Cultural Corners of Georgia
Kaspi
Only an hour or so from the centre of Tbilisi, lies the municipality of Kaspi, part of the Shida Kartli region of Georgia. The area has had significant military and cultural importance due to its vital location. The forests, valleys, magnificent views and flowering meadows of the area create an exciting route, full of adventure. In addition to the beautiful natural surroundings, there are many important historical and cultural monuments. The Samtavisi Cathedral, richly decorated with unique ornaments is of particular importance.
Itinerary
Tbilisi – Jambakur-Orbeliani Palace – Kvemo Chala – Skhvilo Fortress – Samtavisi Church – Merebashvili Maranni – Tbilisi
Program
Tbilisi – Jambakur-Orbeliani Palace – Kvemo Chala – Skhvilo Fortress – Samtavisi Church – Merebashvili Maranni – Tbilisi
- Meet the guide and drive to Kaspi region
- Visit Jambakur-Orbeliani Palace
- Horseback riding to Skhvilo Fortress and Samtavisi Cathedral
- Lunch and wine tasting at Merebashvili winery
- Drive back to Tbilisi, end of the tour
Meet your guide at your hotel lobby and drive to Kaspi region. The first stop will be at the Jambakur-Orbeliani Castle built in the 18 -19 Century. The owners we Alexander Orbeliani and his wife Mariam Jambakur-Orbeliani., and their place was famous among Georgian writers and poets who loved to visit and stay there. Unfortunately, the palace did not survive the Bolsheviks unharmed. In 1924 nine cartloads full of books and manuscripts, the antique furniture and tableware were taken from the palace and either destroyed or taken to Moscow.
Later we will continue to the small village of Kvemo Chala where you will have a horseback riding tour towards Skhvilo Fortress. The fortress, first mentioned in conics in 10 th century, overlooks the expansive Lekhuri valley. The ride will continue to the extraordinary Samtavisi Cathedral; richly decorated and tastefully preserved, it is now recognized by the UNESCO Heritage Centre.
From here you will continue your trip by car to the small, family winery of the Merebashvili Family. The artisanal wines here are produced using a huge clay jar, Qvevri, buried underneath the ground to allow wine fermentation and aging in an even, naturally cool condition. After lunch and wine tasting, we will drive back to Tbilisi, and to your hotel.
Kazbegi
The Kazbegi region is situated in the upper valley of the river Tergi. One of the most attractive mountainous regions of Georgia, famous for its picturesque villages and the snow-covered peaks of the Greater Caucasus mountains, it is a center for trekkers and mountain climbing. Throughout this region you will see ancient fortresses and settlements, medieval churches, exceptional views, and locations of unbelievable beauty, where the extravagant balance of nature and of culture will ensure some long-lasting memories of this short journey.
Itinerary
Day 1: Tbilisi – Ananuri Complex – Zhinvali Dam – Gudauri
Day 2: Gudauri – Kobi – Trusso Valley – Gudauri
Day 3: Tbilisi – Gudauri
Program
Day 1: Tbilisi – Ananuri Complex – Zhinvali Dam – Gudauri
- Meet your guide and drive to Gudauri
- Visit Ananuri Complex and Zhinvali Dam
- Lunch stop at a small restaurant
- Dinner and overnight at Gudauri hotel
This morning you will meet your guide at your hotel and drive to Gudauri. The first stop will be at the Ananuri Fortress complex, a magnificent location dating from the 14 -17th centuries. Here the complex was built strategically at the confluence of the valleys of two rivers, the Aragvi and the Verzatkhevi, protecting the whole area and creating a natural gate for defenders.
In the history of Georgia, Ananuri played an important role in numerous wars. The complex now includes several buildings: upper and lower castles, watch-towers, churches, a bell tower and water reservoirs. Nowadays it overlooks the Zhinvali Dam, built in 1980s with capacity of 130 MW. During the construction the village the Zhinvali was flooded, but in winter when water level goes down, you can again see the 12th century church.
After visiting Ananuri we will continue to Gudauri, the largest and most modern ski resort in Georgia. Here the slopes are for all skill levels with limitless opportunities for freestyle skiing in a wide-open environment. For lunch we will stop at the Hotel Restaurant Paski.
After lunch we will drive to the hotel Marco Polo, your home for the next two nights.
After a short rest you will meet our horses and ride to Gudauri-Kobi pass. The ride will take about four hours through the beautiful mountains and never-ending views of the Caucasus peaks. In the evening free time for dinner. Overnight at Hotel Marco Polo.
