Planning a road trip to Shahdag from Baku is a great way to enjoy Azerbaijan’s mountain views. Most people visit Shahdag Mountain Resort in winter for skiing and snowboarding. But did you know summer is also a good time to go? You can enjoy hiking, mountain air, and relaxing spas.
Our guide will show you how to get to Shahdag from Baku, what places to stop at, and why renting a car in Baku is the best idea. With your own car, you can travel at your own speed and stop anytime you want. Keep reading our guide to find out more. You’ll be surprised how much there is to see on the way.
There is no train going to Shahdag, and public transport can be difficult. You will need to walk, take a bus, switch metro lines, and wait between stops. For most travelers, this feels confusing and tiring. That’s why the best way to visit Shahdag is by car. It’s faster, easier, and more comfortable.
The drive from Baku to Shahdag Mountain Resort takes about 3 hours and 15 minutes. The distance is around 216 kilometers. You will start your drive in Baku and follow Ziya Bunyadov Avenue to reach the E119 highway. From there, continue north toward Sumgayit and drive past the Khizi region.
As you keep driving, you will reach the town of Quba, known for its fresh air and green surroundings. Many travelers stop here to rest or get snacks. After Quba, you’ll continue toward Qusar. From Qusar, follow the mountain road called Qusar-Laza. This road goes uphill and through forested areas. It may have curves, but the views are beautiful. Near the end, you will see signs for Shahdag Mountain Resort. Just follow them and you’ll arrive at the entrance.
You can book a car online before your trip or visit a rental office in Baku City or at Heydar Aliyev Airport. Most rental companies ask for your passport, a valid driver’s license, and a credit card. Some also accept debit cards. If your license is not in English or Azeri, it's better to bring an International Driving Permit (IDP).
For mountain roads, choose a car that is safe and easy to handle. A small SUV or a car with good ground clearance is a smart choice. In summer, you don’t need a 4x4, but a car with strong brakes and good tires is essential.
Prices depend on the car type and how many days you rent it. A regular car can cost around $27 per day. Crossovers and SUVs are more expensive, starting at $40 per day. Most rentals come with basic insurance, but you can pay extra for full coverage. Fuel is affordable in Azerbaijan, and many stations are along the highway from Baku to Shahdag. Make sure the tank is full before you enter mountain roads.
The drive to Shahdag is not just about reaching the resort. You should also see some places along the way. Here are some destinations worth stopping at during your road trip to Shahdag from Baku.
About 102 kilometers from Baku, the Khizi Mountains are the first scenic stop worth pulling over for. You’ll notice the red, pink, and orange striped hills rising along the roadside. These hills were formed by iron-rich clay and erosion over time. There are no entrance gates here, so you can stop your car safely on the roadside, step out, and take photos. It’s quiet, uncrowded, and dramatically changes scenery just under two hours from the city.
Once you’ve passed Quba and the forested areas, you’ll reach Qusar. This is the last big town before Shahdag, just 35 kilometers away from the resort. This is your best place to stock up on snacks, fuel, or anything else. The town has several gas stations, pharmacies, grocery stores, and ATMs. Make sure to check your fuel level here, as you won’t find many services between Qusar and the resort. The roads start to curve more from this point on, so drive carefully.
Located around 15 kilometers from Shahdag, Laza Village is a mountain village famous for its many waterfalls and panoramic views. To get there, you’ll follow the Qusar–Laza Road It’s a great stop for photos, short hikes, and the cool mountain air. You can park your car near one of the guesthouses and walk toward the waterfalls. If you arrive early, this is a nice spot to slow down and take in the beauty of the Greater Caucasus before checking in at the resort.
Shahdag isn’t just about cool mountain air. It’s a full-season escape packed with outdoor fun and scenic views. Whether you're traveling with friends, family, or on your own, there’s a perfect mix of action and relaxation waiting for you. From high-adrenaline rides to peaceful walks and luxury spa moments, Shahdag offers something for every kind of traveler.
If you want excitement, Shahdag brings the action. The Shahdag Coaster is a must-try. You’ll zoom down winding curves with mountain views all around. It’s fast, safe, and open to both kids and adults. Not far from it, the bobkart ride gives you a gravity-powered track experience that feels like a real mountain race—perfect for those who want a fun, low-altitude thrill.
