TOP 7 REASONS TO TRAVEL TO GEORGIA IN WINTER

While Georgia is becoming more and more popular summer destination, its breathtaking nature, rich history and culture, hearty food and mysterious attractions made this country a place that shouldn’t be missed in winter, too. Here are 7 reasons to visit Georgia in winter.

1. Skiing in Gudauri

Gudauri is the leading ski resort in Georgia. Nestled in the southern slopes of the Greater Caucasus range at an altitude of 2,000 m above sea level, this friendly and actively developing resort has become the most popular ski destination in Georgia, attracting snow enthusiasts from neighbouring countries and Western Europe. Skiers of all levels can find opportunities for slalom, giant slalom, downhill skiing, and even for heliskiing, for those who love to indulge in extreme challenges.

2. Hiking to Gergeti Trinity Church

One of the most favourite winter activities for tourists in Georgia is hiking to Gergeti Trinity Church, a church and monastery high up on a mountaintop near Mount Kazbegi. The Church was built in the 14th century, and is the only cross-cupola church in Khevi province. The Gergeti Trinity church is a popular waypoint for trekkers in the area, and can be reached by a steep 1,5 hour climb up the mountain. No words can fully describe the amazing and breathtaking view when you arrive at the church. Try yourself!

3. Exploring Tbilisi

Even though Georgian capital is more enchanting in other seasons, it is still worth visiting in winter, too. Just embark on a walking tour and admire the city’s iconic landmarks. Besides strolling down the famous Rustaveli Avenue you should also have a walk in the atmospheric district of the city: Chugureti

4. Sulphur baths

On a chilly winter day, a visit to a traditional bathhouse is exactly what you need. The sulphur baths, the cluster of historic bathhouses built on the famed hot springs that gave the Georgian capital its name, are a definite must-do thing when you are in Tbilisi, especially from October to March when it’s much colder.

5. Georgian hearty food

Georgian cuisine is full of heavy and stodgy food, which is the type of food that warms you up on a cold winter night. Beautifully twisted knobs of dough, khinkali are typically stuffed with meat and spices, then served boiled or steamed. After khinkali, khachapuri is the next favourite national dish in Georgia. This cheese pie is usually made from cheese called sulguni. However, each region of the country has its own version of khachapuri that can be distinguished by the shape or the ingredients used.

6. Mysterious caves

Not far from Kutaisi there are two impressive caves: Sataplia and Prometheus. The first one preserves the fossilized footprints of the dinosaurs, the second one is a bit bigger and offers a boat trip along the underground river in the end. So, during your winter trip don’t miss the chance to visit two of the most attractive tourist places in Georgia!

7. Vardzia

Located in the southern part of the country, remarkable caved-town Vardzia is known for its impressive churches, shrines and beautiful frescoes. Dating back to the 12th century AD and situated on the banks of the river Mtkvari, it is one of the most important historical sites in Georgia. In winter the snow-covered fascinating site is getting even more incredible!