Dizin

Dizin lies in the Alborz about seventy kilometres north of Tehran and is the largest ski resort in Iran, with lifts reaching above 3,600 metres and a base at around 2,650, which gives it one of the longer seasons anywhere, often running from December into May. Terrain is open, above the treeline and mostly ungroomed off the main pistes, which suits confident skiers better than beginners, and snow quality at that altitude is generally dry. It hosted international events in the 1970s and the infrastructure dates largely from then, with gondolas and chairs that show their age. Skiing is not segregated by sex on the slopes, which makes it unusual among Iranian public spaces, though facilities are.

What you actually see

• Lifts above 3,600 metres - one of the higher lift-served areas in Asia.
• A long season - snow often holding from December into May.
• Open off-piste terrain - ungroomed slopes above the treeline.
• Alborz views - the range and, on clear days, Damavand.

When to go

December to April, with March often the best combination of snow and weather. A day trip from Tehran or a weekend. Fridays are busy with Tehran skiers. The road can close in heavy snow.

Honest expectations

Lifts are old and break down, and queues can be long. Grooming is limited and much of the mountain is ungroomed. Accommodation at the resort is dated. The road from Tehran is winding and closes in storms. Equipment hire is basic.

Nearby

Tehran is south; Shemshak ski area is on the same road.