Gabala, or also and more locally known as Qabala, is the most ancient of cities in Azerbaijan. Rich in culture, rich in activities and most definitely rich in sights. In the mountain region to the North of the country I can truly say that I had found a perfect luxury getaway. As I am blogging my way through Azerbaijan it is nice to stop and show you here some wow factor of the resorts to stay at.
Looking out from the entrance to Qafqaz Riverside Hotel.Many of you know I am happy camping in a tent or trekking via hostels but a bit of pampering, in remote beauty, in a country I love. How could I resist? Five star here is truly relaxing and hospitable. Gorgeous yet never too stuffy. Genuine service with great friendly smiles. Comfort absolutely out of this world and the list of recreation activities go on and on….. I could have hidden away here for months quite happily 
I will start where I stayed, The Qafqaz Riverside Hotel, oh my! Just look at this view from the room balcony, looking up the valley to the mountains that lead to Russia. Oh of course I loved the mountains.
In this valley they are in the process of building a huge ski resort. Progress is swift and after looking at the layout and plans I know that I will most definitely be back, ski kit in hand. But the Riverside hotel is not alone in providing a wonderful experience with a bit of pampering. Taking a tour around the Qafqaz Resort Hotel and also the Qafqaz Sport Hotel I sure did get the feeling that no stone had been unturned in helping give a memorable experience to all whom enter. In only the past few weeks there had been foreign dignitaries passing through and the likes of Gérard Depardieu love to stay here and hide away from it all.
Idyllic spot for lunch. Cabins hidden away in the woods, quiet, beautiful and romantic.
What a place to unwind after a day of adventure and culture. Chill in the bar of the Riverside Hotel. Cheers!
A perfect delicious lunch… Cheeses, butters, soup, broth, bread, turkey, lamb ….. and washed down with the local fresh pomegranate juice.
I will be showing more of the local culture, sights and activities in these parts in other posts, way too much to cram in here. Sport, hiking, fishing, hunting, skiing and the list goes on. Football is a big sport in Azerbaijan, Gabala being in their premier division. Arsenal fans especially would respect their manager, a certain Tony Adams. Gabala Lake is a gem I am glad I came upon. Half natural, half man made. It is brimming with activities galore and especially in summer. I enjoyed a while of winter bliss at the shores and pondered excitedly at what lay ahead.
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