Ardebil Province's high potential to become a top tourist destination makes it a main target of the government's plans for tourism development, the head of Iran's Cultural Heritage, Handicrafts and Tourism Organization said.
"Ardabil has all it takes to turn into a tourist hub in the country's northwest," Ali Asghar Mounesan told a ceremony to mark National Day of Ardabil on Thursday.
"It is fit in all terms… historical monuments, a rich history, unique customs, hospitable locals and traditional native cuisine are the features that can drive tourism development in the province of Ardabil," he was quoted as saying by the CHTN.
A large hotel in the city of Sareyn, famous for its natural spas, was among the tourism projects Mounesan unveiled during his visit to the province. The hotel can accommodate 1000 visitors and boasts 13 swimming pools and spas that offer a variety of recreational services. It has generated 105 direct and 250 indirect jobs.
Top Priority
Mounesan told the Thursday ceremony that developing the hotel industry is a top priority for the government.
"The four-star and five-star hotels built so far under the watch of President Hassan Rouhani's government [since 2013] outnumber those constructed throughout the history of hotel building in Iran," he said.
Mounesan also unveiled a project to build a permanent exhibition of local handicrafts.
Governor General Akbar Behnamjou also addressed the ceremony, listing the major tourism development initiatives underway.
He singled out a plan to launch at least five ski resorts across the northwestern province in a bid to boost tourist arrivals in winter months.
"Among the issues we are pursuing is the development of winter sports. I promise to the province's people and potential visitors that Ardabil will become a vibrant winter hub in two or three years," he said.