Day 2: Gudauri – Kobi – Trusso Valley – Gudauri
- Breakfast
- Cable car from Gudauri to Kobi
- Horseback riding in Truso Valley
- Drive back to Gudauri
- Dinner and overnight at hotel
In the morning you will take a cable car from Gudauri to Kobi village, a modern gondola system that connects New Gudauri ski resort with the village of Kobi. The route follows a mountain range between two valleys, and at its highest point, the cable car goes through the Kobi Pass, 2,900 metres above sea level. Along the route there are several stations and total duration is about forty minutes.
Spectacular views are guaranteed!
After the ride, we will mount up and ride through the Truso valley. You will pass peculiar travertine formations, mineral springs and lakes, geysers, ancient towers and several abandoned settlements before finally reaching the ruins of Zakagori Fortress. During the ride you will have a picnic lunch. Later, you will ride back to Kobi where you will meet your driver and return to the hotel. Dinner at Hotel Marco Polo and overnight.
Day 3: Tbilisi – Gudauri
- Breakfast
- Drive back to Tbilisi, end of the tour
After breakfast, check out of the hotel and drive back to Tbilisi where your tour will end.
Shida Kartli
The region of Shida Kartli situated in eastern Georgia is the central part of the historical Kartli (Iberia) region with ancient history dating back to early Bronze Age, and the Mtkvari-Arax culture was formed here. The discovery of numerous coins in the Shida Kartli territory is the proof of Iberia’s intensive trade and economic relationships with the outside world. The vast fields, valleys and waterfalls, endowed with thousands of colourful flower fields are truly impressive.
Itinerary
Day 1: Tbilisi – Ergneti war museum – Nikozi church – Gori
Day 2: Gori – Tana valley – Bobnevi lake and church – Vacheishvili winery – Tbilisi
Program
Day 1: Tbilisi– Ergneti war museum – Nikozi church – Gori
- Meet your guide
- Drive to Gori
- Visit Ergneti was museum
- Dinner and overnight in Gori at hotel Gori Inn
This morning you will meet your guide and drive towards Gori. The first stop will be at Ergneti where you can visit the August 2008 War Museum, located in the basement of Lia Chlachidze’s house, where everything has been kept intact and where traces of the war are still visible. Lia herself decided to open a museum in order to expose the horrors of this brief but brutal war.
Exhibited photos show Russian military forces being gathered on the 5th and 6th of August near the Roki Tunnel, ready to invade and attack Georgia. The war lasted for five days; officially, 224 civilians were killed and 20 000 people lost their houses and become refugees.
After the museum, drive to Nikozi and see the 10 th century church of the Archangel, the bell tower and the palace of the bishop. Due to its location, the Russian occupied town of Tskhinvali can be seen from here.
In 2011 Nikozi art school was established to provide craft class training in ceramics, embroidery and sewing to local youth living in the villages bordering the occupied territories. Additionally, the school has foreign language and music courses, animation studio and shadow theatre.
Later continue your drive and stop for lunch at the restaurant “Terrace”. After lunch we will take a short walking tour in Gori, visiting the Gori Fortress and then drive to our overnight stop, the Gori Inn.
Day 2: Gori – Tana valley – Bobnevi lake and church – Vacheishvili winery – Tbilisi
- Breakfast
- Drive to Tana valley
- Horseback riding to Bobnevi church and lake
- Lunch and wine tasting at Vacheishvili winery
- Drive back to Tbilisi, end of the tour
After breakfast in the morning, we will check out from hotel and drive to the Tana Valley where we will explore on horseback. The Tana Valley is simply gorgeous; its beautiful wild nature, forests, mountains and rocks will delight you; the landscape of fir trees, forests and strange rock rocks will enchant you. It is truly a scenic masterpiece.
First you will drive from Gori to the village of Ateni where we will mount our horses and later continue riding along the beautiful valley. En route you will see the Ateni Sioni Church built in the 10th century with wonderful frescos creating a harmonious composition. Then continue riding up to Bebnevi Lake, its surrounding greenish mountains reflected on the water.
Another highlight in the valley is the Church of John the Evangelist in Bobnev built in the 17 th century and host to some well-preserved frescos. The dominating color of these friezes is a sharp blue that perfectly contrasts the rest of the muted and dark colors used by painters.
After riding a little farther we will stop for a picnic lunch and have a short rest.
Later, we will visit Nika Vacheishvili’s winery. One of the most well-known wines from his production is Atenuri. Due to the local microclimate and his distinctive process of winemaking uniquely cleaning his Kvevri with iced-cold river water, this wine was considered the “Kings’ Wine” in the Middle Ages. Here we will enjoy a wine tasting and short talk with the winemaker himself.
In the evening we will return to Tbilisi and return you to your hotel.
