2025 Mestia Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in June)

Georgia Travel Guide: A Comprehensive Guide to the Hidden Gem of the Caucasus Georgia, this hidden gem nestled in the Caucasus Mountains, captivates travelers with its breathtaking natural landscapes, rich history, and unique cuisine and wines. Whether it's the vibrant atmosphere of the capital Tbilisi, the snow-capped mountains and churches of Kazbegi, or the wine town of Sighnaghi, every corner of Georgia is worth exploring. Below is a detailed travel guide to help you plan the perfect trip to Georgia. --- ### 1. Pre-Trip Preparation 1. **Visa & Entry** Chinese citizens with ordinary passports can enter Georgia visa-free for up to 30 days (confirm the latest official policies). - It’s recommended to purchase travel insurance covering medical and accident protection. 2. **Best Time to Visit** - **Spring & Autumn (April–June, September–October):** Pleasant weather, ideal for hiking and city tours. - **Winter (December–March):** Ski resorts like Gudauri and Bakuriani are in peak season. - **Summer (July–August):** Cool in the mountains, but Tbilisi can be hot. 3. **Currency & Costs** The currency is the Georgian Lari (GEL), with 1 CNY ≈ 0.4 GEL (check real-time rates). - Prices are low: a meal at a local restaurant costs around 20–30 GEL per person, while upscale restaurants may exceed 50 GEL. 4. **Language & Communication** - The official language is Georgian. English is not widely spoken in tourist areas, so download a translation app or learn basic phrases like "Gamarjoba" (hello) and "Madloba" (thank you). --- ### 2. Must-Visit Cities & Attractions 1. **Tbilisi – The Ancient Capital** - **Old Town:** Stroll through the sulfur bath district (Abanotubani) and soak in traditional baths; hike to Narikala Fortress for panoramic city views. - **Modern Landmarks:** Visit the Peace Bridge and the Dry Bridge Market for Soviet-era antiques. - **Food Recs:** Try Khinkali (dumplings) and Khachapuri (cheese bread). 2. **Kazbegi – Snowy Mountain Sanctuary** - **Gergeti Trinity Church:** Reachable by hike or 4x4, with the 5,047-meter Mount Kazbek as its backdrop. - **Gudauri:** A ski paradise in winter; paragliding in summer. 3. **Sighnaghi – Wine Country** - **Wine Tasting:** Visit local wineries (e.g., Khareba Winery) to experience traditional Qvevri winemaking. - **City Walls:** Walk along the well-preserved 18th-century defensive walls in this "City of Love." 4. **Mestia & Ushguli – Hiking Paradise** - **Svaneti Region:** Explore Ushguli, Europe’s highest inhabited village (a UNESCO site), and hike to Chalaadi Glacier. - **Svan Towers:** Medieval defensive towers showcasing unique Caucasus culture. --- ### 3. Unique Experiences 1. **Food & Wine** - Must-try dishes: Adjarian Khachapuri (boat-shaped cheese bread), Badrijani Nigvzit (eggplant rolls with walnut paste). - Wine tours: Georgia is the birthplace of wine—visit Kakheti’s wineries. 2. **Outdoor Activities** - Hiking: The 4-day Mestia-Ushguli Trek. - Skiing: Gudauri offers the best slopes in the Caucasus. 3. **Cultural Festivals** - **Tbilisoba (October):** A harvest festival with traditional music and food. - Easter & Christmas: Experience Georgian Orthodox rituals. --- ### 4. Transportation & Accommodation 1. **Domestic Transport** - **Train:** Overnight trains from Tbilisi to Batumi are budget-friendly. - **Marshrutka (minibus):** Frequent between cities but less comfortable. - **Private Taxi:** Ideal for groups; use Bolt or Yandex Taxi. 2. **Accommodation Recs** - **Tbilisi:** Boutique guesthouses in the Old Town (e.g., Fabrika Hostel). - **Kazbegi:** Rooms Hotel Kazbegi (iconic mountain-view hotel). - **Mestia:** Family-run guesthouses for authentic Svan hospitality. --- ### 5. Tips & Notes 1. **Safety:** Generally safe, but avoid remote areas at night. 2. **Etiquette:** Dress modestly in churches (women should cover their heads). 3. **Internet:** Buy a local SIM (e.g., Magti), though mountain coverage is spotty. --- ### Final Thoughts Georgia’s magic lies in its diversity—in one day, you can go from a sunset at a winery to sunrise over snowy peaks, from Soviet-era nostalgia to the serenity of ancient churches. With this guide, embark on your Caucasus adventure!

