Overview
For millennia, the Georgian Caucasus has been home to ancient mountain clans, an extraordinary mosaic of cultures steeped in tradition and genuine hospitality. Our adventure with Trip Leader supreme Eka Tchvritidze is a fascinating journey into this mountain realm, which, in Eka’s words, is “where the mountains meet heaven.” In the wilds of unspoiled Tusheti National Park, a scenic Shangri-La hidden behind silent mountaintops in northeastern Georgia, you’ll enjoy a four-day, lodge-based trek among ancient stone villages lost in time and steep-sided alpine valleys knee-deep in wildflowers. Our overnights are in local guesthouses, where eating, drinking, and hospitality are elevated to an art form—at a “Supra,” a huge display of love, friendship, food, and wine, you’ll be made to feel welcome with songs, poems, and boundless hearty toasts. After our trek, we head to Kakheti, one of the oldest wine regions in the world, where you’ll overnight at a chateau and taste wines from a winery set right on the property. We end our adventure in the rugged, green foothills of the Caucasus below Mt. Kazbek, one of the highest mountains in Georgia. Join us for an adventure in the untouched Caucasus! We guarantee you’ll be touched by the poetry of its people and landscapes.
This was a truly beautiful adventure! So unique and such an incredible opportunity to explore this beautiful and little-known country along with its delicious food and warm and welcoming people. One of our very favorite trips!
— Cathy S., Charlotte, NC
Days 1-2
Tbilisi, Georgia
In Tbilisi, an ancient hillside city of filigreed balconies and cobbled streets, we enjoy a walking tour that includes the 4th-century Narikala Fortress overlooking the old part of the city, Semaba Cathedral, and charming Rustaveli Avenue, Tbilisi’s favorite strolling promenade, lined with architectural highlights and quaint shops.
Tbilisi, Georgia - Days 1-2
Vinotel
Days 1 to 2 (2 nights),Day 11 (1 night), Tbilisi, Georgia
Set near the historic district of Avlabari and only 10 minutes from the Freedom Square in Tbilisi, the family-run Vinotel is a boutique hotel showcasing traditional Georgian architecture infused with modern touches. Recently opened in 2015 yet built upon incredible wine cellars that date back to the 1880s, the hotel's welcoming atmosphere makes you feel as if you're visiting a friend's home. Relax on the garden terrace overlooking the nearby church or in your cozy guestroom, and take time to visit the wine cellar and sample some fantastic Georgian artisan wines during your free time.
Days 3-7
Hiking in Tusheti National Park
The steep green mountainsides of Georgia’s Tusheti Mountains shelter hidden hamlets with medieval defensive towers and slate-roofed, stone-built houses. We hike through ancient villages that are UNESCO-designated “living museums,” including Dochu, impossibly perched atop a rocky cliff in a magical setting, and cross passes with views of the snowy peaks of the Caucasus. This realm has been largely untouched by the 21st century, and our accommodations are in family-run guesthouses that offer great hospitality, including traditional Tushetian “supras,” traditional Georgian feasts (get ready to drink wine out of goat horns and sing and dance!).
Hiking in Tusheti National Park - Days 3-7
Guesthouses in the Caucasus
Days 3 to 7 (5 nights), Tusheti, GeorgiaFive of our overnights are in local guesthouses, and two of them (Shenako and Dartlo) have shared bathroom facilities. Clean, comfortable, and extremely friendly, they typify the culture and traditions of the Tushetians, and offer a fabulous base from which to explore this astonishing region.
Days 8-11
Winetasting in Kakheti / Hikes in the Kazbegi Mountains
We head to the Kakheti wine region, where we enjoy tasting a variety of Georgian vintages, including Kvevri wines, aged in traditional large clay vessels buried in the ground. In the Kazbegi mountain region, we visit 14th century Gergeti Trinity Church (7,119'), perched in an impressive setting against the background of snow-capped Mt. Kazbek (16,680’), one of the highest mountains in Georgia. Heading deeper into the mountains, we arrive at the isolated village of Juta (7,103'), an old settlement that preserves its ancient way of life, and hike toward the Chaukhi Mountains, beautiful rocky peaks that divide the Kazbegi and Khevsureti mountain regions. Depart on Day 11 via Tbilisi.
Winetasting in Kakheti / Hikes in the Kazbegi Mountains - Days 8-11
Chateau Mere
Day 8 (1 night), Telavi, GeorgiaLike a setting for a fairytale, the Chateau Mere stands amid a serene Georgian countryside and has a charming atmosphere complete with antique furniture, unique decorations, and a lovely terrace. Spacious guestrooms have nice bathrooms and showers, and the pool is framed by stone walls, creating the perfect place to lounge and enjoy the mountain views. Cozy up next to the fireplace in the lobby and relax with a book (or glass of wine) in hand and recount the day's events with your fellow travelers.
Rooms Hotel Kazbegi
Days 9 to 10 (2 nights), Kazbegi, GeorgiaWith sweeping views of Mt. Kazbek and the Kazbegi mountain range, the Rooms Hotel is set in one of the most stunning locations in all Georgia. Floor-to-ceiling windows overlook the town of Kazbegi including the Gergeti Trinity Church, and the interior designs of the hotel reflect the rustic elements from the outdoors with wonderful wood accents and fun antler decorations. Guestrooms are simple with comfortable beds and spacious bathrooms and the lobby has an excellent lounge with a cozy fireplace. Be sure to unwind in the indoor pool, lounge in the library room, or enjoy a drink on the enormous outdoor deck.
Vinotel
Day 11 (1 night), Tbilisi, GeorgiaSet near the historic district of Avlabari and only 10 minutes from the Freedom Square in Tbilisi, the family-run Vinotel is a boutique hotel showcasing traditional Georgian architecture infused with modern touches. Recently opened in 2015 yet built upon incredible wine cellars that date back to the 1880s, the hotel's welcoming atmosphere makes you feel as if you're visiting a friend's home. Relax on the garden terrace overlooking the nearby church or in your cozy guestroom, and take time to visit the wine cellar and sample some fantastic Georgian artisan wines during your free time.
Hiker's Journey to the Caucasus
Highlights
Highlights
Details
5 hiking days on rough trails, 4-7 hours a day, 2 walking days, van support (for luggage or if you wish to skip a day's hike), some long drives. This is a strenuous hiking trip, read “What the Trip is Like” for more details.
