This mountain town in northern Azerbaijan has ski resorts, ancient ruins from the 4th century, and a growing wine industry. Local restaurants serve traditional mountain cuisine.
Gabala, a mountain town in northern Azerbaijan, lies 220 km from Baku at the foot of the Caucasus Mountains. You can ski black diamond runs at Tufandag, soak in 39°C mineral springs at Chenot Palace, or follow tea house trails to a seven-tiered waterfall. The town sits next to Lake Nohur, where local fishermen cast their lines, while adventure seekers head to the shooting range or launch from paragliding spots above the valley.
Getting to Gabala
A four-car high-speed train runs between Baku and Gabala daily. The journey takes about 4 hours through mountain landscapes. You can also drive from Baku in around 3 hours on the M4 highway, which connects to local road 31.
Winter Sports at Tufandag Mountain Resort
The Tufandag resort, 4 kilometers from the city center, has 12 kilometers of ski slopes. Four black runs cater to advanced skiers, while six blue slopes suit beginners. The resort's snow machines cover 5 kilometers of slopes. Cable cars take you up to 2,000 meters year-round, giving views across the Caucasus range.
Mineral Springs and Medical Treatments
At Chenot Palace and Yengija, mineral springs reach temperatures of 39°C. You can take petroleum oil baths that help with joint pain, or try cryotherapy sessions at -110°C. The medical spa at Chenot Palace spans 6000 square meters with metabolic testing equipment and anti-gravity treatment chambers.
Lake Nohur and Seven Beauties Waterfall
Lake Nohur sits in a natural basin between three mountains at 700 meters above sea level. While swimming isn't allowed, you can fish or take boat rides on the lake. The Seven Beauties waterfall cascades in seven tiers through the mountain forest. The 4-kilometer hiking trail gains 300 meters in elevation, with tea houses serving mountain tea and local jam along the way.
Local Food
Try dasharasi kebab, where cooks prepare meat on heated mountain rocks. Local families preserve watermelon, apples, and grapes in salt brine. At the central market, you'll find jars of these preserves next to mountain herbs and honey from nearby apiaries.
Villages Around Gabala
In Nij village, 20 kilometers from Gabala, the Udi people continue speaking their ancient language. Vandam village marks the trailhead for the Seven Beauties waterfall hike. From the mountain village of Laza, you can access hiking trails or rent quad bikes for mountain tours.
Archaeological Remains
The site 15 kilometers southwest of modern Gabala contains two round brick towers and sections of fortress walls from the 4th century BC. A museum displays coins, ceramics, and items from ancient trade routes.
