We have visited many remote villages in Armenia, especially in Syunik region, and they all have hidden charms and features. Antarashat is no exception – and our overnight stay there blew our minds!
This is a quick recap about why you should visit Antarashat (near Kapan), what to do there, and where to stay in the village.
About Antarashat
Antarashat means ‘lots of forest’ and is a hidden alpine village located around 20 kilometers from Kapan.
Antarashat village is small and is now only home to about 55 people (previously was around 125). You will find a few worthy sites in the area, including a waterfall (requires a small hike), horse riding, and the gorgeous Tapasar Mountain.
The village was previously known as Tortni until 1949. You will find two churches there, including the one that dates back to the 17th-century and is called St. Hripsime. There is also another called St. Gayane.
But, one of the best things to do in Antarashat is to take a digital detox and chill out at Hyuratun Antarashatum Guesthouse (see below)!
Hyuratun Antarashatum Guesthouse
Roman Harutyunyan renovated his grandfather’s home and it evolved into the fabulous Hyuratun Antarashatum, a guesthouse made for hikers and those looking to do the ultimate digital detox (there is no wifi).
Nestled at the foot of Tapasar Mountain, you will have a chance to enjoy the spacious guesthouse (it is seriously really big!) and have a morning coffee with the pup on-site, Chalo.
The guesthouse has been the only guesthouse in the village for its 5 years in existence.
Together with People in Need, Roman has set up two solar panels to help provide the home electricity in a more environmentally mindful way.
The home has a large kitchen and dining area and a spacious living room that is all open and connected. There is a bathroom, shower, and laundry facility on the lower level for guests to use.
Hyuratun Antarashatum can fit up to 15/16 guests and if you’d rather sleep outside – tents are welcome! You will have a fridge and the place is dog-friendly if you want to bring your pet with you.
There is not a shop in the village but there is bread delivery. If you are requesting something, let Roman know ahead of time. He can also organize breakfast, a BBQ, beer, etc for an additional price.
Renting the entire home is 20000 AMD per night or you can pay 6000 AMD per person for a space. If you’d like lunch included, it is 10000 AMD per person.
To book a place at Hyuratun Antarashatum, send a message to their Facebook page.
*This article was produced with the financial support of the European Union. Its contents are the sole responsibility of Absolute Armenia and People in Need and do not necessarily reflect the views of the European Union.
**The Legends Trail was created by People in Need representative office in Armenia in the frame of “EU4Tourism: Outdoor adventures on the historic trail in Syunik” project funded by the European Union.