The Heart of Caspian Coast
Motel Ghoo — officially known as Salman Shahr — is one of the most beloved coastal destinations along the Caspian Sea in northern. Nestled between the Alborz Mountains and the shimmering sea, this city offers a rare blend of natural beauty, modern luxury, and nostalgic charm. Located approximately 200 kilometers north of Tehran, it serves as a convenient weekend getaway for travelers escaping the bustle of the capital. The story of Motel Ghoo began in the mid-20th century when the first modern tourist motels were established along the Caspian coast.
One of the earliest and most famous of these was a motel called “Ghoo” (meaning “swan” in Persian). Its elegant architecture, lakeside ambiance, and scenic views made it a favorite stop for Tehran’s elite travelers during the 1960s and 1970s. Over time, the area around the motel developed into a small town — and even after its official name changed to Salman Shahr, the affectionate nickname “Motel Ghoo” remained part of local and national vocabulary.
