Let’s take a trip to Shomal, or the North, in Farsi. Home to the famed liberal city of Rasht, and the lesser-known mountain town of Masouleh. Arguably, one of the most scenic villages in Iran, Masouleh is perched 1050 meters above sea-level, within the Alborz mountain range, in the northern province of Gilan. The striking misty forests, green valleys and wet climate, are vastly different than that of the desert in southern Iran. No wonder this little place is a UNESCO World Heritage Centre.
We’re laying out the best things to do on your trip to Masouleh. In the most fascinating way, the rooftops of these mountain homes are part of the walkable narrow streets above them. It’s quite steep and densely packed. In fact, between the lowest and highest points of the village, there is a 100-meter difference. Masouleh was one of the only places in Iran we visited, where cars were not allowed. Only wheelbarrows!
Where to Stay
In the heart of the village, there is a beautiful boutique place called Aman Hotel. We highly recommend giving them a chance and staying here for excellent hospitality and exquisite dining. There are several homestays available which you can book upon arrival, but if you don’t speak Farsi, it may be easier to secure something ahead of time.
What to do in Masouleh
Honestly, this a place to lay back, relax and connect with nature and locals. There are a ton of small pleasures available in the tight quarters of the village. First off, the bazaar is a unique experience in itself. You’ll find food stalls lining the market, where you can test out authentic GIilani dishes and desserts. Most authentic to Masouleh is Mirza Ghassemi, which is a stew-like dish made of smoked eggplants with a blend of tomatoes, garlic and olive oil. Of course, Ash Reshteh, the local favorite creamy noodle and spinach soup. Another famous bite is the Kolucheh, cookie-patty which is typically associated with the nearby city of Fuman.
The Bazar is where many of the locals sell their handmade crafts, from rugs, to dolls and local attire. Speaking of attire, there is a handful of booths that sell a photographic experience of dressing up in traditional clothes and taking panoramic photos with the mountain range in the backdrop. A bit cliche? Yes. Should you do it? Absolutely.
Excursions
Driving out of Masouleh and into nearby cities is dreamy. This part of Iran is known for its tea farms, which you can see lining the countryside. Take a moment or two and enjoy the journey.
Rudkhan Castle of the Hashashin
This is not a hike for the weak, I repeat, you’ve been warned. Now that being said, it’s a must do if you are mind and body – able. The castle is almost completely absorbed by the surrounding forest. It sits between two peaks of a mountain, where the elevation ranges from 600 to 700 meters. Constructed during the Sasanian era, the castle was used as a defensive military complex against Arab invasions. But it’s said that the fort was used until the 18th century.
The hike can take the average person up to an hour each way, if not more. Along the road, you’ll find several resting areas – frankly, be prepared to stop every chance you get. The trek is a bit rough, especially in the fall or on a rainy day, but well worth it. If you are visiting in the rainy season, make sure to wear suitable shoes as many parts of the hike are slippery and muddy. And you don’t want to be falling the entire way up (speaking from experience here). At the entrance of the compound, there is a big bazaar lined with shops and little restaurants. Snag a warm pastry on the go to fuel your trip.
Gilan Rural Heritage Museum
Deep in the Sarvan Forest Park, the only open-air museum in Iran extends 45 acres. This is a highly recommended stop on your weekend trip to Masouleh and the Gilan province in general. The museum is essentially a complex of reconstructed rural architecture from the province, as well as displays of ways of life, culture, tools and clothing from different villages. Aside from dwellings, the museum has also reconstructed a traditional café, farms, rice barns, a mosque, a school and a blacksmith workshop. All of which offer interactive experiences for visitors. Your tour will include a guide, dressed in traditional clothes from one of the local villages, who will transport you back over 100 years.
Depending on how much time you have on your trip, you can squeeze a hike through the Saravan Forest Park. It’s one of the oldest forest fields in the region and is known for its unique plant species. This is probably a much better option in the spring or summer, although the fall colors are quite spectacular it’s a bit tricky in the humidity.
