Georgia & Armenia 2021: 13-Day Luxury Small-Group Tour through the Amazing Caucasus with Azerbaijan Extension

Your Itinerary at a Glance:

• Tour of Georgia’s capital Tbilisi, inclusive of visits to Kashveti Church, the National Picture Gallery and ancient Orthodox churches
• Journey through the Caucasus Mountains with stops at the ancient Georgian capital of Mtskheta and the Tsminda Sameba Trinity Church
• Hands-on traditional Georgian cooking experience, followed by a feast with folklore and homemade wine
• Visit the highest waterfall in Georgia, Gveleti
• Tour of the ancient cave town of Uplistsikhe
• Visit the Mineral Water Park of Borjomi, where you can taste the naturally carbonated water
• Private tour of the 13th-century Rabati Castle
• Wine tasting at Tsinandali Estate Winery and a trip to Signagi, with splendid views of the gorgeous Alazani Valley, known as the cradle of Georgian wines
• Visits to the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Haghpat and Geghard monasteries
• Lunch at a local Armenian house with lavash breadmaking
• City tour of Armenia’s vibrant capital, Yerevan, visiting Republic Square, the Cascade Complex and The National Assembly of Armenia
• Tour of the Khor Virap Monastery, the most visited pilgrimage site in Armenia
• Visit the ruins of Zvartnots Temple – a pearl of 7th-century architecture and inscribed in UNESCO World Heritage list

Georgia and Armenia are countries like no other – which is exactly why you’ll fall in love with them, says Luxury Escapes’ Tours Product Manager John Saporito: “Breathtaking beauty and some of the world’s most hospitable people await on this incredible journey. Being countries of the former USSR, Georgia and Armenia have a unique identity and an amazing melting pot of Persian, Russian and European influences that can be felt not only in the architecture, history, museums and food but right down into the soul of the people. These two countries offer age-old experiences mixed with modern cities and the friendliest faces you will find anywhere. Adding Azerbaijan completes this incredible journey across the three Caucasus and the Great Silk Route.”

What You’ll Love…

The Experiences – Unearth ancient history, UNESCO World Heritage Sites and breathtaking natural beauty

From the wine and watchtowers of Georgia to the captivating, complex history of Armenia – this incredible tour encourages travellers to step outside of their comfort zones and embrace a rewarding, eye-opening experience.

Georgia is a fascinatingly complex country shaped by ancient history and religion. Discover the Persian and Russian roots of Georgia’s capital, Tbilisi, as you tour Eastern Orthodox churches and ornate art nouveau buildings, ticking off iconic sites such as the Georgian State Museum, Kashveti Church and Rustaveli Theatre.

Journey past watchtowers and alpine fields through the breathtaking Caucasus Mountains, stopping at the beautiful, cliff-edge Jvari Monastery and Gveleti, one of the highest waterfalls in Georgia.

Shroud yourself in ancient history at the rock-hewn cave town of Uplistsikhe, boasting awe-inspiring houses, temples, streets and Roman theatres carved out of the cliffs.

Discover Borjomi, a resort town in south-central Georgia with a population of just 14,500, famous for its world-renowned mineral water. Visit the Mineral Water Park of Borjomi, where you can taste the mineral water and relax in this beautiful environment.

Let a private guide lead you around Rabati Castle, spanning seven hectares and boasting rich religious history in the form of a church, mosque, minaret and synagogue.

Georgia claims to be the ‘birthplace of wine’, which is evident in its plentiful vines and emphasis on warm hospitality. Experience it for yourself with an unforgettable lunch and wine tasting at the Tsinandali Estate, then visit the breathtaking city of Signagi, which boasts splendid views of the gorgeous Alazani Valley, known as the cradle of Georgian wines.

Join a hands-on traditional Georgian cooking experience, introducing you to local delicacies and culminating in a traditional Georgian feast with folklore and homemade wine.

Crossing the border to Armenia, stop at the monastic complex of Haghpat (976 AD), an outstanding work of medieval Armenian architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site.

