HAMSHEN, TRABZON, TAYK, ERZURUM 5 DAYS

Passing through the Bavra checkpoint and Georgia, we will enter Ardahan. Our first stop is in the heart of Shavshat, on the shores of the unique Black Lake. We will also visit Tbet Monastery. In Shavshat, we will also see the local famous fortress, as well as enjoy the wonderful nature from the top of the fortress. We are also waiting for the much-loved Chorokh viewpoint, from where we will see the breathtaking view of Chorokh River, one of the four most important rivers of the Armenian highlands, and the elevated city of Artvin, then we will reach the Black Sea coast through Borchka province, where we will spend the night in Hopa or Arhavi.

In the morning, after breakfast with a panoramic view of the Black Sea, we will set off to discover the wonders of the Hamshen. We will visit the Twin Bridges, and after enjoying it, we will walk to the Manjuna Waterfall (2 km hiking overall). Then, we will enter the Fortuna River Gorge. We will see the wonderful bridges of Hamshen, we will climb Zil Castle, which is one of the most impressive fortresses in the world. Not far away is the waterfall of Balahovit. After the Balahovit waterfall, we will visit the famous yayla of Ayder, which is a touristic center with its beautiful forests, waterfalls, unique architecture, Hamshen costumes, and interesting music typical of the area. Here we will taste Hamshen dishes, as well as enjoy the legendary Hamshen tea, after which we will have free time in Ayder.

The third day is dedicated to Trabzon, this beautiful city and its surroundings. Even today, one can still find rich Armenian and Greek traces in Trabzon and its surroundings. Trabzon is also home to the world-famous Sumela Monastery. In Trabzon, we will see the Armenian Church of the Holy Saviour, where impressive and beautiful frescoes have been preserved. We will also see Hagia Sophia, an ancient Greek church in the heart of Trabzon. After a beautiful day, we will return to Hopa/Arhavi, where we will have free time on the beach of Black Sea. Those who wish can swim or admire beautiful views and a beautiful sunset.

We will continue our way to Ishkhanats Monastery, another structure in the mountains. The next stop of the day will be at Tortum Waterfall. After that Oshkvank and Khakhu Monasteries are waiting for us. In the Khakhu Monastery, we will see the high sculpture of Grigor Lusavorich, holding the Armenian letter "G". Overnight in historic Karin (Erzurum).

In the morning, we will visit Karin (Erzurum), one of the most important Armenian cities, visiting Sanasaryan College, which was one of the important Armenian educational centers. In Erzurum, we will see the Church of the Saint Astvatsatsin, and then the fortress walls of the city. After Karin, we will continue to Olti Fortress. The next stop is the Banak Cathedral, then Ardahan Fortress and Kura River. After enjoying all this, we will continue our journey to Yerevan.