Cathedrals and Caves

Itinerario

Day 1 - Tbilisi - Mtskheta - Uplistsikhe - Gori - Kutaisi

Total distance for the day - 267 km, 4 hours and 44 minutes After breakfast at the hotel, we begin our adventure. The plan for the day is as follows: Distance 25 km, 0 hours and 36 minutes

Djvari - Monastery of the Cross

The Djvari Monastery, known as the "Monastery of the Cross", is an iconic religious site located near Mtskheta, Georgia, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built in the 6th century on the summit of a hill, this monastery offers breathtaking panoramic views of the confluence of the Aragvi and Mtkvari rivers. Considered a masterpiece of Georgian medieval architecture, it is a sacred place symbolising the adoption of Christianity in Georgia. During our visit we will explore its unique architectural design, enjoy the spectacular views and learn about its deep historical and spiritual significance. Distance 13 km, 0 hours and 18 minutes

Svetitskhoveli

The Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, located in the ancient capital of Mtskheta, represents the spiritual heart of Georgia and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1994. This majestic 11th-century cathedral, built on the site where Christ's robe is said to be buried, is an extraordinary example of Georgian medieval architecture, with its tall decorated stone facade, central dome and historic frescoes. During our exploration we will discover the many legends surrounding this sacred place, admire the extraordinary ecclesiastical architecture and witness the ancient religious traditions that still live on in this spiritual centre. Distance 61 km, 1 hour and 5 minutes

Uplistsikhe

Located in the Kartli region of central Georgia, Uplistsikhe is an ancient cave city carved into rock dating from the first millennium BC. This extraordinary archaeological complex, considered one of the oldest settlements in the Caucasus, was an important religious and commercial centre on the historic Silk Road. Its architectural structures include pagan temples, Christian basilicas and civic buildings that reflect the unique fusion of Christian and pagan styles. The city is notable for its street system, secret tunnels and an exceptionally well-preserved Roman theatre. During our visit we will explore the ancient wine cellars, walk through stone-carved alleyways and marvel at the panoramic views of the Mtkvari River from the top of this natural acropolis, transporting us through more than 3,000 years of Caucasian history. Distance 14 km, 0 hours and 20 minutes

Stalin Museum

The Stalin Museum in Gori, the birthplace of the controversial Soviet leader, is one of the last museums dedicated to Josef Stalin in the world. The complex includes the original birth house, a building in Soviet palace style and Stalin's personal railway carriage. The exhibition houses an extensive collection of personal objects, photographs, historical documents and the original death mask of the dictator. During our visit we will explore the halls documenting Stalin's life from his youth in Georgia to his Soviet leadership, examine his armoured luxury railway carriage and reflect on the complex historical legacy he left in the region. Distance 154 km, 2 hours and 25 minutes

Day 2 - Kutaisi - Okatse - Martvili - Kutaisi

Total distance for the day - 130 km, 2 hours and 40 minutes After breakfast at the hotel, we begin our adventure. The plan for the day is as follows: Distance 50 km, 1 hour and 5 minutes

Okatse Canyon

The Okatse Canyon, located in the Imereti region of Georgia, is a natural wonder offering spectacular views of a deep gorge surrounded by lush vegetation. This impressive canyon, with a 700-metre suspended walkway, allows visitors to walk at height and enjoy panoramic views of waterfalls and the river flowing below. It is an ideal destination for nature and adventure lovers. During our visit we will walk along the suspended bridge, admire the magnitude of the canyon and enjoy the unique connection with nature that this spectacular place offers.

Martvili Canyon

The Martvili Canyon, located in the Samegrelo region of Georgia, is a natural wonder known for its turquoise waters and impressive waterfalls. This canyon, formed by thousands of years of erosion, offers a dreamlike setting surrounded by lush vegetation. Visitors can enjoy boat rides along the Abasha River, explore scenic trails and marvel at the unique rock formations and local legends associated with the place. During our visit we will sail along its crystal-clear waters, walk through its nature-lined paths and enjoy the serenity and incomparable beauty of Martvili Canyon.

Day 3 - Kutaisi - Dendrological Park - Batumi - Kutaisi

Total distance for the day - 325 km, 5 hours and 32 minutes After breakfast at the hotel, we begin our adventure. The plan for the day is as follows: Distance 115 km, 2 hours and 0 minutes

Shekvetili Dendrological Park

The Shekvetili Dendrological Park is located on the coast of the Black Sea in the Guria region of Georgia, and stands as one of the most innovative and modern botanical gardens in the Caucasus. This fascinating green space, opened in 2020, covers 60 hectares where more than 200 species of exotic plants are exhibited across different microclimates and themed environments. The park stands out for its state-of-the-art tropical greenhouse, its Japanese gardens and its impressive collection of giant bamboo and palm trees. During our tour we will marvel at the elevated treetop walkways, explore Georgia's largest hedge maze and enjoy panoramic views from the observation tower overlooking the entire botanical complex.  