You won’t be short of breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage-listed sites as you head to the Geghard Monastery. Named after the lance that pierced Christ at the crucifixion this unique monastery was carved out of the rock face of the Azat River Gorge.

In the vibrant Armenian capital of Yerevan, you will explore a city of contradictions, home to the bustling Republic Square and the Cascade Complex, an open-air museum of modern art, where it’s just as easy to find traditional tea houses as it is modern European-style wine bars.

Step back in time at Areni Cave, dating to 3,900 BC and believed to be the site of the oldest winery in the world. Visit the ruins of Zvartnots Temple – a pearl of 7th-century architecture and inscribed in UNESCO World Heritage list.

The Hotels – Old meets new at exclusive Design Hotels, housed in lovingly restored historic sites and buildings

Part of the sought-after Design Hotels collection, Rooms Hotel Tbilisi is your fitting introduction to this eclectic Georgian city. Located just off the city’s main boulevard and housed in a reclaimed eight-storey, Soviet-era publishing house, this stunning property has been lovingly renovated to introduce stylish new elements to its historic façade. The result is an effortlessly stylish mix of old-world Tbilisi charm and New York-style art deco. Bellhops in retro-chic uniforms reminiscent of Wes Anderson’s Grand Budapest Hotel are ready to attend to your needs, while The Kitchen Restaurant offers delicious dishes using locally sourced ingredients.

Your Design Hotel experience continues at Rooms Hotel Kazbegi, set among the breathtaking Caucasus Mountains. Built on the site of a former Soviet worker’s retreat in Stepantsminda, you will be greeted by fresh alpine air and stunning views across deep green verges and snowcapped peaks. A timber-clad restoration creates the distinct feel of an alpine retreat, where warm wooden interiors invite you to curl up in front of a roaring fireplace and sink into a deep armchair amid the book-laden shelves. It’s all the natural beauty of Georgia with a touch of life’s little luxuries.

In the city of Bonjormi, famed for its pure, naturally carbonated mineral water, you will be further immersed in the beauty of Georgia. Framed by conifers, the hotel sits on the former site of a popular sanitarium, which used to attract guests from all over the USSR who gathered here to witness the curative effects of Borjomi water. Today, the on-site spa continues to offer treatments using mineral water, with everything from underwater massages to baths and showers available.

Immerse yourself in Armenian culture at Tufenkian’s Ananov Guest House, a restored 19th-century building with high vaulted ceilings, understated handmade chandeliers and intricately detailed handmade carpets in the Old Dilijan’s Haykanoush Restaurant, reminiscent of an old Dilijani dining room. Stroll out onto the streets of Old Dilijan and feel as though you have stepped back in time as you browse specialised workshops and studios sell jewellery, clothing, carpets, ceramics, woodcarvings, arts and crafts, all revived with Tufenkian’s renovation of the historic district.

The Grand Hotel Yerevan invites you into a 1928 neoclassical building with timeless charm. Located in the centre of Yerevan, its prime location embodies modern and ancient Armenian history and culture and offers panoramic city views from the private rooftop pool.

Your Tour Includes:

• 12 nights of handpicked accommodation, including two exclusive Design Hotel properties in Georgia and a traditional Armenian guesthouse
• Daily breakfast and additional dining experiences including a welcome and farewell dinner, a homecooked local lunch and more
• Private airport transfers and transportation throughout
• Experienced, local English-speaking guides
• All sightseeing and entrance fees as per the itinerary
• Insider experiences

Continue the adventure with a six-day Azerbaijan Extension

Extend your tour to enjoy six days in Azerbaijan, known as the ‘Land of Fire’ and a fascinating blend of European and Asian influences. From UNESCO World Heritage-listed sites to the cosmopolitan capital of Baku, rural villages and semi-desert areas, it’s a truly unique experience.

As you cross the Georgia-Azerbaijan border, head to Sheki, famed as a silk centre and an important stop on the Great Silk Route. Here, visit the 18th-century Khan’s Summer Palace, with its magnificent frescos and exquisite stained-glass work, and the Sheki History museum.

Drive to the heart of north-western Azerbaijan, Gabala, one of the country’s most beautiful regions, and stop by the stunning Qara Nohour Lake and the Yeddi Gozel waterfall.

