Fereydunshahr aims to redefine Iran’s winter tourism
The establishment of a comprehensive tourism and recreational complex centered on the Fereydunshahr ski resort in Isfahan Province represents a distinct opportunity for revenue generation and functions as a pivotal instrument for fortifying Isfahan’s natural tourism brand at both national and international levels.
Mohammad Tamannaei, a faculty member at Isfahan University of Technology, underscored Isfahan’s strategic position within the North-South Transport Corridor. He noted that, despite possessing considerable potential in winter tourism, Iran contends with a deficiency in adequately equipped ski slopes and appropriate lodging facilities, according to IRNA.
He elaborated further, stating, “At present, a significant number of Iranian and international tourists opt for destinations such as Turkey and Armenia for their winter travel due to the absence of standardized amenities. However, the development of integrated facilities like the Fereydunshahr ski complex would not only capture a greater share of this market but also prolong the duration of tourist stays within Isfahan Province.”
He clarified, “Fereydunshahr is located at an elevation of 2,500 meters above sea level. This topographical characteristic results in extended snow retention compared to other ski areas across Iran.”
The academic pointed out, “In contrast to certain ski resorts dependent on artificial snow production, Fereydunshahr benefits from a naturally adequate snow cover throughout the winter season without requiring snowmaking systems. Moreover, while some slopes are operational for merely two to three months annually, the utility of the Fereydunshahr ski resort is not confined exclusively to the winter months.”
He added, “Owing to its high altitude and consistently low temperatures, the Fereydunshahr ski resort typically maintains snowy conditions for a period of four to five months. This represents a critically important competitive edge for investments in skiing and winter sports infrastructure within the region.”
Tamannaei emphasized, “From an economic standpoint, projections indicate that the ‘development of a tourism and recreational complex centered on the Fereydunshahr ski resort’ will yield satisfactory returns for investors via accommodation rentals, the provision of recreational and sporting services, sales of skiing equipment, and hospitality offerings in restaurants. Concurrently, governmental support in the tourism sector, including tax exemptions and the provision of banking facilities, may serve as additional incentives for investment in this initiative.”
He further commented, “Collectively, the execution of this project will not only establish a prominent winter tourism hub in Fereydunshahr but will also elevate Isfahan Province’s competitive standing in the tourism domain, foster the development of regional infrastructure, and augment sustainable income streams for investors and local enterprises.”
The professor also recalled, “Fereydunshahr, by virtue of its picturesque natural landscape and distinctive mountainous terrain, also possesses inherent capacity to draw tourists during the summer season. Throughout the warmer months, amenities such as mountaineering, mountain biking, and camping can be developed and promoted within the area.”
As reported by IRNA, the Fereydunshahr ski resort is situated 180 kilometers west of Isfahan on the slopes of Tsikhe Mountain. It stands as the sole standard ski resort within the province, featuring slopes with gradients of 35 degrees, and in certain sections, up to 70 degrees. It is acknowledged as the highest-altitude ski resort in Iran.