Tour Overview
Supremely located on the southern slopes of the Greater Caucasus Mountain Range, Gudauri is a unique and luxurious winter Georgian escape. Renowned for its excellent skiing opportunities, this modern resort boasts year-round activities for every kind of traveler. On this adventure you’ll ski untouched backcountry, experience the rugged mountains, sample delicious cuisine, and enjoy Georgian legendary hospitality.
Itinerary
Day One: Arrive
Upon your arrival into Tbilisi Airport (Georgia’s main international airport), we meet you to take you to Signagi located in the Kakheti region. Renowned for its excellent wine the region combines the cultural appeal of ancient churches in the vast valleys and old-world charm with the snow-capped Caucasus range.
Day Two: Signagi
After breakfast we set off on a walking tour of Signagi. Located in the eastern foothills of the Gombori Range of the Caucasus Mountains, Signagi is one of the smallest towns in the country. Rich in ancient culture, the Caucasus is mentioned in ancient Greek mythology and in the Bible. A large variety of languages and nationalities mingle with the unique mountain landscape to make the Caucasus one of the most breathtaking places on the planet.
Take dinner in a local family home where you can bake bread with the hosts, taste homemade wine and Georgian Chacha (vodka), and try famous Georgian barbecue called mtsvadi.
Day Three: Signagi-Gudauri
After breakfast drive to Telavi, one of the oldest towns of the Kakheti region. Numerous monuments of historic and archaeological significance are found in the outskirts of the city. After a city tour in this magnificent place, visit two of the most important and most beautiful architectural monuments: the Dzveli (old) and Akhali (new) Shuamta Monasteries. Both stand in a forest of deciduous trees, which makes them look even more fascinating. After lunch enjoy a wine tasting at Tsinandali, a historic winery in an estate which once belonged to the 19th-century aristocratic poet Alexander Chavchavadze. Discover the great wine-making tradition of eastern Georgia and learn the history behind the powerful family who left a lasting mark on Georgian culture. Continue your drive into the Caucasus, arriving to Gudauri and the Marco Polo Hotel Gudauri. Surrounded by majestic mountain peaks and stunning valleys, Marco Polo Hotel Gudauri is a sight to see.
Days Four-Seven: Gudauri
Spend the next four nights in your mountain retreat at Marco Polo Hotel. All year round there is much to do and see here. The endless snow covers the expanses of the Caucasus, allowing visitors to really appreciate the beauty of the rugged mountains and to make the most of their sporting and travel experiences. During the winter months, you can ski on the southern slopes of the Greater Caucasus Mountain Range down a number of tracks with ranging difficulties. During the warmer months guest can explore the great outdoors and take in the beauty of the Georgian countryside. Heliskiing is also available throughout the winter season. For the adventurous, horseback riding, bicycling, rafting, or paragliding are great ways to experience the stunning landscape. Guests can also unwind at a yoga class, on a photo tourism activity, or during a relaxing spa treatment.
Day Eight: Gudauri to Tbilisi
After breakfast drive via Mtskheta to Tbilisi. Mtskheta is the ancient capital of eastern Georgia. The country's conversion to Christianity occurred in Mtskheta in 337 AD and it is considered one of Georgia's most important religious centers. St. Nino erected the first Christian cross and the first churches were built here. Visit the monasteries of Jvari perched on a cliff overlooking the Mtskheta Sveti-Tskhoveli cathedral.
Day Nine: Tbilisi
After breakfast embark on a walking tour of the city, passing through the old quarters and the center, with its famous sulphur springs along the Mtkvari River. Traditional houses with balconies and grape vines accompany your stroll towards Narikhala, the 4th century fort overlooking the city. The fort provides an exquisite view of the city and region. After lunch you will visit the state museum of Tbilisi to view some of the most significant archaeological finds in the country. Here you can trace the development of Georgia’s culture as far back at the Bronze Age through coins and jewelry, and fossils of Homo Ergaster give you a glimpse even farther back in time. Return to the hotel in the afternoon to rest and refresh before dinner.
Day Ten: Departure
In the morning transfer takes you to the airport for your journey home.