Lake Van Island Monastery Vineyards

Take a boat to Akdamar Island in Lake Van to see the 10th-century Armenian cathedral surrounded by abandoned monastery vineyards. The monks produced sacramental wine here for 1,000 years.

Insider tips

• Boats run regularly from Van port in summer months

• Bring picnic supplies - no food on the island

• The church carvings are stunning - budget time to explore