Georgia and Armenia - Caucasus Discoverer
Europe’s wild frontier, the Caucasus region, occupies an unusual geographical and cultural position intertwining elements of Russia, Persia, the Ottoman Empire and Central Asia. This two-week tour visits Georgia and Armenia. Once tucked away within the Soviet Union these countries are now easily accessible to the curious traveller.
The highlights on this trip are diverse. First, we head into the High Caucasus Mountains, visiting the mythical Mount Kazbek, reputedly the site of the Greek fable to Prometheus, and then move on to Mtskheta, the spiritual heart of the country with some stunning UNESCO listed monuments. Heading west we stop at Kutaisi with its striking religious buildings.
We then return once again to the mountains and the wild and untamed land of Svaneti, one of Europe’s most isolated and traditional areas with unique villages and towering summits. We meet the Svan people to learn about their unique way of life and enjoy some of Europe’s finest scenery.
Armenia offers ancient monasteries that date back to the emergence of Christendom. In Dilijan, we wander around the old centre and meet the Molokan people, one of Europe’s smallest, but most traditional ethnic groups. We discover the stunning churches of Echmiadzin and visit Kurdish and Yazidi villages. Lifestyles here have changed little for centuries and we’ll experience the rich cultural heritage of this complex but fascinating part of the world. At the dramatically located monastery of Geghard, we see ancient religious treasures.
In the area around Garni, we spend time in a local village as guests of a family, where we will be treated to a typical Armenian meal in a traditional setting.
Uncover the secrets of an enchanting corner of Europe.