Overview
- Ski in Europe's highest mountains at Georgia's premier resorts - Gudauri, Bakuriani, and Mestia
- Immerse yourself in the richness of Georgia's culture, exploring UNESCO World Heritage Sites
- Experience the tranquility of Borjomi's winter forests, a serene contrast to thrilling ski adventures
- Enjoy a hassle-free journey with a meticulously planned itinerary combining skiing and cultural discoveries
- Relish the comfort of our curated, charming hotels symbolizing Georgian hospitality
- Absorb Georgia's breathtaking winter landscapes, each destination offering a unique perspective
Welcome to an unparalleled journey where winter's grandeur and cultural heritage seamlessly intertwine in our meticulously planned Grand Winter Tour in Georgia. This adventure goes beyond your typical ski tour, offering a deep dive into Georgia's captivating history, UNESCO heritage sites, and sublime landscapes.
Picture yourself carving through the pristine, powder-kissed slopes of Gudauri, Bakuriani, and Mestia, cradled amidst some of the highest peaks in Europe. Let the majestic 5000+ meter mountains that surround you serve as the backdrop to your unforgettable winter experience. But your thrill isn't confined to the slopes. We take you through the heart of Georgia's rich culture, offering a slice of its vibrant history and unique traditions.
Journey with us through the mesmerizing landscapes, from the bustling cityscapes of Tbilisi to the tranquil snow-dusted forests of Borjomi, and the enchanting ancient fortress towns, each narrating a tale of Georgia's past. We'll guide you through the winding lanes that house UNESCO World Heritage Sites, giving you a taste of the country's resilient spirit.
Forget about the hassle of planning. Our team has done the groundwork, selecting the best ski touring options and combining them with immersive cultural experiences. We offer an itinerary that brings together the best of both worlds, creating a blend of thrilling escapades and enlightening discoveries.
To top it all off, we've curated a selection of the most charming hotels, nestled in the heart of these enchanting winter landscapes. Enjoy the comforting blend of Georgian hospitality and modern luxury, making your stay as memorable as your daytime adventures.
Embark on this grand winter journey with us. Let's create timeless memories together, carving our way through Georgia's best winter landscapes, immersed in a cultural discovery that will leave an indelible imprint on your heart. This is not just a tour; it's your story waiting to be written in the Georgian snow.
Itinerary
- Touchdown in Tbilisi
- Unmasking Tbilisi
- The Ascent to Gudauri, Jvari Monastery Visit, and Ananuri Discovery
- Gudauri Glory
- Gudauri – Concluding with a Mountaintop Spectacle
- Gudauri to Bakuriani - A Journey Through Winter Wonderlands
- Bakuriani - An Alpine Extravaganza
- Second largest city of Georgia - Kutaisi
- Kutaisi to Mestia - Journey into the Land of Fairytales
- Mestia - A Day at Hatsvali
- Mestia - In the Lap of Majestic Tetnuldi
- Mestia - In the Land of Thousand Towers
- Farewell to Georgia
- Departure Day
Touchdown in Tbilisi
Our adventure begins when you set foot in Tbilisi. A friendly face from our team will welcome you and escort you to your accommodations. Overnight in Tbilisi.
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Unmasking Tbilisi
Peel back the layers of Tbilisi's rich history with our guided city tour. Wander through winding lanes, charming houses adorned with wooden balconies, and visit the time-honored Sulphur baths. Uncover secrets of the ancient architecture and end your day basking in breathtaking city views from the Narikala Fortress. Overnight in Tbilisi.
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The Ascent to Gudauri, Jvari Monastery Visit, and Ananuri Discovery
As dawn breaks, an exhilarating journey of 120km beckons us towards the coveted mountain ski resort of Gudauri. Nestled on the southern slopes of the Caucasus Mountains, Gudauri perches at an impressive 2000 meters above sea level, promising an unmatched winter adventure.
Our voyage takes a cultural detour first. We'll make a short stop at the venerable Jvari Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This fascinating structure, built in the early medieval period, holds its ground atop a hill overlooking the historical city of Mtskheta. The beautiful panorama offered from the monastery site enhances the allure of this place, making it a must-see on our journey.
Continuing our journey, we encounter the historical Ananuri complex en route. This medieval fortress and church, set against the backdrop of the frozen Zhinvali Reservoir, offer a splendid spectacle of Georgia's rich architectural heritage and historical narratives. Wander around Ananuri, marveling at intricate stone carvings and absorbing tales of bygone battles, all while soaking in the icy panorama.
