Mysteries of the Southern Caucasus: Azerbaijan, Georgia and Armenia

Embark on an unforgettable adventure, starting with a flight via Istanbul from the UK to Baku, Azerbaijan. Upon arrival, settle into local accommodations such as the Midtown Hotel, where the comfort and charm of Azerbaijani hospitality await.

(Flight Included | Airport Transfer | N)

Begin the day with a visit to Gobustan, home to ancient rock carvings that date back as far as 20,000 years. Marvel at these prehistoric masterpieces that offer a glimpse into the lives of the region’s earliest inhabitants.

In Baku, explore the city’s intriguing blend of old and new, with its tall modern skyscrapers beside ancient palaces and mosques. Later, venture to Absheron, where the Ateshgah Fire Temple and Yanar Dagh fire bear witness to the region’s longstanding connection with the element of fire. Fueled by natural gas, these eternal flames have mesmerized visitors for centuries.

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Set off for Shemahka, an ancient city renowned for its rich history in the silk trade, poetry, and craftsmanship. Next, explore the Yeddi Gumbez mausoleum, a 19th-century royal burial site with octagonal domes built for Mustafa khan’s family. After, continue to the 12th-century Albanian Church in Kish, where archaeological excavations have uncovered evidence of an even earlier church possibly dating back to the 1st century.

Arrive in Shaki, a picturesque city that once flourished as a Silk Road hub, with an enchanting old town boasting a unique blend of history and culture. Rest well during a one-night stay in local accommodations such as the Sheki Saray, surrounded by the city’s timeless charm.

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Discover more of Shaki’s captivating allure, including the breathtaking 18th-century Khan Palace, famous for its intricate frescoes and exquisite stained-glass windows known as “shebeke.” Then, cross the border into Georgia and delve into the country’s rich winemaking heritage with a vineyard lunch and wine tasting in Kvareli, located in the Kakheti region, which has been producing wine for over 8,000 years.

Visit the historic Gremi Monastery, once the royal citadel and bustling trading center of the Kingdom of Kakheti. Next, arrive in Telavi, a picturesque town in the heart of Georgia’s wine country, and spend a relaxing night in local accommodations such as Chateau Mere.

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Start the day at the bustling Telavi market. The opportunity to meet a qvevri master presents a fascinating glimpse into the ancient art of Georgian winemaking, which uses large clay vessels to ferment wine underground. Then, continue to the Tsinandali wine estate, a historic winery founded by a Georgian noble family in the 19th century.

Journey to the charming town of Sighnaghi, known as the “City of Love” for its romantic atmosphere and historic fortifications that stretch over 4 kilometers. Arrive in Tbilisi, Georgia’s vibrant capital, and settle into local accommodations like Shota@Rustaveli Boutique Hotel for a two-night stay.

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Today, explore Tbilisi, a city with a history spanning over 1,500 years. Explore its rich history and diverse architecture, from the iconic 13th-century Metekhi Church to the 4th-century Narikala Fortress, overlooking the city from its hilltop perch.

Wander through the Old Town, where Orthodox churches like the 6th-century Anchiskhati Basilica coexist with a mosque, a synagogue, and the legendary sulfur baths, which have attracted travelers and conquerors for centuries. Enjoy a free afternoon to relax or delve deeper into the wonders of Tbilisi at your own pace.

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Journey to the iconic Jvari Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, perched on a cliff overlooking the confluence of the Mtkvari and Aragvi rivers. Built in the 6th century, this masterpiece of early Georgian architecture symbolizes the Christianization of Georgia. In Gori, explore the Stalin Museum, a complex dedicated to the life of the Soviet leader born in this town. Discover Stalin’s private train, featuring bulletproof glass and an elegant interior, and visit the house where Stalin was born, preserved as a historic monument.

Continue to the ancient cave city of Uplistsikhe, dating back to the late Bronze Age, where remnants of pagan temples and Christian churches coexist. Finally, arrive in the picturesque mountain town of Kazbegi, surrounded by the majestic Caucasus Mountains. Rest at local accommodations like Hotel Porta Caucasia.

