“Legend has it that, in punishment for stealing fire from the gods, Zeus had Prometheus chained to Mt Kazbegi. Indeed, there are few places in Europe more awe-inspiring than the high Caucasus and our small-group tour “Mountains of Georgia” takes you to new frontiers”.
There are some long and unavoidable drives on this tour, but the scenery we pass through is always changing and spectacular.
Full Itinerary
Arrival in Tbilisi
Arrival at Tbilisi international Airport. Transfer by bus to the hotel (15 km from Tbilisi, 15 minutes drive).
Tbilisi
The whole day is dedicated to a sightseeing tour of Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia from 5th century and renowned for its elegant and remarkable architecture. Walking through the through old city we visit to 13th century Metekhi church, the sulphur baths and the 4th century, Narikala fortress as well as the 7th century Sioni cathedral. We stroll through the streets of Old Tbilisi to the 6th century Anchiskhati basilica before having lunch in a city restaurant. After lunch, we visit the Tbilisi National Museum and the afternoon is rounded off with a visit to the Vino Underground wine cellar in Old Tbilisi where we taste some of the famous Georgina wines.
Dinner and overnight in Tbilisi.
Mtskheta & Kazbegi
We begin the day by driving to the old capital of Kartli-Iberia kingdom, Mtskheta, where we visit the charming, 6th century Jvari monastery. After also visiting the Svetitskhoveli cathedral and Samtavro convent, we continue north along the Georgian Military Highway to the Mtiuleti and Khevi provinces. After lunch in local restaurant we visit the Ananuri architectural complex before continuing on to Kazbegi where, at the height of 2379m we are quite literally on the crossroads between Europe and Asia.
Dinner and overnight in Kazbegi.
Gergeti
After breakfast, we drive up in 4×4 vehicles to the iconic Gergeti Trinity church which has rightly become emblematic of the Georgian landscape. For those who are feeling adventurous, it is also possible to walk up to the Gergeti church. Lunch is in a local family home.
The afternoon is free to either continue sightseeing or perhaps take a walk.
Dinner and overnight in Kazbegi.
Return to Tbilisi
After breakfast we return to Tbilisi by minibus – returning in time for lunch.
Free last afternoon in Tbilisi.
Dinner in Georgian city restaurant. Overnight in Tbilisi.
Kutaisi
After breakfast we drive to Kutaisi, the former capital of western Georgia, passing on the way through the Likhi range that divides eastern and western parts of Georgia. on arrival in Kutaisi we visit to Gelati academy and monastery complex datinf from the 12th century and important for its murals and mosaics.
Evening meal and overnight in Kutaisi.
Drive to Mestia
The Svaneti region the most remote and also perhpas the most distinctive of all Georgia. The traditions of the local people are unique and their villages are characterised by the numerous medieval watchtowers which break the skyline. In earlier times, these served as a safe retreat for families and gave protection against eventual intruders.
Dinner and overnight in Mestia.
Day trip to Ushguli
Today we venture further into the Svaneti range of mountains with a day trip to Ushguli before returning to Mestia.
Farewell dinner and overnight in Mestia.
Mestia
We have a free day in Mestia – either just to relax and enjoy the mountain air or to walk to the lakes.
Evening meal and overnight in Mestia
return to Tbilisi
Today is a long journey back to Tbilisi
Dinner and overnight in Tbilisi.
Departure
Departure from Tbilisi airport.