Kareli
Mid-way between Tbilisi and Kutaisi lies the Kareli region, rich in ancient history and culture, important monuments as well as spectacular nature. The lakes and waterfalls hidden in the forests are perfect for hiking or horseback riding, and ideal for picnicking from spring to autumn. Bateti Lake, located in the dramatic Dzama Gorge, is particularly popular, and lies in an area rich with various and interesting cultural monuments. These historical sites are harmoniously combined with nature and reveal the unique history and character of the region.
Itinerary
Day 1: Tbilisi – Bateti lake – Loshkineti waterfall – Loshkineti camp
Day 2: Loshkineti camp – Abukhalo waterfall and church– Loshkineti camp – Tbilisi
Program
Day 1: Tbilisi – Bateti lake – Loshkineti waterfall – Loshkineti camp
- Meet your guide and drive to Loshkineti camp
- Horseback riding to Loshkineti waterfall and Bateti Lake
- Outdoor lunch at Bateti Lake
- Dinner and overnight at the camp
Meet your guide at the hotel lobby and drive to Loshkineti camp. The area is located in the Dzama valley, well known locally for its serene natural beauty. The drive will take about two hours, and after arrival and a short break, we will head out on horseback to Bateti Lake, tucked away in a spectacular orchard and surrounded by dense forest.
The trail goes up to Bateti River, a small spring flowing from the lake. Here, the valley and the lake’s extraordinary beauty are seen at their best. Here you will have an outdoor picnic lunch, and after a short rest ride down to valley for our next stop at the Loshkineti Waterfall.
We will return to the camp and have some free time before our dinner. Overnight accommodation will be in tents.
Day 2: Loshkineti camp – Abukhalo waterfall and church – Loshkineti camp – Tbilisi
- Breakfast at the camp
- Horseback riding to Abukhalo waterfall
- Outdoor lunch in nature
- Drive back to Tbilisi
After breakfast in our camp, we will ride to the Abukhalo Waterfall and church, approximately seven kilometres from the camp. The trail offers panoramic views that capture the essence of this tranquil landscape. At the waterfall, a small river valley leads up to Abukhalo Mountain offering breathtaking views of the entire Kartli Region and the dramatic views of Jamjama peak are visible. After a short rest and a picnic lunch, we will ride back to the camp, and then drive back to Tbilisi and your hotel.
Gudamakari Gorge
Mid-way between Tbilisi and Georgia’s northern border lies Gudamakari Gorge, stretched along the southern slopes of Great Caucasus Mountains along Aragvi River. This secluded and interesting location offers plenty of opportunities to explore and admire this remote region of Georgia. It is historically a region of strategic importance, having vital roles in medieval Georgia and as part of the Duchy of Aragvi from the 13 th Century, controlling the vital road of North Caucasus, which later become the Georgian Military Road. In addition to its strategic location, the region is famous for its religious, pagan shrines and spiritual rituals.
Itinerary
Day 1: Tbilisi – Ananuri – Gamsi
Day 2: Gamsi – Chokhi – Dumatskho – Gamsi
Day 3: Gamsi – Tbilisi
Program
Day 1: Tbilisi – Ananuri – Gamsi
- In the morning meet the guide and drive to Ananuri Fortress Complex
- Stop for lunch at a local restaurant
- Check in to the local guest house in Gamsi
- Dinner and overnight at Guest house
After breakfast you will meet your guide in the hotel lobby and drive to the small village of Gamsi,located in highlands of Georgia. The whole drive will take about two hours passing along the Aragvi River. The first stop will be at Ananuri Fortress (14-17 th c), the key point of the Aragvi Saeristavo complex, built strategically in the valleys of two rivers (Aragvi and Verzatkhevi) and creating the natural gate for defenders.
In the history of Georgia, Ananuri played an important role in numerous wars. This complex includes several buildings: upper and lower castles, watchtowers, churches, a bell tower and water reservoirs.
Nowadays it is overlooking the Zhinvali Dam, built in 1980s with capacity of 130 MW. During its construction the village of Zhinvali was flooded and now In winter, when the water level goes down, you can see the 12th century church.
After visiting Ananuri we will continue to the small village of Gamsi. Here you will stay at a small family run guesthouse where you will enjoy the local cuisine and have time to gather your thoughts before the afternoon ride.
Later, we will explore the village and its surroundings on horseback, our ride, approximately eight kilometres, will take us to visit pagan shrines that are widely spread in mountainous regions of Georgia.
After Christianity came to Georgia, pagan characters became the staple of fables and together created many Georgian myths. Today you will see worship places of ADGILIS DEDA, a female pagan deity and protector of travelers and guests. Also Tsveris Angelozi, the local guardian angel.
