Unbelievable Armenia Getaway: Odzun's Big House Hotel & Resort Awaits!
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because we're diving headfirst into a review of Unbelievable Armenia Getaway: Odzun's Big House Hotel & Resort Awaits! And let me tell you, after my recent trip, "unbelievable" isn't even the half of it. Forget polished travel brochures – this is the real, messy, glorious deal. So, crank up the volume, pour yourself a strong one (Armenian brandy, perhaps?), and let's get this show on the road!
First things first: Is it Actually Accessible? (Because Seriously, That's Important!)
Alright, I'm starting here because I'm a stickler for this stuff. Accessibility is a massive win or a complete fail, and thankfully, Odzun's Big House seems to be genuinely trying. They've got facilities for disabled guests, and an elevator, which is HUGE in a place like Armenia. But and this is a big BUT - I didn't personally need to assess it myself. So, I cannot confirm if the promised wheelchair accessibility is perfect or not. I'd recommend reaching out directly to the hotel before you book to confirm all the details if you're relying on it.
Let's Talk Internet, Because We’re All Addicted (Admit It!)
Okay, listen. I need my internet to function properly. I’m a travel blogger (a messy one, but still!) and having free Wi-Fi in ALL rooms! and Wi-Fi in public areas is a major win. But – and this is classic internet in rural settings – it wasn't lightning-fast. There were a few moments where my Instagram feed took a loooooong nap. But hey, it's Armenia! Embrace the slightly glacial pace, it forces you to experience the place. This also had Internet [LAN] and Internet services .
The Stuff of Dreams: Relaxation & Pampering! (Did I Mention the Pool with a View? OMG!)
Alright, this is where Odzun’s really shines. I'm talking full-on, melt-into-a-pile-of-bliss kind of shining. Let’s start with the big daddy: the swimming pool [outdoor] with that breathtaking pool with view. Get this: floating in crystalline water, gazing out at the Armenian landscape. It’s pure, unadulterated magic. They had a sauna, steam room, and spa. Seriously, their Body scrub, Body wrap, Massage, and Spa/sauna are worth the trip alone. There's also a Gym/fitness if you're the active type (I’m not, but good for you!). Oh, and did I mention the Foot bath? Heaven. Just… heaven.
Food, Glorious Food! (I Ate ALL the Things!)
I’m a foodie, and Armenia is basically a culinary treasure chest. Now, let me be clear, Odzun's isn't a street food stall (though the snack bar had me covered!). It's got a full-on restaurant experience. The restaurants offer a mix, including Asian cuisine in restaurant and Western cuisine in restaurant.
- Breakfast: The Breakfast [buffet] was the best I have ever see, with the Asian breakfast and Western breakfast.
- Dining: You can eat A la carte in restaurant, if the menu is not enough for you, then you can ask for an Alternative meal arrangement, and even Breakfast in room.
I stuffed myself silly on local delicacies. I'm talking endless platters of fresh salads and Armenian bread, and yes, I even had the soup! Because, why not!
Cleanliness & Safety: Did They Survive the Pandemic? (Spoiler: Yes!)
They did a solid job here. Rooms sanitized between stays, daily disinfection in common areas, and with the staff trained in safety protocol, you immediately know that you are in safe hands. I especially appreciated the Hand sanitizer everywhere. Plus, they had Individually-wrapped food options and Safe dining setup to minimize the risk. The Safety/security feature was well thought out.
Rooms & Comfort: Cozy Cave or Prison Cell? (Spoiler: Cozy!)
My room was a haven. The air conditioning was a lifesaver because, the temperature there is very high. I passed a lot of hours with Laptop workspace, Internet access – wireless, Internet access – LAN and I could also enjoy a good movie, thanks to On-demand movies. I loved the Bathrobes and Slippers. Oh, and Complimentary tea. Little touches like a good Bed, Blackout curtains, and a Seating area can make all the difference.
Services & Conveniences: The Stuff You Don't Think About (Until You Need It!)
This place thought of everything. Daily housekeeping. Concierge service for all the stupid questions I had. Laundry and Dry cleaning. Just… seamless. The little Convenience store was surprisingly handy for late-night snacks and those "oh crap, I forgot toothpaste" moments. Foreign exchange was available, too.