Your luxury accommodation here is the Qafqaz Riverside Hotel, located in an area of stunning natural scenery next to the Demiraparan River, nestled amidst the Caucasus Mountains.

En route to Baku, visit the unique two-storeyed mausoleum-mosque of the 15th century, “Diri-Baba” and stop at the impressive Juma Mosque, located in nearby Shemakha city.

The Hyatt Regency Hotel Baku awaits you, a stunning luxury hotel located close to the city’s shopping and business areas.

Travel to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed city of Gobustan, an archaeological reserve showcasing an outstanding collection of more than 6,000 rock engravings, bearing testimony to 40,000 years of rock art. The site also features the remains of caves, settlements and burials.

Tour the “Old City” of Baku, including the stunning 12th-century Maiden Tower and the 15th-century Palace of Shirvanshahs, described by UNESCO as “one of the pearls of Azerbaijan’s architecture”. A highlight is a visit to Mohammed Mosque, the most ancient building not only in “Icheri-Sheher” but in the entirety of Azerbaijan.

Your Tour Extension Includes:

• Five nights of handpicked accommodation, including a night at Rooms Hotel Tbilisi - A Design Hotel, a night at Marxal Resort & Spa, a night at the Qafqaz Riverside Hotel, nestled amid the Caucasus Mountains, and two nights at Hyatt Regency Hotel, one of the Baku’s premier 5-star hotels located close to the city’s shopping and business areas.
• Daily breakfast and select additional dining experiences, including a farewell dinner
• Visit the 18th-century Khan’s Summer Palace in Sheki, with its magnificent frescos and exquisite stained-glass work
• Trip to Gabala, stopping by the stunning Qara Nohour Lake and the Yeddi Gozel waterfall
• Travel to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed city of Gobustan, an archaeological reserve showcasing an outstanding collection of more than 6,000 rock engravings
• Tour the “Old City” of Baku, including the stunning 12th-century Maiden Tower and the 15th-century Palace of Shirvanshahs
• Visit Mohammed Mosque, the oldest building in Azerbaijan

Your tour starts in Tbilisi, Georgia and ends in Yerevan, Armenia. The extended tour stars in Tbilisi, Georgia and ends in Baku, Azerbaijan.

Regular stopover flights to Tbilisi International Airport (TBS) are available with carriers including Emirates and Qatar Airways.

You MUST complete your booking form within 48 hours of booking. Following its completion, a Luxury Escapes concierge will be in touch to assist with any additional arrangements – including flights.

Private return airport transfers are included from Tbilisi International Airport (TBS) on Day 1 and to Yerevan’s Zvartnots International Airport (EVN) on Day 13 or Azerbaijan’s Heydar Aliyev International Airport (GYD) on Day 18 if taking the extended tour.

Please book your flights to arrive before 2pm on Day 1. Your room will be available for check-in from 3pm onwards. You can book your flight to depart any time after breakfast on Days 13 or 18. Hotel checkout is at 10am.

A visa may be required for the destination you are visiting. It is each traveller’s responsibility to ensure they are holding a current visa. Please take the time to visit our preferred vendor website Visas Direct to assist you with any visa application requirements and processes. If you require any supporting documentation when applying for your visa please let us know and we would be more than happy to assist.

Day 1: Arrive Tbilisi, Georgia

Welcome to Georgia! Upon arrival at Tbilisi International Airport (TBS) you will be met and transferred by private car to your luxury boutique hotel located in the heart of the city.

Part of the exclusive Design Hotels group, Rooms Hotel Tbilisi is housed in a reclaimed eight-story, Soviet-era publishing house. Lovingly restored inside and out, the hotel cleverly incorporates the building’s history into its design elements, resulting in an effortlessly stylish mix of old-world Tbilisi charm and New York-style art deco.

This evening, join your group at a specially prepared welcome dinner, showcasing fine Georgian cuisine.

