You don’t need to go far to escape the summer heat of Baku. Azerbaijan’s mountain regions offer cool air, forests, rivers and hospitable villages — a few hours’ drive takes you into a completely different landscape. We’ve gathered the favourite summer destinations for you.
Gabala
Gabala, at the foot of the Caucasus mountains, is one of the most popular choices for a family holiday. Ride the Tufandag cable car up the mountain, walk around Lake Nohur, visit the Seven Beauties waterfall and follow forest trails — there’s plenty for both active and relaxing breaks. There’s an amusement park for kids and a wide choice of hotels.
Ismayilli and Lahij
Set among the mountains, the village of Lahij is famous for its cobbled streets and coppersmith craft. Copper vessels have been hand-hammered here for centuries, and you can watch the masters at work in their workshops. The forests around Ismayilli and the Talistan waterfall are ideal for cooling off on a summer day.
Gakh
For those seeking quiet nature, Gakh is a real find. The village of Ilisu stands out with its mountain rivers, old fortress ruins and waterfalls. It’s a place to wander without hurry, rest in the fresh air and taste the local cuisine.
Guba and Gusar
Guba is known for its apple orchards, while Gusar sits close to Azerbaijan’s highest peaks. The Shahdag resort is open in summer too: cable cars, mountain biking and hiking routes. The ancient village of Khinalig, one of the highest inhabited places in the world, amazes visitors with its unique culture.
Lankaran
The southern region stands out with green tea plantations, subtropical forests and the Caspian coast. Hirkan National Park is home to rare tree species. Don’t miss lavangi, the famous dish of Lankaran cuisine.
Useful tips
- Evenings in the mountains are cool — bring a light jacket even in summer.
- Hotels fill up quickly in summer, so book weekends in advance.
- Take comfortable shoes and water for hikes, and go with a guide on remote trails.
For local tours with transport, accommodation and a guide, see our tours or write to us.