Mountains to the Sea: The Ultimate 8-Day Georgia Adventure

About This Tour

A scenic journey through Georgia’s ancient heritage and natural beauty, visiting UNESCO-listed monasteries, historic Mtskheta, and the mineral springs of Borjomi, before heading west for an overnight stay in Kutaisi.

Morning: Spiritual Landmarks & Ancient Capital

🚩 Stop 1: Jvari Monastery (9:00 AM – 10:00 AM)

• Start your journey at Jvari Monastery, a 6th-century UNESCO-listed Georgian Orthodox monastery.

• Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Mtkvari and Aragvi rivers from this sacred hilltop.

• Learn about its early Christian architecture and historical significance.

🚩 Stop 2: Mtskheta & Svetitskhoveli Cathedral (10:15 AM – 12:00 PM)

• Walk through Mtskheta, Georgia’s ancient capital and religious heart.

• Visit Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, an 11th-century UNESCO site, where legend says Christ’s robe is buried.

• Stroll through local markets, taste Churchkhela (traditional Georgian sweets), and explore charming cobblestone streets.

Afternoon: Nature & Mineral Springs

🚩 Stop 3: Borjomi Central Park (2:30 PM – 4:00 PM)

• Relax in the lush greenery of Borjomi Central Park, famous for its natural mineral water springs.

• Taste the legendary Borjomi mineral water straight from the source.

• Walk along scenic forest trails or take a cable car up the mountain for stunning views.

Evening: Journey to Kutaisi

🚩 Stop 4: Drive to Kutaisi & Free Evening (7:00 PM – Overnight Stay)

• Arrive in Kutaisi, Georgia’s western cultural hub and ancient capital.

• Check into a local hotel or guesthouse and relax.

• Option to explore Kutaisi’s charming old town, Bagrati Cathedral, or local restaurants for dinner.

🔚 End of Day 1 – Overnight in Kutaisi

About This Tour – Day 2: Caves, Canyons & Waterfalls

An unforgettable adventure through Georgia’s natural wonders, exploring underground caves, breathtaking canyons, and majestic waterfalls before returning to Tbilisi.

Morning: Underground Marvels

🚩 Stop 1: Prometheus Cave (10:00 AM – 11:30 AM)

• Start the day at Prometheus Cave, Georgia’s largest and most spectacular cave system.

• Walk through illuminated limestone formations, stalactites, stalagmites, and underground rivers.

• Optional boat ride through the cave’s subterranean lake (if water levels allow).

Afternoon: Breathtaking Canyons & Waterfalls

🚩 Stop 2: Okatse Canyon (12:30 PM – 3:00 PM)

• Walk along the hanging bridges of Okatse Canyon, offering jaw-dropping views of cliffs and waterfalls.

• Experience the 650-meter-long suspended walkway, stretching over the canyon for an adrenaline-filled experience.

• Enjoy breathtaking panoramas of deep gorges and lush green landscapes.

🚩 Stop 3: Kinchkha Waterfalls (4:00 PM – 5:00 PM)

• Visit Kinchkha Waterfalls, one of Georgia’s tallest and most scenic waterfalls, cascading from 100 meters high.

• Walk along the viewing platforms for stunning photo opportunities.

• Enjoy the cool mist and surrounding serene nature.

🔚 End of Day 2 – Arrival in Kutaisi (6:30 PM)

Day 3: From Canyons to the Caucasus

A scenic and historical journey from Kutaisi to Mestia, stopping at the breathtaking Martvili Canyon, the grand Dadiani Palace, and the majestic Enguri Dam, before arriving in Svaneti’s high mountains.

Morning: History & Nature

🚗 Departure from Kutaisi (9:00 AM)

• Begin your journey towards Svaneti, traveling through Mingrelia’s lush green landscapes.

🚩 Stop 1: Martvili Canyon (10:00 AM – 11:30 AM)

• Explore the stunning Martvili Canyon, famous for its turquoise waters and cascading waterfalls.

• Take a boat ride through the emerald-green canyon, surrounded by dramatic limestone cliffs.

• Walk along viewing platforms to take in the breathtaking scenery.

🚩 Stop 2: Dadiani Palace, Zugdidi (12:30 PM – 1:30 PM)

• Visit the Dadiani Palace, the former residence of the ruling Dadiani family, one of Georgia’s most powerful noble dynasties.

• Explore the beautiful palace gardens and museum, which houses Napoleon Bonaparte’s death mask and ancient Georgian artifacts.

• Enjoy lunch in Zugdidi before continuing the journey.

Afternoon: Entering the High Caucasus

🚩 Stop 3: Enguri Dam (2:30 PM – 3:00 PM)

• Visit the Enguri Dam, one of the tallest arch dams in the world, holding back Georgia’s largest hydroelectric reservoir.

• Take in breathtaking views of the turquoise-blue Enguri River, surrounded by dramatic mountain peaks.