Then there’s paragliding. This is one of the most breathtaking ways to see Shahdag. You’ll float over valleys and green hills with trained pilots guiding your glide. It’s peaceful, exhilarating, and gives you a bird’s-eye view of the Greater Caucasus. Want more height and speed? Try the catapult, which launches you skyward for a quick adrenaline hit. Or roll downhill in a giant inflatable sphere with Zorb Body, which is bouncy and hilarious.
There’s no better way to enjoy Shahdag’s summer beauty than getting outside. Hiking trails here are well-marked, offering routes through alpine meadows and forest paths. You’ll see wildflowers, mountain streams, and stunning views everywhere. It’s the kind of walk that clears your head and fills your camera roll.
For something faster, mountain cycling lets you cruise through the terrain on two wheels. There are routes for beginners and tougher paths for seasoned riders. Want something more rugged? Hop on a quad or buggy tour and drive across rocky trails, muddy slopes, and wild open spaces. These tours are guided, and there are even Polaris rides for deeper off-road exploration.
If you prefer something quieter, horseback riding offers a calm and scenic way to explore the mountains. You’ll follow gentle routes across grassy fields and rolling hills, perfect for families or first-time riders.
For a bit of fun, you can ride a Segway or try the off-road scooters called trottinets. These are easy to use and great for moving around the resort. You can see more places without getting tired, and the ride is smooth and enjoyable. The resort also offers quad and buggy tours for adults and teens. These are well-organized and take scenic routes with plenty of photo stops. You don’t need any experience, just a helmet, basic instruction, and a sense of adventure.
If you’re traveling with kids, Shahdag has plenty of summer activities designed just for them. The Adventure Park for Kids is a safe and exciting space where children can climb, balance, and zipline under supervision. It’s designed to build confidence and burn energy, all in a fun mountain setting.
There’s also a trampoline zone and a trampoline tower, which are perfect for kids who love to jump, flip, and bounce. Add a gentle swing area with views of the peaks, and you’ve got a calm break for both children and parents. There are also mini quad tours for kids. These are safe, supervised, and make little ones feel part of the adventure.
For something a bit different, head to the outdoor paintball field. It’s an exciting group activity set in a forested battle zone. You’ll work as a team, hide behind cover, and try to outsmart your opponents. Prefer silence and focus? Try archery. It’s a great way to slow down and test your aim. Or head to the shooting range, where you can practice safely and in a controlled environment.
Summer days in Shahdag are mild, but water activities are ready to refresh you when you want to cool off. The catamaran rides are peaceful and scenic. You’ll glide across calm waters, surrounded by mountains and silence, which are great for couples or small groups.
If you are looking for more fun, tubing is a summer favorite. It’s fast, splashy, and family-friendly. Just sit on your inflatable tube and enjoy the twists and turns. And to enjoy the views from above, take a pedestrian lift. The gondola-stle ride carries you smoothly up the slopes, giving you sweeping views of the region. It’s perfect for photos and for accessing higher hiking routes.
After all the excitement, take some time to relax. Shahdag is more than just an outdoor adventure. It also offers comfort and luxury. Several top hotels are based right at the resort, including Pik Palace, Park Chalet, Shahdag Hotel & Spa, and Zirve Hotel. These places are packed with spas, pools, and mountain-view lounges.
You’ll find over 20 cafés, bars, and restaurants scattered across the resort. Some highlights include Alpina Brasserie & Wine Bar, Aspen Grill, Shahdag Pub, and Menzere Restaurant. Many have outdoor seating in summer, so you can enjoy your meal while soaking in the view. And if you’re looking to unwind fully, visit one of the three spa and wellness centers. Options include Ovdan & Fitness Centre, The Club at Pik Palace, and The Club at Park Chalet. Each offers massages, steam rooms, fitness zones, and relaxation spaces.
With an elevation range of 1,435 to 2,525 meters, Shahdag Mountain Resort stays pleasantly cool throughout the summer. You’ll breathe clean mountain air and wake up to sweeping views every morning. The resort is well-equipped, with 20 lifts, restaurants, kids’ clubs, medical centers, and car parks, making it an excellent pick for families and nature lovers. Final Rentals is a global car rental platform that helps you easily compare prices and book your ride online. In Baku, you can choose from economy cars to SUVs and pick up your rental at the airport or city center.