Accommodation: Rooms Hotel Tbilisi – A Design Hotel

Meals: Dinner

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Day 2: Tbilisi

Dating back to the 5th century AD, the old town of Tbilisi is one of the region’s most beautiful cities, filled with cobblestoned streets and stunning examples of its past Persian and Russian roots. Today, get acquainted with the city on a walking tour as you explore its diverse architecture of Eastern Orthodox churches, ornate art nouveau buildings and Soviet modernist structures. Visit the Metekhi Church and Tbilisi’s ancient Anchiskhati Basilica and admire beautiful traditional houses with balconies and grapevines as you stroll towards Narikhala, the impressive 4th-century fort that overlooks the city.

Afterwards, you will visit the Georgian State Museum, known for its collection of gold and silver artefacts and jewellery, spanning the pre-Christian period and various regions of the country. If time permits, take a stroll along Rustaveli Avenue, where architectural and historical buildings such as the Palace of Youth, Parliament of Georgia, Kashveti Church, Rustaveli Theatre, the National Picture Gallery, and the Academy of Sciences reside.

This evening, enjoy dinner at one of Tbilisi’s favourite local restaurants.

Accommodation: Rooms Hotel Tbilisi – A Design Hotel

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

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Day 3: Tbilisi – Mtskheta – Gergeti – Kazbegi

After breakfast, check out and drive via Mtskheta to Kazbegi. Mtskheta is the ancient capital of eastern Georgia and marks where the country’s conversion to Christianity occurred in 337 AD, making it one of Georgia’s most important religious centres. While in Mtskheta, visit the Svetitskoveli Cathedral and the beautiful, cliff-edge Jvari Monastery. Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant before continuing the journey to Kazbegi.

Your journey continues with breathtaking views of the high Caucasus Mountains, boasting passes abundant in watchtowers and alpine fields.

Stop off in Gergeti to visit the stunning Tsminda Sameba Trinity Church, built in the 14th century and situated nearly 7,000 feet up the hill. From this spot you have an unforgettable view of Mount Kazbek, rising over 16,500 feet and covered in glaciers and permafrost. Legend has it the titan Prometheus who brought fire to men was chained on Mount Kazbek.

On arrival in Kazbegi, check into your Design Hotel, located in a picturesque valley offering panoramic views of the spectacular Caucasus Mountains. The rest of the evening is at leisure to relax and appreciate the breathtaking scenery.

Accommodation: Rooms Hotel Kazbegi – A Design Hotel

Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

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Day 4: Kazbegi

This morning, take a scenic drive to the beautiful Sno Gorge. Here, you can visit the ancient abandoned villages of Miguda and Artkhmo, offering an insight into this area’s rich past.

Return to the hotel for an afternoon at leisure.

Accommodation: Rooms Hotel Kazbegi – A Design Hotel

Meals: Breakfast

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Day 5: Kazbegi – Uplitsikhe (Gori) – Borjomi

Today, drive to Borjomi, stopping off at the ancient cave town of Uplistsikhe (fortress of the Lord), of the 1st millennium BC, along the way. This fascinating rock-hewn town includes houses, temples, streets and Roman theatres carved out of the cliffs.

Continue to Borjomi, a resort town in south-central Georgia with a population of just 14,500, famous for its world-renowned mineral water. The number one export of Georgia, the popular water has been bottled here since 1890. Visit the Mineral Water Park of Borjomi, where you can taste the mineral water and relax in this beautiful environment.

Your home this evening is the luxurious Hotel Borjomi Likani Health Resort & Spa, located close to the famous Summer Palace of the Russian Romanov Family (currently under renovation).

Accommodation: Crowne Plaza Hotel

Meals: Breakfast

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Day 6: Borjomi – Rabati Castle – Vardzia Cave – Tbilisi

After breakfast, check out of the hotel and visit Rabati Castle, built in the 13th century and rich in culture. Within the seven hectares of this castle complex, your private guide will give you an in-depth understanding of its history as you visit sites including the church, mosque, minaret and synagogue.

