Opposite the Presidential Palace in Almatys Republic Square, this grand, 11-storey hotel offers a wide selection of excellent international cuisine, a spa area and beautiful views of the Tian Shan Mountains.

Featuring a glass exterior and spacious lobby with palm trees, the InterContinental Almaty has stylish rooms with silk fabrics and marble bathrooms. All include a flat-screen cable TV, minibar and seating area with high-quality sofas.

As well as a delicious breakfast, guests can choose from an international buffet at the elegant Asian Caf and French cuisine at the Belvedere Grill Rooms rooftop terrace. Turkish specialities are served at the Bosphorus Restaurant.

The Ankara Spa includes an indoor swimming pool, Turkish bath and massage treatments. Guests enjoy a fully equipped gym and tennis court.

About a 20-minute drive away, Kok Tobe Mountain offers magnificent views of Almaty. Chimbulak Ski Resort is about 22 km from the InterContinental.