Sarein in Ardabil | Iran City of Hot Springs

Sarein is a city located in the Ardabil province of Iran. It's a popular tourist destination known for its mineral spa springs, making it a great place for relaxation and rejuvenation.

The city has seen significant development in recent years, with new areas boasting modern infrastructure. One of Sarein's biggest draws during the summer months is its refreshingly cool weather. Even in the peak of summer, temperatures can drop below 15 degrees Celsius, offering a welcome escape from the heat.

Sarein is particularly famous for its hydrotherapy treatments using the mineral-rich hot springs. These treatments have made the city a popular destination for both Iranian and international tourists, especially during the winter. Visitors can experience the unique combination of the warmth of the springs and the beauty of the surrounding Sabalan mountain during the winter months.

Sarein's diverse attractions, from the iconic hot springs to its stunning natural landscapes, contribute significantly to the city's thriving tourism industry.

This article will explore all about Sarein in Ardebil and its must-see sights, providing a comprehensive guide for your next visit.

Historical Background of Sarein in Ardabil

Sarein's history stretches back centuries, with its earliest name being "Seriin (سریین)." This name, meaning "cool place" in Azari Turkish, reflects the city's refreshing climate, a stark contrast to the surrounding region. Over time, the name gradually transformed into the present-day "Sareyn(سرعین)." Arabic dictionaries define Sareyn as "land of springs" or simply "springs," a fitting description for a city known for its abundance of mineral-rich hot springs.

Today, Sareyn has blossomed into a beautiful and desirable paradise. Its hot springs, boasting numerous therapeutic properties, are a major draw for visitors. Notably, Ardabil province boasts the highest concentration of such springs in Iran, and Sarein holds the majority within its borders.

Beyond the famed hot springs, Sarein offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue. Studies by historians and archaeological discoveries suggest the area belonged to the ancient lands of Zikerto and Sagarti within Ardabil province. Following the Arab conquest, the region faded from prominence for a period. However, the Safavid era witnessed a resurgence, with the construction of numerous tombs and buildings in Sarqin (Sarein). This construction activity highlights the significant role the area played during the Safavid dynasty.

Up until around 500 years ago, Sarqin (Sarein) was considered a district of Irdemousa village. However, the discovery of a natural hot spring shifted the focus, leading to the town's name change from Sarqin to Sarein.

The late 40s in Iran marked a turning point with the subsequent development of infrastructure like streets, hotels, and inns. These advancements paved the way for Sarein's transformation into a thriving urban center and a popular tourist destination for domestic and international travelers.

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Sarein Culture and Traditions

Sarein's vibrant culture is deeply intertwined with the broader cultural heritage of Ardabil province. The city's residents are predominantly Azari, speaking Azerbaijani Turkish. This region has a rich history of contributing to Iranian literature and music, with a strong tradition of oral storytelling.

Warm hospitality is a defining characteristic of Sarein's people. Following the Shi'a branch of Islam, residents observe Islamic ceremonies and holidays with great reverence.  A unique custom practiced here is the observance of a fast from the beginning of Dhul-Hijjah until Eid al-Adha, breaking the fast with sacrificial meat.  During Eid al-Adha, families gather for prayers, sacrificing cows or sheep (Islamic ritual sacrifice), and sharing the meat with relatives as a gesture of goodwill. Visiting cemeteries to pay respects to ancestors, honoring elders, and exchanging gifts between families are also central to Sarein's Eid traditions.

Nowruz, the Iranian New Year, is another significant celebration. Three days before the festivities, residents visit elders to offer well wishes for the coming year. Visits to cemeteries and shrines are also customary during this joyous time.  Other cultural highlights include the Shawl ceremony, a special event held on the last Wednesday of the year, and religious gatherings involving Tazieh Khani during the first ten days of Muharram.

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Handicraft and Souvenirs of Sarein

Sarein's rich cultural heritage extends to its vibrant handicraft scene. Tourists flock to shopping malls and markets, eager to take home a piece of Sarein's artistic legacy. Many of these crafts share a close connection to the broader cultural traditions of Ardabil province.