In the evening enjoy your dinner at Gamsi Guesthouse.
Day 2: Gamsi – Chokhi – Dumatskho – Gamsi
- Breakfast
- Horseback riding to Village Chokhi and Dumatsko
- Outdoor picnic lunch
- Dinner and overnight at Guesthouse
After breakfast we will head out on our horses towards an ancient village, Chokhi, rich in history and culture, and enjoy the stunning mountain views along Aragvi River. The total length of ride (round trip) is about ten kilometres. The village of Chokhi is a natural center of the upper part of Gudamakhari gorge, with breathtaking views of Mount Shirimi (3201 m) and the Boseli Valley.
The first stop will be at the memorial and museum of Goderdzi Chokheli, one of the most prominent Georgian cultural leaders, a writer, poet, director, and screenwriter, who was born here. The museum offers a permanent exhibition of his personal belongings, photographs and letters. Like the village of Gamsi, Chokhi also has a shrine of the Pirimze angel strategically located at a place that is constantly illuminated by the sun. We will also visit the village of Dumatskho, one of the last communities in the gorge. There we can look back and enjoy the spectacular views of the entire Black Aragvi Valley and its constituent surrounding villages. After lunch you will ride back to Gamsi village, have a short rest before dinner. Overnight at the guesthouse.
Day 3: Gamsi – Tbilisi
- Breakfast
- Drive back from Gamsi to Pasanauri and lunch at restaurant Chokhi
- Arrival in Tbilisi, end of the tour
After breakfast you will check out from the guesthouse and drive back to Tbilisi. En route lunch will be offered at the Restaurant Chokhi in Pasanauri.
Arrival in Tbilisi to your hotel, end of the tour.
Khashuri
The important municipality of Khashuri is strategically located at the crossroads of eastern, western and southern Georgia. Located at 690 meters above sea level it lies in an area of medium and low mountain ridge-valleys and hilly-plain relief. Khashuri resorts are popular due to its climate, the healing mineral waters and the beauty of nature.
Itinerary
Day 1: Tbilisi – Bulbuli fortress and lake – Kvishkheti
Day 2: Kvishkheti – Surami Fortress – Ali Fortress – Cheratkhevi river valley – Tbilisi
Program
Day 1: Tbilisi – Bulbuli fortress and lake – Kvishkheti
- Meet your guide and drive to Kvishkheti
- Horseback riding to Bulbuli fortress and lake
- Lunch at hotel Mtserlebi
- Free evening for dinner
- Overnight at hotel Mtserlebi
Meet your guide at the hotel lobby and drive towards Kvishkheti. Upon arrival in the village, you will transfer to horseback and continue to the important fortress of Bulbuli, and historically a key fortification on the road connecting Eastern and Western Georgia. Unfortunately, today it is severely damaged and only ruins and a small part of the walls have survived.
On the way to fortress you will pass a small lake, as the trail leads through beautiful forest and fields.
After riding, you will have lunch at the Mtserlebi mountain resort.
The evening will be free. Overnight at the hotel.
Day 2: Kvishkheti – Surami Fortress – Ali Fortress – Cheratkhevi river valley – Tbilisi
- Breakfast
- Drive to Surami fortress
- Horseback riding at Ali fortress and Cheratkhevi valley
- Lunch at Walas Dukani
- Drive back to Tbilisi, end of the tour
After breakfast check out from the hotel and drive to Surami Castle. The complex includes a walled fortress, St. George's church, a tower and palace. According to the legend, the castle was connected to the river Suramula, from where drinking water was supplied to its dark prison.
Later you will continue driving to the village of Ali where you will again ride on horseback to the Cherathkhevi valley.
The first stop will be at the Church of Mother Mary where you will see Ali fortress that dates to the late Middle Ages. Protecting the city of Ali from the north; in the 13th century this was the country’s one of the major trade and economic centres, and the fortress a vital part of the national infrastructure.
For lunch we will stop at Wala’s Dukani, and after lunch drive back to Tbilisi and the end of the tour.
Racha-Lechkhumi and Kvemo Svaneti
The historical region of “Racha-Lechkhumi and Kvemo Svaneti” offers a wonderful mix of history and unspoiled natural beauty. It is the most sparsely populated area of Georgia, and its mountainous borders harbour one of the most beautiful regions of the country. Racha, located in the valleys of the Rioni, is surrounded by mountains and distinguished for its unique architectural monuments, peaks, caves, waterfalls, springs and lakes. Its first settlements date back to the Stone Age, and additionally, objects from Bronze and Iron ages have been found. Here, spectacular views and hidden passes and captivating rock formations will truly surprise you.
