2025 Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in October)

Located deep in the Caucasus Mountains of northwestern Georgia, Svaneti is renowned for its medieval stone tower villages, pristine snowy peaks, and unique Svan culture. Beyond the popular Ushguli, this region hides many secluded villages that feel like timeless utopias frozen in history. ⛺【Must-Visit Spots】: 1. Adishi Village Highlights: A valley village surrounded by snow-capped mountains with well-preserved Svan stone tower houses. Perfect for horseback riding across glacial rivers in summer and skiing/hiking in winter. Recommended Experience: Hike with a local guide to Adishi Glacier (approx. 6 hours), passing pastures and wooden bridges amid picturesque scenery. 2. Kala Village Highlights: A hidden village with almost no tourists, featuring scattered stone houses against the backdrop of 5,000m-high Mount Tetnuldi—a paradise for photographers. Recommended Experience: Visit a local home to taste traditional Svan dish Kubdari (spiced beef pie). 3. Latali Village Highlights: A living museum of Svan culture, boasting 10th-century defensive stone towers and the ancient St. George Church. Recommended Experience: Join a traditional Svan feast and listen to polyphonic folk songs. 🛬【Travel Tips】: Best Time to Visit: Summer (June-Sept): Ideal for hiking/horseback riding (15-25°C). Winter (Dec-Mar): Stunning snowscapes for backcountry skiing, though some roads close. Recommended Duration: At least 3 days (2 nights in villages + 1 day hiking/riding). Sample Itinerary: Day1: Private transfer from Mestia to Adishi Village; stay at a guesthouse; photograph sunset over the peaks. Day2: Hike/ride to Chalaadi Glacier; return to Adishi or proceed to Kala. Day3: Explore Latali Village before heading back to Mestia. 🏨【Accommodation】: 1. Adishi Guesthouse Features: Converted traditional Svan stone house with home-cooked meals and direct mountain views. 2. Kala Community Homestay Features: Family-run stay for authentic local living at budget-friendly prices. 3. Mestia Hotels (Transit) Features: e.g., Hotel Posta—convenient for itinerary adjustments with better amenities. 🧡【Notes】: 1. Transport: No public transit between villages; arrange 4x4 rentals or horses from Mestia in advance. 2. Gear: Waterproof boots & trekking poles for hikes; heavy winter clothing in cold months. 3. Culture: Svans are Orthodox Christians—dress modestly in churches (headscarves for women). 4. Connectivity: Some villages lack mobile signal; download offline maps beforehand.

#summervacay Enguri Dam is massive, like, really massive. You’re driving through the mountains and then suddenly there it is, this giant concrete wall holding back the bluest water you’ve ever seen. It almost feels out of place, like a scifi movie set dropped into the middle of Georgia’s wild landscape. But somehow, it totally works. The views from the top are crazy. You get this huge turquoise reservoir stretching out one way and steep cliffs the other. If the weather’s clear, the surrounding mountains just make the whole scene even more dramatic. You can’t always go inside the dam itself, but even just walking around the area is super cool. It’s not super touristy either, so you can usually enjoy it without the crowds. Great stop if you’re heading toward Svaneti or just feel like checking out something different. Bring a jacket, it gets windy up there. And definitely take a minute to just stare at how epic the whole thing is.

#summervacay Martvili Canyon is straight-up magical. The water is this unreal shade of turquoise, like someone turned the saturation way up, and it winds through these tall, mossy cliffs that make you feel like you're in some hidden fantasy world. You can walk around the upper paths for some chill views, but the real fun is hopping in one of the little boats and gliding through the canyon. Super peaceful, super scenic, and totally Instagram worthy. The ride’s not long, but it’s enough to soak up the vibe, green trees, misty air, and tiny waterfalls dripping off the rocks. The whole area is clean and well kept, with nice walking trails and spots to just sit and zone out by the water. It’s not a wild hike or anything, more like a relaxing nature hangout. Perfect for a half day trip if you’re in the area. Bring a camera, wear comfy shoes, and maybe pack a snack. Martvili’s a little slice of chill in the middle of Georgia’s wild nature.

