W E L C O M E TO TH E
G O O D L I F E
I N
T H E G E O R G I A N
C O U N T R Y S I D E
P L A N N I N G
Georgia’s countryside is as diverse as it is vast, and private transport is essential for navigating its winding mountain roads and off-the-beaten-path villages.
A well-structured journey is nicest when it strikes a balance of cultural immersion, nature, and time to simply slow down and enjoy Georgia’s legendary hospitality.
Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) are the best seasons for exploring, with mild temperatures perfect for hiking, wine touring, and outdoor feasts. Summer can be hot in the lowlands but is ideal for mountain adventures, while winter brings deep snow to the Caucasus, transforming regions like Gudauri into ski havens.
Accommodation ranges from boutique guesthouses and vineyard stays to alpine lodges and restored fortresses. Many family-run stays offer homemade meals, giving travelers an authentic taste of Georgian country life.
Our suggested itinerary isn’t really meant to be taken at face value – in fact most of them aren't.
Consider this a list of some things you might wish to explore, a place to get you inspired, and something you can pick and choose from depending on the length of your stay and your own personal goals.
M U S E U M & S I T E B O O K I N G
Uplistsikhe Cave Town – Open year-round, but if during the summer, best visited in the morning before midday heat. Tickets are available on-site. A guide is highly recommended to bring the ancient cave city to life.
Gergeti Trinity Church – No tickets required, but reaching it involves either a challenging uphill hike or a 4WD ride from Stepantsminda. Again, our guides are the way to go for a smooth journey and a world of insight into its history and cultural significance.
Vardzia Cave Monastery – Open daily, but with steep climbs and narrow passageways, it’s best explored with a guide. The monastery remains active, so respectful attire is required (you know the drill: shoulders & neckline covered, best no shorts or short skirts).
David Gareja Monastery Complex – Parts of the complex require permits due to its proximity to the Azerbaijan border. It’s best to check with local guides before planning a visit. The site is best accessed with private transport.
Tsinandali Estate & Wine Museum – The historic home of Alexander Chavchavadze, this estate combines aristocratic grandeur with Georgia’s wine heritage. Guided tours and tastings are available, and advance reservations are recommended during peak seasons.
Mtskheta’s Svetitskhoveli Cathedral & Jvari Monastery – These UNESCO-listed sites are essential visits for understanding Georgia’s deep Christian roots. No ticket required.
Prometheus Cave & Martvili Canyon – Two of Georgia’s most stunning natural wonders, both offering guided tours. Boat rides at Martvili require separate tickets and may be unavailable in high-water conditions.
S U G G E S T E D I T I N E R A R Y P O I N T S
DAYS I-II
Kazbegi & the High Caucasus
Drive the spectacular Georgian Military Highway, stopping at the Ananuri Fortress and the dramatic Jvari Pass.
Visit Gergeti Trinity Church, framed by the towering peak of Mount Kazbek.
Enjoy a traditional highland meal, featuring khinkali and mountain cheeses.
Explore the Dariali Gorge or hike to the Gveleti Waterfalls.
Stay overnight in a mountain lodge with views over the valley.
DAYS III-IV
Kakheti’s Wine & Monasteries
Begin in Telavi, the heart of Kakheti’s wine country.
Visit family-run wineries to taste Georgia’s unique qvevri wines.
Explore Alaverdi Monastery and the grand Tsinandali Estate.
Wander through the charming town of Sighnaghi, with its panoramic views and historic walls.
Dine at a vineyard, pairing regional dishes with amber wines.
DAYS V-VI
Svaneti’s Towering Peaks
Take a scenic flight or long mountain drive to Mestia, the gateway to Svaneti.
Visit the Svaneti Museum, home to ancient icons and artifacts.
Explore the UNESCO-listed village of Ushguli, where medieval towers rise against snow-capped peaks.
Hike to the stunning Chalaadi Glacier or the Koruldi Lakes.
Experience a Svan supra, featuring hearty mountain cuisine and polyphonic singing.
You Might Also Want to Stay Longer, and Here’s Why We Think You Should:
Tusheti: One of Georgia’s most remote and breathtaking regions, Tusheti is only accessible in summer via a spectacularly rugged mountain pass. Once there, you’ll find ancient stone villages, shepherd traditions, and some of the country’s best hiking trails.
David Gareja & the Semi-Desert: The lunar-like landscapes of Georgia’s southeastern steppe hide the 6th-century cave monastery of David Gareja, where monks once lived and painted exquisite frescoes inside rock-hewn chambers.
Bordjomi & the Lesser Caucasus: This forested region is home to the Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park, famous for its mineral springs and hiking trails. It’s a great extension for those who want to explore Georgia’s quieter, greener side.
Georgia’s countryside is not just a destination; it is a living, breathing tapestry of history, culture, and nature. Whether you’re clinking glasses of amber wine in a centuries-old vineyard, listening to ancient polyphonic songs in a Svan village, or standing atop a mountain pass where legends were born, you get to step into a story that has been unfolding for thousands of years. Breathe deeply, and live it up.
DAY VII PLUS
M E E T Y O U R G U I D E
All of our guides can offer you a spectacular experience. As each person has a slightly different look at the world, due to their own unique interests and specialties, we'd encourage you to read a few profiles.