1. Jajim: The undisputed star of Sarein's handicrafts is Jajim, a two-layered, lint-free rug renowned for its unique textures and vibrant colors. Traditionally woven with wool or cotton threads, Jajim features a distinctive striped or diamond-patterned design. White and red are the dominant colors, creating a visually striking contrast. Jajim's popularity has transcended its original use as a floor covering. Today, it's a sought-after decorative element, adding a touch of Sarein's artistic spirit to modern homes.
2. Sarein Kilim(Gelim): Crafted with a smooth surface and shorter piles compared to carpets, these Kilim rugs are typically made from goat wool. The quality is directly linked to the thread thickness, with finer, softer wool producing a more prized rug. Sarein Kilim rugs have enjoyed a multifaceted role throughout history, serving as practical saddle covers for horses as well as exquisite decorative pieces within homes.
3. Namad(Felt): Producing felt requires a higher level of skill compared to other Sarein crafts. This traditional underlay, created from compressed sheep's wool, lacks any woven texture. The "Namadmali (felt making)" method, a time-tested technique, allows artisans to create stunning decorative items and beautiful clothing from felt.
4. Woolen Socks: Sarein's artisans showcase their talent in the intricate details of woolen socks. These colorful and practical items go beyond keeping feet warm in the cold season. The natural wool material also helps regulate moisture and prevent unpleasant foot odor, even in hot weather. Additionally, the wool protects the skin from irritation. Caring for these beautiful socks is simple - a gentle handwash with cold water ensures their longevity.
5. Leather Products: The location of Sarein in Ardabil provides ideal conditions for raising livestock. This, in turn, has fostered a thriving leather industry. Skilled artisans transform natural leather into a variety of popular products, including bags, shoes, and belts. These durable and stylish items are a perfect embodiment of Sarein's artistic heritage and functionality.

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Culinary Delights: Sarein Popular Foods

While Sarein in Ardebil boasts a range of delectable dishes, some hold a special place in the city's culinary heritage. These unique edibles are often passed down through generations, preserving the secret recipes of Sarein's culinary masters. Sarein's handicrafts perfectly complement these delicious treats, offering a well-rounded souvenir experience for visitors.

1. Reis Chocolate: This delightful chocolate, free of flour, is a rich blend of milk, sugar, glucose, natural butter, special cream, walnuts, and cocoa. The mixture is meticulously cut and shaped in traditional metal molds, creating a truly unique experience for chocolate lovers.
2. Natural Honey: Sareyn's verdant landscape and temperate climate create a haven for a variety of flowering plants and medicinal herbs. This, in turn, fosters a thriving beekeeping industry, resulting in some of the most delicious and prized honey in all of Iran. Sarein honey, available in a variety of flavors like milkvetch, thyme, coriander, and chamomile, is a natural and healthy souvenir. Honeycomb can also be purchased for those seeking a quick and delightful treat.
3. Black Halva (Qareh Halva): While lesser known than other delicacies, Black Halva is a powerhouse of nutrients and boasts potential health benefits. This delectable treat, often enjoyed with tea during the colder months, offers a unique flavor profile and a potential health boost.
4. Ginger Halva: This robust and flavorful sweet, boasting a warm character, is a perfect souvenir from Sarein. Made with ginger powder, wheat flour, sugar, butter, and a touch of solid oil, it can be decorated with pistachios or coconut powder for an extra visual and textural treat.
5. Dairy Delights: Ardabil province takes pride in its high-quality dairy products, a testament to its rich livestock production. Among these, butter and clotted cream (sarshir) are local favorites. Savoring these creamy delights with a drizzle of natural Sabalan honey is an experience not to be missed.
6. Fatir Bread: A traditional sweet bread enjoyed for both breakfast and evening snacks. This thicker bread comes in two variations: nutty and plain. The plain variety pairs perfectly with sweet tea or a local drink like Sarshir, while the nutty version can be enjoyed on its own.
7. Ash-e doogh: No culinary exploration of Sarein is complete without experiencing the city's famed yogurt soup. This tangy soup, featuring garlic as its prominent flavor, with rice, chickpeas and minced meat is a delightful combination of sour buttermilk and vegetables.

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Must-visit Attractions of Sarein

This charming city boasts a wealth of natural attractions, all unspoiled and waiting to be explored. Unlike expensive vacations, Sarein offers a delightful escape at a fraction of the cost.