#summervacay Tempka 3rd District isn’t some flashy tourist spot, and honestly, that’s what makes it kinda cool. It’s this laid-back neighborhood in Mestia where real life happens. No crowds, no souvenir stands, just cozy streets, friendly faces, and old-school charm everywhere you look. Wandering around feels super chill. You’ve got these traditional Svanetian-style homes mixed with a few newer buildings, and there’s this peaceful vibe like time’s taking a nap. Every now and then, a cow or a dog might just stroll past like a local celeb. You can hear birds, the wind, and maybe someone chopping wood or working on a garden. What’s fun is just being there. Grab a snack from a nearby shop, take a slow walk, maybe chat with some locals if you're lucky. No plans needed, it’s the kind of place that’s more about the feeling than the sights. If you’re into authentic, everyday places, Tempka 3rd District is a mellow gem to explore.

#summervacay If you're in Mestia and curious about the local legends, the Mikheil Khergiani House-Museum is a low-key but super cool stop. This place is dedicated to Mikheil Khergiani, a world-famous Georgian alpinist, and honestly, it’s like stepping into a mountain hero’s personal scrapbook. His house is still intact and gives cozy Svan vibes, wooden walls, narrow staircases, and old-school charm everywhere. Inside, you’ll find tons of photos, medals, climbing gear, and even some of his handwritten notes. It's got this really personal feel that makes you admire the guy’s adventurous spirit even more. The museum isn’t huge or flashy, but it’s packed with stories. Bonus: there’s an amazing view from the upper floor that makes the visit even better. Not a must-do for everyone, but if you’re even a little into mountains, history, or Georgian culture, it’s absolutely worth a stop. Plus, it’s right in Mestia, so no crazy hike required!

#summervacay Nokalakevi Fortress totally caught me off guard, in the best way. It’s tucked away in this super chill little village, and when you roll up, it just feels like you’ve discovered some ancient secret. The ruins are sprawling, with crumbled walls, towers, and even an old church, all surrounded by peaceful green hills and a river flowing nearby. You can climb around, explore the grounds, and pretend you're in your own real-life adventure movie. The place has a crazy amount of history, like, ancient Colchis level (yep, the land of the Golden Fleece!). There’s even a small museum on site if you wanna dig deeper into the stories behind it all. But honestly, just wandering around is the real highlight. It’s quiet, barely any crowds, and the views are beautiful, especially at sunset. Bring comfy shoes and snacks, and just take your time. Nokalakevi is totally underrated and absolutely worth the detour if you're anywhere in the Samegrelo region.

#summervacay Martvili Canyon is one of those spots that just makes your jaw drop. Like, how is this place even real? The water is this unreal shade of turquoise-green, and when you hop in one of the little boats and start gliding through the narrow canyon walls, it straight-up feels like you’re in a fantasy movie. The boat ride is short but magical, super calm and peaceful. After the boat, you can walk along the trails and bridges that go above the canyon. There are some great photo ops and little waterfalls, and everything is just so lush and green. It’s not a huge place, but the vibe is pure nature zen. You’ll definitely want to just slow down and soak it all in. It does get a bit touristy at times, so try to go early if you want that quiet, dreamy atmosphere. But honestly, even with a few people around, Martvili still feels like a secret paradise. Total must-see!

#summervacay Okay, so Martvili Canyon? Absolute dream spot. Picture this: crystal clear turquoise water, mossy cliffs, and little waterfalls peeking through the greenery, it’s like something out of a fairytale (but real). The boat ride is the star of the show here. Super chill, not too long, but wow, the views are insane. The water is so clear it looks fake in the best way. Walking around the canyon is just as awesome. There are a bunch of wooden pathways and viewpoints where you can snap those “I swear I didn’t edit this” pics. It’s also shady and breezy, so even on a hot day it’s not too bad. It’s not a massive place, so you can easily explore in an hour or two, but every corner is crazy photogenic. Super family-friendly, too, nothing too intense hiking wise. Just pure nature eye candy. If you're near Kutaisi, don’t skip it. This place is straight up peaceful and Insta gold.

#summervacay Heshkili is one of those hidden gems that barely feels real. It’s a super small village in Svaneti, tucked away in the hills, and it’s so peaceful it kinda makes you forget the rest of the world exists. No big crowds, no noise, just nature, mountains, and fresh air that hits different. The drive up is a bit of a ride (hello, bumpy roads), but once you’re there, it’s all worth it. Cute little wooden houses, epic views, and this calmness that’s hard to describe. It’s the kind of place where you just wanna sit on a porch, sip something warm, and watch clouds drift over the mountains. If you’re into hiking, you’re in luck, there are trails all around, with awesome lookout spots. Or just wander around the village and vibe with the locals (they’re super welcoming). Honestly, Heshkili feels like pressing pause on life. No big plans needed, just good air, chill views, and total Svaneti magic.

