AZ
Quba
Apple orchards, carpets and a road to the high Caucasus
Apple orchards, carpets and a road to the high Caucasus
Perched above 2,000 metres, this ancient stone village is one of the highest in Europe, its stacked houses, unique language and timeless way of life set against vast Caucasus peaks.
💡 The mountain road needs a 4×4 or tour; go on a clear day.
Across the river from Quba, Qirmizi Qasaba is one of the last all-Jewish towns outside Israel, a fascinating community of red-brick synagogues and mansions with deep Mountain Jewish roots.
💡 Cross the bridge from Quba to explore its synagogues and streets.
Quba is a celebrated centre of Azerbaijani carpet weaving, its intricate patterns prized worldwide; workshops and the bazaar let you watch weavers and buy direct.
💡 Watch weavers at work and learn to read the regional patterns.
On the road to Khinalug, this dramatic gorge of towering rock walls and a rushing river is one of the most scenic stretches of the Caucasus mountain route.
💡 Stop for photos at the canyon on the way up to Khinalug.
One of Azerbaijan’s tallest waterfalls tumbles through the forested mountains near Quba, a scenic stop on a drive into the highland countryside.
💡 It is a short walk from the road; best after spring melt.
Quba’s cooking is hearty mountain and orchard fare: kebabs, plov, dolma and fresh trout, with the region’s famous apples appearing in dishes, drinks and sweets. Mountain Jewish and Caucasus traditions add their own flavours, and roadside spots grill meat over open fires. Local honey, apples and preserves make good souvenirs, and tea is served amber and sweet with jam, as across Azerbaijan.
Explore Quba’s carpet workshops and bazaar, then cross to the historic Jewish Red Village of Qirmizi Qasaba.
Take a 4×4 up through Tenghi Canyon to the ancient mountain village of Khinalug for its stone houses and vast views.
The mountain road is rough and high; a 4×4 with a driver or a tour is the safe way up.
Khinalug sits above 2,000 metres and is cold even in summer; bring warm, windproof clothing.
Cards are rarely accepted in the mountains; bring manat for homestays and guides.
Watch the weavers and buy directly for authentic regional carpets and kilims.
Flame-Tower Baku, the rock art of Gobustan, Silk Road Sheki, mountain-resort Gabala and the high Caucasus of Quba — five sides of Azerbaijan.