On our way to cross the border into Armenia, we stopped off at the Ananuri complex,which held sa significant strategic importance, serving as a guardian along the routes that connected the northern and southern regions of the Caucasus. Ruled by the local Aragvi Eristavis (Dukes of Aragvi), the fortress witnessed numerous historical battles and remained in use until the early 19th century. The complex encompasses three distinct churches: the Church of the Virgin, the Church of the Deity, and the Church “Mkurnali”. It overlooks the Zhinvali Reservoir.

We were lucky in that it wasn’t too busy at the border and we passed through quite quickly, although we were quizzed more than most as we had been to Azerbaijan!

Lunch was at a traditional restaurant on the outskirts of Tblisi, again fabulous food.

Our last stop before Dzoraget was the Haghpat Monastery not far from our hotel for the night. The Monastery was founded by Queen Khosrovanuysh, the wife of the Bagratid king Ashot III at the end of the 10th century. It was one of the largest scientific centers in Armenia between the 10th and 13th centuries, famous for the study of astronomy, music, and literature, and its rich library of manuscripts. It had to endure a few earthquakes and the region was also invaded many times by foreign armed forces but it was able to stand the test of time.

Our hotel for the night was a converted historic building, restored by an American Armenian, really nice setting, our room was huge, pity we were only staying one night.