Masally is a prosperous agricultural town in the far south of Azerbaijan, capital of the district of the same name, sitting on the main highway between Baku and the Iranian border at Astara. Around 200 kilometres from the capital, it makes a natural stopping point on the way south — and for those who take the time to look beyond the busy road, there's more to it than the traffic.
The town itself is modest but pleasant. Its centre sits near the river, with some low-rise Soviet-era buildings and a Palace of Culture fronted by a statue of the Azerbaijani poet Nizami — a good example of the architectural ambitions of that period. There is no grand old town, no cathedral, no castle. What Masally has is its landscape.
Head west out of town and the scenery changes quickly. Dense woodland closes in, and a small lake appears — a favourite spot for locals on weekends. Further along the road to Yardimli, you reach Masalli Istisu, a spa area built around hot mineral springs. There is a small hot waterfall here and a miniature suspension bridge, and the setting is genuinely scenic. Another waterfall at Shalala lies further along the same road.
Being on the main road south to Lenkoran and onward to Iran, Masally is always busy and commerce is brisk. Travellers passing through will find food, fuel and accommodation without difficulty.