Golestan Valley

Golestan Valley, also known as Qezel Gol Lar Valley and Alvares Valley, is one of the eastern valleys of Mount Sabalan and one of the widest and most beautiful valleys in Ardabil Province. It is classed among the eastern valleys of the Sabalan range, which stretches from northwest to southeast, and it contains several glacial lakes. Golestan Valley is very green and has a striking, almost unrivalled landscape. It lies in the eastern part of Sabalan, in the highlands of the mountain, and has its own unique natural wonders in every season. On the slopes of Sabalan, despite the cold, foothill climate, you can see spring flowers and astonishing greenery. Even in the hot summer season the air here remains cool and pleasant, and you can enjoy the sight of beautiful spring flowers and meadows.

Several animal species, such as bears, wild boars, wild rams, partridges and mouflon ewes, live in this area. A road is also under construction in the valley that will connect Golestan Valley to Sarein and the village of Alvares. The whole of this remarkable area is normally filled with beautiful flowers and plants; only the parts where ponds and pools lie have no vegetation.

Alongside all the natural beauty of the valley, its ski resort is also considered one of the best and most important ski resorts in the country. In the heart of the valley, on the high and enchanting slopes of Sabalan, stands the Alvares cultural, tourist and sports complex, which is the largest ski resort in Iran in terms of area. The site is equipped with facilities such as a ski lift and a chairlift.

There is a hot mineral spring in the valley, though it has no pool. The waterfalls of the area, formed by the flow of meltwater from the snow and from summer-pasture springs such as Ayqar, Arablu, Ajirlu, Gurgur and Jolodarlu, feed the Karkari River. In spring and summer, Golestan Valley hosts countless visitors looking to experience unspoiled natural beauty. The best seasons to visit are summer and spring. There are also facilities such as several hotels in the area, where you can stay and spend a few days in Golestan Valley.