#Traveling Abroad If you are looking for snowy mountains, old castles, wine, and nature, but think Switzerland is too expensive, Georgia is the perfect choice! Plus, you can stay for 30 days without a visa! It's the best value for money travel destination! 📍 Why Georgia? ✔ No visa required! You can stay for 30 days! ✔ Low prices and full of exotic atmosphere! Great value for money! ✔ Enjoy the spectacular views of the Caucasus Mountains, monasteries, and wineries at the same time! ✔ Over 8,000 years of wine culture! The birthplace of the world's oldest qvevri wine! 🌟 TOP 8 recommended cities 1️⃣ Kazbegi - A spectacular view highly praised by Lonely Planet! 2️⃣ Tbilisi - The capital where old and new coexist! 3️⃣ Sighnaghi - "The city of love" and wine town! 4️⃣ Mestia - Georgia's "Little Switzerland" ⛰️ 5️⃣ Mtskheta - A historic "holy city" ✨ 6️⃣ Batumi - The setting for the "Georgian Romeo and Juliet" 💙 7️⃣ Gorri - Stalin's birthplace! For history lovers ◎ 8️⃣ Kutaisi - A small town where you can enjoy a leisurely city walk🌿 📌 Model itinerary (6 days) 🚶 City walk + nature 🌄 D1: Japan ✈️ Arrival in Tbilisi D2: Tbilisi → Winery (Khareba) → Sighnaghi → Tbilisi D3: Tbilisi → Kazbegi / Gudauri D4: Kazbegi → Mtskheta → Tbilisi D5: Tbilisi → Gori → Uplistsikhe Cave City → Tbilisi D6: Tbilisi ✈️ Return home 👑 Trekking heaven! Many routes that even beginners can enjoy! Georgia has more than 300 trekking courses, from beginner to advanced! Please try this moving experience of walking in the great outdoors.