Itinerary
Day 1: Tbilisi – Oni – Chiora
Day 2: Chiora – Notsara – Chiora
Day 3: Chiora – Nikortsminda – Shaori Lake – Tbilisi
Program
Day 1: Tbilisi—Oni—Chiora
- In the morning meet the guide and drive to Oni
- Lunch at a local restaurant (kve Chame da Kve Tsadi)
- Check in to the hotel
- Small walking tour in Oni
- Dinner and overnight at Hotel Chiora Inn
In the morning you will meet your guide at your hotel and drive to Racha, approximately five hours from Tbilisi. The first stop will be in a town of Oni where you will have lunch at a small local restaurant “The eat and go Café”. The must-have dish here is “Lobiani”, bean-filled bread with bacon, and a special ingredient that is added only in Racha.
After lunch you will visit the local museum, with artifacts from the Stone Age to the late Feudal period, revealing details of life as it was in those times. In the museum, you will also see a model of a sheep from the Bronze Age, belt buckles, women’s jewelry, weapons, work tools and more. Later you will visit the Synagogue built in 1895 and designed by a Polich architect; at the time, Oni was one of the largest and most powerful Jewish communities in Georgia.
We will continue to the village of Chiora where you will check in to the small family run guesthouse Chiora Inn and later have dinner.
Day 2: Chiora—Notsara—Chiora
- Breakfast
- Horseback riding Chiora-Notsara valley
- Outdoor picnic lunch
- Dinner and overnight at guesthouse Chiora Inn
Today you will have a horseback riding program to the Notsara Valley, a total trail length of twenty-three kilometres. As you leave the village and cross a small creek, you will enter a pine forest that offers a welcome shade on hot summer days. As the forest finishes, you will get a spectacular view of surrounding mountains and continue your ride through the Chveshuri Valley. Here you will see a turn to a small church, great location with beautiful views of surrounding area–the best spot for a picnic lunch.
After lunch and a short rest, you will ride back to village. Free evening at the guesthouse before dinner.
Day 3: Chiora—Nikortsminda—Shaori Lake—Tbilisi
- Breakfast
- Drive to Nikortsminda and Shaori lake
- Lunch at Lia deida
- Arrival in Tbilisi end of the tour
After breakfast we will turn back toward Tbilisi, but en route you will visit Nikortsminda Cathedral and Shaori lake. The first stop will be at the cathedral, built in the 11th century. The Cathedral has a massive dome and many special architectural features; the unbroken arcatures at its twelve windows are richly decorated with ornamented architraves, perhaps the most beautiful decorations among the Georgian churches.
Later continue your trip and pass Shaori Lake which will dazzle you with its landscape. For lunch you will stop in Argveta at a small village house. The family lives upstairs and serves people in their enormous living room for lunches. The place is called “Lia Deida”, Aunt Lia, your host, who soaked up the influences of her grandmother and mother to form her own style. The menu is exceptional Imeretian, authentic and delicious. After lunch drive back to Tbilisi at your hotel. End of the tour.
Imereti
The western region of Georgia, Imereti, is rich in cultural monuments and natural diversity. Small villages draped in greenery, the hills and valleys of the Kvirila River will remind you of stories from fiery children’s books. One of the towns of this region, Sachkhere, and its surroundings were once owned by the noble Tsereteli family from the 15 th century, and it is here that we make our base for this exploration. The town is a real paradise with canyons, waterfalls and unique caves. Here you will see and experience the amazing hospitality and incredibly delicious cuisine of Imereti.
Itinerary
Day 1: tbilisi – Village Chikha
Day 2: Chikha – Skhvitori – Kvereti Velly – Chikha
Day 3: Chikha – Tbilisi
Program
Day 1: Tbilisi—Village Chikha (Chikha castle and church on horseback)
- Meet the guide and drive to village Chikha
- Stop for lunch at restaurant Otuna
- Check in at guesthouse Shalvaseuli
- Horseback riding to Castle and Church of Chikha
- Dinner and overnight at guesthouse Shalvaseuli
After breakfast you will meet your guide and drive to the Imereti region, some three hours west of Tbilisi. When we reach the town of Sachkhere, we will stop for lunch at a local restaurant “Otuna”. The Imeretian cuisine is delicious; the local mixture of walnuts and herbs make for some truly outstanding flavours, and Imeretian Khachapuri is famous all over Georgia!
