Altai Blog

This is a personal story about the unexpected loss of my mother, Esther Hartsuiker. About the final weeks, the moments we shared, and everything I am only now truly beginning to realize. About love, memories, and the small things that, in hindsight, turn out to be the most valuable.

With The Power of the Female Voice, we brought a female Mongolian throat singer to Europe for the first time. This project tells the story of Zolzaya, her music, and our journey through concerts, workshops and a unique women's retreat.

In augustus vond in Zwitserland het allereerste Europese keelzangfestival plaats: Echoes of the Steppe. Samen met muzikanten uit Tuva reisde Rowan Hartsuiker daarna naar Nederland voor concerten en workshops in Amsterdam en Groningen. Van een uitverkochte kerk tot een intiem huiskamerconcert en een magische avond bij Landgoed Tenaxx: overal liet de eeuwenoude zangtraditie uit Centraal-Azië diepe indruk achter.

From July 28 to August 1, we organized our very first 5-day Mongolian music retreat in Ter Wupping. An inspiring week of throat singing, Morin Khuur, connection and wonderful moments — in one of the most beautiful locations in the Netherlands.

Wij koken al meer dan tien jaar vrijwel volledig veganistisch — met liefdevolle en heerlijke plantaardige versies van traditionele Mongoolse gerechten. We geloven dat eten niet alleen voedzaam en smaakvol moet zijn, maar ook in balans met de wereld om ons heen.

An unexpected encounter near Altai goes deep and shows how music, culture and genuine attention can influence lives. Sometimes it's the guests without expectations who are most affected.

In a weekend, discover the fascinating world of overtone singing and throat singing in a small-scale and personal workshop setting. Learn unique singing techniques, listen to stunning live performances, and dive into the rich Mongolian culture.

In this blog, Rowan talks about the Altai Harp, a unique instrument from Western Mongolia. Now, Rowan and Saran want to invite people to the “Chure Club”, where you can learn to play the instrument and prepare for an extraordinary trip to Mongolia in 2026.

Have you always wanted to travel to the heart of Mongolia, where you can experience the magical world of shamans, the enchanting sounds of traditional Mongolian throat singing, and ancient nomadic life? Have you ever dreamed of playing an instrument but don't have a musical background? Now is your chance! Rowan and Saran are organizing a unique trip to Mongolia like it has never been offered before.

Raven, our Saarloos Wolfdog, is not only a loyal friend, but also a beloved host in our Bed & Breakfast. His loving nature and extraordinary adventures make him an indispensable part of our family and our lives.

Read about the mission and vision behind Altai. Learn how we bring culture, traditions, simplicity, animals and nature together for a unique and authentic experience.

In this blog, I share my story about growing up in a Mongolian yurt and invite you to experience authentic Mongolian hospitality and cuisine in beautiful Westerwolde at Altai.