Continue the journey to explore one of the most magical sites in Georgia, the ancient Vardzia cave city - as dramatic as the Great Caucasus Mountains. The road follows the upper Mtkvari River, passing through narrow canyons and then veering south along a particularly beautiful valley, cutting like a green ribbon between arid, rocky hillsides. This impressive cave town was founded by King George III in the 12th century and during its golden time accommodated around 50,000 people. The infrastructure included living quarters, wine cellars, religious places like churches or monasteries and a library.

Afterwards, continue the drive and return to Tbilisi, where your evening is at leisure.

Accommodation: Rooms Hotel Tbilisi – A Design Hotel

Meals: Breakfast

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Day 7: Tbilisi – Tsinandali Estate Winery – Sighnaghi - Tbilisi

After breakfast, drive in the direction of Kakheti, the cradle of Georgian wine, with a stop at the historic Tsinandali Estate Winery. Dating back more than 200 years, Tsinandali Estate has earnt its place in Georgian history as one of the most important centres of cultural life. In the time of Prince Alexander Chavchavadze, it was a popular destination for musicians, writers, poets and other prominent foreigners visiting Georgia. Visit the beautiful English garden, museum and the wine cellar, which belonged to Prince Chavchavadze, 19th-century public figure and poet. Enjoy lunch and a complimentary tasting of Chacha vodka, plus five wines from the estate’s vineyards.

Afterwards, take a guided city tour of Sighnaghi. Meaning “shelter,” Sighnaghi is one of the smallest towns in the country, boasting one of the richest histories. The city sits on a hill surrounded by a fortified wall, considered the second longest after the Great Wall of China. A large variety of languages and nationalities mingle with the unique mountain landscape to make Sighnaghi one of the most breathtaking places on the planet. Explore multiple architectural monuments and learn about the traditions of local people, all while enjoying the splendid views that open on the gorgeous Alazani Valley, known as the cradle of Georgian wines.

This evening, join a hands-on traditional Georgian cooking experience, introducing you to Churchkhela (a delicacy made of walnuts and grapes), Khinkali (meat dumplings), Mtsvadi (Georgian barbeque), Khachapuri (Georgian cheese pie), and Chacha (Georgian grappa). These preparations will culminate in a traditional Georgian feast with folklore and homemade wine. Afterwards, drive back to Tbilisi.

Accommodation: Rooms Hotel Tbilisi – A Design Hotel

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Wine Tasting, Cooking Class and Dinner

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Day 8: Tbilisi – Haghpat Monastery – Fioletovo – Dilijan, Armenia

Today, cross the Georgia-Armenia border, where you will meet your expert Armenian guide to continue your journey of this incredible land. Stop at the monastic complex of Haghpat (976 AD), which takes pride of place among the outstanding works of medieval Armenian architecture and is inscribed in the UNESCO World Heritage list. Continue to Fioletovo, a fascinating village with an intriguing history, which was founded in 1842 by an exiled Russian sect known as Molokans (translated as “milk drinkers”). Spend time with a local village host to get an understanding of the unique culture and traditions while being treated to Russian pancakes and homemade tea from a Russian ‘samovar’ teapot.

This afternoon, arrive in the picturesque resort town of Dilijan and stay in a traditional guest house dating back to the 19th century. This beautifully restored home features ancient stone, intricate woodwork and traditional Tufenkian carpets, allowing you to become immersed in true Armenian culture. This evening, enjoy a traditional Armenian dinner sourced from local farms.

Accommodation: Tufenkian’s Ananov Guest House Dilijan

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

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Day 9: Dilijan – Lake Sevan – Garni – Geghard Monastery – Yerevan

After breakfast, drive to the mountainous Lake Sevan, the second largest alpine freshwater lake in the world, known as the “Emerald of Armenia”. Continue to Garni and stop at the pagan temple - a picturesque monument of the Hellenistic period and an impressive piece of ancient Armenian architecture, built in the first century AD by the Armenian King Tiridates. After Christianity became the state religion in Armenia in 301 AD, the temple was used as a summer residence of the kings.

Stop for lunch at a local house in Garni to savour traditional cuisine unique to the area and witness the baking of Armenian “lavash” bread in the underground “tonir” stove.

