Destination Fly4free: Armenia

Situated at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, this Caucasian country is a destination where you will be intrigued by ancient, complex history and outstanding culture. Go and discover the monuments, beautiful landscapes and taste delicious food of Armenia.

Where to stay:
In Yerevan we recommend you staying at 4* Tora Palace hotel with a good price and very good reviews. Designed in Japanese style, this modern 4-star hotel is located in the centre of Yerevan, a 20-minute walk from the Republic Square. Free Wi-Fi and a stylish outdoor pool are featured at Hotel Tora Palace. The spacious, air-conditioned rooms offer warm-coloured and minimalistic Oriental décor. Each room comes with a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom. Most rooms include a balcony overlooking the pool. A grocery shop is located just 10 m from the hotel. Marshal Bagramyan Metro Station and bus stop are 400 m from Hotel Tora Palace. Zvartnots International Airport is 14 km away.

In Gyumri we recommend you to book 5* Vale Hotel, boasting barbecue facilities and free WiFi. With a garden, this top rated 5-star hotel also has a bar. The rooms at the hotel come with a seating area, a flat-screen TV with cable channels and a private bathroom with free toiletries and a shower. Vale features some units with garden views, and all rooms include a kettle. All rooms at the accommodation include air conditioning and a desk. Vale offers a children’s playground. Staff at the 24-hour front desk can assist with information about the area.

What to do:
This scenic country offers many opportunities for active exploration. In summer, you can enjoy trekking and hiking. Go climbing in Mount Aragats, the highest point of Armenia (4,090 m).

In winter, Armenian mountain resorts offer excellent conditions for skiing. The most popular ski resort is Tsaghkadzor, which has a four-speed chairlift and well-equipped ski slopes. In the winter season snow is guaranteed until late April. The country remains an affordable destination for skiers and snowboarders who are on a budget.

Due to the mountainous terrain and favourable climate, it is a great place for extreme sports, like paragliding.

Check out Levon’s Amazing Underground World, which is one of Europe’s most unusual attractions.

Be awed by the beautiful monasteries, declared by UNESCO as World Heritage sites.

Visit Khor Virap and enjoy the view of the snowcapped Ararat Mount in the background. It’s a national symbol of Armenia. Geographically in Turkey, the mountain is the place where it is said Noah’s Ark came to rest.

In Jermuk you’ll find more than 40 thermal springs. Enjoy the mild climate and visit the Gallery of Water for free tastings of the healing mineral waters. Don’t forget to go to Jermuk Waterfall.

Discover the cave village of Khndzoresk, comprised of both natural and manmade caves.

Go to the megalithic site called Karahunj or Zorats Karer (‘army of stones’), situated on a plateau at an altitude of 1,770m. It consists of more than 200 stones that remain a mystery for scientists.

Be amazed by the ruins of the Zvartnots Temple, a colossal masterpiece of Armenian architecture, erected in the middle of the 7th century.

Visit the archaeological site of the city of Dvin.

In Yerevan you can visit Vernissage flea market (open at the weekend).

Make friends with kind and hospitable locals.

Explore the Noratus Cemetery, famous for its collection of more than 1,000 well-preserved Khachkars (cross stones).

For more Destinations Fly4free click here >>>

Start planning your next trip with Lonely Planet’s travel guide >>

FEEL ARMENIA from The Sena Group DMC on Vimeo.