South of the Caspian lowlands, the Alborz mountains rise in a series of steep ridges and deep valleys, and Alimestan lies in this high country, in the broad region around Mount Damavand, the perfect volcanic cone that stands at 5,609 metres, the highest peak in Iran and in the Middle East. On a clear day, its snowy summit can be seen from many points, white against the blue, a sacred mountain in Persian legend, where the tyrant Zahhak is said to be chained.
The nearest big town on the map is Āmol, about thirty kilometres away, down toward the Caspian, and the roads here are among the best in Iran for riding. The Haraz road, running from Tehran through the mountains to Amol, is a long, winding route with hairpins, tunnels and gorges, passing through villages of stone and wood and following the green river of the same name. It can be crowded at weekends, when Tehran families head for the coast, and trucks use the road, so go early on weekdays. Surfaces are generally decent, though landslides and rockfalls occur in spring and after heavy rain.
The weather in the mountains is changeable. Snow can fall in any month at the highest points, and mist often collects in the valleys. In summer, the heights are cool, a relief after the heat of the plains, and shepherds bring flocks to the high pastures. In autumn, the walnut and poplar trees turn gold. Wildlife includes ibex, wild goat and eagles.
Services are small in the mountains, so fill up in Amol or on the Tehran side, and carry a warm layer and some food. Village stalls sell fresh yoghurt, honey and local fruit, and trout is served at roadside restaurants along the river. As with any journey in Iran, check the travel advice and the rules for foreign motorcyclists before you plan the trip. The scenery is worth the effort, and the sight of Damavand at dusk is one of the great mountain moments in Asia.