Rudbar

Rudbar (رودبار) is a town in southeastern Gīlān Province, adjacent to Manjil in the Sefidrud valley. Like its neighbour, Rudbar is nationally famous for its olive oil and olives, which many consider Iran's best. The town sits in a scenic river valley surrounded by the Alborz mountains.

Rudbar has a milder, drier microclimate than coastal Gilan. Summers are warm and winters are mild.

By Plane

Rasht Airport (RAS) is about 85 km northwest.

By Car / Road

Rudbar is on the Qazvin–Rasht freeway, 20 km north of Manjil. Buses from Rasht and Qazvin pass through.

Walkable centre. Taxis to Manjil and villages.

• Olive Orchards — The hillsides around Rudbar are covered in olive trees, gorgeous in spring blossom and autumn harvest.
• Sefidrud River — The river canyon offers rafting opportunities in spring.
• Mountain Landscapes — Scenic drives into the Alborz foothills.

Visit during the olive harvest (October–November) to see traditional pressing. Hike in the hills.

Local olive oil is used generously in cooking. Try the local bread dipped in fresh olive oil.

• Budget: Guesthouses from 400,000 rials.

Extra virgin olive oil, table olives, and olive-based soaps.

• Manjil (20 km, 20 minutes) — Wind farm and olive centre.
• Rasht (85 km, 1.5 hours) — Provincial capital.
• Qazvin (110 km, 1.5 hours) — Historical city.
• Lahijan (100 km, 2 hours) — Tea plantations.