A rose-scented region in Azerbaijan’s mountainous northwest, Zagatala attracts travellers seeking a sweet, scenic escape.
Framed by the forested slopes of the Caucasus Mountains and fed by a series of rivers and waterfalls, Zagatala’s verdant valleys are Azerbaijan’s best kept secret.
As cultured as it is eye-catching, Zagatala lies on the border to both Georgia and Russia, as a region of pristine natural landscapes drenched in fascinating history.
From abundant rose harvests and hazelnut festivals to archaeological ruins and a fortified capital city, the wooded mountainsides of Zagatala have many stories to tell, bolstered by cultural diversity and mouth-watering local flavours.
Nature and heritage in Zagatala
A worthy base for exploration in the region is Zagatala City. Despite being one of Azerbaijan’s smaller cities, Zagatala holds much cultural clout as the district’s capital, a place where the unique flavours of the region – its local languages, traditional handicrafts and cuisine – come together.
At the entrance to the city, Tala Mosque stands as one of the important historical monument in the region, its construction linked to early 19th century philanthropist, Haji Zeynalabdin Taghiyev. History lovers will be further impressed by the red-bricked old quarter, navigating the ramparts of Zagatala Fortress, down the broad Galaduzu stairway and onto Dede Gorgud Park where a fifth century Albanian Church stands the test of time.
For more insight into the region’s storied history, visit the Zagatala History Museum on Heydar Aliyev Avenue, before returning to the main square to witness peach-coloured sunsets over the mountains.
Village life in Zagatala
Beyond the city, Zagatala’s various villages offer a glimpse into authentic Azerbaijani life. The best known of these villages is Jar, where rustic hospitality meets bountiful orchards on the edge of the forest.
For culinary adventures out west, the forested Magov village offers a behind-the-scenes look at sustainable fish farming, with the opportunity to catch your own dinner at Zagatala Trout Fish Farm.
Gabizdere village, further north on the banks of the River Katekh, is another popular stop-off for its 19th century landmarks and plentiful local produce. The restaurants here offer warm hospitality with unique regional dishes like sürhüllü (Cavatelli pasta), megesh (salted cheese) and maxara pancakes, to be enjoyed in view of the mountains. If you come to Gabizdere in spring, you’ll also want to join an al fresco community picnic for Hedik Bayrami, a local celebration marking the ‘reawakening’ of the land after winter.
Also in the wider region is Lekit Village. Located just north of Gakh, Lekit offers sweet appeal with its abundance of honey farms, some of which double up as guest houses, such as family-run Api Delta.
Hiking in Zagatala
Swapping city comforts for forest baths will inevitably take you into the countryside of Zagatala, where lush hiking trails, magnificent waterfalls and crisp mountain air await.
The Zagatala State Nature Reserve covers 250 square kilometres of pristine forest and mountainside as the largest expanse of protected land in the region. The reserve is home to 900 different plant species, diverse birdlife and various species of mammal, including Caucasian deer, lynx and weasel. Please note that non-scientific activities are restricted.
Elsewhere in the region, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to hike amidst pristine forest, pasture and valley scenery. Marked routes such as the Jar – Honzogor – Gabizdere trail offer a combination of nature and heritage between the rural villages of Jar and Gabizdere, resting at the shepherd camps upon Honzogor plateau.
Across the Talachay river from Jar, the picturesque village of Mishlesh is also a great base for trekking adventures, following freshwater streams towards the powerful cascades of Ganslar Waterfall. Further south in Yukhari Chardagalar village meanwhile, the ancient lore of Parigala Fortress (Fairy Castle), etched into the cliffs above, is sure to attract curious trekkers.
If multi-day hiking isn’t an option, outdoor activities for all the family include camping beside the Katekh River or a visit to Hope Lake eco farm.
The Land of Roses
Brought to Zagatala in the 1960s from Bulgaria, roses are now an established symbol of the region, blanketing the hillsides in a hue of pink each year. Early May is the best time to see the full variety, when the fields at Gazangul Farm bloom with rose and lavender.
Admire the flowers up close on a morning tour around Lecheq Farm and Distillery, located in the village of Ashagi Tala. Here, Damascus roses bloom en masse alongside fragrant herbs such as lavender and mint. At the nearby refinery, you can also witness the process of rose-oil distillation firsthand or simply shop the farm’s wide range of jams, perfumes and natural products.
Besides flowers, Zagatala also cultivates tea leaves and fruits. Taste them for yourself any time of day, with the ceremonial pairing of hot black tea and sweet preserves.
A destination for all seasons
Whether you seek adventure in the mountains, cultural immersion or a relaxing escape in nature, Zagatala promises unforgettable experiences all year round.
Spring paints the landscape in vibrant hues, while summer offers ideal weather for outdoor activities. When Autumn comes, a dazzling display of colours takes over the forest, before winter transforms the region into a wonderland, perfect for snow sports and cosy fireside evenings.
If you plan on hiking, you can visit Zagatala in any season, though spring and summer provide the most favourable conditions. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 30°C, but you can expect sunny days and mild weather right through the year. If hiking at high altitude, you’ll need cold weather clothing, especially in winter.
Another way to time your trip is to align it with one of the many harvest festivals happening in the region. November is a fantastic time to visit, when Zagatala’s Hazelnut Festival showcases Azerbaijan’s status as a leading global exporter of hazelnuts, alongside cultural immersion and the opportunity to sample a wide variety of local produce and food products, such as halva and pakhlava (Azerbaijan’s own version of baklava).
If nuts don’t appeal, consider the nearby Goychay Pomegranate Festival, Balaken Persimmon Festival (October), or Novruz New Year to mark the celebration of springtime.
Planning your Zagatala vacation
Whenever you visit and whatever your travel style, Zagatala offers a tranquil introduction to the wonders of Azerbaijan. The region is suitable for any budget, with numerous guesthouses and hotels offering comfortable accommodations. Camping amidst the stunning scenery is also an option for the wild at heart.
So, pack your bags, lace up your hiking boots, and get ready to discover the magic of Zagatala, Azerbaijan’s best kept secret.
