The Ski Slopes of Iran

“New year, new me” is one of the most tired clichés out there, and yet when January rolled around I felt myself longing to try something different. I was craving the absolute freedom of the slopes, that feeling of being on top of the world, the adrenaline of speeding down a mountain, yet dreading the crowds and inevitable repetitiveness of the usual resorts. Then, I discovered Dizin, Iran’s highest resort, home to the best slopes in the Middle East.

Dizin is covered in pristine dry snow, providing ideal skiing conditions and breath-taking views of Iran’s tallest mountains. The lifts climb up as high as 12,000 feet above sea level, dwarfing many of the more commercial resorts. There are runs for all levels, but daredevils looking to really start the new year with a bang should try one of the many double-black diamond slopes. Luckily, Dizin doesn’t discriminate against snowboarders! As someone with no patience, I was thrilled that there was so little queueing involved. After a long day on the slopes, I’d warm up with some hearty lamb stew or ghormeh sabzi, Iran’s national dish. Those Middle Eastern spices really hit the spot when you’re freezing! Iranian après-ski is truly unique. It was fascinating to meet and really talk to the locals in a relaxed, casual setting. I can honestly say that everyone I met on my trip was genuinely friendly, and it was great to hear their opinions on world affairs.

Alas, one does not simply travel to Iran without taking in some of their mind-blowing history and culture. Our guide was a bottomless well of knowledge as we toured around the bustling streets of Tehran, soaking up the urban culture. The bazaars provide plenty of opportunities to pick up great souvenirs for all your jealous friends back home, and at great prices too! It was incredible to experience such an amazing city so close to the slopes. The Palace of Flowers is a must-see, with extraordinary architecture and beautiful, intricate mosaics. Iran’s fascinating history, dating back to the Stone Age, is housed in the National Museum, with stunning artifacts from the Persian Empire. With little previous knowledge of Iran’s past, I was blown away by their fascinating culture spanning thousands of years.

Forget dieting and resolutions, start the year off right, with a fresh perspective and another country ticked off the bucket list.

Join our group tour for our annual Iran Skiing Adventure this January 2018. If the dates don’t suit and you want to design your own Iran tour, view our unique sample itinerary for our tailor-made Iran tours.