Erbil: Citadel, Valleys and Hiking Trails

Erbil brings together historic urban forms with varied landscapes and activities. The Citadel of Erbil, the history of Rawanduz, and the forests and gardens of Shaqlawa each have their own character. There is also a walking route from Rawanduz to Bekhal Waterfall and the extensive Zagros Mountain Trail.

The Citadel of Erbil

The Citadel of Erbil is a fortified settlement on an oval-shaped archaeological mound in the Kurdistan Region and Erbil Governorate. A continuous row of tall 19th-century façades creates the impression of an impregnable fortress. At the same time, the urban layout has a fan-shaped pattern dating from the late Ottoman period. So the site is not only about the fortress-like appearance: the layout of the settlement itself also gives a distinct picture of the historic city.

Rawanduz: History and a Valley Landscape

Rawanduz was the capital of the Soran Emirate, which ruled over large areas of Iraq’s Kurdistan Region for many centuries. The town is also considered the oldest district in Erbil Governorate. The emirate’s rule points to a far-reaching political history, while its status as the oldest district draws attention to Rawanduz itself. The town is situated on a rocky slope and surrounded by two deep valleys. Its history and terrain offer different points of reference as you explore the area.

Shaqlawa and Its Seasons

Shaqlawa District lies on the slope of Sefin Mountain in a large valley with dense forests and gardens. Shaqlawa is considered an important tourist town in Iraqi Kurdistan and attracts visitors from Iraq and the region, as well as some from the Gulf states. Temperatures are moderate, but winters are very cold, with plenty of rain and snow. If you plan to spend time outdoors, take these seasonal differences into account when planning your trip. Shaqlawa and Rawanduz offer different landscapes: a valley with forests and gardens in one place, and a rocky slope surrounded by two deep valleys in the other.

Hiking Trails and Summer Resorts

Erbil Governorate has numerous summer resorts spread across different parts of the area. From Rawanduz, visitors can continue on foot past Pank Resort to the well-known summer resort and Bekhal Waterfall. The 215-kilometer-long Zagros Mountain Trail also passes through 36 villages and five towns, including Akre, Dinarta, Soran, Rawanduz and Choman, before reaching the foothills of Mount Halgurd. It is considered the longest trail in the Kurdistan Region and Iraq. The difference in scale is clear: one option is a walk to a named destination, while the other is a route through numerous settlements. Check current conditions on the relevant trails before setting out.

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