Share an 8-day, 8-city road trip plan to visit all the landmarks. For anyone who is planning to travel to Georgia, share this so you don't miss out. 💁🏻♀️ As you can see, Georgia is the most viral country in this era. Is Georgia really good? Should you go? Is it really cheap? How to travel? How much money do you need? How many days do you need? We have summarized a review of a Georgia trip for 8 days, 8 cities, with a budget of 18,000 baht (excluding airfare). 📌 We traveled from December 15-23, 2019. 📌 This trip, we traveled with GULF AIR during the promotional ticket period. The trip to Georgia took about 13 hours. Most of the time, you have to connect flights. There are not many airlines from Bangkok to Tbilisi. The most prominent ones that most people choose to have promotions are Gulf Air and Air Astana. If you get a promotional ticket, you will save a lot on the trip because if you really want to go, you have to check the airfare promotion page. (ARPAE, Brother Chang, friends tell me the promotion) If the ticket price is 17,500 baht, you can book it. If it's cheaper, it's the finale. 📌 Our 8-day, 8-city trip plan is as follows: Day 1 Tbilisi - Mestia (8-hour drive) Sleep in Mestia Day 2 Mestia-Ushguli-Mestia Sleep in Mestia Day 3 Mestia-Kutaisi Sleep in Kutaisi Day 4 Kutaisi - Uplistsikhe -Gori Sleep in Gori Day 5 Gori - Borjomi- Mtskheta Sleep in Mtskheta Day 6 Mtskheta - Gadauri Sleep in Gadauri Day 7 Gadauri - Kezbegi -Tbilisi Sleep in Tbilisi Day 8 Tbilisi Tour around the city Return the car at the airport 🚘 Driving around Georgia, you can rent a car to drive around by yourself. The driver must have an international driving license. You can contact the transport department nationwide. When renting a car, we must use both an international driving license and a Thai driving license at the same time every time. Most rental cars there already have insurance that covers car accidents. The rental price is not expensive. We rented a PRIUS for 8 days for 7,300 baht, including everything. The gas price there is the same as in our country. For 8 days, we spent 2,400 baht on gas throughout the trip. If anyone can drive and has some experience driving up mountains, we recommend that you drive around because it saves time and money. If you go with friends and split the cost, it is much cheaper than the cost of a van between cities. Plus, you have plenty of time to travel. You can take pictures wherever you want and manage the place and time by yourself. We will share the ROAD TRIP PLAN below, so you can travel around the city with us without going around in circles. 📌Cost for the whole 9 days 8 nights 1. Food costs 500 baht per day, the whole trip costs 5,000 baht per person 2. Accommodation for 8 nights, average 1,100 per night, divided by two, 4,400 per person 3. Car rental for the whole trip + gas costs 9,500 baht, divided by two, 4,750 per person 4. Transportation to Usguli village costs 550 baht per person 5. Transportation to Kazbegi bypass costs 250 baht per person 6. Tasting card costs 170 baht 7. Taxi fare into town costs 350 baht, divided by two, 175 baht per person 8. Entrance fees to various attractions costs 300 baht per person 9. Souvenirs, wine, snacks, chocolate, and others costs 1,000 baht 📌Total budget for the whole trip is 16,595 baht, which, if you include the airfare of 17,500 baht, means you can visit Georgia for 9 days and 8 nights for the price of Only 35,095 baht, so cheap! 📌After we returned from our Georgia trip, we were not surprised because while we were there, we kept telling ourselves why we had just come to Georgia. Where had we been? It was really great. The nature was magnificent, the architecture was beautiful, the food was cheap, and the price of living was Thai, but it felt like we were in Europe. It’s so good that it’s not strange if it’s popular. It’s really good. Let’s follow us to see where we went on our 8-day Georgia trip. Which cities are not to be missed? What to eat and where to sleep? Follow us to Georgia through this review. #GeorgiaTravel #Georgia #TravelAbroad #TravelAbroadByYourself #TravelEurope #TravelEurope #tripFreeAccommodation

Who would have thought that Georgia has such beautiful nature hidden in it? My first trip to Georgia, I decided to travel in late December because I would experience both Christmas and New Year at the same time. This trip, I rented a car and drove to many provinces here. It was very lucky to drive here because along both sides of the road, there was beautiful nature surrounding this country. I started my trip from Tbilisi - Mtskheta - Gudauri - Stepantsminda - Gori - Kutaisi - Zakdidi - Mestia, etc. It was a 10-day drive. It was very worthwhile because of the beauty of this country. It is an enviable country with beautiful cities and nature. If anyone is wondering whether Georgia is worth visiting, I can tell you that it is very worthwhile to travel. We will see European views along with the tourism. And most importantly, there is a free visa for traveling to Georgia. #georgia #travel #phototravel #withmyshutter #travelabroad #tripแจกโรงแรมฟรี

The start of the trail is about 10km from mestia, you can choose to hire a taxi to there or like us, we choose to walk. But we were lucky enough that there’s a truck driver stop and save us about 5km of walking. At the trail start we have to cross a quite scary metal bridge, after the bridge it’s so closed to russia border that you might be asked by soldier to check your passport. Then there’s only 2.5km of hike to the glacier. #glacier #outdoor #hiking