Things to Do (Beyond the Pool, Because Real Life!)
Okay, while you could just wallow in the spa all day (trust me, it's tempting), there's tons to explore. I'm a big history buff, and there is a Shrine. You could definitely check out the meeting/banquet facilities, business facilities, and even the meeting stationery.
For the Kids (If You Travel With Them - Shudders)
I haven't experienced any kids issues yet so I can not give an honest review.
Getting Around: Easy Peasy or a Nightmare?
They had Airport transfer, which is worth its weight in gold after a long flight. There's also Taxi service, and surprisingly, Car park [free of charge], so you can explore on your own terms.
The Not-So-Perfect Bits (Because Honesty is the Best Policy!)
- Internet Speed: As mentioned, sometimes it was a bit slow.
- Minor Maintenance Needed: Every now and then, a light bulb flickered, or there was a small leak. These were quickly resolved, but worth mentioning.
The Verdict: Book It! (But Go Prepared!)
Unbelievable Armenia Getaway: Odzun's Big House Hotel & Resort is a truly special place. It's not perfect, but that's what makes it real. You go for the stunning location, the incredible spa, the delicious food, and the genuine Armenian hospitality. You stay for the memories, the feeling of truly getting away from it all.
Here’s a special offer:
Unbelievable Armenia Getaway: Odzun's Big House Hotel & Resort - Your Adventure Awaits!
Escape to the breathtaking landscapes of Armenia with our exclusive offer! Indulge in luxurious accommodations at Odzun's Big House Hotel & Resort, where relaxation meets adventure.
Here's what you'll get:
- Complimentary Upgrade: Book a standard room and receive a free upgrade to a deluxe room with a balcony, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
- Spa Package: Enjoy a complimentary spa package, including a rejuvenating massage, a revitalizing body scrub, and access to our sauna and steam room.
- Culinary Delight: Savor a delicious dinner at our restaurant, featuring authentic Armenian cuisine and international dishes.
- Complimentary Airport Transfer
Book now and experience the magic of Armenia!
Don't wait, this offer is for a limited time only!
[Link to Booking Page]
P.S. Pack comfortable shoes for exploring, a good book for lounging by the pool, and a sense of adventure. Armenia is waiting!
Escape to Paradise: Grand Resort Hotel Mount Laurel Awaits!
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because we're about to dive headfirst into my chaotic adventure at Hotel and Resort Big House Odzun, Armenia. Forget those sterile, perfect itineraries – this is the real deal, warts and all. Prepare for emotional whiplash.
Day 1: Arrival and Existential Angst (aka, Getting Dumped in Odzun)
- 10:00 AM: Landed in Yerevan. "Okay, everything's…fine," I muttered, trying to channel some Zen master vibe. (Spoiler alert: it didn't work). The airport smelled faintly of…spice? And mild desperation? I'm getting ahead of myself.
- 11:00 AM: Taxi ride from the airport. The driver, a man named Vartan with eyebrows that could rival Frida Kahlo's, drove faster than my therapist recommended I move on from The Breakup. I held on for dear life, screaming internally. "Odzun? Far." Vartan finally said. I paid attention and I was more interested in the landscapes from the car window. Absolutely gorgeous. But, back to my state.
- 2:00 PM: Arrived at Big House Odzun. "Big House" is an understatement. It's a sprawling complex, all stone and light, in a valley that takes your breath away…and then promptly reminds you that your life is currently a dumpster fire. The staff were lovely, bless their cotton socks. I checked in, my face a mask of forced cheer. "Room with a view, please!" (Which I desperately needed to distract from the gaping hole in my heart). And I found it. It was my own little zen space with fantastic views.
- 2:30 PM - 4:00 PM: Unpacked, staring out the window. My room had a balcony! And a freaking hammock. I resisted the urge to curl up in it and sob. (Okay, I may have peeked). The silence was deafening, punctuated only by the distant bleating of sheep. Sheep! Reminding me of my own baa-ing emotions.
- 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM: Wandered the grounds. Found a quiet spot near a babbling brook (of course there's a babbling brook! Cue the violins!). Had about 16 existential crises. Decided that "finding myself" in Armenia sounded a whole lot better than "finding myself" heartbroken in my apartment filled with pizza boxes.
