When I first visited Georgia in 2006, it was a destination for the truly adventurous traveller. Nearly two decades later, this remarkable country at the crossroads of Europe and Asia has developed a sophisticated tourism infrastructure while maintaining its authentic character. For the discerning traveller seeking the perfect combination of culture, cuisine, and remarkable value, Georgia offers an experience unmatched in today's homogenised travel landscape.
The Birthplace of Wine
Georgia's winemaking tradition stretches back 8,000 years, making it the world's oldest wine region. The traditional method—fermenting wine in qvevri, large clay vessels buried underground—creates distinctive amber wines with complex flavours unlike anything produced elsewhere. UNESCO has recognised this method as part of humanity's cultural heritage.
The Kakheti region, a two-hour drive from Tbilisi, forms the heart of Georgian winemaking. Here, family estates welcome visitors for tastings and traditional supras (feasts) that showcase Georgian hospitality at its finest. At Pheasant's Tears winery, founder John Wurdeman, an American painter who fell in love with Georgia, creates natural wines that have developed a cult following among sommeliers worldwide.
Tbilisi: Where Ancient Meets Contemporary
Begin your Georgian journey in Tbilisi, where cobblestone streets wind past medieval churches, Art Nouveau buildings, and ultra-modern architectural statements. The recently renovated Rooms Hotel Tbilisi offers sophisticated accommodation in a converted publishing house, with an excellent restaurant showcasing modern interpretations of Georgian classics.
Spend your mornings exploring the atmospheric Old Town, where the 4th-century Narikala Fortress overlooks a maze of narrow streets. In the afternoon, visit the Georgian National Museum to understand the country's remarkable 3,000-year cultural heritage before experiencing Tbilisi's thriving contemporary art scene at galleries like Erti.
Culinary Discoveries
Georgian cuisine remains one of the world's great undiscovered culinary traditions. Beyond the famous khachapuri (cheese-filled bread) lies a sophisticated cuisine built around walnuts, pomegranates, fresh herbs, and subtle spice blends.
For an extraordinary dining experience, book a table at Shavi Lomi, where chef Meriko Gubeladze creates refined versions of traditional dishes. For a more casual experience, join one of Culinary Backstreets' walking tours, which take you through Tbilisi's markets and into family homes for cooking demonstrations.
Mountain Adventures in Kazbegi
From Tbilisi, journey north along the spectacular Georgian Military Highway to Kazbegi (now officially Stepantsminda). This three-hour drive takes you through the dramatic Caucasus Mountains to one of Georgia's most breathtaking regions. The iconic Gergeti Trinity Church, set against the towering Mount Kazbek, provides one of the country's most photographed vistas.
Stay at Rooms Hotel Kazbegi, where floor-to-ceiling windows frame mountain views, and the excellent restaurant serves regional specialities using locally sourced ingredients. For those seeking active experiences, the hotel can arrange guided hikes through the surrounding valleys or horseback riding to remote villages.
Practical Considerations
The best time to visit Georgia is May through October, with September offering ideal conditions for experiencing the wine harvest. The country's compact size makes it perfect for a 10-day itinerary, allowing you to experience diverse landscapes without excessive travel time.
Georgia uses its own currency, the lari, though credit cards are widely accepted in cities and major tourism areas. While English is increasingly common in the tourism sector, learning a few Georgian phrases will enhance your experience and delight your hosts.
Beyond the Obvious
While Tbilisi and Kakheti form the core of most Georgian itineraries, consider these less-visited alternatives:
The ancient cave city of Vardzia, where 13th-century monks carved an entire monastery complex into a mountainside
Svaneti, where medieval defensive towers rise against a backdrop of snow-capped peaks
Batumi, Georgia's Black Sea resort, where Belle Époque architecture meets contemporary design along a subtropical coastline
Cultural Insights
Georgian culture revolves around the concept of supra—the traditional feast where the tamada (toastmaster) guides guests through a series of increasingly philosophical toasts. Being invited to a supra offers insight into Georgian values and traditions unlike any museum visit could provide. Our local connections can arrange authentic supra experiences with families throughout the country.
For those seeking a European destination that combines value, authentic experiences, and a touch of the exotic, Georgia offers an extraordinary opportunity. As interest in this remarkable country grows, now is the ideal time to experience its wonders.
For assistance planning your Georgian adventure, contact Wrighton's Travel Ltd.
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