Overview
Our adventure with extraordinary Trip Leader Eka Tchvritidze brings us to a realm where, in Eka’s words, “the mountains meet heaven.” In wild Tusheti National Park, our lodge-to-lodge hikes bring us across pine-covered mountains, through lush meadows, and to slate-roofed villages guarded by 17th century stone watchtowers. Overnights are in guesthouses where feasting is a cherished tradition and way of life—we’ll be welcomed with songs, poems, and hearty toasts! In the Kakheti region, we’ll discover Georgia’s age-old wine-making traditions, taste a delightful cuisine with influences from Eastern Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, and hike in the foothills of the Caucasus below mighty Mt. Kazbek. This is an amazing experience of the thriving cultures and soaring landscapes of the Caucasus.
What an extraordinary adventure of beauty, fabulous fruits and vegetables, vast fields of springtime flowers, steep mountains with impressive relief, and immersion in an evolving culture influenced by East, West, Africa, and the Middle East!
— Victoria T., Mill Valley, CA
Days 1-2
Tbilisi
In the ancient hillside city of Tbilisi, our walk includes the 4th century Narikala Fortress overlooking the Old Town and charming Rustaveli Avenue, the city’s popular strolling 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 green Tusheti Mountains, we are warmly greeted in mountaintop hamlets where medieval watchtowers stand tall. Our Trip Leader grew up here in the village of Shenako, which has UNESCO “living museum” status, and her extended family still lives here—we’ll be welcomed! We hike across Sanare Pass (6,270'), visiting three remote villages en route. Our highest hike takes us over Nakaicho Pass (9,514'), which connects the untamed alpine beauty of the Tusheti, Pirikity, and Gometsari valleys. The Tusheti region, with its semi-nomadic herding heritage, is still largely untouched by the 21st century, and we’ll stay in simple, family-run guesthouses where we’ll enjoy supras—Georgian feasts around long communal tables (get ready to drink wine out of goat horns, toast to life, 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 a Private Vineyard / Hikes in the Kazbegi Mountains
In Kakheti, we’ll taste the wines in Eka’s lovely vineyard, set in one of the world’s oldest wine-growing regions. In the Kazbegi Mountains, our final hike brings us up to the iconic 14th century Gergeti Trinity Church, perched on a ridge below snow-capped Mt. Kazbek (16,512'). Depart on Day 11 via Tbilisi.
Wine Tasting in a Private Vineyard / 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.
