Gabala and Nohur Lake

Gabala is Azerbaijan’s mountain escape: a small town among wooded hills and orchards at the foot of the Greater Caucasus, three and a half to four hours by road from Baku. The drive, through the vineyards of Shamakhi and past the Diri Baba mausoleum cut into a cliff, is part of the experience.

At the Tufandag resort, cable cars climb high above the forest for wide views of the peaks, with skiing in winter. Nohur Lake, ringed by hills, is good for a quiet walk, a boat ride or tea by the water, and the area has family-friendly resorts with plenty to keep children busy.

Gabala is cooler than Baku, so pack a warm layer even in summer. Spend a night here to make the most of it, or continue to Sheki.