After lunch, continue higher up the gorge of the Azat River to a magnificent monument of medieval Armenian architecture - Geghard Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Partly carved out of a mountain, Geghard is known as “the Monastery of the Spear”. Its name originates from the spear that wounded Jesus during his crucifixion, allegedly brought to Armenia by Apostle Thaddeus and stored amongst many other relics. Now, the historical spear is displayed in the Etchmiadzin treasury.

Late this afternoon, arrive into Armenia’s capital Yerevan and check into your luxury hotel for an evening at leisure.

Accommodation: Radisson Blu Hotel Yerevan*

Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

*Note: 1 August 2021 departure will be staying at the Grand Hotel Yerevan

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Day 10: Yerevan

After breakfast, your guide will take you on an exploration of Armenia’s vibrant capital, where ancient culture and traditions meet a modern lifestyle. Start your tour from Republic Square, a masterpiece by architect Alexander Tamanian. Continue to Cascade Complex, an open-air museum of modern art. The complex links downtown with the residential area using massive stairways that lead up to Victory Park, from where you can enjoy fantastic city views. The monument to Mother Armenia stands tall in the park, carefully guarding the city from above.

Next, visit the Opera House, a remarkable example of urban architecture and a lively hub of the city. Freedom Square sits just behind, surrounded by parks and outdoor cafés, a popular local spot to spend breezy summer evenings. Visit Parliament Park, facing the splendid building of The National Assembly of Armenia. Continue to Memorial Park, remembering the victims of the Armenian Genocide in the 20th Century.

Later, visit one of the city’s famous brandy factories to learn of its history and origins, and to sample some of the finest examples of the celebrated Armenian brandy.

Accommodation: Radisson Blu Hotel Yerevan

Meals: Breakfast and Brandy Tasting

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Day 11: Yerevan – Khor Virap Monastery – Areni Cave – Noravank Monastery – Tushpa Winery - Yerevan

Today we venture out of the city to tour the Khor Virap Monastery, the most visited pilgrimage site in the country. Originally established in 642 CE, the Khor Virap (Armenian for “deep dungeon”) Monastery did not take on its current and final incarnation until the 17th century; but even before its founding, the former prison site was notable for holding the man who would become Saint Gregory the Illuminator in a pit for 13 years before he helped turn the country into the first Christian nation.

Next, visit Areni Cave, where recent excavations unearthed large complexes, showing the cave was once used for religious and economic purposes. Artefacts include a straw skirt dating to 3,900 BC and traces of seeds and red wine compounds, declaring Areni Cave the oldest winery in the world.

Continue to visit the famous Noravank Monastery – a great religious and cultural centre of the 12th century – before taking a stop at the Tushpa Winery in Ararat Valley, committed to Armenian winemaking traditions. Here, you will have the opportunity to experience the exceptional quality of wines that embody the unique character of the Ararat Valley in a special tasting.

Accommodation: Radisson Blu Hotel Yerevan

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Wine Tasting

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Day 12: Yerevan – Cathedral of Echmiadzin – Local Sculptor’s Studio

Today, drive to the Armavir Province and visit The Cathedral of Echmiadzin – founded at the beginning of the fourth century and one of the oldest churches in the world. Continue to the ruins of Zvartnots Temple – a pearl of 7th-century architecture and inscribed in UNESCO World Heritage list. Proceed to Khachpar town to visit a sculptor’s house with its outdoor exhibition of abstract objects and interesting collection of contemporary art.

Drive back to Yerevan, where the rest of the afternoon is at leisure to relax at the hotel or further explore the city independently.

This evening, enjoy a special farewell dinner in a local restaurant and a folk show of traditional Armenian dancing.

Accommodation: Radisson Blu Hotel Yerevan

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

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Day 13: Depart Yerevan

Your tour comes to an end today with a private transfer to Yerevan’s Zvartnots International Airport (EVN).