After lunch we will continue to drive to the village of Chikha, where we will check in at a small, family-run guesthouse Shalvaseuli https://shorturl.at/fhkst After a short rest, we will prepare for the horseback riding program, and head out first to explore the village and its surrounds. This will include Chikhi Castle and the Church of the Virgin Mary built in the 12th century and located on the slope of a mountain above the village. The trail heads through forest and the along the River Kvirila where the moss-covered trees and ruins of fortress create a mystical environment. Dinner and overnight at a guesthouse.
Day 2: Chikha—Skhvitori—Kvereti Velly – Chikha
- Breakfast
- Visit Akaki Tsereteli house-museum (nobleman and poet from Imereti Region)
- Horseback riding to Kvereti Valley
- Lunch at the local restaurant Ori Dzma (two brothers)
- Horseback riding to Modinakhe castle
- Dinner and overnight at guesthouse Shalvaseuli
Today you will explore the Kvereti Valley, but first you will drive to Akaki Tsereteli house-museum, the home of a famous Georgian poet and nobleman. Tsereteli was born in Skhvitori and besides poetry, he contributed greatly to the foundation of “the Society of Literacy Spreading among the Georgians”, development of the Georgian Journalism and the establishment of the permanent theatre troupe.
After the museum, you will ride to the Kverety Valley; the trail goes through the lush green surroundings; in forests and mountains, fresh air and tranquility is guaranteed.
For lunch we will stop at a small restaurant Ori Dmza (Two Brothers). Later, our ride will continue to the Modinakhe Fortress, built in the 19th century by Papuna Tsereteli. According to legend, Papuna wanted to marry the daughter of nobleman David Abashidze, who refused as Papuna had no fortress in his kingdom. So, he built one, asked his future father-in-law to come and see Modinakhe and married his daughter In the evening enjoy your dinner at the guesthouse.
Day 3: Chikha—Tbilisi
- Breakfast
- Check out
- Drive back to Tbilisi, end of the tour
After breakfast, we will check out and drive back directly to Tbilisi where our tour will end.
Samegrelo
Samagrelo, an important region in the western part of Georgia, is the land of Megrelians, and in ancient times was a part of the kingdom of Colchis, famous as the land of the Golden Fleece. The region had a great strategic importance throughout its history and was one of the oldest principalities of Georgia, belonging to Dadiani family. Mingrelians possess their own language, which is part of the Kartvelian linguistic family and widely spoken in Samegrelo. Beside of its rich historical monuments, its gorgeous natural environment and delicious cuisine, it is a unique part of the country. Additionally, it must be added that the iconic Megrelian polyphonic music will be another highlight of your visit to this exceptional region.
Itinerary
Day 1: Tbilisi—Zugdidi
Day 2: Zugdidi—Rukhi Fortress—Ethno village Sisatura—Zugdidi
Day 3: Zugdidi—Tbilisi
Program
Day 1: Tbilisi—Zugdidi
- Meet the guide and drive to Zugdidi
- Lunch at Winery Baia
- Check in at a hotel in Zugdidi
- Visit Dadiani Palace
- Dinner at Diaroni
- Overnight at hotel
In the morning you will meet your guide and drive west towards Zugdidi, in total, about a five-hour journey. Our first stop will be at the Baia Winery where you will have lunch and an opportunity to sample their wines. In 2013, two sisters Baia and Gvantsa Abuladze started to rediscover the rarest species of wine grapes in Western Georgia and to focus on organic winemaking techniques, and their results are magnificent.
After Lunch continue drive to Zugdidi and arrival at the hotel Casa de Khasia where we will stay for two nights. After a short rest, we will explore the Dadiani Palace, the residency of Dadiani, Princess Samegrelo. It is one of the first European-style palaces built in 17th century Georgia. Today, the museum complex consists of palaces of the Queen of Samegrelo, Ekaterine Chavchavadze-Dadiani and Prince Niko Dadiani, a church and the botanical garden. Here you will see their unique numismatic materials, the Dadiani family collections of medieval armor, ethnographic objects, and fine art. Later enjoy your dinner at the Restaurant Diaroni (the Megrelian meaning is “the place where you eat”) Overnight at the hotel.
Day 2: Zugdidi—Rukhi—Ethno village Sisatura—Zugdidi
- Breakfast
- Drive to village Rukhi
- Horseback riding to Rukhi Fortress and Ethno village Sisatura
- Lunch at Ethno village
- Free evening for dinner
- Overnight at hotel
After breakfast, it is a short drive to the village of Rukhi where you will meet your horses and continue riding to explore the Rukhi River Valley. Our first stop will be at the Rukhi Fortress built by Levan II Dadiani in 1647, an important fortification of the Samegrelo principality. This is a large-scale building divided into two parts, the lower section to the south and the citadel to the north.
