Best of Georgia and Armenia

Today you set off on an exciting excursion with your guide and driver following the Georgian Military Road - one of the most beautiful mountain roads in the world. Your first stop is Ananuri, a castle complex on the Agragbi river. The fortress was built in the 17th century with an aim to control the road below, nowadays it astonishes tourists with its beautiful surroundings and the rich history visible in the architecture of the castle. You also make a short stop at the highest village on the highway, Gudauri, which astounds you with the frosty scenery of the Greater Caucasus Mountain Range. You continue with discovering the beauty of Kazbegi and a nearby located Gergeti Church. The fascinating church is situated at an elevation of 2,170 m (7,119 ft) under Mount Kazbek, which is one of the major mountains of the Caucasus.

Today you set off to explore one of the oldest Georgian cities - Mtskheta. This UNESCO World Heritage Site has been the capital of the eastern Georgian kingdom of Iberia for many centuries until 5th century AD. During the tour you walk through the old town and step into the beautifully decorated Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, built in the 11th century. After exploring this ancient town, you visit a traditional local restaurant for Georgian cuisine lunch. Following lunch you have a one-of-a-kind chacha tasting experience. The signature brandy drink of Georgia is made from pomace, left from winemaking and is usually about 40%, but can reach up to 60% if it is homemade. The drink is believed to work as a medical remedy too, so cheers! After discovering the taste of the national Georgian drink you attend a churchkhela making master class to unveil the art of creating a delicacy the Georgians are so proud of! During the masterclass you get to make your own churckhela consisting of grape dust, flour and nuts.

You cross the border between Sadakhlo (Georgia) and Bagratashen (Armenia) and make your way to Sanahin Monastery, which dates back to the 10th century. "Sanahin" is translated from Armenian as "this one is older than that one". The name translation refers to the nearby Haghpat Monastery, which is often described as a masterpiece of religious architecture and a major center of learning in the Middle Ages. Note: due to a road renovation, tour of Haghpat and Sanahin monasteries may be replaces with a trip to beautiful Sevan Lake, one of the highest freshwater lakes in the world, with visits to Sevanavank and Haghartsin monasteries.