KAZBEGI and GUDAURI
Tour starts: at 7:00 from our office in Kutaisi. Our first stop takes us to Surami, where we indulge in the rich flavors of Georgian sweet bread known as "Nazuki." Delight in a firsthand demonstration of its creation and savor a taste of this local delicacy. First beautiful place to visit is Zhinvali. water reservoir, also known as a lake is located on the Georgian Military Highway. Our adventure continues with a visit to the historic Ananuri castle. Heading northward, we pause at the Gudauri Viewpoint, offering sweeping vistas of the Caucasus mountain range. Traverse a few kilometers through this majestic landscape until we reach Stepantsminda, where we pause for a well-deserved lunch, satisfying both body and soul.
After our culinary respite, we venture to the Holy Trinity Church of Gergeti, a symbol of spiritual devotion amidst awe-inspiring natural beauty. As the day draws to a close, we bid farewell to Stepantsminda.
We'll return: arriving in the city till 22:00 with new impressions and new friends
Included in the price: air-conditioned transportation
Not included expenses: lunch and 4x4 van rental fee for Gergeti church ride (60 GEL per 6 seater van)
Highlights
Surami offers a blend of history, natural beauty, and health benefits. Nestled on the southern slopes of the Likhi Range at an elevation of around 740 meters, Surami is a popular mountain climatic resort with rich history. You'll find the Surami Fortress, a medieval complex with a church, tower, and palace, offering a glimpse into Georgia's past. The town is also located at the crossroads of two important historical roads, further highlighting its strategic significance.
Zhinvali is a small town nestled on the Aragvi River. While it might not be a bustling metropolis, it has historical significance. Once a center for Georgian nobility, the area boasts remnants of past grandeur, with some sources mentioning fortresses, towers, and palaces. It was also a crossroads for important trade routes. Zhinvali is known for its large hydroelectric power station, one of the biggest in Georgia. This dam also created the Zhinvali Reservoir, a scenic artificial lake.
Ananuri castle -medieval fortress t is 900 meters above sea level adorned with ancient churches and formidable fighting towers. The castle offers a breathtaking panorama of the Zhinvali water reservoir, a sight to behold.
Gudauri Viewpoint (Friendship monument) - Georgian - Russian Friendship Monument is build in 1983 and is located on the Georgian Military Highway between Gudauri ski resort and the Jvari Pass. The memorial consists of a large round stone arch and concrete structure overlooking the Devil's Valley in the Caucasus Mountains.
Holy Trinity Church of Gergeti - it stands 2200 meters above sea level. It is the most popular tourist destination in Georgia. The Trinity Church of Gergeti, with its history and location, is the face of Georgia - a Christian island hidden in the most beautiful nature.
Kazbegi Peak or Mkinvartsveri - it's mountain lovers most attracted place to visit. From the highest point of the mountain, 5,054 meters up, the view is truly unforgettable. There are many tourist routes starting from Stepantsminda.