The following is a FPWC (Foundation for the Preservation of Wildlife and Cultural Assests) press release.

Within the logic of promoting environmentally friendly tourism in rural areas rich in biodiversity, the FPWC has set a partnership with “Velo Club”, a local organization promoting involvement of youth in rural projects, as well as promoting healthy lifestyle by reducing carbon footprint.

As a result of cooperation, a 20 km route in Khndzorut village was marked as per the guidelines of RA Tourism committee. Ten information signboards were installed with directions and the road made accessible for bikers as a trek.

Next spring the “Velo Club” will be promoting cycling tourism in the mountains of Armenia and more tourists will be visiting remote & bordering rural communities in Armenia, such as Khndzorut and spend at least 1 overnight in a village B&B.

This model shows once again the importance of connectivity between villages, infrastructure development, as well as interconnected community business models based on environmentally friendly approaches.

The project is implemented within the framework of “EU for Tourism: Community-Based Rural Tourism and Cultural Events in Gegharkunik and Vayots Dzor Marzes” project, funded by EU and jointly with World Vision Armenia.

Link: http://www.fpwc.org/new-biking-route-ready-for-cyclers/