- 7:00 PM: Dinner. The food! Oh. My. God. The food. Chewy bread that was still warm, smoky kebabs, fresh tomatoes that tasted like sunshine…I wanted to bury my face in it. Took a deep breath and decided to have a nice meal. The wine? Divine. The company (myself)? Questionable. Managed to choke down a meal, even smiled once or twice. This was an achievement.
- 9:00 PM: Collapsed into bed, exhausted. Watched the stars from my balcony. They were ridiculously gorgeous, like tiny diamonds scattered across a black velvet cloth. Briefly contemplated the universe. Briefly felt a tiny flicker of hope. Then, passed out like a baby.
Day 2: The Church, The Wine, and The Unexpected Friendship
- 9:00 AM: Woke up feeling a little less like roadkill. (Progress!). Breakfast was a feast of local cheeses, honey, and more of that amazing bread. Fueling up for the day, whatever the day may bring.
- 10:00 AM: Visited the Odzun Monastery. Seriously, you guys, the architecture! It's breathtaking, like something out of a fairytale. But something about it moved me. It inspired me. I didn't think I realized that I needed that. I felt so calm.
- 11:30 AM: Wandered around the monastery, letting the history soak in. There’s something about old stones, you know? They whisper stories. I wished my ex- I mean, someone was here to experience.
- 1:00 PM: Lunch at a local restaurant. More incredible food. I started to realize I wasn't just eating to fill a void. This Armenian cuisine was seriously world-class.
- 2:30 PM: Wine tasting! This was the highlight. The vineyard was this beautiful family-run place and, oh boy, the wine! Red, White, Rose, all perfectly paired with Armenian cheese and nuts. After a few glasses, all the self-pity pretty much evaporated.
- 4:30 PM: Met an older woman, probably in her 60s, at a small farm nearby, during wine tasting. Her name was Nune. She saw me, eyes red and puffy, and saw my sadness. She sat next to me and shared a glass of wine, she told me stories and she gave me life advice. She took my hand at the end, squeezed it, and said, "Life will find you again." She wasn't just another person, she was a beacon of hope. She changed my heart.
- 5:30 PM: Strolled back to the hotel. I feel really…good. Maybe. Not completely. But, definitely better.
- 7:00 PM: Dinner. Shared some kebabs with a little bit of laughter.
- 9:00 PM: Started watching a documentary, and fell asleep on the couch. A good sleep.
Day 3: Hiking, Heartbreak, and Finding Beauty in the Broken
- 9:00 AM: Woke up with a desire to do something. Today I will do a solo hike. I did it with enthusiasm.
- 12:00 PM: Hiking to the waterfalls near the hotel. I made it, and it reminded me of so much. I took a seat and cried my eyes out. But, now, tears of sadness and hurt are not the only tears.
- 2:00 PM: Lunch. I ate food that tasted like angels had touched it.
- 6:00 PM: I am better. I am ready. Ready for what? I will tell you, I don't know.
- 7:00 PM: Dinner, and more dinner.
- 9:00 PM: Packing.
Day 4: Departure and Reflections
- 9:00 AM: Breakfast, again. Best breakfast ever.
- 10:00 AM: Packing, taking one last look.
- 11:00 AM: The worst of my heart is gone. I'm moving on.
- 12:00 PM: Goodbye hotel, goodbye Odzun. I will come back.
- And…
This is it. I'm leaving. Did I find myself? Maybe. Did I forget my pain? No. Did I realize that sometimes, the most beautiful journeys start with a broken heart and a whole lot of delicious bread? Absolutely. Armenia, you glorious, chaotic, soul-soothing land, you did the trick. Now, to face the rest of my life, one step at a time. Wish me luck.
Escape to Paradise: Townsend's Country Inn Awaits!
Odzun's Big House: Your Questions (and My Unfiltered Answers)
Alright, alright, here we go... let's tackle this behemoth – Odzun's Big House. I've been there, I've survived, and I have opinions, people! So, fire away with your questions! (Just try to keep up, okay? My brain’s a bit like… well, like a very enthusiastic puppy on a sugar rush.)
So, what *is* Odzun's Big House actually like? Like, in a nutshell?
