The Caucasus by Ker & Downey

The

Caucasus G E O R G IA ,

A RM ENIA ,

A ZERBA IJA N

RUSSIA

CASPIAN SEA BLACK SEA

TURKEY

K A Z A K S TA N

n e s t l e d b e t w e e n t h e m i d d l e e a s t, the black sea and snowy russia, the caucasus region holds a wealth of views and warm hospitality from its inhabitants.

Georgia

T B ILIS I KAZB E G I G UDAURI S IG NAG I

STEP OFF THE PLANE AND INTO HUMAN HISTORY. Georgia, set between Europe and Asia, is defined by its unique blend of diversity and culture proudly displaying ancient and original tradition with its national music, architecture, art, and literature achievements in the history of the world. Known for having legendary hospitality, Georgia welcomes people as gifts from God, sure to leave a lasting impression on any visitor. Tbilisi, the country’s capital, is a vibrant example of mixed nationalities, cultures, religions, and ethnic groups found in Georgia.

Walk through the old quarters and the center, with its famous sulphur springs along the Mtkvari River. Traditional houses with balconies and grape vines accompany your stroll towards Narikala, the 4th century fort overlooking the city. The fort provides an exquisite view of the city and region. Taste delicious Georgian cuisine and fine wines while surrounded by dancers performing a historic sword routine that is part dance and part acrobatics.

Experiences :

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: 1. Explore the cave city of Uplistsikhe, with houses, temples,

streets and Roman theatres all carved out of sandstone in the second century BC. 2. Witness the spectacular sights and sounds of the worldrenowned polyphonic singing and traditional dancing, described by UNESCO as a ‘masterpiece of the world’s intangible cultural heritage’.

3. Soak in the rich architecture and ancient frescoes delighting the ceilings by visiting the many historical monuments. 4. Georgia has the oldest continuous unbroken tradition of winemaking in the world. Enjoy wine tasting and lunch at a local family home in Kakheti.

Armenia

YE RE VAN

EXPERIENCE PLACES YOU’VE ONLY READ ABOUT. The Republic of Armenia is renowned for its incredible historical and cultural significance being the first nation to declare Christianity as its state religion in 301 AD. Soak in the religious sites by visiting the monasteries of Sanahin and Haghpat, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites dating from the tenth century. Continue on a scenic drive to the capital city Yerevan, a city with a very European feel, with lush landscaped streets and quaint shops and cafes spilling onto cobblestone sidewalks.

Embark for Etchmiadzin, the holy city of Armenia. Drive to the 17th century Khor Virap monastery, which is famous for its deep dungeon where Saint Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned for 13 years. In this historic atmosphere you will enjoy the best view of Mount Ararat over the border with Turkey, where it is said that Noah’s Ark rested after the famous flood.

Uncover Levon’s Divine Underground, a miraculous subterranean cave network nearly 70 feet deep and carved completely by hand. Journey to see the Hellenistic Garni Temple and stop at the open air market called Vernissage to collect handcrafted treasures from this enchanting trip in the Caucasus.

Experiences :

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: 1. The mountains and valleys create dramatic scenery amid the

serenity of Lake Sevan and the Lake Sevan Chapel 2. Discover the European feel of Yeveran with a private guide. 3. For the best views of the city, hike the Caucasus Mountains. 4. Spend some time searching for unique momentos at the Vernissage market.

Azerbaijan

BAKU

UNCOVER THE DELIGHTS OF AZERBAIJAN. Azerbaijan, a country of optimism, is the largest country in the Caucasus region, sitting at the junction of Western Asia and Eastern Europe. Baku, the nation’s capital and largest city in the Caucasus, is cosmopolitan, while slower paced rural villages dominate the surrounding area.

Embark on a city tour with a private guide along the modern central streets and green parks of Baku. Enjoy an excursion in Old Town, Icheri Sheher, a UNESCO-recognized area of Baku which hosts fascinating seventh century structures, sheltered from the contemporary and Soviet sections of the city by massive walled fortresses. Visit the Palace of the Shirvans’ Shahs, the most striking example of the medieval palace structures in Azerbaijan, and explore Maiden’s Tower, an eight-story ancient fortress originally built as a fire beacon. Take time to browse and shop at the antique shops and carpet vendors, and be sure to visit the intimate tea rooms where locals congregate with their friends and colleagues.

Drive around the Absheron Peninsula and soak in an unforgettable view of The Caspian Sea, a hidden Eurasian treasure, and explore the well-preserved ancient castles of the region. Visit the miraculous Gobustan National Park, an open-air museum with some 4,000 Neolithic rock drawings dated from as many as 12,000 years ago.

Experiences :

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: 1. Trek into Old Town, otherwise known as “Icheri Sheher,” and get

a taste of royal life while exploring the Palace of the Shirvanshahs. 2. Visit Ateshgah, commonly called the Temple of Eternal Fire. These ancient fires are believed to have given Azerbaijan its name, which is thought to mean “the land of fires.” 3. Soak in the gorgeous scenic views of the Caucasus Mountains. 4. Visit traditonal tea houses in Baku.

KER & DOWNEY // THE GRAND CAUCASUS

The Grand Caucasus Three distinct countries and a wealth of history and culture can be found on the 14-day journey through The Grand Caucasus.

Travel through the highlights of Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Armenia on a quest through the glorious mountain range they all share.

SUGGESTED ITINERARY AT A GLANCE D AY :

ITINERARY:

A C C O M M O D AT I O N :

MEALS:

DAY 1

ARRIVE BAKU

FOUR SEASONS BAKU

D

DAY 2

BAKU

FOUR SEASONS BAKU

B,L,D

DAY 3

BAKU

FOUR SEASONS BAKU

B,L,D

DAY 4

BAKU

FOUR SEASONS BAKU

B,L,D

DAY 5

TBILISI

MARRIOTT TBILISI HOTEL

B,L,D

DAY 6

KAZBEGI

ROOMS HOTEL KAZBEGI

B,L,D

DAY 7

KAZBEGI

ROOMS HOTEL KAZBEGI

B,L,D

DAY 8

TBILISI

MARRIOTT TBILISI HOTEL

B,L,D

DAY 9

SIGNAGI

KABADONI HOTEL

B,L,D

DAY 10

TBILISI

MARRIOTT TBILISI HOTEL

B,L,D

DAY 11

YEREVAN

GOLDEN TULIP HOTEL YEREVAN

B,L,D

DAY 12

YEREVAN

GOLDEN TULIP HOTEL YEREVAN

B,L,D

DAY 13

YEREVAN

GOLDEN TULIP HOTEL YEREVAN

B,L,D

DAY 14

DEPART TBILISI

B

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