Those looking for a retreat
from Baku’s packed sights are definite to find respite on our Guba and Khinalug
tour. On the Lesser Caucasus Mountains, Khinalug is an ancient village placed
under the country’s state historical-architectural and ethnographic reserve. With
comfortable transport to and from your Baku location, the well-guided excursion
lets you discover the majestic beauty of this strikingly isolated village and
its surrounding places.
As you ride out of Baku
and journey into the Caucasus, scope out at this copiously charming route which
counts numerous natural splendors, abundance of fruit (mainly apples)
plantations, and interesting settlements, among others. On your arrival at
Beshbarmag Dag, make a pause to take in this breathtaking attraction, famed as
the Five Fingers Mountain due to its distinct shape. Your local guide will share
legends strewn around the region, allowing you to sink into the mythical charm
of this mountain which is also a significant pilgrimage site.
You’ll next wind your
way down to Guba and this unfolds a string of fascinating sights, such as the
places of worship of the region’s Shiite and Sunni communities plus the Red
Town – a prominent settlement of Caucasian Jews. With more magnificent vistas
along the way, you’ll continue your trip to marvel at the imposingly dense and
untouched landscape that encircles Qachrash Forest and Masdargah with a
waterfall.
Finally, you’ll head up
to Khinalug which is not only one of the world’s oldest inhabited regions (dating
back to more than 5000 years) but also one of the Europe’s highest settlements
at an altitude of over 2,350 meters. This picturesque village has a population of
not more than 2000 people; check out its modest cobblestone dwellings, see heaps
of tezek or manure bricks which are utilized for insulation, and be in awe at
the breathtaking mountainous scenery that encompass the region. You’ll further visit
a small museum which preserves a slice of the ancient Caucasian era.
With an optional
upgrade, you can choose to dine on an authentic Azeri lunch prepared by local
villagers before you make your way back to your Baku location.