And let's not forget the surrounding villages, brimming with historical significance, that add another layer of intrigue to your Sarein adventure. Top it all off with pleasant summer weather, and you've got a recipe for an unforgettable travel experience.

1- Gavmish Goli Hot Spring

If you're looking for the most historic hot spring experience in Sarein, Gavmish Goli is the place to go. This natural spring has been around for centuries, and its name even translates to "Buffalo Spring" – a nod to the buffaloes that once bathed in its warm waters.

Today, Gavmish Goli is a popular spot for tourists seeking relaxation and potential relief from joint and muscle pain. The hot spring is quite large, measuring about 400 meters wide. The mineral-rich water is known for its therapeutic properties, and some doctors even recommend it to their patients.

2- Sabalan Hot Spring

Located on the slopes of Mount Sabalan, Iran's third-highest peak, lies Sabalan Hot Spring. This renowned hot spring complex is not just a Sarein highlight, but one of the most famous in all of Iran. The geothermal activity of the region has enriched the spring's water with a variety of mineral salts, including anions of carbonate, bicarbonate, chloride, magnesium, and potassium. These minerals are believed to contribute to the therapeutic properties of the water, potentially aiding in the treatment of various ailments.

It's important to note that those with heart or respiratory conditions should consult a doctor before visiting Sabalan Hot Spring. However, for many visitors, the spring offers a chance to unwind and experience the potential health benefits of the mineral-rich water. The complex itself boasts various facilities to enhance your experience, including hydrotherapy salons, physiotherapy services, massage options, and a buffet restaurant.

3- Besh Bajilar Hot Spring

The name Besh Bajilar, which translates to "Five Springs" in Turkish, perfectly captures the essence of this Sarein attraction. Five natural hot water outlets continuously feed the pool, creating a restorative experience.

Similar in size and therapeutic properties to Gavmish Goli, Besh Bajilar offers a slightly cooler bathing experience. The water temperature here typically sits around 36 degrees Celsius, compared to Gavmish Goli's warmer waters. This cooler temperature makes Besh Bajilar a good option for those seeking relief from nerve and joint pain, while still enjoying the mineral-rich benefits of the hot spring.

4- Alvars Village

If you're looking to expand your Sarein experience, consider a visit to Alvars village. This nearby village is known for its beautiful natural environment. During the summer, the lush plains offer a refreshing escape. Adding to the appeal, Alvars boasts a rich history estimated to be 3,000 years old. History and archaeology enthusiasts will find much to explore in this ancient settlement.

Alvars caters not only to history buffs but also to those with a fondness for local flavors. The village is famous for its high-quality honey, kaymak (a clotted cream also known as sarshir), and traditional handicrafts. Be sure to explore the shops and treat yourself to these unique items – a delicious way to remember your Sarein trip.

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5- Historic Village of Kanzag

Alvars isn't the only charming village near Sarein. Kanzag village holds significant historical value and boasts a picturesque setting. Imagine strolling through verdant gardens with sparkling rivers weaving between the lush greenery. Kanzag offers a tranquil escape amidst natural beauty.

If your visit coincides with the harvest season, be sure to try the village's famed pears – their flavor is known to surprise and delight visitors. Adding to the intrigue, Kanzag holds a mystical wonder – a cave that has long attracted explorers and researchers. 

6- Shāyeq Village

Just outside Sarein, approximately 7 kilometers away, lies another village sure to capture your attention with its beauty and natural surroundings. This charming spot is Shāyeq village.

One of the village's main attractions is Zal Hill, a place of natural beauty. Discoveries suggest the village itself is over 300 years old. This rich history may spark your interest and entice you to explore its streets and surroundings.

7- Beile Dargh Village

Just 3 kilometers from Sarein city, a haven awaits: Beile Dargh village, also known as Vila Darre by locals. This village is renowned for its breathtaking beauty that leaves a lasting impression on first-time visitors.

Bile Dargh's charm lies in its picturesque valleys. Lush vegetation thrives here, creating a feast for the eyes. Natural mineral waters, wild honeybee hives, and other elements all contribute to the village's pristine natural character, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers.

For those seeking adventure, the surrounding mountains offer an opportunity to explore hidden caves.