The exterior, decorated with red window frames and embroidery, is very cute and catches your eye as you stroll through the city✨ The interior of the shop has white walls, wooden floors and tables, and red accents here and there, giving it a bright and natural impression😌There is even a swing hanging in the back of the shop, adding a playful touch! The pistachio cake was beautifully decorated from any angle and looked beautiful✨ There are also other food items on the menu, such as avocado toast and bagel sandwiches🥑 There were many types of desserts, including eclairs, carrot cake, cheesecake, and cookies! The drink menu is also extensive☕️ In addition to coffee, tea, and lemonade, they also had Georgian tea🫖🇬🇪, which is not often seen (in other restaurants or cafes). The interior of this shop is very cute, so I definitely recommend you to visit it 🥰 "Erti kava Coffee Room" 📍8 Mitropan Laghidze St, Tbilisi, Georgia (About 10 minutes walk from Rustaveli Station or Liberty Square Station) Opening hours 8:00~21:00 #Georgia #Tbilisi #Cafe

we Georgians often say if you come to Georgia you must visit Svaneti, otherwise you will miss a lot! Svaneti is the most beautiful region in Georgia, it's full of mountains and amazing views. you can visit Svaneti any season and be satisfied with your experience at Svaneti. you can go there by car, by bus or by plane, but for plane you have to book tickets before 2 months maybe. the bus from Tbilisi takes around 10 hours and 30-40 lari, and by car 8 hours is enough. Svanetis center is called Mestia, there you can find guest houses, hotels and local restaurants with delicious local food #yearofrabbit #newyearadventure #tripblazers #mytripvlog #本地遊 #georgia #svaneti #mestia

This simple but lovely coffee shop is located in Mestia, Georgia. •• ERTI KAVA •• The shop is square in shape, with soothing colors. When you step in, you will see a smiling female staff taking your order. The staff speaks English quite well. We ordered 2 large Hot Cappuccinos and 1 cookie. The coffee tastes good, not too weak or strong. The cookies are not too sweet, which goes well together. Location: 5 Seti Square, Mestia, 3200 Open daily, 9:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. You can also park your car in front of the shop. In any case, try this shop as another option.

So this isn't really Mestia. These photos were taken during my backpacking trip in Svaneti but only Mestia shows up as a location. This landscape comes with a blazing sun cooled by glacial breeze and friendly locals who make everything from their own yoghurt to their own bread. The last photo was taken as I climbed the steps of the Holy Trinity Cathedral of Tbilisi.

Mestia is known as the "Caucasian secret" of Georgia. When the winter comes with heavy snow, the road up and down the mountain will be blocked. For centuries, the Svans who lived in Mestia came out of the mountains only in the summer and were isolated from the rest of the world. The village under the mountain still retains the medieval towers, dense forests, huge glaciers, which is an unknown hideaway.

#cheaptravel If visiting the Dolomites feels out of reach, the Caucasus Mountains in Svaneti, Georgia are the perfect alternative for budget travelers. This stunning region is home to dramatic peaks, medieval stone towers, and glacier-fed valleys without the high prices. You can stay in cozy guesthouses for $15–30 a night, often with home-cooked meals included. Hiking trails are free, incredibly scenic, and much less crowded than in Western Europe. The village of Mestia makes a great base, and you can take a public minibus (marshrutka) from Tbilisi or Zugdidi for just a few dollars. #georgia #travelonabudget #travel

Travel Guide to Mestia (2025 Edition) Region: Upper Svaneti, Georgia Best Time to Visit: Late May to September for hiking; December to March for skiing Why Visit Mestia? Mestia is a gem nestled in the Caucasus Mountains and the heart of the ancient Svaneti region. It is renowned for its medieval defensive towers, traditional stone houses, glacial peaks, and rich cultural heritage. Perfect for adventurers and culture seekers.

