The Dove-White Sabalan Mountain Soared into the Sky

Whoever has not ascended mountains knows little of the beauties of Nature. Sabalan is a high mountain with most unique and varied natural landscapes in the world, lying in the North West of Iran in the province of Ardabil. As the third highest mountain in the country with a peak soaring to 4811 meters and a small lake at its peak, the inactive volcano of Sablan has experienced a big popularity among artists and common people throughout the centuries.

Sabalan represents one of the most important natural inheritances with the tompost peak, and the most striking trails calling all admirers of mountains.  With its enchanting natural spas on its foothill, beautiful summer and the great Alvarez ski resort, Sabalan, is of great interest to tourists melting borders and confines. Whenever you go to Sabalan, have your camera ready for postcard-perfect shots time after time. Aside from its difficult routes and crumbling walls, Sabalan is regarded as one of the most stunning mountains in Iran with its many hot springs and mineral cold water.

The best time to climb to the top is in summer and during the morning, which is more likely for climate stability. In spring and summer, you’ll find it impossible to resist the call of Sabalan emerald-green areas, fields of vibrant wildflowers and its crystalline lake. In winter, Sabalan peak is stormy with snow and ice. The weather in the peak is unstable, although there is always the chance of snow and rain. To climb the Sabalan, there are several paths. But the most common is the east route, perfect for climbers and flagged all the way. 

Sabalan mountain, Ardabil,Iran

Like stunning mirrors of outstanding natural beauty, lake in Mt. Sabalan reflects the splendor of the surrounding landscape in its water. Sleeping quietly between the mountains, at an altitude of 4811 meters on the summit of Mount Sabalan, the lake has an oval shape and the appearance of a piece of exquisite jade, extended to an area of over 12,000 square meters. Closely interconnected with human existence and the places around it, Sabalan Lake cast a powerful spell over its visitors. The water is crystalline clear and the temperature in the hot summer months is almost zero.

Most days of the year the lake is frozen, covered with ice and snow and about 2 to 3 months over the year (July, August and September), it is not open and unfrozen due to the climatic conditions of the region.

While most months of the year the lake surface is covered by ice and the living conditions is reduced to a minimum, however, in the summer, especially in August if you watch the lake from the heights overlooking the lake, it seems green indicating the growth of green algae. In addition to algae, a great number of crustacean animals live in the lake.

The conic opening of the volcano turned into an elegant lake unmatched in its kind as a rare natural phenomenon and an unexplored wonderland of beauty and remarkable biological diversity. Lake water is provided from gradual accumulation of melting snow, glaciers and rainfall. In the evening, when the sun withdraws discreetly back into its kingdom, the lights are reflected in the calm waters of the lake. Mountain peaks bestow even greater beauty on the region and the blue water embellishes the breathtaking scenery. Every season here has its own beauty and adds to the charms of the region for thousands of nature lovers and mountain climbers all year round.

Sabalan mountain, Ardabil,Iran