Overview
Our adventure with Trip Leader supreme Eka Tchvritidze brings us to a realm where, in Eka’s words, “the mountains meet heaven.” In wild, unspoiled Tusheti National Park, a mountain Shangri-La in northeastern Georgia, our lodge to lodge hikes bring us to stone-built villages and steep alpine valleys knee-deep in wildflowers. Our overnights are in family-run guesthouses where feasting and hospitality are a way of life—we’ll be welcomed with songs, poems, and hearty toasts! In the wine region of Kakheti, we taste the best Georgian vintages, and finish with hikes in the green foothills of the Caucasus below Mt. Kazbek, where an ancient way of life is preserved. This is an amazing journey and experience of the thriving traditions, people, and landscapes of the Caucasus.
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
Our walking tour in ancient Tbilisi includes the 4th century Narikala Fortress overlooking Tbilisi’s Old Town, and Rustaveli Avenue, the city’s popular promenade.
Tbilisi - 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
In Georgia’s Tusheti Mountains, we hike among hamlets of slate-roofed houses where medieval watchtowers still stand. Our Trip Leader grew up here in the village of Shenako, which has a UNESCO “living museum” status, and her extended family still lives here—we’ll get a warm welcome. Our highest hike is over Nakaicho Pass (9,500'), which connects the breathtaking Tusheti, Pirikity, and Gometsari valleys. The Tusheti area is largely untouched by the 21st century, and our accommodations are simple guesthouses that offer Tushetian supras—traditional Georgian feasts (get ready to drink wine out of goat horns, 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
Wine Tasting in Kakheti / Hikes in the Kazbegi Mountains
We head to the Kakheti wine region, where we’ll taste the wares of one of the world’s oldest wine-growing regions. In the mountainous Kazbegi region, we hike through woodlands to 14th century Gergeti Trinity Church (7,119'), with Mt. Kazbek (16,680'), a spectacular snow-capped volcano, as the backdrop. Depart on Day 11 via Tbilisi.
Wine Tasting 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 ungroomed mountain trails, 4-7 hours a day, 2 walking days, van support altitudes between 7,000-9,500 feet, some long drives. This is a strenuous hiking trip, read “What the Trip is Like” for more details.