Later you will continue your ride along the Rukhi River Valley until you reach the Ethno village Sisatura. Here there are Medieval Megrelian houses spread over three hectares, where every item speaks of the culture and traditions of Samegrelo. You can journey back to medieval times and gain a more complete understanding of Megrelian culture. All the guests of this amazing village can take a cooking class; we may learn to prepare Ghomi (corn pudding), dine without plates at a traditional lime table, sip wine from an Okhvamuri (a small pitcher), and later, should you wish, take a walk to the man-made lake Sisa Tura for fishing.
After lunch ride back to Zugdidi and free evening for dinner. Overnight at the hotel.
Day 3: Zugdidi—Tbilisi
- Breakfast
- Drive to Tbilisi
- Lunch at Lia Deida
- Arrival in Tbilisi end of the tour
After breakfast drive back to Tbilisi. We will stop for lunch in the small village of Argveta at the village house. Family lives upstairs and serves people in their enormous living room for lunches. The place is called Lia Deida, Aunt Lia, who soaked up the influences of her grandmother and mother to form her own style. The menu is specifically Imeretian, very authentic and quite delicious. After lunch drive back to Tbilisi to your hotel, end of the tour.
Svaneti
Svaneti is Georgia’s one of the most mountainous regions, and rich with historical and cultural areas. The region is famous for its peaks, cliffs, fortified Svan towers, characteristic frescos, traditions, rituals and myths, and the deeply independent spirit of the Svan people.
Svaneti is the land of Golden Fleece; it is there that the epic legend of Jason and Argonauts took place, where the first inhabitants, mainly golden prospectors, settled. An ancient method of finding gold was to suspend a sheep’s coat in the rushing river, and after a short while it would be coated with gold flakes – the basis of the legend of Jason and his Golden Fleece. For centuries the Svans lived here, cut off from the outside world by the inaccessible mountains, and even today, their culture is remarkably preserved and intact.
Itinerary
Day 1: Tbilisi—Zugdidi—Chkaduashi
Day 2: Chkaduashi—Khaishi—Chuberi
Day 3: Chuberi—Tita—Chuberi
Day 4: Chuberi—Tbilisi
Program
Day 1: Tbilisi—Zugdidi—Chkaduashi
- Meet the guide and drive to Chkaduashi
- Lunch stop at Zugdidi
- Check in to the hotel Chkaduashi
- Dinner and overnight at the hotel
In the morning you will meet your guide at your Tbilisi hotel and drive west towards the region of Samegrelo, about five hours from the capital. The first stop will be in Zugdidi to have lunch at the Diaroni Restaurant (the Megrelian meaning is “the place where you eat”). The Megrelian cuisine you will try is very special and quite
outstanding. The food is spicy, full of seasonings and flavors, love at a first bite and a bite that you will never forget.
After lunch we will explore Dadiani Palace, the residency of Dadiani, Princess of Samegrelo. It is one of the first European-style palaces built in 17th century Georgia. Today, the museum complex consists of palaces of the Queen of Samegrelo, Ekaterine Chavchavadze-Dadiani and Prince Niko Dadiani, a church and the botanical garden. Here you will see their unique numismatic materials, the Dadiani family collections of medieval armor, ethnographic objects, and fine art. In the evening arrival at village Chkaduashi.
Here you will stay at Dadiani-Murats’ family estate, Chateau Chkaduashi and enjoy your dinner at the property.
Day 2: Chkaduashi—Chuberi—Marshvichala – Chuberi
- Breakfast
- Drive to Chuberi
- Several photo stops en route (Enguri Dam; Svan tower; waterfalls)
- Check in to the hotel Chubezeni
- Lunch at hotel
- Horseback riding at Neskra valley and Mashvrichala
- Dinner and overnight at hotel
After breakfast we will drive towards Chuberi, deep into Svaneti. The road goes alongside the Enguri River, and you will enjoy breathtaking views all the way. The first photo stop will be at a traditional Svan tower near Jvari Village. If you wish you can explore the tower from inside and see its distinctive construction style. Our next stop will be at Enguri Dam built during the 1960s and 70s, one of the most important hydroelectric power stations of Georgia.
After passing several waterfalls we will arrive in Chuberi and check in at the Chubezeni Hotel.
There will be time for a short rest and lunch before we head out and enjoy the stunning surroundings on horseback. Mashrichala, a nearby village, is one of the most beautiful places in the Chuberi valley, and we will pass through it as our trail follows the Neskra River up to its very source. Enroute you can taste sour mineral water directly from the natural springs.
The Svan mountains are a truly impressive environment of amazing landscapes and wild nature. Being here on horseback is a genuine privilege. In the evening we will drive back at the hotel and enjoy dinner with authentic Svanetian flavors. Overnight at the hotel.