Meals: Breakfast

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EXTENSION – AZERBAIJAN, THE THIRD CAUCUS

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Day 13: Yerevan – Saghmosavank Monastery – Akhtala Fortress –Sadakhlo – Tbilisi

After breakfast, drive back to Tbilisi. En-route visit the Armenian Alphabet Park, the impressive Saghmosavank medieval monastery and the Akhtala fortress, famous for its artistic and well-preserved frescos. Crossing the Armenia - Georgia Sadakhlo Border, you will be met by your Georgian local guide, before continuing to the hotel, where the rest of the day is at leisure.

Accommodation: Rooms Hotel Tbilisi – A Design Hotel

Meals: Breakfast

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Day 14: Tbilisi – Sheki, Azerbaijan

After breakfast, journey towards the Georgia-Azerbaijan border, where you will meet your local Azerbaijan guide and continue to Sheki, Azerbaijan’s Silk Road Gem. One of Azerbaijan’s most famous and ancient sites, Sheki is situated 700m (2,297ft) above sea level, like an amphitheatre surrounded by the mountains and forests of oak trees. This ancient city was long famed as a silk centre and an important stop on the Great Silk Route.

There is an assumption that the name of the town goes back to the ethnonym of the Saks, who reached the territory of Azerbaijan in the 7th century BC.

Arrive at your hotel with time to freshen up before heading out on an afternoon guided tour. Visit the 18th-century Khan’s Summer Palace, with its magnificent frescos and exquisite stained-glass work, and the Sheki History museum. Dinner this evening will be served at a traditional restaurant.

Accommodation: Hotel ShekiSaray*

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

*​Note: 16 May 2021 & 5 October 2021 will be staying at the Marxal Resort & Spa

Day 15: Sheki – Gabala

Today, drive to the heart of north-western Azerbaijan, Gabala – one of the country’s most beautiful regions. Located in the Haftaran-Alazan valley and surrounded by the Greater Caucasus, Gabala sits on the right bank of the Damiraparan river, 900m above sea level. Stop by the stunning Qara Nohour Lake and the Yeddi Gozel waterfalls before reaching your luxury hotel, located in an area of stunning natural scenery next to the Demiraparan River, nestled amidst the Caucasus Mountains.

The rest of the day is at leisure to enjoy your surroundings and the hotel’s first-class facilities.

Accommodation: Qafqaz Riverside Hotel

Meals: Breakfast

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Day 16: Gabala – Baku

En route to Azerbaijan’s capital, stop to visit the unique two-storeyed mausoleum-mosque of the 15th century, “Diri-Baba”. For centuries locals believed this to be the resting place of the imperishable Saint Diri-Baba, attracting pilgrims since the 17th century. Before arriving into Baku, stop by the impressive Juma Mosque, located in nearby Shemakha city.

On arrival in Baku, you will be transferred to the luxuriously appointed Hyatt Regency Hotel, one of the city’s premium 5-star hotels strategically located close to the city’s shopping and business areas.

Accommodation: Hyatt Regency Baku

Meals: Breakfast

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Day 17: Gobustan Rock Carvings – Baku

This morning, travel to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed city of Gobustan, located just outside of Baku. This archaeological reserve showcases an outstanding collection of more than 6,000 rock engravings, bearing testimony to 40,000 years of rock art. The site also features the remains of caves, settlements and burials, all reflecting intensive human use during the wet period that followed the last Ice Age, from the Upper Palaeolithic to the Middle Ages.

Afterwards, travel back to Baku and tour the “Old City”, exploring the many architectural and historical monuments – many of which have been added to the UNESCO World Heritage List of Historical Monuments. Explore the stunning 12th-century Maiden Tower and the 15th-century Palace of Shirvanshahs, described by UNESCO as “one of the pearls of Azerbaijan’s architecture”. A highlight is a visit to Mohammed Mosque, the most ancient building not only in “Icheri-Sheher” but in the entirety of Azerbaijan. In stark contrast to these ancient monuments, you will also tour the new and emerging city of Baku, with its modern skyscrapers, public squares, shopping and dining precincts.

Tonight, enjoy a farewell dinner in one of the city’s local restaurants.

Accommodation: Hyatt Regency Baku

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

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Day 18: Depart Baku

Today you will be transferred by private vehicle to Baku’s Heydar Aliyev International Airport (GYD).

Meals: Breakfast