...Trip idea
Ancient Cities & Caucasus Peaks in Georgia
Discover a world of striking contrasts with an adventure through Georgia, known as the Cradle of Wine and as a historic crossroad between Europe and Asia.
Visiting Georgia reveals a Europe rarely seen - a country of extraordinary contrasts in history and landscape. It's a destination meant to be experienced outdoors, from hiking the Chaukhi Mountain and becoming intimately acquainted with alpine life to weaving past colourful wooden houses and drum-dome antique churches, where fascinating histories reveal themselves. Georgia is a destination that'll stay with you for years to come.
Sarah Ward Hedges
Personal Travel Designer
01488 689700 sarah.wardhedges@baileyrobinson.com Read Sarah’s profile
Day 1: Arrive in Tbilisi
Step off your flight into Tbilisi International Airport, where a private transfer awaits in the Arrivals Hall to whisk you directly to your city hotel. As you drive, take a moment to soak in Tbilisi’s dramatic valley setting, and enjoy a kaleidoscope of colours and architecture, hinting at the city’s former role as the Soviet Republic and as one of Europe’s oldest capitals. Settle in and recover from the journey with a swim in the glass-bottom pool or enjoy a relaxing meal at the hotel’s grand cafe, serving modern takes on traditional Georgian cuisine.
STAY: Stamba Hotel
Situated in Tbilisi’s up-and-coming Vera district is Stamba Hotel, a wonderful property with an industrial skeleton of concrete beams made beautiful with lush hanging plants, antique chandelier, and floor-to-ceiling shelves of vintage books. It’s probably one of the most unique hotels in Tbilisi, as it’s set in a former Soviet printing house, and it marks the start of your eight-day adventure. Your room will be spacious and filled with an abundance of natural light, while the public spaces are vibrant and meant for socialising. Café Stamba melds into a chocolatier, which opens onto an outdoor terrace, a garden, and a quadrangle that is also used as a mini amphitheater and outdoor exhibition space. The rooftop pool and restaurant are also highlights of the property, offering staggering views over the city.
Day 2: Discover Georgia's Capital
Your first full day is devoted to exploring Tbilisi, Georgia’s vibrant heart. Built on the Silk Road, it features a unique blend of Turko-Persian and European architectural styles. At its core lies the historic Old Town, or kala, built during the early Middle Ages. This two-square-kilometre area is home to the city’s iconic sites, including antique churches, colourful wooden houses, and narrow lanes. You’ll also visit the Holy Trinity Cathedral and the European-style Rustaveli Avenue, with the Parliament, Opera House, National Museum, and more.
Take a funicular for panoramic views
Later in the afternoon, take a funicular up to Mtatsminda Park, where you’ll find cafes and restaurants, and plenty of amusement park rides. Spanning over 100 hectares, surrounded by forests, fountains, and squares, Mtatsminda Park is a great place for rest and relaxation. As one of the highest points in Tbilisi, you’ll gain panoramic views of the entire city.
Day 3: Venture to Bodbe
Today, you’ll journey to the eastern region of Kakheti, Georgia’s premier wine-producing area, noted for its ruggedly beautiful scenery and sprawling vineyards that are perfect for photography. The area is also known for housing some of Georgia’s finest churches, and you’ll first visit St. Nina’s Monastery at Bodbe, an Orthodox monastic complex that was once a spiritual, educational, and cultural center. It’s also the seat of the Bishops of Bodbe, and as a working church, you are welcome to come here to pray if you wish.
Explore the hill village of Sighnaghi
Just over a mile away is the highly picturesque and Tuscan-looking hilltop village of Sighnaghi. Known for being Georgia’s most attractive town, with a lofty position facing the snow-capped Caucasus. You’ll have lunch on arrival and be invited to enjoy a glass of traditional wine during a wine tasting, before exploring the town’s charming core, featuring 18th- and 19th-century architecture. The day will conclude with you returning to Tbilisi.