8- Golestan Valley

Forget the Arctic and Antarctic – natural glaciers exist in Iran as well! Golestan Valley, also known as Alvares Valley due to its proximity to Alvars village, offers a chance to encounter these wonders. The valley's name translates to "Valley of Flowers," but its true beauty lies in the presence of natural glaciers.

Adding to its charm, Golestan Valley is dotted with numerous water reservoirs, earning it the nickname "Valley of Golden Water Reservoirs." The interplay of glaciers, water, and potentially colorful vegetation likely creates a breathtaking vista that will leave a lasting impression on visitors.

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9- Vargeh Saran Waterfall

North of Sarein city, nestled on the verdant slopes of Mount Sabalan, lies the Vargeh Saran waterfall, a natural wonder belonging to Vargehsaran village. The cascading water creates a symphony of sound as it tumbles over rocks on its descent. This harmonious blend of nature's music and the surrounding beauty fosters a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Beyond the waterfall itself, Vargehsaran village offers another natural attraction: Chehel Cheshme, translating to "Forty Springs." Whether you seek the refreshing sound of cascading water or the tranquility of hidden springs, Vargeh Saran promises a delightful escape.

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10- Ancient Hill of Anahita

Anahita Hill, located in the western part of Sareyn, is an ancient site of significant historical interest. Archaeologists date this hill back to the Sassanid era. It was once home to a temple dedicated to Anahita, the Zoroastrian goddess of water. Although no ruins of the temple remain today, the site holds great historical and cultural value.

The hill was a sacred place for Zoroastrians, where monks would come to worship and connect with the divine. Despite the temple's destruction, Anahita Hill continues to attract tourists and researchers who are eager to explore its rich history. This makes it a notable landmark in Sareyn.

11- Kalkhvoran-e Viyand Village

The ancient village of Kalkhvoran-e Viyand, located southwest of Sareyn, is an extraordinary site just 5 kilometers from the city. Known for its unique architecture, this rocky village is a significant historical and cultural phenomenon. Houses were constructed under Chelekhaneh Hill, creating a mysterious and fascinating architectural style that remains unexplained even with modern advancements.

Artifacts discovered in Kalkhvoran-e Viyand date back to the Sassanid, Parthian, Seljuk, and Timurid eras, indicating long-term habitation. The village continues to intrigue researchers and visitors alike, adding to its allure as a must-see destination in Sareyn.

12- Alvars Ski Resort

As the largest ski resort in Iran, it offers an exceptional skiing experience on the extensive snows of the Sablan range. Except for June and the three summer months, the resort is consistently covered with snow, making it a prime destination for winter sports enthusiasts.

Visitors to Ardabil, especially those planning to travel outside of the summer months, can look forward to incorporating skiing at Alvars into their travel itinerary. The resort's impressive facilities and reliable snow conditions ensure a memorable experience for athletes and tourists alike.

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Best Time to Visit Sarein

The best time to visit Sarein is from late June to early September, when the city's cool climate provides a refreshing escape from the summer heat. During this period, tourists can enjoy the pools, spa springs, and vibrant cultural programs. Winter also attracts visitors, especially for skiing at Alvars Ski Resort and the Winter Festival in March. Overall, Sarein welcomes travelers year-round with its diverse attractions.

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Best Place to Eat in Sarein

1. Adle Minaei Restaurant
2. Shahryar Restaurant
3. Laleh Zar Café
4. Ershad Restaurant
5. Sahel Restaurant
6. Taleghani Restaurant

Best Place to Stay in Sarein

1. Laleh Hotel
2. Royal Park Hotel
3. Ershad Hotel
4. Sasan Hotel
5. Ardabil Sasan Hotel
6. Sehat Hotel
7. Pedram Hotel
8. Atrak Hotel

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Final Takeaway

Sarein in Ardebil, known for its mineral spa springs with healing properties, is a city of pleasant nature and vibrant culture. Each year, thousands of tourists enjoy its diverse handicrafts, reflecting the local artistry and tradition. The summer season brings a lively atmosphere with bustling streets, delightful fast foods, and charming souvenirs.

To make the most of your visit, join a group tour designed to showcase all of Sarein's attractions.

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