Vistan Lake

Vistan Lake is one of the natural and young attractions of Rudbar, located in Khorgam District and the town of Barehsar (Barasar) in Gilan Province. Yesan Lake, Vistan Pond, Barehsar Pond and Barehsar Lake are all other names for this lake. Vistan Lake in Rudbar is natural and was created by an earthquake. Beyond a rocky road, the lake lies on a mountainside in the heart of dense beech forests. Its distance from urban areas and the difficult access have kept Vistan a pristine area with clean air and free of human pollution. Vistan Lake covers about four hectares. Lush pastures and dense beech trees surround the lake.

Vistan Pond lies on the mountainside next to forest and lush pastures. The surroundings of the lake are full of beech, willow, oak, apple, pear, walnut and medlar trees, as well as hawthorn and blackberry shrubs and other plants such as reeds, wild and mountain tulips, licorice, borage, and a rare species of the chandelier lily (Fritillaria imperialis-type lily). The chandelier lily blooms in the month of Tir (late June to July). The Barehsar area and the surroundings of Vistan Lake are home to animals such as chukar partridges, doves, see-see partridges, quails, Indian crested porcupines, wild boars and foxes. Several species of fish live in the lake.

The rich, green and colourful nature of the Barehsar and Vistan area has allowed beekeeping to flourish, and high-quality natural honey is one of its main local products. The dense surrounding pastures are used for grazing livestock, which is the reason for the region's reputation for dairy products. Barehsar Lake in Gilan is a pleasant travel destination full of tranquillity. Camping and picnics, lush pastures and forest, hiking in the surrounding hills and viewing the lake from above, gathering medicinal plants, photography, birdwatching and stargazing under clear night skies are among the activities at this beautiful spot. Recently, a few limited facilities have been provided here, such as restrooms, drinking water, a small supermarket, a tea house, a café and pedal boats. One of Gilan's ecolodges is also located here.

In general, the climate at Vistan Lake is moderate, but because it lies in a mountainous area, winters are harsh. In spring, the cool, rainy weather doubles the beauty of the lake's natural surroundings. In summer the weather at Vistan Lake is slightly warm, but it is still a good travel destination. In late autumn and winter, the access road to the lake becomes very difficult and the cold is usually severe, so travel to the area is not recommended.