PEAKLIFE

By Neha Mehrotra

Situated at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, between the stunning Caucasus Mountains, the Black Sea, and the Caspian Sea, Georgia has a rich and diverse heritage, moulded by centuries of interactions with European, Far Eastern, and other civilisations. This country will surprise you with its combination of antiquity and modernity. It showcases cultural heritage monuments and sights that bring centuries-old traditions to life. Beyond its renowned viticulture, Georgia is also known for its natural beauty, vibrant festivals, and culinary traditions. Also, as one of the world’s oldest wine producers, the spirited nation is the perfect destination to raise a glass to the good life!

Where to Visit?

The capital city of Tbilisi is the obvious place to start, as each of its historic districts has a distinctive charm. Wander through the charming old town, with its narrow, winding streets and colourful balconied houses. Key attractions include the Narikala Fortress, which offers panoramic views of the city, and the historic sulphur baths in the Abanotubani district. Rustaveli Avenue is the city’s main thoroughfare, lined with theatres, museums, and cafes. A short drive from Tbilisi, Mtskheta is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Georgia’s oldest cities. It’s home to significant religious landmarks such as the Svetitskhoveli Cathedral and the Jvari Monastery. Further, to dive deep into the history of Georgia, you can visit one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, Kutaisi, and visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site Bagrati Cathedral and Gelati Monastery. For a glimpse into Georgia’s ancient past, head to the remote region of Svaneti. Known for its picturesque villages and mediaeval watchtowers, Svaneti is a haven for hikers and adventurers.

Head to the Outdoors

Georgia’s diverse landscapes make it a paradise for hikers and trekkers. Popular trails include the trek to the Gergeti Glacier and the routes around Svaneti, where you can hike through pristine valleys and past ancient watchtowers. For nature enthusiasts, Kazbegi National Park is a must-visit. The park is dominated by the towering Mount Kazbek, one of the highest peaks in the Caucasus. The Gergeti Trinity Church, perched high above the town of Stepantsminda, is a popular hiking destination and offers breathtaking views of the mountain and valley below. During the winter months, Georgia’s Caucasus Mountains transform into a winter sports haven. Gudauri and Bakuriani are the most popular ski resorts, offering excellent slopes and facilities for skiers and snowboarders of all levels.

Georgia’s underground world is a wonder to behold, with 28 stunning caves waiting to be explored. Among the most remarkable are the Prometheus cave, the Sataplia cave and the Tsona caves. Located on the Black Sea coast, Batumi is known for its subtropical climate and modern architecture. The city’s botanical garden is a lush, tranquil escape, while Batumi Boulevard is perfect for a leisurely stroll along the seafront. Don’t miss the Alphabet Tower and the striking Ali and Nino statues.

Experience the Georgian Culture

Georgia is one of the oldest wine-producing regions in the world, with a winemaking tradition that dates back over 8,000 years. The Kakheti region is the heart of Georgian wine country. Visit local vineyards to taste unique wines made from indigenous grape varieties and learn about traditional winemaking techniques. Georgia also hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, celebrating everything from wine and cheese to music and film. Tbilisoba, held in October, is a major festival celebrating the capital’s history and culture. It features traditional music, dance, and food, as well as various cultural activities and exhibitions.

Feast at a Traditional Georgian Supra

At the heart of Georgian dining is khachapuri, a cheesy bread that is a national favourite. Meat lovers indulge in khinkali, savoury dumplings filled with spiced meat, while vegetarians can savour dishes like badrijani nigvzit, fried eggplant with a walnut-garlic paste. No Georgian meal is complete without wine because Georgia is one of the oldest wine-producing regions globally, boasting unique varieties like saperavi and rkatsiteli. For dessert, you can enjoy churchkhela, a sweet made from grape must and walnuts, and pelamushi, a grape pudding.

Image Credits: Georgia Travel