Vacation day trips are supposed to be glamorous, right? Smooth rides, picturesque views, and a light breeze keeping you cool as you sip on a local beverage. Well, not always. In fact, the best trips aren’t always the most glamorous—but they’re often the most memorable. This was one of those trips that, if you get the chance to take, you just do.
Welcome to Armenia, the off-the-beaten-path gem you might not know about unless the Kardashians piqued your interest. But trust me, there’s a lot more to Armenia than what you see on TV. This blog takes you along for the ride on a day trip full of history, culture, and bumpy roads. Buckle up—this one’s going to be quite the adventure.
Starting in Tbilisi, Georgia
Our journey began in neighboring Georgia, specifically in its capital, Tbilisi. Georgia, by the way, is fast becoming a hotspot for wine tourism—and for good reason. From the moment I landed, hospitality was in full swing. How many places can you say you’ve visited where the customs agent hands you a bottle of wine as a welcome gift? Yes, really! A bottle of wine, right there at passport control. You can’t beat that.
But this story isn’t about Georgia. No, we’re headed somewhere a bit more rugged and remote: Armenia. Specifically, we’re off to explore the northern part of the country, rich with ancient history and UNESCO World Heritage sites. The paved, modern roads of Tbilisi would soon be a distant memory.
Crossing the Border into Armenia
Once you cross the border into Armenia, it’s like entering another world. The smooth roads of Georgia give way to something… different. If you’re the kind of traveler who craves pristine highways and cityscapes, this might not be for you. But if you’re like me and love the feeling of going truly off the grid, then this is exactly what you’ve been looking for.
Our plan for the day was to explore a few of Armenia’s famous monasteries. These places are steeped in history, religion, and culture, each one offering its own glimpse into Armenia’s rich past. The weather was foggy and cold—a perfect match for the mood of the day. First up on our itinerary: Akhtala Monastery.
Akhtala Monastery: A Hidden Gem
Located in Armenia’s Lori Province, the Akhtala Monastery isn’t exactly a major tourist destination. In fact, it’s not even on the UNESCO World Heritage list—yet. But don’t let that fool you. This 13th-century monastery is famous for its frescoes, intricate paintings that cover the walls of the ancient structure. The frescoes are so well-preserved that you can still make out the vibrant colors and detailed depictions of biblical scenes. It’s a hidden gem that’s worth the trek.
Walking through the monastery felt like stepping back in time. It’s quiet, isolated, and gives off a serene vibe that’s hard to find in more crowded tourist spots. If you love discovering places that most people have never heard of, Akhtala is your spot.
On the Road Again: Haghpat Monastery
Next, we were back on the road, headed toward Haghpat Monastery, which is just as ancient as Akhtala but far more famous. Built between the 10th and 13th centuries, Haghpat is often called a masterpiece of religious architecture. It’s a massive complex, sprawling across the hillside and offering views of the surrounding mountains. Haghpat was a major center for learning during the Middle Ages and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1996.
Walking through the main cathedral felt almost otherworldly. The centuries-old stone walls seem to echo with the prayers and whispers of people long gone. I couldn’t resist climbing to the top of the monastery, despite my slight fear of heights. Let’s just say those stairs didn’t exactly feel like they were built for comfort—or safety. But once you’re up there, the views make it all worthwhile. You can see for miles, the mountains stretching out in every direction, the sky blending with the horizon. It’s breathtaking.
After soaking in the views, we explored the wine fermentation room—a little-known part of the monastery’s history. Monks have been making wine here for centuries, long before Armenia became known for its other exports. Then, it was back on the road for our final stop: Sanahin Monastery.
Sanahin Monastery: A Place of History and Legends
Sanahin Monastery is our last stop for the day and another UNESCO World Heritage site. Unfortunately, my GoPro ran out of battery by this point, so most of my memories of Sanahin are captured in photos. But that didn’t make it any less impressive. Sanahin is also known for being the birthplace of Artem Mikoyan, the man who designed the first MiG fighter jets. Fittingly, there are old jet models parked just outside the monastery, a strange but interesting juxtaposition of history and modernity.
Inside Sanahin, the atmosphere was both peaceful and eerie. It’s fascinating to think about how many people have walked these halls over the centuries, from monks to warriors to modern-day tourists. And like Haghpat, Sanahin has survived earthquakes, invasions, and the test of time.
Back to Tbilisi
As we wrapped up our tour of Sanahin, it was time to head back to Tbilisi. The ride home was long and cold, but our spirits were high. Along the way, we were treated to an unexpected fireworks show in the distance—an explosive finale to a day filled with quiet reflection and ancient wonders.
If you ever find yourself in this part of the world, a day trip to Armenia is absolutely worth the effort. It’s not the easiest place to get to, and the roads can be rough, but the experience is something you won’t forget. It’s not glamorous, but it’s real—and that’s what makes it so special.
So, would I recommend this adventure? Absolutely. You’ll get history, culture, stunning views, and a bit of adventure all in one day. Just make sure your GoPro is fully charged before you go!
After all, trips like these don’t come around often. If you get the chance, take it. You won’t regret it.
