Shemshak

Shemshak is only a 45-minute drive from Tehran. The route is stunning, there are interesting towns to stop at on the way, and if you are hungry try out the amazing kebabs. Shemshak is well known as a resort for advanced skiers and snowboarders. The slopes are steep and funnily enough, have names such as The Wall. There are approximately eight extremely long runs with access to off piste slopes. Iranian slopes are generally long, wide, interconnect and there are no trees. This resort is undulating so it is hard to see all the different slopes. This is the most popular resort. There are cafes on the slopes and hotels and chalets at the bottom of the slope. It is extremely easy to find accommodation since a lot of people come here for the day or they stay at their own chalets. A one day ski-pass costs a measly $12 for an adult. It is also very easy to hire snowboard equipment. A whole setup for a day will cost $15, and don’t worry its not second hand Russian stuff, a lot of it is brand new.  

If you want to have good apres- snowboard sessions this is the place to be. A lot of the Persians who come here are young, rich students studying in America or Europe and are probably on holiday seeing their parents. So practically all of them speak English, they are very western in their outlook and they are up for a damn good party. Shemshak is known as the party resort. So, look out for a group of snowboarders that look friendly and go up and chat, mention that you have heard that this is the party resort and they are sure to tell you what's going on.