4-day journey full of contrasts from the Kazbegi mountains to the Black Sea coast in Batumi. Travel the Georgian Military Highway, visit Uplistsikhe, Kutaisi and relax on Batumi's boulevard.

Itinerary

DAY 1: Tbilisi - Jvari - Svetitskhoveli - Kazbegi - Gudauri

We will leave Tbilisi for a deep immersion in the country's spiritual history. Our first stop will be at Jvari Monastery, a 6th-century gem located on top of a mountain, from where we will enjoy the iconic view of the confluence of the Mtkvari and Aragvi rivers. Next, we will descend to the ancient capital, Mtskheta, to visit the grand Svetitskhoveli Cathedral. This temple, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is considered the sacred heart of Georgia and a masterpiece of medieval architecture. We will resume the route north through the panoramic Georgian Military Highway until we reach Kazbegi (Stepantsminda). There, the highlight will be the climb to the Gergeti Trinity Church, which stands alone before the imposing and eternal summit of Mount Kazbek. After enjoying this postcard landscape, we will head to the mountain resort of Gudauri for the night.

Accommodation: Marco Polo 4*

216 km | 04:29 by car

DAY 2: Gudauri - Uplistsikhe - Gori - Kutaisi

Our day begins by immersing ourselves in the pages of contemporary history visiting the famous Stalin Museum in the city of Gori. This unique complex offers us a unique perspective on the Soviet leader, allowing us to explore from the humble house where he was born to his luxurious and imposing personal armored railway car. Through an extensive collection of objects and documents, we will reflect on his complex legacy before radically changing scenery. We will take a leap back in time of more than three millennia to discover Uplistsikhe, a fascinating cave city masterfully carved into the living rock. We will walk along the ancient roads of this extraordinary archaeological site, a true open-air museum where pagan temples and Christian basilicas coexist. The adventure will continue exploring its mysterious secret tunnels and rock dwellings, all while enjoying unparalleled panoramic views over the course of the Mtkvari River.

Accommodation: Best Western Kutaisi 4*

335 km | 05:20 by car

DAY 3: Kutaisi - Bagrati - Gelati - Prometheus - Batumi

We will begin our day exploring the authenticity of the Kutaisi Agricultural Market, a vibrant place where the aromas and colors of local products will surround us. After this immersion in daily life, we will climb Ukimerioni hill to admire Bagrati Cathedral, an imposing medieval structure offering the best panoramic views of the city. We will continue the historical tour at Gelati Academy, a UNESCO Heritage Site, a sacred complex that will dazzle us with its ancient frescoes and its importance in the Georgian Golden Age. Later, we will venture into the depths of the earth at Prometheus Cave, a magical natural system adorned with impressive illuminated stalactites and stalagmites. There, we will have the opportunity to sail through its mysterious underground river, provided water level conditions permit. To end this day full of emotions and geographical contrasts, we will leave behind the inland landscapes to head towards the Black Sea coast, concluding our journey in the dynamic city of Batumi.

Accommodation: Best Western Premier Batumi 4*

197 km | 03:55 by car

DAY 4: Batumi - Dendrological Park - Ubisa - Tbilisi

After a relaxing breakfast at the hotel, we will begin our adventure discovering the natural richness of the coast at the Shekvetili Dendrological Park. This impressive modern botanical garden unfolds as a sanctuary of biodiversity facing the Black Sea, where we will stroll among a unique collection of more than 200 species of exotic plants, explore its fascinating tropical greenhouse and venture into its artistic hedge maze. Later, our journey will take a turn towards history and spirituality as we head to Ubisa Monastery. Nestled in a picturesque mountain landscape, this 9th-century complex houses one of Georgia's most valuable artistic treasures: its vibrant 14th-century frescoes. The visit to this sacred place will allow us to appreciate the mastery of the medieval pictorial school and enjoy the peace emanating from its surroundings, offering us a deep and serene cultural experience on our way to the capital.

377 km | 06:07 by car

About this trip

Travel the Caucasus to Sea Trail on a 4-day journey full of contrasts. Starting in Tbilisi, we will immediately climb to the Kazbegi mountains via the spectacular Georgian Military Highway, enjoying views of Gergeti church and Jinvali reservoir.

From Ice to Sea

From the alpine snows, we will descend west to visit the historic cave city of Uplistsikhe and the monuments of Kutaisi. The journey continues to the Black Sea coast in Batumi, where we will relax on its boulevard. The return to the capital includes a visit to the Dendrological Garden, completing a perfect circle of natural and cultural experiences in record time.

Included

  • Accommodation: 3 Nights in selected hotels
  • Meal plan: Bed and Breakfast
  • Transport: Private vehicle with A/C and fuel
  • Guide: Professional guide in English
  • Logistics: Staff expenses (guide/driver)
  • Water: 1 bottle per person/day
  • Taxes: Local taxes
  • Entrances: Monuments according to itinerary

Not Included

  • International flights
  • Travel insurance
  • Lunches and Dinners (unless indicated)
  • Alcoholic beverages and tips
  • Personal expenses