Then, we ascend further towards Gudauri. Let the anticipation mount as you envision yourself carving down Gudauri's 12 unique ski trails and pistes. Whether it's negotiating short slalom tracks or hurtling down thrilling 7km ski runs, Gudauri caters to every snow enthusiast. With the highest trail point of Mount Sadzele soaring at 3,250 meters above sea level, your Gudauri adventure promises to be nothing short of electrifying.
After a day steeped in history, culture, and stunning landscapes, retreat to the comfort of our carefully selected hotel. Rest and recharge, ready to embrace the full glory of Gudauri's snow-clad slopes tomorrow. Overnight in Gudauri.
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Gudauri Glory
Spend an unforgettable day in Gudauri, soaking up the town's vibrant atmosphere. End your day with a relaxing sauna session, preparing for the next day's adventure. Overnight in Gudauri.
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Gudauri – Concluding with a Mountaintop Spectacle
Today, we wrap up our memorable stay in Gudauri with a grand adventure to the scenic Gergeti Trinity Church, an architectural gem set against the awe-inspiring backdrop of the colossal Kazbek Mount.
Kick start your day with an invigorating half-hour cable car ride through the stunning Kobi Pass, which serves as an exciting overture to the day's adventures. As you disembark, a minibus awaits to whisk you away to Stepantsminda - a charming city perched on the edge of the Russian border.
From Stepantsminda, our journey continues off-road, ascending towards the sacred Gergeti Trinity Church. Standing at 2170m above sea level, the church offers a breathtaking panoramic view of Kazbek Mount - the third highest peak in Georgia and an undisputed highlight of the Great Caucasus Range.
Immerse yourself in the tranquility and beauty that surrounds the church, letting the fresh mountain air invigorate your senses.
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Gudauri to Bakuriani - A Journey Through Winter Wonderlands
As we bid adieu to the vibrant Gudauri, we set our sights on Bakuriani, another of Georgia's ski resort treasures. But the journey is as much a part of the adventure as the destination itself, and today, it takes us to the quaint town of Borjomi.
Borjomi, renowned for its healing mineral waters, is home to the splendid Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park. Here, trade your ski boots for snowshoes as we delve into the winter forests for a delightful trek. Feel the crunch of snow beneath your feet, listen to the serene silence of the woodland, and breathe in the crisp, clean air.
During this immersive nature expedition, lasting up to four hours, we take a break for a picnic lunch. Can you imagine anything more tranquil than feasting on delicious fare amidst the captivating scenery of a snowy forest landscape?
With the echoes of Borjomi's tranquil woods still lingering in our minds, we resume our journey, arriving at Bakuriani by evening. Here, a new chapter of our snowy Georgian escapade awaits. Get a good night's rest at our chosen hotel, gearing up for more thrilling mountain escapades. Overnight in Bakuriani.
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Bakuriani - An Alpine Extravaganza
Dawn breaks on our first day in Bakuriani, a ski destination that boasts more than its fair share of winter splendors. Nestled on the slopes of the Lesser Caucasus Mountains, this idyllic town is a skier's dream, replete with spectacular alpine runs and untouched off-trail slopes.
Bakuriani's stellar reputation draws winter sport enthusiasts from all corners of the globe. But whether you're a seasoned pro or a novice looking to try your hand at skiing or snowboarding, Bakuriani has something for everyone. It is here that you'll discover a multitude of cross-country trails, each offering a unique snowboarding and skiing experience.
So, gear up and step into your skis. Glide down the slopes, revel in the crisp mountain air, and let the natural beauty of Bakuriani infuse your spirit with an intoxicating blend of exhilaration and tranquility.
As the sun dips below the horizon, reflecting off the snowy landscape, retreat to the cozy comfort of our hotel. Tomorrow promises another day filled with wintertime adventures in this snowy paradise. Overnight in Bakuriani.
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Second largest city of Georgia - Kutaisi
This morning, we will head to the western region of Georgia, crossing the Rikoti Pass, which connects East and West Georgia. We'll start by strolling through the bustling market of the city and taking in the charming sights of Georgia's second largest city. We will visit Bagrati Cathedral which boasts stunning views of the city and the surrounding countryside. Afterwards, we'll travel to the historic Gelati Monastery Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Dinner and overnight stay in Kutaisi.
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Kutaisi to Mestia - Journey into the Land of Fairytales
Embark on an enthralling journey from Kutaisi to Mestia, the heart of Svaneti, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its exceptional mountain landscape and historic villages. As we navigate the 390 km stretch, we will encounter the monumental Enguri Dam, one of the world's highest arch dams, soaring to an astonishing 271.5m.
