Tbilisi
Georgia’s capital and a vibrant city which spreads out on the banks of the Mtkvari River, surrounded on three sides by mountains.  Colourful houses, modern restaurants, art galleries and sulfur bathhouses are highlights of the old town.

Telavi
Set in the Alazani valley filled with beautiful vineyards in the wine region of Georgia, it is a fabulous place to enjoy wine tastings and stay in local guesthouses. The Shuamta Monasteries are set in the forest near Telavi and worth a visit for their architectural simplicity and magical location.

Sighnaghi
A city of beautiful architecture, romantic cobbled streets, carved balconies – many travellers feel like they are in Italy in this beautiful town. Set in Georgia’s wine region it is oozing with charm and a fabulous town to wonder and enjoy the picture postcard scenery.

Kasbegi
Just a few miles from the Russian border, Kasbegi is set in the high Caucasus mountains amongst stunning highland scenery. The famous Gergeti Trinity Church sits on top of a hill directly in front of Mt Kazberg – the views are simply spectacular!

Georgia is an all year round destination, with a diverse climate thanks to both the Caucasus Mountains and the Black Sea. Spring is mild and sunny, summer is hot, autumn is mild, and it snows in winter mostly everywhere apart from the capital, Tbilisi. The ideal time to visit is May/June or September/October, however summer (July/August) is high season on the Black Sea and is also a great time for hiking in the Caucasus mountains.

I don’t know what I expected of Tbilisi really, but it wasn’t the effortlessly cool, eclectic city vibe that floats around every street corner and seeps under every doorway. A meeting place of people, culture and religion since the time of the old Silk Road, it is the perfect place to wander, people-watch and try local specialities in the many funky cafes and bars. You want a dose of winding alleyways, hidden courtyards overlooked by ornate balconies and crumbling buildings? Head for Old Tbilisi where the atmosphere of Meidani Square of the Avlabari districts will instantly transport you to another place and time.

Outside the city, the impossibly picturesque Caucasus Mountain villages draw you in, sprawling cave monasteries breathe out an earthy mysterious mix of ancient culture and unusual ethnic identity. It’s intoxicating. Almost as intoxicating as Georgian wine – accidentally produced in the country over 8000 years ago when grapes were stored in a container and forgotten. Now, the country boasts many ancient varieties including the most famous of all, Saparavi, a pretty decent red.

Georgians believe a guest is a gift of God. You will be welcomed warmly so brace yourself to be overwhelmed with offers of hospitality and food – cheese stuffed bread, rich fillings and sauces enhanced with herbs, nuts and garlic. Khinkali, Georgian dumplings, are stuffed with spiced meat, while roasted eggplant is served with walnut paste, and thick, delicious bean Lobio is paired with corn bread. You will be treated as family so you might as well embrace it all.

Kate Couling

Currency Georgian lari

Language Georgian is the official language. English is taught in schools and may become an official language in the near future.

Weather Spring is mild and sunny, summer is hot, autumn is mild, and it snows in winter mostly everywhere apart from the capital, Tbilisi. The ideal time to visit is May/June or September/October, however summer (July/August) is high season on the Black Sea and is also a great time for hiking in the Caucasus mountains.

Social customs & quirks Georgia follows the Julian calendar, which places Christmas on January 7th. On this date, a number of special meals are prepared by locals, including Guruli Gvezeli – a type of khachapuri (Georgian cheese bread) – made with boiled eggs and cheese. Every dinner in Georgia has a Tamada, or “toastmaker”, who is responsible for entertaining the table and keeping conversation flowing.

Festivals & events  Tbilisoba marks the founding day of Georgia’s capital, Tbilisi, and celebrates the harvest season with markets, music and dance performances, and more. The annual New Wine festival takes place in late May and includes wine tasting of more than 60 varieties of excellent Georgian wines. If you’re a cheese fan, Tbilisi is also the home of a cheese festival where you can try cheeses from all over Georgia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan.

Health* There are currently no health requirements entering Georgia however some vaccinations may be recommended by your doctor.

Notes *Please be aware that Health information is subject to change at any time and you should always double check these requirements at the time of booking and before travel.