The Road to Jermuk's Springs

One day — and completely different facets of Armenia: Ararat and the ancient history of Khor Virap, the winemaking traditions of Vayots Dzor, the red cliffs of Noravank, and mountainous Jermuk with its waterfall and famous mineral springs.

The first stop will be Khor Virap Monastery — one of the most iconic historical and spiritual places in Armenia.

According to church tradition, it was here that Gregory the Illuminator spent about 13 years in a deep dungeon. After his release, he played a key role in Armenia's adoption of Christianity in the early 4th century.

Khor Virap is located very close to Mount Ararat. On a clear day, one of Armenia's most famous views opens up from here — the monastery set against the backdrop of Ararat.

Next, we will head to Vayots Dzor — one of the country's main winemaking regions.

A wine tour and tasting await us, during which you will learn about the traditions of Armenian winemaking, discover the wine production process, and taste local wines.

The next stop is Noravank Monastery, set among the impressive red cliffs of the Amaghu gorge.

The monastery complex developed especially actively in the 13th–14th centuries and is closely associated with the princely Orbelian family.

One of the complex's main monuments is the two-story Surb Astvatsatsin Church, associated with the name of the outstanding medieval architect and sculptor Momik. Its unusual architecture, external stone staircase, and the surrounding red cliffs have made Noravank one of the most recognizable places in Vayots Dzor.

After the historical part of the route, we will head higher into the mountains — to Jermuk.

One of the most beautiful natural stops here is the "Mermaid Hair" waterfall.

Water flows down the rocky slope in thin streams, which is how the waterfall got its romantic name. It is one of Jermuk's calling cards and a wonderful place for a short walk and photographs.

Next, we will visit the Arch of Dreams — one of Jermuk's well-known panoramic viewpoints.

From here, a beautiful view opens up over the mountain landscape and the gorge of the resort town. By tradition, visitors make a wish here while admiring the surrounding nature.

We will end the journey in the very heart of Jermuk — Armenia's famous mountain and balneological resort.

We will visit the Mineral Water Gallery, where natural mineral water flows from springs of varying temperatures.

Here you can taste Jermuk mineral water straight from the source and feel the atmosphere of a resort whose history is inseparably linked to its natural waters.

This is how the route concludes — in a single day taking us from the foot of Ararat, through the wine valleys and red cliffs of Vayots Dzor, to the mineral springs of mountainous Jermuk.

Who this tour is for

"The Road to Jermuk's Springs" is a great fit for those who want to combine history, nature, Armenian wine, and mountain scenery in a single journey.

It is a particularly good option for a first introduction to Armenia's southern direction: the route is varied and lets you see Khor Virap and Ararat, Noravank, get acquainted with winemaking traditions, and spend time in the nature of Jermuk, all in one day.

The tour is well suited for lovers of beautiful views, photography, history, wine, and leisurely walks in nature.