Day 4: Travel to mountainous Kazbegi & Jvari Pass
The next leg of your trip begins today with a journey into the mountainous region of Kazbegi along one of the Caucasus’ most spectacular routes – the historic Georgian Military Highway. En route, take a moment to visit Mtskheta, known as “Little Jerusalem” due to its historical significance as one of the most vibrant centres of Christianity in Georgia. It is the former Georgian capital and the seat of the Georgian church, with a collection of historic religious buildings that have collectively been awarded UNESCO World Heritage status. Once you’ve had your fill of Mtskheta, you’ll journey north to the impressive Ananuri Fortress overlooking the Zhinvali Reservoir. Once owned by the eristavis (dukes) of Aragvi, who ruled the Tergi valley between the 13th and 18th centuries, the fortress is now popular with the Georgian Military Hwy. The day will progress with you arriving at the Jvari Pass, the highest point on the road. Marvel at snow-capped mountains, passing through Stepantsminda, a charming village lying in the shadow of Mt. Kazbek.
STAY: Rooms Hotel Kazbegi
For the next few nights, you’ll be staying at Rooms Kazbegi, which is a hotel all about the view – the mighty snow-capped Kazbegi. This Alpine-style boutique hotel, formerly a Soviet sanatorium, now features an interior design that pays homage to traditional mountain hideaways. Warm tones, natural materials, and historic furnishings provide a serene backdrop within which to truly relax, exhale, and perhaps marvel at the stunning celestial activities that are always happening here. The restaurant here honours classic Georgian cuisine, using local, seasonal produce, and is complemented by an extensive drinks list and a carefully curated collection of Georgian wines.
Day 5: Discover Gergeti Trinity Church
This morning, depart Stepantsminda by 4WD for an uphill adventure to Tsminda Sameba, otherwise known as Gergeti Trinity Church. This stunning 14th-century Christian Orthodox church is situated in a breathtaking location, on the slopes of Mount Kazbek at an altitude of 2,170 meters above sea level. While it has been an important place of worship for centuries, legend claims it was built by a monk inspired by a vision of the Holy Trinity. Inside, you’ll marvel at beautifully decorated frescoes and religious artifacts, including an icon of St. Non, the patron saint of Georgia.
Indulge with a traditional lunch
After visiting Gergeti Trinity Church, you’ll walk back down the mountain for a hands-on lunch experience that teaches about Georgia’s traditional dishes and how to make them. Begin with sampling khachapuri, a rich cheese-filled bread, before indulging with khinkali, a meat-filled dumpling. When you’re bellies are full, return to your hotel and enjoy an afternoon of leisure, perhaps practicing your breaststroke in the swimming pool or sitting on the terrace, marvelling at the breathtaking view.
Day 6: Experience Sno Valley
Another day brings another journey through staggering mountains. This time you’ll drive through the pristine Sno Valley to Juta, an outpost of the Khevsur people from the mountains in the east. This tiny village is an excellent starting point for some great hikes. Trails wind through a U-shaped glacial valley towards Mt. Chaukhi, famous as the Caucasus’ version of the Dolomites. A packed lunch will be provided. You’ll then return to your hotel to ease those muscles in the spa.
Afternoon at leisure
Perhaps you’d enjoy a soothing massage or a swim in the pool. Or if you prefer, unwind with a drink on the wrap-around terrace, taking in the sweeping views and relaxing in the fresh air. The combination of rejuvenating spa treatments and tranquil outdoor spaces offers an ideal way to end your day.
Day 7: Discover Stalin's birthplace
Leave your hotel in the mountains and head to Gori, known as Stalin’s birthplace, to join a guided visit of the museum that explores his legacy. Next, make your way to Uplistsikhe, a historic site carved into rock that once served as a centre for religion and trade. You’ll then travel east to Chateau Mukhrani winery, a pioneer in bringing European wine-making traditions to Georgia.
STAY: Stamba Hotel
After enjoying a glass of wine or two, you’ll return to Tbilisi and check in again at Stamba Hotel for a restful evening.
Day 8: Farewell to Georgia
As your journey concludes, a private transfer will collect you from your hotel and escort you to the airport for your flight home or onward travels.
Safe Travels!
We think this itinerary works well either for a couple or an adventurous family. Call us so we can plan it out to your exact needs.
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