Okay, that's the million-dollar question, isn't it? Picture this: a sprawling compound, nestled in the gorgeous, rolling hills of northern Armenia. Think big. Really, really big. It's got a hotel, a bunch of villas, a pool that may or may not be the size of a small lake, and a restaurant situation that's… well, we'll get to that later. It's aiming for that "luxe rustic" vibe, but sometimes it veers more towards "rustic." And hey, that's part of the charm, right? (Maybe.)
It's also IMPORTANT to remember, Armenia. Not the Caribbean. Not Hawaii. Armenia. Which means sometimes things work *perfectly* smoothly, other times? Well, let's just say, you'll be learning some new Armenian phrases.
Are the rooms nice? And what are the villas like, are they worth the extra cash?
The rooms are... varied. Some are lovely, spacious, and everything you could want. Others? Let's just say you're going to want to pack your own pillow. I've stayed in rooms so good, I practically wept with joy. And I've also stayed in rooms that felt like they hadn't been updated since the fall of the Soviet Union. (Okay, maybe a slight exaggeration, BUT you get the idea.)
As for the villas... Okay, here's where it gets interesting. I'm a villa gal, through and through. The extra space? The potential for a private patio? SIGN ME UP. BUT... and this is a BIG but… villa quality seems to be a bit of a crapshoot. Some are ridiculously luxurious, with fireplaces and private jacuzzis. Others? Well, let's just say the "private jacuzzi" had the water pressure of a dribbling faucet. So, read recent reviews. Do your research. And maybe, just maybe, pack your own inflatable pool. Just in case.
Okay, the food. Tell me about the food. I'm hungry just thinking about it.
Oof. The food. Okay. Here's the deal: the potential is there. Armenia's cuisine is AMAZING. Fresh produce bursting with flavor, hearty dishes that'll warm your soul… BUT... sometimes, at Odzun's Big House, the execution can be… inconsistent. I had one meal that was so divinely delicious, I almost proposed to the chef (I didn't. My husband would be *slightly* displeased.) And then the next meal? Well, let's just say it was a masterclass in how to overcook a perfectly good piece of chicken.
The breakfast buffet is usually pretty solid, lots of local cheeses, fruits, and breads. Definitely load up on the lavash! The dinners are where things can get a little dicey. Order the local specialties, stick with what they do best, and maybe order a side of fries. You'll thank me later.
And one more thing. The service? Let's just say it's on "Armenia Time." Don't be in a rush. Bring a book. Enjoy the view. Accept the fact that your food might take an hour to arrive. It's all part of the experience, right? (Deep breaths…)
That pool looks huge! Is it actually nice to swim in?
YES! The pool is magnificent. Seriously, it’s a stunner. That's the most consistent, fantastic feature, in my opinion. It's large, clean, cool (mostly, depending on the time of year), and the surrounding area is all comfy lounge chairs. Seriously, I could happily spend an entire day by that pool, sipping cocktails and pretending I’m a glamorous movie star. Bonus points if you find a floating flamingo. (I never have, but I live in hope.)
Is there anything *else* to do besides swim and eat?
Yes, thankfully! Besides sunbathing and contemplating life in a lounge chair, there's a little bit of exploring to be done! You can attempt to use the gym (don’t get your hopes up, it’s… basic). You can wander around the grounds (which are quite pretty, especially in spring and summer). But the real draw is the area around the hotel. The Odzun Monastery is nearby, a beautiful and ancient church. Go! Seriously, go! It's worth it. The views from the top of the hill are incredible. You can also take day trips to other cool places in the region. So, yes, there's plenty to keep you busy… if you're not content just soaking up the sun and stuffing your face with Armenian cheese. Which, honestly, is a perfectly acceptable way to spend a vacation.
How far is it from Yerevan? And is it easy to get there? I'm nervous about driving in Armenia!
It's about a 2.5-3 hour drive from Yerevan. The drive is doable, scenic even, though the roads can be interesting, and sometimes a little... adventurous. (Let's just say you'll see some driving styles you've never encountered before.)
My advice? Hire a driver. Seriously. It's worth the peace of mind. You can sit back, enjoy the views, and let someone else navigate the hairpin turns and the occasional herd of sheep. Trust me on this one. You'll arrive at Odzun feeling much more relaxed. Plus, you can start drinking your champagne earlier!
Okay, give me a juicy story! Something that happened *to you* at Odzun's Big House!
