Nestled at the foot of the Alborz Mountains, the Darband Hotel was one of Tehran’s most charming retreats before the 1979 Revolution. Located near the lush mountain village of Darband — a beloved getaway for Tehranis — the hotel offered a tranquil escape from the bustle of the capital, with crisp mountain air, cascading streams, and scenic hiking trails just steps away. In the 1960s and 1970s, the Darband Hotel attracted both locals and foreign visitors, including diplomats, artists, and adventurers seeking a taste of Persian hospitality amid nature.
Its architecture reflected the mid-century modern style popular at the time — elegant yet understated, blending concrete and stone with traditional Persian touches. Guests enjoyed terraces overlooking the mountains, cozy fireplaces in the lounge, and a restaurant serving both and continental dishes. Evenings often came alive with soft music and the chatter of Tehran’s cosmopolitan elite. The hotel stood not just as an accommodation but as a cultural landmark — a place where the city’s modern aspirations met its timeless natural beauty.
