We’ve been working all summer on the ARK Bridge project, and we’re excited to share our progress with you! In the spring we ran a successful crowdfunding campaign, which enabled us to complete two important projects supporting ecotourism in Syunik. This summer, we built our second eco-camp and placed information signs along the trail from Tatev Monastery to Kapan. As always, our goal is to help the modern tourist explore Syunik to the benefit of Armenia’s people and natural environment. With the generous support of our sponsors, this goal is becoming a reality!
Below, enjoy some pictures of the work we’ve done this summer: 1) trail and information support and 2) the eco-camp.
Below, enjoy some pictures of the work we’ve done this summer: 1) trail and information support and 2) the eco-camp.
1) Trail and Information Support
Sign providing support to travelers on the trail from Tatev to Kapan.
We have successfully placed information signs in Armenian and English at every village along the trail between Tatev Monastery and Kapan. Thanks to these signs (placed approximately every 5km), travelers will be able to find information about local resources like water sources and regional specialties. With ARK’s phone number and web address clearly displayed on every sign, travelers can easily contact ARK staff or visit ARK’s website for additional guidance. We are especially pleased to offer language support via phone to help travelers connect with village residents. In Kapan, the ARK office continues to provide free information support for any traveler.
Our worker, Hayk, installing one of the signs.
Armen proudly displays a newly-installed sign and the beautiful scenery you can see along the trail.
78-year-old Henrik Abelian is our oldest volunteer who helped us with this project. Special thanks to Henrik!
2) The Eco-Camp
ARK’s second eco-camp: the Dacha.
Thanks to the donations from our crowdfunding campaign, our second eco-camp is ready for your visit! Located in Arajadzor village, the Dacha (Russian for ‘country house’) is an ideal stop for hikers and cyclists traveling the Tatev-Kapan trail. It’s also perfect for anyone looking to get away from the city and enjoy the fresh mountain air. As promised, the Dacha includes amenities such as a bathroom, shower (with hot water!), gas stove, electrical outlets, and cooking tools. Additionally, it features many good choices for accommodation: select one of the eight beds in the country house, enjoy the view from the upstairs Eagle’s Nest (sleeps two), or fall asleep to the sounds of nature from our newly-built bungalow (also sleeps two). Prefer to camp? You can pitch a tent in the main camping area or the more secluded Robinson site. Take a look at what’s in store for you at the Dacha!
Welcome to the Dacha. What a view!
You can spend your days on this beautiful balcony.
Enjoy a meal outside . . .
. . . or inside.
Either way, our kitchen provides you with a refrigerator, gas stove, cooking tools, and plenty of dishes and silverware.
Where will you sleep?
Perhaps in the dorm room?
Or would you like to be upstairs . . .
. . . in the Eagle's Nest?
How about a bungalow?
Of course, you can set up a tent . . .
. . . either in the main area . . .
. . . or down in the Robinson site . . .
. . . where you can sit on this cool bench made by one of our volunteers!
We spent a lot of time clearing paths through the garden.
Now you can come down and pick blackberries!
How about a hot shower?
Of course, you will probably have to use the WC. Don’t worry, ours is ventilated!
You are very welcome at the Dacha.
Hope to see you soon!
