Journey to the Caucasus
Georgia
Georgia's compact masterpiece, from the ancient capital Tbilisi through Mtskheta's living-museum monasteries, north on the Georgian Military Highway through the Dariali Gorge to the Kazbegi plateau (Gergeti Trinity Church floating above the clouds on a 2,170m promontory, with Mount Kazbek's 5,047m cone behind), and east through the Alazani Valley's vineyards to Sighnaghi's medieval wine town. The birthplace of wine, Christianity, and Georgian polyphony.
Explore on the interactive map →Stops along the route
- Tbilisi
Old Town carved balconies, Narikala Fortress, sulphur baths, and the 5th-century Anchiskhati Basilica. The Dry Bridge flea market spills Soviet relics every weekend.
- Mtskheta
Georgia's ancient capital at the confluence of the Mtkvari and Aragvi rivers. Jvari Monastery (586 AD) and Svetitskhoveli Cathedral (1010 AD) are both UNESCO sites.
- Ananuri Fortress
A 16th-century riverside fortress complex on the Zhinvali reservoir, with two churches and a defensive tower rising straight from the water's edge.
- Kazbegi
Gergeti Trinity Church (14th century, 2,170m) floats above clouds with 5,047m Mount Kazbek behind. Horse treks to the Gergeti Glacier leave from the village below.
- Sighnaghi
A hilltop wine-country town ringed by complete 18th-century walls. Kakheti produces 70% of Georgian wine, including amber qvevri-fermented orange wines aged in clay jars.
Where to Eat
- SalobieGeorgian
Renowned for its traditional bean stew, this rustic eatery offers authentic Georgian flavors in a cozy setting.
- Rooms Hotel Kazbegi RestaurantInternational
Offers a fusion of Georgian and international dishes with panoramic views of Mount Kazbek.
- Pheasant's TearsGeorgian
A winery and restaurant serving organic wines and traditional Georgian cuisine in a charming atmosphere.
- KakhelebiGeorgian
Known for its khinkali and other local specialties, this restaurant provides a genuine taste of Kakhetian cuisine.
Things to Do
- Jvari MonasteryHistoric Site
A 6th-century monastery perched atop a hill, offering stunning views of Mtskheta and the confluence of two rivers.
- Gergeti Trinity ChurchHistoric Site
Located at 2,170 meters, this 14th-century church provides breathtaking vistas of Mount Kazbek.
- Bodbe MonasteryHistoric Site
A 9th-century monastic complex near Sighnaghi, known as the burial place of St. Nino, the enlightener of Georgia.
- Ananuri Fortress ComplexHistoric Site
A 17th-century castle and church ensemble overlooking the Aragvi River, rich in history and architecture.
Travel advisory
The Georgian Military Highway beyond Gudauri reaches 2,379 m and is subject to avalanche closures and sudden weather changes; check road status at the Cross Pass before setting out. Side roads to villages such as Ushguli involve rough unpaved tracks that require an SUV with good clearance. Carry cash as ATMs are scarce beyond Kazbegi.