Zonuz Dam

Zonuz Dam is one of the most beautiful natural attractions of Marand County in East Azerbaijan Province. It lies near the town of Zonuz, about 24 kilometres northeast of Marand. The dam was built on the Zonuzchay River and, set among the lush, famous apple orchards of Zonuz, offers a rare and striking landscape. Zonuz is well known for its mild climate and for producing high-quality, flavourful apples, and this is why the combination of orchards, mountains and the dam lake forms one of the most appealing natural scenes in the region. The dam's position on the slopes of the highlands, close to numerous springs, creates a calm and pleasant setting for travellers and nature lovers.

The dam is a rockfill dam with an impermeable clay core and rises about 59 metres above the riverbed. Its reservoir is fed mainly by the permanent springs of Mount Soltan Sanjar, which flow all year round and supply the area's clear, fresh water. The useful volume of the reservoir is about 8.5 million cubic metres, and the apple, apricot and other fruit orchards around it add a delightful touch to the landscape. The reservoir is home to various species of freshwater fish, so recreational fishing is a popular activity among visitors. The quiet of nature, the reflection of the mountains in the water and the pleasant mountain air make Zonuz Dam an ideal destination for a day trip and a relaxing break in the heart of nature.

To reach Zonuz Dam, take the Zonuz road from Marand and continue past orchards and villages along the way until you reach the dam lake. The access road is paved, and the final section offers beautiful views of the orchards and mountains. The best time to visit Zonuz Dam is from spring to early autumn, when the orchards are green and the weather is cool and pleasant. While visiting, please avoid polluting the water of the dam and springs, damaging the orchards, or leaving litter in nature, so that this valuable natural and agricultural landscape stays clean and beautiful.