Local Farm

One of the tour’s culinary highlights is the cheese tasting at a local farm where 10 types of artisanal cheeses are sampled. These cheeses are aged in wine, brandy, and grape leaves, adding distinctive flavors and aromas. The 2-hour stop allows ample time to savor the cheeses and learn about local cheesemaking techniques.

This experience showcases Armenia’s dedication to artisanal food and offers a sensory journey into its culinary heritage. The farm setting enhances the authenticity, making it a memorable part of the day. The tasting includes several varieties, giving a broad taste of local craftsmanship.

Enjoying a Fresh Fish Lunch on Lake Sevan’s Shore

After the cheese experience, the tour proceeds to a lakeside restaurant, where the focus is on Sevan’s famous fish. The lunch menu features dishes prepared with fresh lake ingredients, highlighting the region’s culinary traditions. The meal pairs well with the wines sampled later in the day.

This stop emphasizes the importance of lake fish in Armenia’s local cuisine, offering a genuine taste of Sevan’s culinary identity. The restaurant’s lakeside location means diners enjoy scenic views while indulging in expertly prepared local dishes.

Guided Wine Tasting at a Armenian Wine Castle

The day concludes with a visit to a wine castle, where a guided tour of the wine production process and a tasting of 5 different Armenian wines await. This experience provides insight into Armenia’s historic wine-making traditions and regional varieties.

The wine castle setting adds a touch of elegance and history, making it a fitting end to the culinary journey. The tastings are included in the price, and water is also provided for refreshment. This segment is especially appealing for wine enthusiasts or anyone interested in Armenia’s vinicultural heritage.

Convenience and Additional Information

The entire experience is private, meaning only your group participates, providing a personalized and relaxed atmosphere. Pickup from Yerevan hotels ensures convenience, and the tour operates daily from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM, with bookings confirmed immediately.

All transportation is included, along with a dedicated guide service to enhance your understanding of each site and taste. The tour is accessible for most travelers, and group discounts are available, making it suitable for families or small groups.

Authentic Experience with Flexibility and Value

This Lake Sevan Gourmet Tour offers a balanced mix of sightseeing, culinary tastings, and culture. It provides good value through inclusions like cheese, fish, and wine tastings, along with transportation and guides. The free cancellation policy offers flexibility in case plans change.

While the tour’s duration is around 8 hours, the pacing allows for plenty of time at each stop without feeling rushed. The stops at Hayravank and Noratus are brief but meaningful, highlighting Armenia’s historical artistry, while the culinary experiences deepen your understanding of local flavors.

Who Should Consider This Tour

This experience suits those interested in cultural sites, food and drink, and scenic landscapes. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a well-rounded day that combines sightseeing with authentic Armenian cuisine. The tour’s private nature makes it especially attractive for personalized experiences or small groups.

However, travelers should be comfortable with moderate walking at sites like Noratus and Hayravank. The focus on food and wine makes it less suitable for those with dietary restrictions unless special arrangements are made.

Final Thoughts on the Lake Sevan Gourmet Tour

The Lake Sevan Gourmet Tour from Red Hat Tours delivers a satisfying blend of stunning scenery, historic sites, and delicious local flavors. By visiting iconic landmarks and indulging in cheese, fish, and wine tastings, travelers gain a genuine taste of Armenia’s cultural and culinary heritage.

The tour’s private format, comprehensive itinerary, and affordable price combine to create a memorable day suited for those eager to explore Armenia’s natural beauty and traditional gastronomy. It’s a practical choice for visitors seeking a structured yet flexible experience with expert guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The $195 per person fee covers transport, guide service, cheese tasting, lunch with fresh fish, wine tasting, and water.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, running from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM.

Is the tour suitable for all travelers?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the tour is private, making it flexible for small groups or families.

What are the main stops on the tour?
Stops include Lake Sevan, Hayravank Monastery, Noratus, a local cheese farm, a lakeside restaurant, and a wine castle.

How much time is spent at each stop?
30-minute stops at Lake Sevan, Hayravank, and Noratus; 2 hours at the cheese farm; additional time is allocated for lunch and wine tasting.

Are meals and tastings included?
Yes, cheese tasting, lunch with fish, and wine tasting are included in the price.

Can I cancel the tour if needed?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled at least 24 hours before the scheduled start.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes for walking and a camera for scenic views are recommended. The tour provides water and guidance throughout.

Is pickup offered from my hotel?
Yes, pickup from Yerevan hotels is included in the tour package.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of stunning lake views, historic sites, and local culinary experiences make this tour a comprehensive Armenian day trip for lovers of culture and cuisine.