Walking in Georgia

Discover the Georgian capital, Tbilisi, an eclectic and lively city built astride the Silk Road. Tbilisi is a pleasant and liveable place with a unique blend of European and Turko-Persian architecture. Today’s sightseeing will include the vast Holy Trinity Cathedral; the atmospheric Old Town, known as the kala, with its distinctive drum-domed antique churches, narrow lanes, and colourful wooden houses; and the thoroughly European quarter centred on prestigious Rustaveli Avenue, where you will visit the National Museum and take the funicular up to Mtatsminda Park to enjoy the panoramic views.

Today will be your first taste of Georgia’s fabulous scenery as you set off on foot, climbing through woodland and meadows towards St. Nino’s chapel on the Karsani hike (moderate difficulty). This 5 to 6-hour circular trail starts a short drive outside Tbilisi and is noted for its breathtaking 90-minute ridge walk and fine views over the Mzkheta and Mtkvari valleys. On returning to your vehicle, drive the short distance to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Mtskheta for a quick visit, then continue to the Spa town of Borjomi in the Lesser Caucasus.

Hike through the fresh forested hills and Alpine meadows of the Lesser Caucasus Mountains on today’s scenic 6-hour trek between Likani and Kvabiskhevi. Also known as the ‘Footprint Trail’, this relatively easy-going 14km walk through the Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park is considered one of Georgia’s best day hikes. The route takes you through the ancient yew forests of the Likani Valley before climbing above the treeline to offer fine panoramic views, then descends into the Kvabiskhevi Valley. On returning to Borjomi, the remainder of the day will be at leisure to relax and enjoy the famous waters.

Start the day in Gori, the birthplace of Stalin and home to a controversial museum dedicated to the dictator’s memory. Nearby, at Uplistsikhe, you’ll visit the ancient religious and trading centre that has been carved into the rock, then travel across the flat agricultural plains of Kartli to the eye-catching Ananuri Monastery. The journey north from here along the historic Georgian Military Highway is one of the Caucasus’ most spectacular journeys. It will take you across the highest point on the road, the Jvari Pass (2,379 metres), before arriving at the ski resort of Gudauri.

Hike off the beaten track and discover the spectacular and virtually forgotten Khada Gorge on today’s adventure in the Greater Caucasus Mountains. Also known as the ‘Valley of 60 Towers’ (most of which are ruined), the Khada Gorge is one of Georgia’s most historically important valleys. It is where St. Nino declared Georgia to be a Christian country. The 14km hike (moderate to challenging) starts in the village of Bedoni below the Jvari pass. It reveals a grand and timeless landscape with old towers, ancient graves, mineral springs, and a gushing waterfall. On completion of your hike, travel north towards mighty Mt. Kazbek (5,033m) and the tiny town of Stepantsminda.

Depart Stepantsminda by 4WD for the uphill journey to Tsminda Sameba, more commonly known as Gergeti Trinity Church – one of Georgia’s most recognisable landmarks. Then, walk back down the mountain (easy – 1 hour). Lunch today is a hands-on affair that teaches a little about some of the country’s more traditional dishes, such as khachapuri, a rich cheese-filled bread, and khinkali, a meat-filled dumpling. The late afternoon will be at leisure. Alternatively, the very fit might like to consider the strenuous hike up to the Gergeti Glacier (9 hours and 1,500m up and down).

This morning, a drive through the pristine Sno Valley will bring you to Juta. This tiny village is the starting point for today’s hike up through a magnificent U-shaped glacial valley towards the multi-pinnacled peaks of Mt. Chaukhi (3,842m), the Caucasus’ answer to the Dolomites. After a steep initial ascent of 20 minutes, the remainder of the walk is mainly along the level (duration 3 to 5 hours – easy to moderate). A packed lunch will be provided. On returning to Stepantsminda, you might like to round the day off by visiting the spa or enjoying a drink on the hotel’s terrace.

On leaving Stepantsminda, drive south along the Georgian Military Highway to the spectacular, almost deserted Truso Valley. The source of the Tegri (Terek) River is known for its scenic beauty and carbonated mineral water springs, medieval towers and spectacular cliffs. This scenic (easy) walk starts in Kvemo Okrokana village and takes between 4 and 6 hours, depending on how far up the valley you wish to walk (Note: Hikers cannot pass beyond Ketrisi village without a special permit). After your hike, drive to Tbilisi.

A private transfer will take you from your hotel to Tbilisi International Airport, where you will check in for your onward flight.