🚗 Final Drive to Mestia (3:00 PM – 5:00 PM)

• The road winds through deep valleys and towering mountains as you enter Svaneti.

• Stop at scenic viewpoints along the way for photos.

🚩 Stop 4: Arrival in Mestia (5:00 PM – Check-in & Free Evening)

• Arrive in Mestia, the cultural heart of Svaneti, famous for its stone towers and medieval charm.

• Check into a local guesthouse or hotel and rest.

• Optional evening walk to explore Svaneti Museum, Mestia towers, or local restaurants.

🔚 End of Day 3 – Overnight Stay in Mestia

Day 4: Mestia’s Alpine Wonders

A thrilling day of adventure and exploration in Svaneti, featuring the breathtaking Koruldi Lakes and the glacier-fed Chalaadi Glacier, two of the most scenic spots around Mestia.

Morning: Panoramic Views at Koruldi Lakes

🚩 Stop 1: Koruldi Lakes (9:00 AM – 12:00 PM)

• Start your morning with a jeep ride or a challenging hike to Koruldi Lakes, located at 2,740m above sea level.

• Enjoy breathtaking views of the Caucasus Mountains, including Mt. Ushba, one of the region’s most famous peaks.

• Walk around the mirror-like alpine lakes, which beautifully reflect the surrounding mountains.

• Capture stunning panoramic photos of the Svaneti region.

Afternoon: Glacier Adventure at Chalaadi

🚩 Stop 2: Chalaadi Glacier (1:30 PM – 4:30 PM)

• Take a short 4×4 drive or a hike to the Chalaadi Glacier trailhead.

• Hike around 1.5 – 2 hours (round trip) through dense pine forests and along the roaring Mestiachala River.

• Reach the Chalaadi Glacier, where you’ll see massive ice formations and dramatic mountain cliffs.

• Feel the cool mountain air and take in the raw, untouched beauty of the Caucasus.

Evening: Relax in Mestia

🚗 Return to Mestia (5:00 PM – Free Evening)

• Enjoy free time in Mestia, exploring its charming streets, medieval Svan towers, and local museums.

• Optional dinner at a traditional Svanetian restaurant, trying dishes like Kubdari (Svan meat pie) and Tashmijabi (cheesy mashed potatoes).

🔚 End of Day 4 – Overnight Stay in Mestia

Day 5: Svaneti’s Towers, Peaks & Ancient Villages

A day filled with history, adventure, and breathtaking mountain landscapes, featuring a visit to the Khergiani Tower, the Tetnuldi Ski Resort, and the legendary Ushguli, the highest permanently inhabited village in Europe.

Morning: Svaneti’s Legendary Towers

🚩 Stop 1: Khergiani Tower Museum (9:00 AM – 9:45 AM)

• Start the day with a visit to the Mikheil Khergiani House Museum, dedicated to the famous Svan alpinist, known as the “Tiger of the Cliffs.”

• Explore an authentic medieval Svan tower, learning about Svanetian traditions, mountaineering history, and daily life in the region.

🚗 Drive Towards Tetnuldi (10:00 AM – 11:00 AM)

🚩 Stop 2: Tetnuldi Ski Resort & Viewpoints (11:00 AM – 12:00 PM)

• Head to the Tetnuldi Ski Resort, one of the highest-altitude ski areas in Georgia with stunning views of Mt. Tetnuldi (4,858m).

• Enjoy the panoramic views of the Caucasus from various viewpoints.

• Optional: Short hikes or scenic photography stops.

Afternoon: The Legendary Ushguli

🚗 Drive to Ushguli (12:00 PM – 1:30 PM)

• Travel through rugged mountain roads, with breathtaking views along the way.

• Enjoy scenic stops at waterfalls, rivers, and panoramic viewpoints.

🚩 Stop 3: Ushguli (1:30 PM – 4:00 PM)

• Arrive in Ushguli, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the highest permanently inhabited village in Europe (2,100m).

• Walk through the ancient stone towers and medieval houses, experiencing the authentic and untouched atmosphere of Svaneti.

• Visit Lamaria Church, a 9th-century church with stunning views of Mt. Shkhara (5,193m), the highest peak in Georgia.

• Optional: Enjoy a traditional Svanetian lunch in a local guesthouse.

Evening: Return to Mestia

🚗 Drive Back to Mestia (4:00 PM – 6:00 PM)

• Enjoy the sunset over the Caucasus as you drive back to Mestia.

• Free evening to relax, explore Mestia, or enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.

🔚 End of Day 5 – Overnight Stay in Mestia

Day 6: From the Caucasus to the Black Sea

A dramatic transition from the high mountains of Svaneti to the subtropical coastline of Batumi, with a visit to the Shekvetili Dendrological Park and a relaxing evening along Batumi Boulevard.

Morning: Scenic Drive from Mestia to the Coast

🚗 Departure from Mestia (9:00 AM)

• Start the long but scenic drive from the snow-capped peaks of Svaneti down to the lush subtropical coastline of Adjara.

