Shenatagh to Svarants Country Road

Dogs Unknown

E-Bikes Unknown

The road begins on the south edge of Shenatagh village, then leads out into the hills, ascending to an altitude of 2,500 meters above sea level. Riders will spend most of the first half along a doubletrack climb that alternates between steep and casual before the final push to the high-point. To the right the distant view of Mount Aramazd, the highest summit in the Bargushat Range, will keep you company while you pedal.

The remainder of the ride travels more quickly along a fast doubletrack descent. Before reaching the village of Svarants there's an unusual hilly area dotted with uninhabited homes and one solitary construction. From there you'll reach the the village of Svarants and its beautiful surrounding forests. Smoke rising from the homes is a typical indicator of an early spring or late fall. The center of Svarants holds the 18th century St. Martiros Hazaraprkich Church.

The final kilometers pass by quickly as the doubletrack descends away from the village to end on the main road just south of the village of Tatev. The village is a natural destination after the doubletrack and it's your best option for hiring a taxi for the return. You'll also pass a great overlook onto the rock-cut Tatev Monastery before passing its entrance at the edge of the village.

In total plan for at least four hours of riding. The best time to visit is between April and October.

Flora
The area between Shenatagh to Svarants is sparsely covered and you'll see more grasses and thorny shurbs than trees. Long stretches of briers grow here, the fruit of which ripen in October and November.