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Take a walk to the breathtaking Gergeti Trinity Church, perched high above the town of Kazbegi at an elevation of 2,170 meters. This 14th-century architectural gem is one of the most iconic landmarks in Georgia, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains, including the impressive Mount Kazbek. The church was once used to store national treasures during times of invasion.

After soaking in the serene atmosphere, return to Tbilisi to explore further or unwind.

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Bid farewell to Georgia and journey to Armenia, stopping at the awe-inspiring Haghpat Monastery en route. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was built in the 10th century and is an outstanding example of Armenian religious architecture. Marvel at the intricate stone carvings and frescoes that adorn the monastery walls.

Arrive in Yerevan, the vibrant capital of Armenia, and settle into local accommodations like the Tufenkian Historic Hotel for a four-night stay.

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Discover the spiritual heart of Armenia with a visit to the Ejmiatsin Cathedral, the oldest state-built church in the world, dating back to the early 4th century. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is also the residence of the Catholicos of All Armenians, the head of the Armenian Apostolic Church.

Continue to the magnificent ruins of Zvartnots Temple, a 7th-century architectural marvel that once stood as a three-tiered circular structure, unique in its design. After exploring this UNESCO World Heritage Site, stop for lunch in Parakar, where a hands-on cooking lesson offers the opportunity to learn the art of making arishta, a traditional Armenian pasta, and sweet sudzukh, a dessert made from walnuts and grape syrup.

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Explore Yerevan, a city with a history spanning over 2,800 years, making it one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited settlements. Visit the Matenadaran, a museum of ancient manuscripts housing over 23,000 priceless scrolls and manuscripts, including the world’s largest Armenian manuscript, the Msho Charyntir.

Pay respects at the Armenian Genocide Memorial Complex, a poignant tribute to the 1.5 million victims of the 1915 genocide, featuring an eternal flame and a 44-meter stele symbolizing the national rebirth of Armenia.

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Journey to the Khor Virap Monastery, a significant pilgrimage site with stunning views of Mount Ararat. Learn about Saint Gregory the Illuminator, who was imprisoned here in a deep pit for 13 years before converting King Tiridates III to Christianity and establishing Armenia as the world’s first Christian nation in 301 AD.

Continue to the Noravank Monastery, nestled in a dramatic gorge and adorned with intricate stone carvings, including the famous relief of God the Father. Enjoy lunch in the village of Areni, known for its ancient winemaking traditions. Return to Yerevan and celebrate with a farewell dinner at a local restaurant, accompanied by traditional Armenian folk music.

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Visit the ancient Greco-Roman temple of Garni, the only pagan temple still standing in Armenia, originally built in the 1st century by Armenian King Tiridates I. Enjoy a performance of spiritual music that enhances the historic atmosphere. Explore the scenic Garni Gorge and the rock-cut monastery of Geghard, a UNESCO Site dating back to the 4th century.

Enjoy lunch with a local family, complete with a traditional lavash bread-making lesson. Discover two 10th-century monasteries near the azure waters of Lake Sevan, one of the world’s highest and largest freshwater lakes. Finally, arrive in Dilijan, often called the “Armenian Switzerland,” and spend the night in local accommodations like the Best Western Paradise Hotel.

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Embark on a walking tour of Dilijan, a picturesque resort town nestled in the heart of the Dilijan National Park, known for its lush forests, mineral springs, and traditional Armenian architecture. Visit the Goshavank Monastery, a medieval masterpiece built in the 12th century by the renowned scholar Mkhitar Gosh, who authored the first Armenian legal code in 1184. The monastery was also a major cultural and educational center during the Middle Ages.

Continue to Tbilisi Airport, where memories of the incredible journey through the South Caucasus will accompany you on your flight home.

(Flight Included | Airport Transfer | B)