Stars Valley
Qeshm is absolutely the most beautiful islands in Iran that homes many natural and wonderful attractions; One of the most spectacular natural sites is Stars Valley. It features a series of majestic gorges and canyons that were formed over centuries by erosion. Wandering in the middle of the valley is a majestical experience, that it's like stepping into a Dali painting. The local name for this area is “Estalah-kaftah” which means “the Fallen Star”. The reason for naming this area as such is that the residents of the area believe that once upon a time a star (meteor) has hit the earth at this site and as a result of this collision, the stones and soil have been thrown in the air and been frozen, forming these geological structures. In areas where the upper layer is eroded, smaller canyon-like structures have been formed. In some areas within this valley, geological structure in form of columns may be observed, some of which are needle-shaped.
Description
The valley with a historical background of about two million years have been created as a result of soil, stone and sand erosion caused by the wind, rain and shower. This valley is a rare natural masterpiece on the beautiful island of Qeshm. The northern side of Qeshm Island is close to Berke-ye Khalaf Village have shown its strange geological feature. The local people believe that when it gets darker, the place is filled with ghosts and goblins moving around. However, nothing has been proven so far. Due to the special shape and different volums and the erosion phenomenon, when the wind gusts blow around the columns and hollows of the valley, sounds are made and it seems that is why local people believe that the place is turned into a location for the ghosts and goblins when it gets dark.
Astonishingly, wonder, mysterious, and outstanding are the words that tourists use to explain Stars Valley during of their visit of Qeshm Island. The legendary structure of the valley was enough to be known a natural phenomenon as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Sites in the Qeshm Geo-Park which is the only Geo-park in the Middle East. Thus, avoiding to walk on top of the structures overlooking the valley may help in protecting this geological heritage for future generations to observe
Stories about Stars Valley
Local people believe that this valley is the home of ghosts and genes and if you step into this place at night; there is no way to turn back. Those who survive say they heard horrible and mysterious sounds! Pretty creepy, right? Well, don’t freak out yet. There is an explanation for all of this. The wind circulation between labyrinth structures of this valley made these horrible sounds at night. So it is safe to say that no one or nothing is going to haunt you while you are there. Still, it is better to avoid staying in this extraordinary and unique place at night, as you should have camping equipment. As well as, note that you cannot stay inside Qeshm geo-park without a permit from Cultural Heritage, Handicrafts and Tourism Organization of Iran.
Location
Visiting this valley might take you quite a time. But there are other attractions nearby that you can visit as well. Kharbas Caves is only 13 minutes away. Also, there are lots of other places to visit. Portuguese Castle, Hengam Island, and Mangrove Forests of Qeshm are some of these places.