Batumi

Located on the coast of the Black Sea, Batumi is Georgia's second largest city and capital of the Adjara region, standing out as an important seaport and tourist destination in the Caucasus. This vibrant city combines a rich history dating back to the 4th century BC with surprising contemporary architecture, where futuristic buildings intertwine with elegant 19th-century constructions. The Batumi Boulevard, a 7-kilometre seafront promenade, forms the heart of the city, while the old town charms with its cobbled alleyways and traditional Georgian balconies. During our visit we will stroll along the lively seafront boulevard, enjoy Adjaran cuisine in traditional restaurants and marvel at the light and music spectacle of the Dancing Fountains, a unique experience combining modernity with the charm of the old world.

Day 4 - Kutaisi - Bagrati - Gelati - Prometheus Cave - Borjomi - Akhaltsikhe

Total distance for the day - 240 km, 4 hours and 55 minutes After breakfast at the hotel, we begin our adventure. The plan for the day is as follows: Distance 2 km, 0 hours and 9 minutes

Bagrati Cathedral

Dominating the Kutaisi skyline from the Ukimerioni hill, the majestic Bagrati Cathedral is a masterpiece of Georgian medieval architecture and a symbol of the country's Golden Age. Built during the reign of King Bagrat III in the 11th century, this Orthodox church exemplifies the grandeur of the classical Georgian architectural style with its characteristic central dome and elaborate stone reliefs. Although partially reconstructed in 2012, it retains its significance as one of Georgia's most important monuments and was part of UNESCO World Heritage. During our visit we will contemplate the spectacular panoramic views of Kutaisi from its terraces, admire the architectural details that fuse ancient and modern elements, and experience the serenity of this sacred space that has witnessed more than a thousand years of history. Distance 10 km, 0 hours and 20 minutes

Gelati Academy

The Gelati Academy, located in the western region of Georgia near Kutaisi, is one of the most significant cultural centres of the medieval Caucasus. This fortified monastery from the 12th century, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was an important centre of Georgian education and literature, where Christian and classical traditions converged. Its impressive frescoes, unique architecture and the Royal Academy stand as testimonies to Georgia's Golden Age. During our visit we will explore the majestic stone buildings and admire the intricate frescoes adorning its walls, while immersing ourselves in the contemplative atmosphere that once inspired the greatest thinkers of the medieval Georgian kingdom. Distance 29 km, 0 hours and 41 minutes

The Prometheus Cave

The Prometheus Cave, located near Kutaisi in Georgia, is one of the most impressive and extensive caves in the country and an important natural and tourist attraction. Discovered in 1984, this fascinating underground cavern offers a tour through vast halls adorned with stalactites, stalagmites and spectacular rock formations that, thanks to careful illumination, create a magical and immersive atmosphere. In addition to the well-laid-out paths that allow exploration of its impressive underground landscapes, visitors have the opportunity to enjoy a peaceful boat ride along the underground river that flows through the cave, providing a unique experience that highlights the natural and geological wealth of the region. During our visit we will walk through its illuminated passages, marvelling at the formations sculpted by nature over centuries, and enjoy a boat ride that allows us to immerse ourselves in the serenity and hidden beauty of this underground environment, making this journey an unforgettable experience. Distance 151 km, 2 hours and 50 minutes

Borjomi

Nestled in the picturesque Mtkvari valley in central Georgia, Borjomi is a legendary spa destination recognised worldwide for its healing mineral waters, which spring up naturally hot from the depths of the Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park. This elegant resort town, which reached its heyday during the Russian imperial era of the 19th century, retains magnificent mansions of imperial architecture and extensive historic parks. Its mineral water, bottled since 1890, is considered a Georgian national treasure and has been prized for centuries for its medicinal properties. During our stay we will stroll through the romantic Mineral Park, taste the thermal waters directly from the historic springs and explore the pristine trails of the national park, one of the largest in Europe. Distance 48 km, 0 hours and 55 minutes

Day 5 - Akhaltsikhe - Vardzia - Khertvisi - Tbilisi

Total distance for the day - 287 km, 5 hours and 30 minutes After breakfast at the hotel, we begin our adventure. The plan for the day is as follows: Distance 60 km, 1 hour and 20 minutes

Vardzia

Carved into the vertical wall of Mount Erusheli, Vardzia emerges as an impressive 12th-century cave monastery city, a symbol of the cultural zenith of medieval Georgia during the reign of Queen Tamar. This monastic complex extends over 500 metres and reaches up to 19 levels, housing more than 600 chambers including churches, wine cellars, libraries and an intricate system of tunnels and irrigation. The site is particularly notable for the Church of the Dormition, which preserves exceptional 12th-century frescoes, including a famous portrait of Queen Tamar. During our exploration we will walk through the tunnels and secret staircases connecting the different chambers, discover ancient wine cellars and marvel at the medieval frescoes that have survived earthquakes and centuries of history in this architectural gem carved into the rock.

Khertvisi Fortress

Khertvisi Fortress, situated in the Samtskhe-Javakheti valley in Georgia, is one of the oldest fortresses in the country, with origins dating back to the 2nd century BC. Strategically located at the confluence of the Mtkvari and Paravani rivers, it was an important defensive stronghold during the medieval period and a key point on the Silk Road. Its imposing walls, towers and panoramic views of the valley make it a symbol of the region's historical resilience. During our visit we will explore the well-preserved structures, climb the towers to admire the landscape and immerse ourselves in the stories that make Khertvisi a place full of charm and history.