Enveloped within the captivating panorama of the Trialeti Range in Georgia's Borjomi district, Bakuriani is a picturesque daba and a well-renowned ski resort. Positioned at an elevation of 1,700 meters (5,576 feet) above sea level, the resort lies 30 km (19 mi) from Borjomi, adorning the northern slope of the Trialeti Range.
Enclosed within the Bakuriani Depression or caldera, the area is swathed in the verdant beauty of coniferous forests, primarily composed of spruce. A vestige of geological marvels, the modern-day town owes its topography to ancient lava flows from the proximate Mukhera volcano.
Bakuriani is a haven for winter sports enthusiasts, with its ski areas split between two distinct zones: Didveli and Kokhta/Kokhta-Mitarbi. Mount Kokhta offers a maximum skiable height of 2,269 meters (7,444 feet), while the highest lift in Didveli ascends to 2,702 meters (8,865 feet). This winter sports paradise dates back to 1932 when the first ski base was inaugurated. Today, the resort features ski lifts and tramps that trail to Kokhtagori Mountain and Tskhratskaro Pass. Didveli skiing routes boast artificial snowfall, enhancing the thrill of the skiing experience.
This winter wonderland is also a preferred host for sports competitions. In March 2022, the resort had the honor of hosting the slopestyle event during the 2021–22 FIS Snowboard World Cup, marking a significant milestone for Georgia.
The climate in Bakuriani offers a blend of humid maritime and relatively humid continental conditions. Winters are notably cold with substantial snowfall, while summers unfurl in a lengthy, warm embrace. Bakuriani is also renowned for the Botanical Garden of the Georgian Academy of Sciences, nestled amidst the resort's breathtaking natural beauty.
Bakuriani's strategic location also hosts the trajectory of the Baku–Tbilisi–Ceyhan pipeline just a few kilometers south. The resort holds a special place in the heart of winter sports, as it was the home town of Nodar Kumaritashvili, a luger who tragically passed away during the 2010 Winter Olympics training event. The resort commemorates his legacy, with his home street named in his honor.
Above all, Bakuriani is more than a ski resort; it's a destination imbued with a rich history, an enduring legacy, and a promise of unforgettable experiences, whether you're hurtling down a ski slope or simply basking in the glory of Georgia's natural wonders.