#cityplaybook Top Things to Do in and Around Mestia 1. Koruldi Lakes Hike One of Mestia’s most popular hikes, this moderate-to-challenging trail takes about 4–5 hours round trip. You’ll be rewarded with mirror-like alpine lakes and panoramic views of Mount Ushba. A 4WD option is also available. 2. Ushguli Day Trip Ushguli, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is about 2.5–3 hours by jeep from Mestia. It’s one of Europe’s highest settlements and features stunning medieval towers, rustic charm, and breathtaking views of Mount Shkhara. It’s a must-do. 3. Svaneti Museum of History and Ethnography This well-curated museum in Mestia houses centuries-old icons, manuscripts, traditional weapons, and jewelry. A highlight includes early photographs of the region by Italian photographer Vittorio Sella.#georgia

Mestia Hiking Guide Located deep in the Georgian Caucasus Mountains, Mestia is known as a “paradise under the snow-capped mountains” and is a world-class hiking destination. It boasts a variety of routes, from easy half-day hikes to multi-day crossings to experience, here are the highlights: 👉Classic route recommendation 1. Mestia-Ushguli - Route highlights: The 58-kilometer route takes 4 days and 3 nights, passing through glaciers, forests, ancient villages and snow-capped mountains, with an elevation of less than 3000 meters per day, suitable for most trekkers. - Trip highlights: - Adish Glacier Crossing: Horseback riding (20-25 lari/person) required to avoid risk of wading through ice water. - Day 3 Summit: The highest point of elevation overlooks the Caucasus cluster. - Accommodation recommendations: Nora's House (first day), Hotel NATO (last day), both clean and warm and meals are provided. 2. Koruldi Lakes and Koruldi Mountain - **Koruldi Lakes**: 5 hours one way, 1400 meters of elevation climb, ending at an alpine lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains, suitable for photography. - **East Peak of Koruldi Mountain**: Climbing difficulty level A+ (3328 meters above sea level), requires crossing dangerous gravel slopes, only recommended for experienced people to try. - Segmentation suggestion: charter a car from Mestia to the Shelter viewpoint and hike to the lake to save energy. Other popular choices - Chalaadi Glacier Hike: Half-day route, from Mestia, charter a car to the suspension bridge and hike for 1 hour to the end of the glacier, touch the tongue of ice up close and be aware of the risk of falling rocks. - Tsvirmi Village Line: Greater intensity and suitable for exploring the scenery of the snow-capped mountains in the south, can be combined with a cable car overlooking the panoramic view. Practical information - Best season: June-October, stable climate, wildflowers in full bloom, autumn colors. - Equipment suggestion: ordinary sneakers, quick-drying clothes, sunscreen is enough, high-difficulty routes require hiking shoes. - Safety Tips: - Download the offline map or employment guide in advance, some sections are easy to get lost. - Bring plenty of drinking water and high-calorie snacks, simpler meals in some villages. [Tiptop] Transportation and Visa - Visa: Visa-free for Chinese tourists for 30 days. - Arrival: From Tbilisi by plane (vulnerable to weather) or charter via Kutaisi to Mestia, about 6 hours. Mestia trekking blends Alpine flair with the wildness of the Caucasus, and both novice and experienced hikers can find their own “mountain verse” here.

Georgia in early-mid October, good weather, beautiful view, all seasons 💞🫶🏻 This is another trip that I planned to be a road trip without walking a lot. In the end, I walked a lot from the first day at Mestia. My legs were so tired. 🥶 But when I went up and saw the wide open view of the snowy mountains and the frozen lake, I felt no more tired. 😊 Cheap accommodation, reasonable food prices, and most importantly, very cheap wine. This is another country that is worth coming to (but the tickets are a bit expensive).

