
The unparalleled scenery of the Caucasus has been inspiring architects to build ever more beautiful churches and monasteries for generations. Armenia and Georgia, the first two countries to adopt Christianity as their official religion, are now home to a large number of striking stone monasteries and churches, often located high on mountain slopes or deep in fertile gorges. Discover this region’s spiritual history and rich culture for yourself with this nine-day Caucasus Temples tour. From Geghard, a monastery complex carved out of a mountainside in central Armenia, through the capital cities and alpine lakes to the Gergeti Trinity Church, in the shadow of Mount Kazbegi in northern Georgia, this tour crosses time and culture to bring you the best of the Caucasus with a focus on Armenia and Georgia.
Tour itinerary:
Our first stop will be in Bodbe convent, which according to the legend is a burial place of St. Nino, who converted Georgia to Christianity in the 4th century. According to Tsar Alexader III of Russia decree, since 1889 Bodbe complex functions as a nunnery. Continue Sighnaghi, the city of love and the Royal Town, one of the crossroads of the Great Silk Road surrounded by defensive walls with 23 towers. Drive to Tsinandali, the residence of dukes of Georgia with beautiful English garden, a museum, and the wine cellar which belonged to prince Chavchavadze, 19th century public figure and poet.
Reach Telavi, the administrative and historic center of the region. Have a short walk through charming streets of old Telavi with a photo stop at the monument to Erekli II.
Depart to Tbilisi by beautiful road through Gombori pass. Overnight at the hotel.
Continue to Ananuri architectural complex, a former residence of Argveti Dukes. The complex features churches and towers dating back to the 16-17th centuries, beautifully overlooking the Jinvali reservoir. Continue driving on Georgian Military Highway passing through the highest point of it at 2394 m above sea level. En-route, make a stop at the mineral water spring flowing down from a hilltop.
Arrive in Kazbegi, a small town with the views of Mt. Kazbek (or Mkinvari) 5033 m, the seventh highest peak in the Caucasus Mountains. Visit Gergeti Holy Trinity Church located on altitude of 2170 and enjoy breathtaking views to Mt Kazbegi. Overnight at the hotel.
- All transfers by sedan type cars; 4x4 WD to Gergeti Church in Kazbegi;
- Accommodation based on double/twin room sharing, breakfasts included;
- English speaking guides in each country;
- All entrance tickets to sights as per itinerary;
- Wine tasting at Areni and Tsinandali;
- Welcome dinners in Yerevan and Tbilisi;
- Mineral water (0,5l per person per day).
- Full board (lunches and dinners);
- Hotel charges for additional services;
- International flight tickets before and after the tour;
- Tips are not included, but would be appreciated;
- Personal travel insurance.
Accommodation:
Yerevan - 3 nights | |
Cascade, Ani Central Inn, President Hotel by Hrazdan Hotel CJSC or similar | DoubleTree by Hilton Yerevan, Opera Suite, Grand Yerevan, Tufenkian or similar |
Tbilisi - 4 nights | |
Old Kopala, Ramada By Wyndham Tbilisi Old City, Tiflis, Brigitte, Abanotubani Hotel | Ambassadori, Tiflis Palace, Wyndham Grand, Rooms Hotel |
Kazbegi - 1 night | |
Sunshine Kazbegi, NOA Kazbegi, Shushabandi Hotel, Horizon Kazbegi, Uptown Boutique | Rooms Hotel, Porta Caucasia, Alpine Lounge, Intourist Kazbegi |