A Complete Guide to Sarein’s Attractions: From Bubbling Springs to Leather Handicrafts

Sarein: The Hot Spring City of Ardabil

According to Saed News Tourism Service, Sarein is a small city in southern Ardabil, covering more than 1.28 million square meters, with an altitude of 1,650 meters above sea level. The city is famous for its numerous hot springs and is one of the main tourist destinations in Ardabil Province. Sarein is located 25 kilometers south of Ardabil city at 48.04° east longitude and 38.09° north latitude.

Hot Springs of Sarein

Sarein’s climate is moderate, with a maximum temperature of 25°C in summer and a minimum of -7.8°C in winter. The city receives approximately 520 millimeters of rainfall annually, and its population in 2003 was 5,250.

Economy and Industry

Sarein’s economy largely revolves around its tourism attractions, including hot springs and the beautiful nature of Mount Sabalan. The transportation system is primarily road-based, supporting tourist travel. The city has well-developed infrastructure, with access to electricity (100%), telephone (80%), gas (90%), and water (95%).

Industrially, Sarein hosts a flour mill, three sawmills, and three active mineral water factories. Agriculturally, the region produces fruits such as apples, pears, cherries, apricots, and walnuts, as well as grains and legumes including potatoes, wheat, barley, lentils, and beans. Of the population, 7% work in agriculture, 18% in industry and mining, and 75% in services.

Origin of the Name Sarein

In Arabic dictionaries, “Sarein” means “spring.” Historically, the region was also known as Sariqieh, Sareqin, or Sarghin. In 2016, the population was 5,459 people in 1,582 households.

Cultural and Artistic Heritage

The people of Ardabil have created one of the richest oral literature traditions in the Middle East, deeply rooted in folklore. This oral literature reflects customs, folk songs, and simple artistic expressions that have attracted travelers for centuries.

Traditional Foods of Sarein

• Honey and Fresh Cream (Sarshir): Visitors enjoy traditional local bread with fresh Sabalan honey and sarshir for breakfast.

• Local Kebabs: Famous and highly favored by tourists.

• Ash Doogh: A flavorful soup made from yogurt, herbs, and chickpeas, perfect after visiting hot springs.

  

  

  

  

Tourist Attractions in Sarein

• Historical Village of Kenzagh: Located 2 km east of Sarein, with multiple valleys and natural springs, surrounded by pear trees and beautiful scenery.

• Tursh Su (Sour Water Spring): Recommended for digestive and skin ailments.

• Mardan Bolaghi: A clear, cool spring suitable for treating skin conditions; nearby hills contain historic caves.

• Chaghor Choghr Hill: Home to rare reptiles like chameleons and lizards.

• Gavmish Goli Hot Spring: 1,940 meters above sea level, with a flow of 140 liters per second and water at 46°C, historically powering a local mill.

• Sabalan Hot Spring Complex: The largest hydrotherapy center in the Middle East with indoor and outdoor pools, saunas, jacuzzis, and medical treatment facilities.

• Besh Bajilar Hot Spring: One of the oldest springs, supplied by five natural sources, with therapeutic properties.

• Ancient Village of Vind Kolkhuran: A stone village with unique architectural and archaeological value.

• Anahita Ancient Hill: Contains artifacts dating to the late 2nd and early 1st millennium BCE; historically a Zoroastrian worship site.

• Golestan Valley: A scenic valley 19 km from Sarein, home to diverse wildlife and rich flora.

Best Souvenirs from Sarein

Local Foods:

• Honey (varieties include thyme, clover, sunflower, chamomile, and multi-flower honey)

• Black Halva (Qara Halva)

• Rashta (a local chocolate specialty)

• Ginger Halva

• Qachkourgi (traditional sweets for Nowruz)

• Ardabil Baklava

• Fatir (traditional bread)

• Butter and Sarshir (fresh cream)

Handicrafts:

• Jajim: Double-sided woven rugs in red and white, often used for decoration.

• Gilim: Flatwoven carpets with short pile, historically used by nomads.

• Verni: Lightweight, artistic textiles with animal and geometric motifs.

• Felt (Nemd): Traditional wool mats and decorative items.

• Copperware: Handmade, decorative, and functional utensils.

• Wool Socks: Warm and comfortable, suitable year-round.

• Leather Products: Bags, shoes, and belts made from high-quality local leather.

Sarein, with its combination of therapeutic hot springs, scenic nature, traditional foods, and vibrant handicrafts, offers a rich and immersive experience for cultural travelers and nature enthusiasts alike.