🎯 Itinerary Prae chose to start with the short route Kazbegi first, then continue with the long route Mestia to fully experience nature! There was a little bit of hiking mixed in (or actually, not a little 😂), but my boyfriend didn't get tired at all. Prae alone 😅 Day 1: Landed in Tbilisi, picked up the car from MTraveler 🚗 Day 2: Tbilisi - Juta Village (hike 5 km to Fifth Season) Day 3: Juta Village - Kazbegi (lake🏞️ and Gergeti Trinity Church ⛪) Day 4: Kazbegi - Gori (Stalin Museum 🏛️) - Kutaisi Day 5: Kutaisi - Mestia Day 6: Mestia - Ushguli - back to Mestia (with a car to Ushguli 🚙) Day 7: Mestia - Tbilisi Day 8: Tbilisi, visit the capital before flying back ✨ Highlights Juta Village: 5 km hiking trail, beautiful but also tiring 🥾 Kazbegi: The view of Gergeti Church is the best 🌄 Gori: Stalin Museum, recommended for history lovers 📖 Mestia: Chalaadi Glacier hike This is the real deal, so much fun ❄️ Tbilisi: The capital, a fun walk 🏙️ 🗺️ Short review of driving in Georgia ‼️ Need to Know/Remember: Drive on the left lane 🚘 The left lane is the fastest, the right lane is slow Speed ​​limit 110 km/hr 🚦 Don't forget your Driving License 🪪 🛑Parking: In Tbilisi, the blue sign 🅿️ (with more pictures 👇) Normally you have to pay via the app, but Gio recommends taking a photo and sending it to them to pay instead. Then we pay them on the day we return the car because the application process is complicated. 🛣️Road: Some roads are good and some are gravel. If you rent a 4WD, don't worry about anything. It's similar to driving up North Thailand. Sharp curves, cliffs, and fairly wide roads. You can drive on the other lane as much as you want. There are some potholes, and your head will shake 55555555. I think many developing countries are Including the roads, which may not be as comfortable as in Thailand, but they are okay and safe. Gio said that Georgia currently does not have tollways that cost money. 🛣️ 🚦Driving: I think driving yourself is not that scary, but you should be good at driving, know when to overtake, and step on the gas pedal to give way to other cars. There are so many trucks 🥹 Especially on the route to Kazbegi on weekdays, you have to allow extra time because sometimes there are 10 trucks in a row 🚛 It's fun to overtake. Animals: Cows 🐄 Sheep 🐑 Pigs 🐖 Dogs 🐕 Chickens 🐓 Horses 🐴 They raise a lot of them there and they walk in herds on the road. Traffic will be jammed for a while, but it will only be jammed for about 5 minutes before the police 🚔 come to help clear the way. (Prae has not encountered any of them that have rushed towards the car 555555555) But if you encounter a cow without anyone taking care of it, it might be a bit difficult. You have to drive your car really close to the cow before it will move. 🖍️Tips: Arriving at your destination before it gets dark for safety 🌄 Prepare snacks to eat to fight drowsiness 🍫🍬 I recommend candy/snacks from Thailand, they are more delicious. Oh, but the oranges here are delicious 🍊🍊 Have dry/wet tissues ready 🧻 For those who hike 🥾 Prepare 2 pairs of shoes for hiking and driving. A must have sunglasses 😎 for driving. The sun there is very strong, especially for those who drive to Kutaisi in the afternoon-evening 🌅. That is, we are driving towards the west, it will sting your eyes. You have to wear sunscreen, even sitting in the car makes your face sting. 📌 Car rental agency review: MTraveler Rent a car with MTraveler 🚗 Great service! Paste the contact below 👇👇 The car is in good condition. Gio speaks English fluently, responds quickly, and is very convenient. The car will be delivered to your doorstep. 🛻 The price includes everything (cleaning fee, insurance fee, and phone holder in the car). There is no deposit fee. - Gossip - Honesty is 10. I asked him which one is better, the 2016 Subaru Forester or the 2016 Jeep Renegade. He said that the Subaru uses less fuel and is cheaper to rent. But it's like the price of the Jeep. The rental fee is not that expensive. The photos are more beautiful. Haha. I told him to go with the Jeep even though it uses more fuel and is more expensive to rent than the Subaru. Gio: Do ​​you need more fuel consumption? Pare = love this question. 🚘 Review of the 2016 Jeep Renegade Automatic transmission, easy to drive, not complicated even if you've never driven before. It's smooth and durable, especially on rough roads like uphill or offroad. 🏔️ You hardly have to worry about performance. In the car, there is a simple 4WD mode, connect bluetooth, listen to music 🎶 But a small disadvantage is probably the fuel consumption, which may be a little more than a normal car. But if you focus on fun, go all out, and cool, it's really worth it. A full stream review will come later, I may divide it up so it's not too long. 🙏 A detailed review will definitely be a sincere review. 🥰 I encountered both no water at the hotel, road repairs in the middle of the valley until there was a traffic jam for 1 hour, no signal but there were fellow travelers, shoes with loose soles, fun and entertainment throughout the trip! But in any case, the rented car had no problems. It was all my fault, and so on. 55555555 🎉 Visit: End of October 2024 #TravelGeorgia #Georgia