The journey continues through Upper Svaneti, a realm of untouched past where the cultural heritage echoes from the medieval tower houses and sacred architecture. These landmarks bear witness to the resilience of the Svan people, who have maintained their traditions and independence through the centuries.
Upon reaching Mestia, the region's administrative center, you'll have the option to explore the Museum of History and Ethnography and the Svanetian Architectural Museum, both offering a deeper insight into the region's unique culture and history.
After a day steeped in the rich past and stunning landscapes, we will retreat to our hotel in Mestia, set amidst the snow-covered streets and twinkling winter sky. Overnight in Mestia.
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Mestia - A Day at Hatsvali
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at our guesthouse, fortifying you for the thrill-filled day ahead. Our adventure today takes us to Hatsvali Ski Resort, a mere 8 km from Mestia. Hatsvali, nestled at the base of mount Zuruldi, boasts three distinct lifts – the red route, the blue route, and a special trail designed for beginners.
The resort peaks at mount Zuruldi (2347m), where you can indulge in some exhilarating skiing surrounded by pristine landscapes. Svaneti, a year-round destination, is renowned for its unique Svan culture and breathtaking landscapes. Being situated at the foot of Shkhara, Georgia's highest peak, Svaneti is the perfect playground for winter activities, with Hatsvali offering stunning views of Upper Svaneti and a range of ski trails for every level of skill.
After a day filled with skiing, we return to the tranquillity of Mestia, where you can rest and reflect on your exciting day of adventure. The town's atmosphere, steeped in history and culture, is the perfect place to unwind after an adrenaline-filled day on the slopes. Overnight in Mestia.
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Mestia - In the Lap of Majestic Tetnuldi
As the sun peeks over the horizon, we set off for an adrenaline-pumping day at the Tetnuldi Ski Resort. Perched amidst Svaneti's dramatic peaks, Tetnuldi caters to all, from beginners carving their first tracks to seasoned skiers seeking the thrill of challenging runs. The lifts, varying in levels, guarantee a tailored skiing experience for everyone, promising a day of unforgettable winter sport adventure against the stunning Georgian snowscape.
As the day winds down and we return to Mestia, the town's ancient defensive towers illuminate the dusk, casting a warm glow that reflects off the snow-clad roofs. These iconic towers, unique to Svaneti, stand as silent witnesses to the region's rich and unconquered past. As you settle in for the night, this magical sight will linger, leaving a lasting imprint on your memory. Overnight in Mestia.
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Mestia - In the Land of Thousand Towers
Today, steep yourself in the cultural heritage of Svaneti, often referred to as the 'land of a thousand towers.' The region's unique architecture, marked by ancient defensive stone towers, bears testament to its resilient history.
If the winter conditions permit, you may opt for an extraordinary excursion to Ushguli — recognized as the highest inhabited settlement in Europe, standing at an altitude of 2,100 meters (please note, this excursion is optional and not included in the tour price). A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ushguli symbolizes Georgia's enduring spirit, maintaining its traditional lifestyle against the backdrop of harsh weather conditions and geographical remoteness.
Alternatively, choose to delve deeper into the region's history with a visit to Mestia's local museums (this option is also not included in the tour price). These museums offer a rich insight into the unique culture and historical narrative of this fascinating region.
Savor the rest of your day in the ancient town of Mestia, experiencing its tranquility and timeless charm. Enjoy an overnight stay in Mestia.
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Farewell to Georgia
Bid adieu to the captivating landscapes of Svaneti and embark on a tranquil journey back to Tbilisi. Travel a distance of 470 km, soaking in the beautiful transition from the snow-clad mountainous terrain to the bustling city life. As we conclude our icy escapade, immerse yourself one last time in the vibrant atmosphere of Georgia's capital city. Reflect on the extraordinary journey you've undertaken as you comfortably check-in for your overnight stay at the hotel. Tomorrow, you will carry home not just souvenirs, but a treasury of memories. Overnight in Tbilisi.
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Departure Day
Time to say goodbye. As you prepare for departure, take one last glance at the land that brought you thrilling chills and warming charm. Our representative will escort you to the airport, marking the end of an unforgettable journey.
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Our tour program's list of attractions is a guide, not exhaustive. Unlisted sites may be visited, and listed ones might be viewed from a distance. Conditions like operating hours, weather, or local rules may affect access. Thank you for your understanding.
