Darband was one of Tehran’s oldest rural villages most famous for it’s country life, nomadic pastures, clean water, and cool fresh air. Light construction had always stretched high up around the meandering stream of Darband. But now the village is one of Tehran’s most upmarket destinations for casual dining, relaxing, tourism, and fitness hubs.
Located in the Shemiran District, Darband is positioned 1700 meters above sea level. The same Darband River flows through the Sa’dabad Palace Complex, and due to the temperate weather all year round, it’s one of the best places to access the Alborz mountain range. Hiking is possible east towards Jamshidieh Park, west towards Darakeh valley, or as far North as Mount Tochal reaching 3964m elevation. There are also winter skiing opportunities here too, but don’t worry there are telecabins around Darband and Darakeh all the way to the Tochal Hotel, so more comfortable options are readily available. You can also camp, lodge in huts, or find other hotels scattered above both Darband and Darakeh valleys.
However if fitness and landscapes aren’t your thing, you might instead consider trying the local sweets, relaxing in a traditional teahouse, or ordering a delicious Persian meal from Darband. There are many dining options in Darband from luxury restaurants to small cheap teahouses. Whatever your into, at any time of the week, Darband makes an ideal respite away from the bustling Tehran city. While you might experience a little foot traffic and the odd grazing goat, rest assure cars cannot access the valley. But if you’re too tired to hike to Darband, you could always appreciate the river below from Sa’dabad Palace Complex, it flows right through the royal parklands next to a few cafes.