#summervacay Ushguli is wild, in the best way. It’s this super remote village way up in the mountains of Svaneti, and getting there is already an adventure (bumpy road but so worth it). Once you arrive, it’s like stepping back centuries. Stone towers, cobbled paths, and that dramatic backdrop of Mount Shkhara staring you down, it’s unreal. The village is tiny and super rustic, but that’s part of the charm. Cows wander the streets, locals go about their day, and the pace is slow in the best possible way. You can hike around or just take it easy and soak in the views. Everything’s surrounded by snowy peaks and green hills, it’s like a live postcard. Don’t expect luxury here, it’s raw and real, and that’s what makes it awesome. Plus, the silence? Crazy peaceful. If you want to feel small (in a good way) and totally off the grid, Ushguli is it. Just you, the towers, and the mountains. Total magic.

#summervacay Zuruldi in Svaneti is straight-up wow. Like, if you're into mountains, views that go on forever, and that whole “I’m on top of the world” feeling, this is your place. You take the cable car from Mestia and boom, you're surrounded by snow-capped peaks and clouds floating by like they’re in no rush at all. The air up there? Crisp and clean. The kind that makes you wanna take a deep breath and just vibe. The hiking trails are super chill, or you can just wander around the ridge and take in the panoramic madness. Every corner is a postcard moment. There’s even a café at the top where you can sip something warm while soaking up that 360° view. Locals and tourists mix up there, but it never feels crowded. Zuruldi isn’t just scenery, it’s an experience. Peaceful, breathtaking, and totally surreal. If you're in Svaneti, you have to go. It’s that kind of beauty that sticks in your head long after you’ve left.

#summervacay Zugdidi Botanical Garden? Total green escape. Right in the middle of town but feels like you just stepped into a quiet forest. Super old trees, winding little paths, and that fresh leafy smell everywhere. Honestly, it’s the kind of place that makes you wanna slow down and just wander without a plan. There’s a mix of native and exotic plants, which sounds super sciencey, but really it’s just pretty. Big palm trees, giant oaks, and some random flowers popping up in the most unexpected corners. It’s also connected to the Dadiani Palace, so you kinda get a two-for-one vibe, nature and history in one chill stroll. Locals use it like a regular park, saw kids playing, people jogging, couples just relaxing on benches. Super peaceful and shady, especially great on hot days. If you’re in Zugdidi and need a break from sightseeing or just wanna enjoy some fresh air and tree therapy, this garden hits the spot. Zero rush, just pure greenery and good vibes.

#summervacay Anaklia Beach? Such a hidden gem. It’s not super touristy like Batumi, but that’s kinda the charm. You get this long stretch of sandy-black beach, super chill atmosphere, and that nonstop ocean breeze that just clears your head. Perfect for a lazy stroll with your flip flops sinking into the warm sand. The boardwalk is surprisingly nice, long and open with cool sculptures, modern bridges, and even a few random beach bars where you can grab cold lemonade or beer. Locals are friendly, and there’s a super laid-back energy, like no one’s in a hurry here. The beach itself isn’t packed, which means you can totally find your own little quiet spot to sit, watch the waves, and do absolutely nothing. The sunset here? Insane. Everything turns golden and the sky puts on a show. Honestly, Anaklia is the kind of place where you go to unplug and just enjoy the simple things. No chaos, no crowds, just sand, sea, and chill vibes.

#summervacay Poti Central Park totally surprised me. I thought a port city would be all ships and docks, but this big, green, peaceful spot right in the middle of town. Super mellow vibes, with wide walking paths, tall trees, and benches everywhere, perfect for just zoning out or people-watching. There’s a cute little pond with ducks, which instantly made me feel like a kid again. You’ll also find random sculptures, a tiny bridge, and a playground if you're rolling with kids. Locals were out enjoying the day, some jogging, some chilling, some just vibing with snacks. It’s not massive, but big enough to feel like a proper break from the city noise. I grabbed an iced coffee from a nearby kiosk and just wandered around. Honestly, so relaxing. Poti might not be packed with touristy things, but this park is a sweet little escape. If you're in town and need some fresh air and calm energy, Poti Central Park is a solid spot to recharge.

