From the lowest points to the highest peaks
This route leads from Azerbaijan’s buzzing capital along the Caspian Sea coast and into the heart of the Caucasus Mountains. Expect outdoor adventures such as hiking, kitesurfing and paragliding, culinary surprises and some of the best scenery anywhere in the Caucasus.
Visit some of Azerbaijan’s most picturesque places
Travelling from Baku to the northern regions of Azerbaijan, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy kicking back and relaxing in some of the most picturesque parts of Azerbaijan. Stretching from the lowest lying national capital in the world to the highest peak in the country, this unique route has something to be admired by everyone. You can take a tour to the Chirag-gala fortress and be hosted by the local people of Khinalig village, whose population is a completely unique ethnic group. And if you’re a fan of active tourism, enjoy kitesurfing during summer in Shuraabad or visit the state-of-the-art ski resort near the Shahdag National Park.
Ancient traces epic landscapes
You’ll be following in the footsteps of ancient travellers and merchants on this scenic route along the southern slopes of the Caucasus Mountains.
Between Baku and Balaken
Whether it be visiting wineries, hunting out historical relics, sampling local dishes or hiking into the Caucasus Mountains, there’s something for everyone between Baku and Balaken. Highlights include feeling the Silk Road vibe in charming Sheki, discovering ancient crafts in remote mountain villages, hiking to hidden lakes and waterfalls and throwing yourself into outdoor adventures in the countryside resort hub of Gabala.
Healing nature inspiring history
Naftalan’s healing oil is one of Azerbaijan’s great natural wonders but the western region is also packed with heart-stopping history and breathtaking landscapes.
From German heritage to medicinal oil
Bordered by the majestic Caucasus Mountains and the Kura River, Azerbaijan’s western region is brimming with history and beautiful landscapes. If you like the sound of discovering the story of the Caucasus Germans, visiting some of the country’s oldest wineries and visiting luxury spas offering curative oil therapy, then this route has plenty for you.
From semi-deserts to lush forests
To truly experience Azerbaijan’s natural diversity, head south to Lankaran, Lerik and Astara to a land of hot springs, nature reserves and the majestic Talysh Mountains. The local cuisine is pretty great too – don’t leave without trying dishes like fish lavangi or parcha-dosheme plov and enjoy endless cups of freshly grown Azerbaijani tea.
Enjoy citrus, tea, mountains, sea… and learn the secrets of longevity
Bordered by the Caspian Sea and the lush Talysh Mountains, the Lankaran region’s countryside is diverse and eye-catching. The zone is home to two protected areas, the Gizil Aghaj Reserve and the Hirkan National Park, offering a surprising variety of vistas for such a small area – you can journey between dramatic mountains, calm seaside and ancient forests all within the space of just a few hours. What’s more, with the curative black sands of Caspian-lapped beaches, aromatic tea, fragrant citrus fruits and a number of hot springs, this subtropical corner of Azerbaijan is naturally therapeutic.
Enjoy the Caspian sea & beaches
The shores of the Caspian Sea have plenty of excellent beach clubs to enjoy, from the Absheron Peninsula resorts easily reached from Baku to the water sports centre at Shuraabad. There, you will find the perfect conditions for learning to kitesurf on the scenic lagoon and once you’ve mastered the basics you can take your board out into the open Caspian. Both professionals and amateurs can take windsurfing sessions at some Baku beaches. However, if it’s tranquillity and romance you are seeking, make your way to less crowded beaches such as Bilgah, Mardakan, Pirshagi, Nardaran and Zagulba.
Stroll along the Caspian seaside boulevard in Baku
Beyond the Old City there is no better way to get a feel for Baku’s relaxed, Mediterranean atmosphere than by strolling along the much-loved Seaside Boulevard – the capital city’s promenade. This beautiful sweep of coast offers hours of pleasant strolling along the waterfront with ever-changing views of the city. You’ll be able to stop for a ride on the Baku Eye, float along the canals of Little Venice or take a short romantic cruise across the Baku Bay. In the midst of all the strolling, don’t miss dining at one of several contemporary restaurants serving great national cuisine, often accompanied by local folk music, and pause for tea at a classic Azerbaijani teahouse.
Visit the mountain village of Khinalig
One of Azerbaijan’s top ethno-tourism spots, the picturesque village of Khinalig is located at over 2,000 metres and is said to be connected to the story of Noah, who some believe dropped anchor here during the Great Flood. Due to the steep terrain, the village’s 380 houses – many between 200-300 years old – are built very close together, with each roof doubling up as the courtyard for the house above. As descendants of one of the ancient Caucasian Albanian tribes, the locals speak a completely unique language. Travelling here will allow you to discover an intriguing local culture while experiencing the full majesty of the Caucasus Mountains.
Stargazing at Shamakhi Astrophysical Observatory
Located 22 kilometres north of Shamakhi’s city centre along a scenic road leading into the Caucasus Mountains, the settlement of Pirqulu is home to the largest astrophysical observatory in the Caucasus. Named after 13th-century astronomer Nasreddin Tusi, the observatory was established in the Soviet era when it was used to great effect to study the stars and secrets of the universe. While it continues to be at the forefront of Azerbaijani astrophysics today, there are also facilities for visitors: you can browse a small museum, admire the largest telescope in the region and even do some stargazing if visiting after dark.
Admire the curves & collections of the Heydar Aliyev Centre
Designed by the illustrious architect Zaha Hadid, since opening in 2012 the Heydar Aliyev Centre’s astonishing curved, wave-like shape and innovative use of space have made it an iconic landmark in Baku and beyond. But besides its extraordinary appearance, inside you’ll find a world-class exhibition and museum complex with a great range of permanent and temporary curations exploring the best of local and global art and culture, as well as a stylish cafeteria, state-of-the-art auditorium and even an impressive collection of vintage cars.
