These days, one of the most popular travel styles is rural tourism and visiting pristine areas, a new travel trend that requires staying in eco-lodges. If you want to get to know the best eco-lodges in Iran, stay with us.
Eco-tourism, or rural tourism, is a popular style of travel and tourism where tourists visit untouched, uninhabited natural areas around the world to benefit from the pristine nature. This style of tourism has become very common in recent years and has gained a large following in many countries, to the extent that facilities have been made available for nature lovers in eco-lodges across Iran. Below are 10 of these eco-lodges for you to get acquainted with.
1. Homayouni Eco-Lodge, Shiraz
The weather in this city, especially in spring, is captivating. Located in the old fabric of Shiraz, in an area where the scent of orange blossom fills the air during spring, there is a traditional house that had been unused for a long time until it was revived and renovated in 2018. This old house is located near important landmarks in Shiraz like Shah Cheragh, Vakil Bazaar, Naranjestan Qavam, Nasir al-Mulk Mosque, and Khan School, allowing easy access to these places. The house has ten rooms, located in a narrow alley, and the building has two floors with stained glass windows, wooden railings, and intricate carvings as part of its charm.
2. Anar Aqda Eco-Lodge
Anar Aqda Eco-Lodge gets busiest during May, holidays, and the end of summer. Located 90 kilometers from Yazd, this eco-lodge is built in a traditional style with mud and brick, and it has two stories. In the outdoor area, there are wooden chairs and beds, surrounded by beautiful flowers. A traditional restaurant is located on the top floor of the building. Nearby historical sites include the Aqda Caravanserai, Rig Zarrin Desert, and the historic gate.
3. Barati Eco-Lodge
Barati Eco-Lodge is located near the Egypt Desert in the village of Misr, a popular spot for desert adventurers. The Egypt Desert has beautiful sand dunes that attract thrill-seekers looking for a new experience. The lodge, made of adobe and wood, offers basic amenities for a comfortable stay, while maintaining the coolness inside, thanks to its adobe structure.
4. Tosalian Eco-Lodge, Natanz
In the historical province of Isfahan, the Tosalian Eco-Lodge, a 500 square meter building dating back to the Qajar period, was restored in 2017. It retains its old structure with adobe walls, wooden windows, and clay flowerpots, evoking memories of a grandmother's home with the scent of tea and freshly baked bread. The narrow adobe stairs and small rooms are a major draw for tourists.
5. Kahndaj Chaharan Eco-Lodge
Located in Khorasan Razavi, this eco-lodge was built during the Afsharid era and was renovated in 2018. It has multiple sections, including a watchtower, pond room, king's chambers, and a basement. The large pond in front of the building, with its brick decorations and sculpted columns, brings a nostalgic feeling to visitors.
6. Khalo Mansour Eco-Lodge, Qeshm
Khalo Mansour is one of the most popular eco-lodges in Qeshm, attracting many tourists in recent years. It is located just 300 meters from the coast, providing visitors with a breathtaking view upon waking up. Guests here enjoy a unique experience, starting their day with the view of the sea.
7. Esfahak Historical Eco-Lodge, Tabas
Located in the heart of the desert, the Esfahak Eco-Lodge, made with adobe and clay, reflects the ancient architecture of the region. The village of Esfahak, partially destroyed in the 1978 earthquake, has been rebuilt to create a unique tourist destination. Visitors can enjoy stargazing in the clear skies of the desert, especially during the cool spring and summer evenings.
8. Telarkhaneh Badrbar Eco-Lodge, Rasht
Telarkhaneh Badrbar Eco-Lodge, a traditional Gilan-style house, began operating as an eco-lodge in 2015. Located in the Khomam region, between Rasht and Bandar Anzali, this eco-lodge offers a unique experience of local life. Guests can participate in activities such as feeding local animals, nature walks, fruit picking, and basket weaving.
9. Saneh Nika Eco-Lodge, Yazd
Saneh Nika, a traditional house in Yazd dating back to the Qajar period, has been transformed into an eco-lodge for tourists. The house, which once belonged to a Zoroastrian family, retains its beautiful architecture and invites guests to experience the charm of old series. The rooms, hallways, and beds offer a regal feel and enhance the travel experience.
10. Kharjier Eco-Lodge, Delijan
Kharjier Eco-Lodge, located in the old quarter of Naraq, a town in Delijan, is built with adobe and clay. The architecture resembles that of a traditional garden house. Nearby attractions include the Naraq Grand Mosque, qanat, the Haj Abdul Baqi Naraqi caravanserai, and the Shams al-Sultana Caravanserai. Natural sites around this lodge include the Aliya Plain, the Naraq meteorite, Gisu Waterfall, and the Vilijia Hills.
