Monastic Route and Mountains: 9 Days of Spirituality and Landscapes
A 9-day spiritual and scenic journey with emphasis on Georgia's religious heritage. Visit David Gareja, the monasteries of Kakheti, Gergeti Church, Vardzia, and Khertvisi Fortress.
Itinerary
DAY 1: Transfer from Tbilisi Airport to the capital
We will transfer from the airport to the hotel with the assistance of our guide, who will accompany you throughout the journey.
Accommodation: Ibis Styles Tbilisi Center 4*
18 km | 00:25 by car
DAY 2: Tbilisi - Guided Tour
We will begin our cultural immersion on the vibrant Rustaveli Avenue, the beating heart of Tbilisi. On this elegant boulevard, we will admire architectural gems such as the imposing Parliament and the neo-Moorish Opera Theatre, as well as the distinctive Rustaveli Theatre and the beautiful Kashveti Church. Our tour will then take us to Metekhi Square, where the historic church and the equestrian statue of King Vakhtang Gorgasali will offer us privileged views over the Mtkvari River. The experience will gain height as we ascend by cable car to Narikala Fortress, the ancient 4th-century defensive citadel that offers the best panoramic views of the capital. Later, we will enter the picturesque Abanotubani district, known worldwide for its historic sulfur baths and the charm of its medieval alleyways. Finally, we will conclude by visiting the Anchiskhati Basilica, the oldest church in the city.
Accommodation: Ibis Styles Tbilisi Center 4*
2 km | 00:26 by car
DAY 3: Tbilisi - David Gareja - Bodbe - Sighnaghi
We will leave Tbilisi behind heading southeast, where the urban landscape gives way to an impressive semi-desert steppe. There we will explore the unique rock-hewn monastic complex of David Gareja, founded in the 6th century, marveling at its cells carved into sandstone and the contrast of colors of its arid hills. Next, the environment will change radically as we enter the fertile vegetation of Kakheti to visit Bodbe Monastery. In this haven of peace, we will venerate the tomb of Saint Nino and enjoy the views from its manicured gardens. To conclude the day, we will arrive at the charming Sighnaghi. We will take a pleasant stroll through this town known as the "City of Love," walking its cobblestone streets, admiring its Italian-style architecture, and climbing its 18th-century wall to contemplate the immensity of the Alazani Valley.
Accommodation: Kabadoni 4*
202 km | 04:35 by car
DAY 4: Telavi - Ananuri - Gergeti - Gudauri
We will say goodbye to Telavi to exchange the vineyard landscapes for the imposing mountains of the north. We will travel along the historic Georgian Military Highway until we reach the fortified complex of Ananuri, whose medieval churches and towers are reflected in the turquoise waters of the Jinvali Reservoir. We will continue our ascent to Kazbegi, where we will experience the most spectacular moment of the day: the climb to Gergeti Trinity Church. This temple stands majestic and solitary under the shadow of the eternal Mount Kazbek, offering one of the most famous views in the country. After enjoying this alpine landscape, we will head to the nearby ski resort of Gudauri.
Accommodation: Marco Polo 4*
198 km | 04:35 by car
DAY 5: Gudauri - Gori - Uplistsikhe - Akhaltsikhe
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 figure of the Soviet leader, allowing us to explore from the humble birthplace where he was born to his luxurious and imposing personal armored train car. We will jump back in time more than three millennia to discover Uplistsikhe, a fascinating cave-city masterfully carved into 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.
Accommodation: Hotel Gino Wellness Rabath 4*
312 km | 05:20 by car
DAY 6: Akhaltsikhe - Vardzia - Khertvisi - Tbilisi
Today, we will begin the day exploring the majestic Vardzia, an extraordinary 12th-century rock-hewn monastery-city that will transport us to the past. We will venture into its labyrinthine tunnels to discover unique medieval frescoes and visit its ancient wine cellars, witnesses to the millennial winemaking tradition of the area. We will continue our route to the imposing Khertvisi Fortress, one of the oldest fortifications in Georgia, strategically located in the Samtskhe-Javakheti valley; there we will admire its robust walls and enjoy unparalleled panoramic views. Finally, we will head to Tbilisi to conclude the day, crossing dreamlike landscapes dominated by the imposing mountains of the Lesser Caucasus.
Accommodation: Ibis Styles Tbilisi Center 4*
287 km | 05:30 by car
DAY 7: Transfer from Tbilisi to Tbilisi Airport
We will transfer from the hotel to the airport according to the scheduled flight time, with the assistance of our guide, who will accompany you throughout the journey.
18 km | 00:25 by car
About this trip
Follow the Monastic Route and Mountains on a 9-day spiritual and scenic journey. This itinerary places special emphasis on Georgia's religious heritage, visiting some of the most sacred and remote places.
Desert and Vineyards
We will begin with a visit to the David Gareja complex in the semi-desert, famous for its frescoes and caves. We will continue to the Kakheti region to visit the monasteries of Bodbe, Nekresi, and Alaverdi Cathedral.
Peaks and Fortresses
We will climb to the mountains of Kazbegi to see the Gergeti Trinity Church and Ananuri Fortress. The journey concludes with an exploration of the south, visiting the cave city of Vardzia and Khertvisi Fortress. A journey that connects faith with natural beauty, ideal for those seeking to understand the soul of Georgia.
Included
- Accommodation: 6 Nights in selected hotels
- Meals: Bed and Breakfast
- Transportation: Private vehicle with A/C and fuel
- Guide: Professional English-speaking guide
- 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