Araz News via Payvand: Iran has unveiled the Middle East’s highest suspension bridge in the lap of nature in the northwestern Ardabil province, known for its magnificent pastures, hot mineral springs and towering mountains. The bridge over the river of Khiyav Chai in Meshginshhar is 345 meters long, suspended 80 meters above the ground.

The region, known for its pure natural honey, is undergoing a flurry of construction and sprucing up its face to attract tourists.

It is tucked away at the foot of the iconic Sabalan mountain which oozes a rich stream of thermal waters with healing qualities, attracting millions of tourists every year.

Iran is aiming to raise its tourism revenues put around $6 billion a year, which account for less than 0.5% of the world’s total income from the sector.

“Iran’s 20-year vision plan targets attracting 20 million tourists by 2025 which will earn the country $30 billion,” director of Iran’s Cultural Heritage, Handicrafts and Tourism Organization Masoud Soltanifar has said.

The country is seen as one of the world’s top potential tourist destinations as it holds countless ancient sites. Iran is home to 17 historic sites listed by the UNESCO.

It has a diverse landscape and its tourism industry offers a myriad of recreational opportunities.

They range from natural hot water showers in the northwest to hiking and skiing in the Alborz mountains to magnificent architectural sight-seeing in the center and beach holidays in the Persian Gulf and the Caspian Sea.

Apart from its glorious ancient sites, the country’s allure lies in its people’s reputation for hospitality.

Reprinted frompayvand