Eastern Approaches

Introduction

The land, people and history of Armenia is dominated by the majestic beauty of Mt Ararat. Its vast bulk is visible from many parts of the country, it presides over the capital, Yerevan, and its conical peak seemingly reflects the conical domes that characterise Armenian churches. Although visible from three countries, it is the Armenians above all who have come to be identified with this magnificent mountain. But Mt Ararat is only one part of the spectacular natural scenery - frozen lava floes, plains and high lake-land lie hidden away in this remote mountain country. The landscape also provides magnificent settings for some stunning works of architecture. Chief of these are Armenia’s distinctive churches and monastic complexes, some of them amongst the oldest in the world – Armenia was, after all, the very first Christian country in the world. We see Armenia’s extraordinarily rich heritage of ecclesiastical architecture, not only the famous churches at Echmiadzin, Haghpat, Noravank and elsewhere, but some lesser known gems, such as the walled monastery of Tatev.

Churches, however, form only a part of Armenia’s rich architectural heritage. At Garni we see one of the most perfectly preserved Greek temples in the world dating from the Hellenistic period. Even older are the remains of the first millennium BC Urartian civilisation, whose cities and fortifications we see at Erebuni, Karmir Blur and Horom. Older still are the megalithic remains of Zorats, outside Sissian, dating back over 7000 years, probably the most extensive series of stone circles in the world. We also see whole plains glistening with obsidian stone tools. Finally, we look back on this extraordinarily rich artistic heritage in the museums and manuscript library in Yerevan itself.

Armenia has had a tragic recent history, from the shocking massacres that marked the beginning of the 20th century to the devastating earthquake and total economic collapse that marked the end. It is emerging now with a new confidence that both looks forward to a hopeful future and back to the rich heritage that underpins it. For the visitor, it offers a rich and rewarding experience.

Information

Extra Notes

Please note that in addition to the general practical information, the cost of this tour does not include the visas.

Accommodation

Best available throughout, mainly 3-5 star. In Yerevan the first 3 nights are in the 4 star Arma Hotel above the city with views of Ararat; the last 3 nights are in the 5 star Marriott on the central square. Elsewhere are in good, new comfortable 3-4 star hotels

Travel

Comfortable modern coach throughout

Local conditions

This is not a strenuous tour: most overnight stops are 2 or more nights, hotels are good quality, roads are mainly quite good. However, there is a huge amount to see so some days will be long. Some lunches will be picnics. Weather is expected to be dry and warm, probably quite hot at the end of the tour.

Security

Armenia is very safe with a lower level of crime than most European countries. However, the UK Foreign Office advises against travel to the disputed Karabag area and to anywhere near the border with Azerbaijan, which this tour avoids.