Serene beauty of Fandoqlu Forest in Ardebil Province
Fandoqlu Forest is considered one of the most beautiful attractions in Ardebil Province for nature enthusiasts. If you long for the fresh air of a valley teeming with flowers such as chamomile and a pristine, untouched forest, to immerse yourself in this beauty with the freshness and purity of the air, and to revitalize your weary body and soul, a visit to this enchanting and pristine natural wonder is a must.
Fandoqlu Forest is situated in the south of Namin, covering an area of approximately 16,000 hectares. Given its vast expanse, the tourist offerings of Fandoqlu are incredibly diverse, with some of the finest nature hiking trails in Iran found within this forest.
The abundance of hazelnut trees in this forest has earned it the name Fandoqlu Forest (Fandoqlu means hazelnut in Persian).
Meshe Sui Hot Spring: Located in the heart of the forest at an altitude of 630 meters, near the villages of Aladizgeh and Gildeh, Meshe Sui Hot Spring is renowned for its therapeutic properties.
Chamomile Flowers Valley: Fandoqlu Forest transforms into a stunning carpet of chamomile flowers from spring through early summer. The annual Chamomile Flower Festival coincides with the World Day of Flowers and Plants on June 14th and 15th. This festival attracts both domestic and international tourists to this pristine region, known for its natural reserve of medicinal plants. Spanning several hundred hectares of chamomile meadows, the festival is organized by the Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts Organization of Ardebil Province. Skilled local artists and craftsmen showcase heritage items like rugs, mattresses, saddlebags, and traditional woolen blankets at the event.
Flora and Fauna: In the Fandoqlu Forest, 19 species of forest trees have been identified, including rare varieties like hazelnut, maple, ash and oak, enhancing the region’s value. The area is also home to wildlife such as foxes, wolves, brown bears, and martens, as well as birds like magpies, partridges, golden eagles, and hooded crows.
The valleys of Fandoqlu Forest boast one of the world’s most beautiful and rarest flowers, the Lilium ledebourii presenting great potential for tourism development. Chamomile, a fragrant annual plant reaching heights of 20 to 40 centimeters, grows naturally in fields, valleys, gardens, and predominantly in the Fandoqlu Forest.
Fandoqlu Forest is where the dry and cold climate of Ardabil Province meets the warm and humid climate of Gilan Province. As a result, the forest is often shrouded in fog throughout the year, with low-level cloud movements observable even on the hottest summer days. The elevated location contributes to a moderate and cool climate overall.
Accommodation
Tourists visiting Fandoqlu Forest can stay at a small accommodation facility offering overnight stays. For those seeking a more adventurous experience, camping in the picturesque surroundings of Fandoqlu is also an option.
Recreational activities
One of the standout recreational activities in Fandoqlu Forest is the grass ski slope. This beautiful slope rises to 1700 meters above sea level and meets all necessary standards. The Fandoqlu-Heyran Cable Car is another thrilling attraction in the area, capable of transporting 1,350 people per hour along a 1752-meter route.
Best time to visit
Thanks to its elevation, Fandoqlu Forest enjoys a pleasantly cool summer and a cold, humid winter. Situated in the cold regions of Ardebil Province, this forest offers a refreshing escape from the summer heat. During the spring and fall seasons, Fandoqlu Forest showcases a variety of flowers, including tulips and chamomile, adding to its natural beauty.