Located in the South Caucasus region of Europe, Georgia is a timeless land with stories to tell. Home to the world's oldest wine, natural beauty, year-round festivals and delicious cuisine, Georgia is a country meant to be discovered.
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Every winter, ski enthusiasts take to Georgia's snow-covered mountains for some adventure. With four winter ski resorts to choose from, Gudauri – the closest to the capital – boasts over 42 miles of runs, suitable for beginners and pros alike. After a day on the mountain, hit up one of the restaurants and the spa to properly unwind.
From its bioluminescent coast to its bubbling hot springs, Georgia's bodies of water are far from ordinary. For a warm dip on a cold winter's day, enjoy a dip in the natural sulphur bath at the Nokalakevi Hot Spring, then take a tour to hear the legend of the springs. In the summer, head to the coastal town of Batumi to tick the Black Sea's glowing, bioluminescent waves off your bucket list.
In Georgia, spring and summer are ideal hiking seasons, and luckily, there are wonderful views to discover in and around its capital Tbilisi. For a quick climb, check out the Tbilisi TV Tower hike, particularly famed for its sunsets. If you have a few days, hike along the Abudelauri Lakes. This long trek comes complete with three distinct lakes and lush greenery due to the previous winter's melt.
Georgia's badlands in Vashlovani Park are a must-see, especially in the autumn. With a slight chill in the air, the park's warm tones begin to emerge in its grasslands and pistachio groves, as well as wildlife such as gazelles and foxes. While visiting, make sure you book a horseback trek and guide-led hikes, and for the most comfortable trip, explore with a driver-guide who knows their way around.
Georgian food is bold, comforting and a must-try when you're visiting. Khachapuri, a popular Georgian dish, is a cheese-filled bread served in various styles, one being in a boat shape with a cracked egg. Also not to be missed is Khinkali, Georgia's filled soup dumplings eaten with your hands. For dessert, try Pelamushi, a dish made with the juice from local grapes.
Wine lovers may be familiar with the recent surge in popularity of orange wine in the US—a trendy alternative to white, red or rosé—but amber wine is a Georgian original with a far deeper tradition. In Georgia, it has been a favourite since the country first invented it. Made from white grapes fermented with their skins, seeds and stems for an extended period, this ‘skin-contact’ wine is known for its rich amber hue, bold tannins and uniquely complex flavour. A trip to Georgia isn't complete without a glass.
Georgia has four UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and all are worth exploring. Explore the Historical Monuments of Mtskheta and the Gelati Monastery, two architectural feats. Out west, visit Upper Svaneti, a valley where communities once thrived and buildings remain preserved. Close by are the Colchic Rainforests and Wetlands, biodiverse, protected lands that are instrumental to bird migration.
Georgia is home to some of the oldest monasteries in the Christian world. Visit Gergeti Trinity Church, a 14th-century landmark in northern Georgia offering breathtaking views from 2,170 metres. Less than half an hour from Tbilisi, explore two ancient sites: Jvari Monastery, a sacred UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Betania Monastery, quietly nestled in the forest
Georgia loves to celebrate all year round. Autumn in Tbilisi calls for Tbilisoba, a day full of music, dancing and street food. Visit at New Year for a night sky full of fireworks and feasts. In spring is the New Wine Festival, where winemakers from around the world offer tastings of their best wines. And this summer, enjoy a music festival like Echowaves or see Justin Timberlake in Tbilisi.
If you're a fan of wine, look no further than Kakheti. Winemaking here dates back to 8000 BC—and it shows. Kakheti is home to hundreds of vineyards and over 500 grape varieties, many of which are used in wines uniquely fermented with whole grapes in clay vessels known as qvevri, then buried underground. For a tasting, visit a family-run winery like Akido, or tour the miles-long cellars of Khareba Winery, carved deep into the Caucasus Mountains.
If you're looking to party it up, Tbilisi is the spot for you. If you're a fan of techno or house music, dance your heart out at Bassiani and Khidi. Looking for a more casual vibe? Check out 8000 Vintages for something divey, Stamba Bar for cocktails or 41° Wine Bar for wine and tapas. Wherever you go, dress well, do as the locals do and make lasting memories.
A holiday isn't complete without a little self-care. If travelling between Tbilisi and Kutaisi, stop by Borjomi, an idyllic spa town known for its sulphur baths and wellness spas. For some rest and relaxation, book a stay at the luxurious Rooms Kazbegi, complete with a view of Mt Kazbek, or stay at Paragraph Resort & Spa, nestled on the shores of the Black Sea in Shekvetili.