#summervacay So I randomly ended up at Poti Sea Port and honestly? Way more interesting than I expected. It’s not like a fancy tourist spot or anything, it’s a real, working port with cargo ships, cranes, and all the gritty maritime stuff. But that’s kinda what makes it cool. It feels authentic, you know? There’s something oddly calming about watching those giant ships roll in and out while seagulls go nuts overhead. You can’t go super deep into the port (obviously, security and all), but the areas around it are great for a laid-back stroll. The sea breeze hits just right, especially in the late afternoon. Nearby, you’ll find local cafes with solid seafood and strong coffee. And if you’re into photos, the industrial backdrop with old-school ships and moody skies totally slaps. Poti itself isn’t super flashy, but if you’re into lowkey coastal towns with a real vibe, it’s worth a wander. Just you, the sea, and the slow rhythm of ships doing their thing.

The Shkhara Mountain behind Ushguli, with an elevation of 5193 meters, is the third highest peak in the Greater Caucasus Mountains, second only to Mount Elbrus, the main peak of the Greater Caucasus Mountains at 5642 meters, and Mount Dykh-Tau at 5205 meters. Shkhara Mountain is the border between Georgia and Russia and is also part of the dividing line between Europe and Asia. Behind Ushguli, a wide valley follows the Enguri River northward, passing through alpine meadows filled with flowers, leading to the foot of Shkhara Mountain. This is also a glacier hiking route, which takes six hours for a round trip. 🌟 Shkhara Glacier Hike 1⃣️ Rent a car to the foot of the mountain: 100 Lari/car, 1-hour drive. The road is quite flat and not difficult to walk, but driving is not easy and relies on the driver's skills to navigate. 2⃣️ Hiking: If you hike here, it should take 2-3 hours. From here to the depths of the glacier takes 40-60 minutes one way, and a round trip from Ushguli takes 5-6 hours. . 🌟 Chalaadi Glacier Hike Chalaadi Glacier is a half-day hiking route 11km north of Mestia, with an elevation gain of 600m. The destination is the Chalaadi Glacier, which is also the most popular route in Mestia. The first half follows a road along the river for about 4-5km to the end of the road, then crosses a suspension bridge over the river and starts climbing until the end of the glacier at the mountainside. Since the first half is a monotonous road trip, you can rent a car for 40 Lari round trip from Mestia Square to the suspension bridge, about a 40-minute drive. From the bridge, if you hike, it takes about 3 hours round trip. From the starting point of the suspension bridge, first cross a forest to reach a rocky river valley. From a distance, you can see the glacier, like a large waterfall flowing through the mountains. Keep walking towards the glacier, and in half an hour you can reach the glacier and even touch it, which is very impressive. But it is important to note the danger under the glacier, as melting causes rocks to fall intermittently. Since we arranged the Ushguli Glacier hike, we did not go to the Chalaadi Glacier hike. 🌟 Cross - Koruldi Lake Route Koruldi Lakes is an 18km hiking route north of Mestia, with an elevation gain of 1400m. The destination is a small lake on the mountain top. This route is very steep, so not many people go, but it is highly recommended. The two lakes on the snow mountain are ordinary, but the scenery along the way and the reflection of the snow mountain in the water are beautiful. The section from Cross (the cross) to the mountain top is especially wonderful, surrounded by snow mountains. A round trip hike from Mestia town takes about 8 hours, or you can rent a car to Cross and then hike for about 2 hours round trip. Beyond Koruldi Lakes, there is a 1.7km uphill path with an elevation gain of only 220 meters, which is the closest viewpoint to Ushba. The hiking path is steep, and to the north, you can see into Russia. There is no need for border lines or checkpoints; the natural barrier of the Caucasus Mountains is the best shield. 🌟 Tsvirmi is a 19km hiking route south of Mestia, with a destination of Tsvirmi village, an elevation gain of 1000m, and a relatively high intensity. The southern snow mountains can be seen via the Mestia cable car. 🌟 Mestia—Ushguli A 66km 3-4 day hiking route. Many people come to Mestia to experience this hike. The three half-day hiking routes around Mestia are just appetizers for the Mestia—Ushguli hike. If it is a 4-day trip, the daily stages are: D1 Mestia-Zhabeshi (14km); D2 Zhabeshi—Adishi (10km); D3 Adishi—Iprali (15km); D4 Iprali—Ushguli (10km)