Shamakhi city, the capital of the ancient state of Shirvan, considered to be one of the most culturally rich regions of our country. It is rightfully declared to be the center of Azerbaijan’s poetry and viticulture; reputation precedes it and therefore the kind words about this city’s beauty spreads all around the world. There you’ll have the chance to visit the Juma Mosque, its grandiose frame catching anyone’s eye. You’ll be informed about the history of Islam in Azerbaijan, which adds symbolism to the mix, considering that Juma Mosque is the oldest Muslim Temple in all Caucasus. Hitting the road again, we move along Mugan Mountain Pass, the landscapes following us right to the north-west of Azerbaijan.

After a long eventful day, we settle amidst the rich greenery of Ismailli forest to have a lunch. The whole atmosphere of the place and the three-course meal full of traditional food will bring a truly majestic experience that will be remembered by tourists for a very long time. At the end of our break, we will also share tea in traditional Azerbaijani cups called armudu. After this relaxing hour, gathering our power we will take on a road again, entering the second but nonetheless exciting part of our tour.

At this point we finally reach the magnificent city of Gabala, the capital of the Gabala district. Its existence has been woven into the history of Azerbaijan since the ancient times, traced back to Caucasian Albania when it played the role of the capital, now turned into the grand ski resort with one of the most famous hotels of the region “Tufandag” located there. The views of these places can be looked at from the high of cable car cables, that are stretched over the territory. The highest point of the region is situated there, the Sleeping Beauty Mountain standing tall over two thousand meters above the worlds ocean level.

The next place we are visiting is no less picturesque that everything we have seen before. On our way back to the capital, we stumble upon the large lake hidden away from prying eyes, creating an obscene experience for everyone who steps foot on that ground. It lets its visitors feel the deep connection to the nature of the country itself and resonates with one’s soul. The movie-like experience of walking along the shore, deep in your thoughts, creates a calm and mesmerizing aura around the place. It all ends where it started: the beautiful Baku City, so different but at the same time so inherently alike to the rest of the country. You come back renewed, happy and insanely tired, but this feeling is pleasant and well-welcomed. It’s the tiredness of learning something new, of opening your eyes just a little wider and indication of a time earned and not wasted.

One of the highlights of your journey will be a visit to the Seven Beauties Waterfall, located just a short drive from Gabala. Hidden in a lush green forest, this breathtaking natural wonder consists of seven cascading levels, each offering its own unique charm and stunning views. As you ascend along the path, you’ll be surrounded by the sounds of rushing water, birdsong, and the fresh scent of the forest. While reaching the higher levels can be a bit challenging — especially after the fourth level, which requires climbing stairs — the panoramic views and serene atmosphere make it well worth the effort. Along the way, there are charming local cafés where you can rest and enjoy traditional tea with a view. This spot is a perfect escape into nature, where every moment feels like a scene from a fairy tale.