Day 3: Chuberi—Tbilisi
- Breakfast
- Drive back to Tbilisi
- Stop for lunch
- Arrival in Tbilisi, end of the tour
After breakfast we will check out from hotel and drive back to Tbilisi. It is about a six-hour drive, and en route you will stop for lunch at Jargvali. Our tour will end in Tbilisi as we arrive back at the hotel.
Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti
The “Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti” region is distinguished by a great historical past. It lies in the Great Caucasus Mountains in the northwest of Georgia. For millennia, the region was isolated, principally because of its isolation, and the enormous difficulty in communication. This Georgian region is one of the diverse and interesting part of Georgia, rich with its ancient history, medieval churches and fortresses, alpine lakes, waterfalls, valleys, forests and mountains, truly a region that will make an indelible impression. Within Svaneti, w will explore the municipality of Tsalenjikha, where various archeological objects and ancient settlements have been discovered in the municipality of Tsalenjikha.
Itinerary
Day 1: Tbilisi—Tsalenjikha—Skuri
Day 2: Skuri—Skuri Valley—Kirnakhora—Skuri
Day 3: Skuri—Tbilisi
Program
Day 1: Tbilisi—Tsalenjikha—Skuri
- In the morning meet your guide and drive to Tsalenjikha
- Lunch at Lia Deida in Argveta
- Check in at Skuri Resort
In the morning you will meet your guide and drive west to Skuri, a journey that will take approximately six hours. The first stop for lunch will be in the small village of Argveta at a village house. Here, the family lives upstairs and serves people in their enormous living room for lunches. The place is called Lia Deida, Aunt Lia, home-cooking byt a woman who has soaked up the influences of her grandmother and mother to form her own style. The menu is specifically Imeretian; very authentic and quite delicious.
After lunch continue your drive to Tsalenjikha and upon arrival, we will visit the Cathedral built between the 10th and 13th centuries. The Tsalenjikha complex includes a church, a bell tower and a forty-five metre tunnel. The facades of Cathedral are not decorated but interior is covered with frescos.
After the cathedral you will visit the house of Terenti Graneli, a noted Georgian poet of the 19th century, where the house museum displays the poet’s personal letters, photos and paintings of the Georgian artists, Lado Gudiashvili and Irakli Toidze. Later, we will continue to the Skuri Resort, where we will have dinner and our overnight stay.
Day 2: Skuri—Skuri Valley—Kirnakhora—Kvatsantsala – Skuri
- Breakfast
- Horsback riding to Skuri Valley
- Outdoor picnic lunch
- Dinner and overnight at Skuri resort
After breakfast today, you will head out for a twenty-kilometre trail on horseback, riding in the Skuri Valley. The trail starts at the very end of Skuri village, and the road steadily climbs through the forest. It then circumvents the eastern side of Kvira mountain and finally you will get to enjoy the first views of distant Egrisi mountains. Later the trail will lead you to “Kirnakhona”, one of our favourite picnic lunch spots. Here you can rest and admire the stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
After lunch, we will ride back to Skuri Resort. Dinner and overnight at the hotel.
Day 3: Skuri—Tbilisi
- Breakfast
- Check out from hotel
- Drive back to Tbilisi
After breakfast you will check out from the resort and drive back to Tbilisi. En route a quick stop for lunch at Rikoti Pass, and then to Tbilisi where our tour will end.
Special Requests and Requirements
- Each rider must be able to get on and off the horse independently.
- The participant must be able to harness a horse or assist other riders (on-the-spot training is possible).
- All participants must follow the tour coordinator’s directions at all times.
- The participants should assist the guides in gathering the horses.
- The organizer must see an identity card from each participant.
- All participants must notify the organizer of any personal, physical, or mental limitations (such as phobias, altitude anxiety, and so on) as well as nutritional restrictions.
- A vehicle will escort the horse team throughout the calling days to transport the participants’ belongings, food, equipment, and other necessities (except for the Chargali-Artani route). The luggage will be delivered from Chargali to Artani by car.
- Riders can travel periodically by car, which will always be nearby, with the exception of the Chargali-Artani route.
- It is not permitted to change the route without the permission of the coordinator.
- For safety, it is necessary to register for 3-day travel insurance, which the tour company will help you with.
- Show consideration and respect for the guides and other participants. Do not impede or delay others. Do not disturb or pollute the environment. Smile and greet individuals as you pass them.
Warnings and Risks
- In extreme weather conditions, the tour may be canceled without a refund to the participant.
- Expected risks include rain and snow, road closures, dogs scaring horses, bad weather, and horses getting lost or lost from the route.
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