Gabala: nature and adventure

Gabala's draw is the outdoors: the Tufandag cable car climbs into forested mountains, Nohur Lake offers an easy walk, and the resort-style hotels suit families and active travelers.

It's the better base if your trip is built around hiking, cable cars and a slower resort pace.

Sheki: history and craftsmanship

Sheki moves at a different speed. The Khan's Palace is known for its stained-glass shebeke windows made without nails or glue, and a night in a converted historic caravanserai adds real atmosphere.

Local halva-making and an Albanian church round out a heritage-focused stay.

ZEVA tips

• With four days or more, combine both towns in one loop instead of choosing.
• Book a caravanserai room in Sheki ahead of weekends in peak season.
• Check the Tufandag cable car's seasonal operating hours before planning around it.