• Enjoy changing landscapes, passing through deep valleys, green forests, and charming villages.

🚩 Stop 1: Shekvetili Dendrological Park (3:00 PM – 4:00 PM)

• Visit the unique Shekvetili Dendrological Park, home to exotic trees, rare plants, and free-roaming animals from around the world.

• Walk through the beautifully landscaped botanical park, featuring lakes, bridges, and open spaces with diverse flora and fauna.

🚗 Drive to Batumi (4:00 PM – 5:00 PM)

• Arrive in Batumi, Georgia’s vibrant Black Sea resort city, known for its mix of modern architecture, old town charm, and lively seaside atmosphere.

• Check into a hotel and rest before exploring the city.

Evening: Batumi Boulevard & Old Town

🚩 Stop 2: Batumi Boulevard & Sunset Walk (6:30 PM – 8:00 PM)

• Stroll along the famous Batumi Boulevard, a seaside promenade lined with palm trees, fountains, and sculptures.

• Visit the Ali & Nino Statue, a moving sculpture symbolizing eternal love.

• See the Alphabet Tower, a modern landmark celebrating the Georgian script with stunning views.

🚩 Stop 3: Batumi Old Town (8:00 PM – 10:00 PM)

• Explore the charming streets of Old Batumi, filled with colorful 19th-century buildings, cozy cafes, and vibrant nightlife.

• Visit Europe Square and the Piazza, famous for their architectural beauty and lively atmosphere.

• Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, trying Adjarian Khachapuri (cheese-filled bread boat) and fresh Black Sea seafood.

🔚 End of Day 6 – Overnight Stay in Batumi

About This Tour – Day 7: Waterfalls & Batumi Charm

A relaxing day exploring the natural beauty of Adjara with a visit to the Makhuntseti Waterfall, followed by a leisurely afternoon in Batumi’s Piazza and Old Town.

Morning: Nature Escape in Adjara

🚗 Departure from Batumi (9:00 AM)

• Take a scenic drive into the mountains of Adjara, passing through charming villages and lush green landscapes.

🚩 Stop 1: Makhuntseti Waterfall (10:00 AM – 10:45 AM)

• Visit the Makhuntseti Waterfall, one of the highest and most beautiful waterfalls in Georgia.

• Enjoy the fresh mountain air and take in the picturesque scenery.

• Walk across the Makhuntseti Bridge, a medieval arch stone bridge dating back to the times of Queen Tamar.

🚩 Stop 2: Optional Wine Tasting in a Local Winery (11:00 AM – 12:00 PM)

• Visit a traditional Adjarian winery to taste local wines and chacha (Georgian brandy).

• Learn about winemaking traditions in the region, famous for its unique varieties.

🚗 Return to Batumi (12:00 PM – 1:00 PM)

Afternoon: Exploring Batumi’s Heart

🚩 Stop 3: Batumi Piazza & Old Town (1:30 PM – 3:00 PM)

• Visit Batumi Piazza, known for its Italian-style architecture, mosaic floors, and live music performances.

• Relax at one of the cozy cafes, enjoying coffee or Georgian desserts.

• Explore the surrounding Old Town, with its charming narrow streets, colorful buildings, and European-influenced architecture.

🚩 Stop 4: Free Time for Shopping or Beach Walk (3:00 PM – 5:00 PM)

• Spend some free time shopping for souvenirs, visiting local markets, or enjoying a walk along Batumi Beach.

🔚 End of Day 7 – Overnight Stay in Batumi

Day 8: Coastal Gardens & Return to Tbilisi

A peaceful morning exploring the lush Batumi Botanical Garden, followed by a scenic drive back to Tbilisi, marking the end of an incredible journey through Georgia.

Morning: Batumi’s Green Paradise

🚗 Departure from Batumi (9:00 AM)

🚩 Stop 1: Batumi Botanical Garden (9:30 AM – 11:30 AM)

• Stroll through one of the largest and most diverse botanical gardens in the world, offering breathtaking views of the Black Sea.

• Explore lush subtropical landscapes, exotic plants from different continents, and serene walking trails.

• Visit panoramic viewpoints overlooking the coastline and surrounding mountains.

🚗 Return to Batumi (11:30 AM – 12:00 PM) & Lunch Break

• Enjoy a relaxed lunch at a seaside café before the long drive to Tbilisi.

Afternoon: Scenic Drive to Tbilisi

🚗 Departure from Batumi (1:00 PM)

• Enjoy the 6-hour scenic drive through rolling hills, vineyards, and small Georgian towns.

• Optional short stops for coffee/snacks along the way.

🚩 Arrival in Tbilisi (7:00 PM – 8:00 PM)

• Check into the hotel or free evening to explore the city.

• Optional farewell dinner at a traditional Georgian restaurant.

🔚 End of Tour – Overnight Stay in Tbilisi or Departure