The changing leaves season in Georgia 🇬🇪 is so romantic 👑Let me tell you that this is another season that you must not miss. This route is surrounded by yellow, orange, green, black trees and you can see the snow-covered mountains. Driving with my boyfriend, listening to music, the mood is so good! ⏳It was 4 months before the end of the winter season on the road to Mestia village. 🚙Went in late Oct 2024 For more details, see the previous post or you can chat with us😙 #TravelGeorgia #Georgia #mestia

### Ushguli Travel Guide 1. Destination Overview Ushguli, located in the Svaneti region of Georgia, is one of the highest permanently inhabited settlements in Europe, at an altitude of approximately 2,100 meters. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its ancient towers, breathtaking views of the Caucasus Mountains, and pristine natural environment. 2. Best Time to Visit - **Summer (June–September)**: Warm weather and accessible roads make it ideal for hiking and outdoor activities. - **Autumn (September–October)**: Vibrant scenery and fewer tourists create a perfect setting for photography. - **Winter (November–March)**: Stunning snow-covered landscapes, but limited accessibility, suitable for skiing and adventure. 3. How to Get There - **From Tbilisi**: 1. Take a car or train to Zugdidi (approx. 5–6 hrs). 2. From Zugdidi, take a bus or hire a car to Mestia (approx. 3–4 hrs). 3. From Mestia, hire a car or hike to Ushguli (approx. 2–3 hrs by car or 2 days on foot). - **From Mestia**: 1. Hire a car or take a local bus to Ushguli (approx. 2–3 hrs). 2. Hiking enthusiasts can opt for a 2–3-day trek with scenic views along the way. 4. Main Attractions - **Svan Towers**: Ushguli is famous for its ancient defensive towers, built in the Middle Ages to protect against invaders. - **Lamaria Church**: Built in the 9th–10th centuries, it is one of Georgia's significant religious sites. - **Mount Shkhara**: The third highest peak in the Caucasus Mountains, standing at 5,068 meters, it's an ideal destination for mountaineers. - **Ushguli Villages**: Comprising four small villages, it preserves traditional ways of life, offering an authentic cultural experience. 5. Hiking Trails - **Mestia–Ushguli Trek**: A classic hiking route, taking approximately 4 days, passing through alpine meadows, forests, and villages, with magnificent scenery. - **Ushguli–Mount Shkhara Trek**: Suitable for experienced hikers, offering close-up views of the majestic Mount Shkhara. 6. Accommodation and Dining - **Accommodation**: Ushguli offers guesthouses and inns with basic but clean and comfortable amenities. Advance booking is recommended. - **Dining**: Local cuisine mainly features traditional Georgian dishes such as Khachapuri (cheese bread), Khinkali (meat dumplings), and grilled meats. 7. Things to Note - **Transportation**: The roads to Ushguli are challenging; 4x4 vehicles or hired cars are recommended. - **Weather**: Mountain weather is unpredictable; pack warm clothes and rain gear. - **Health**: Be mindful of altitude sickness in high-altitude areas; acclimatization is advised. - **Cultural Respect**: Respect local culture and customs; dress modestly when entering churches. 8. Recommended Itineraries - **3-Day Itinerary**: - Day 1: Depart from Mestia, travel to Ushguli by car, visit the towers and church. - Day 2: Hike and explore the surrounding villages and natural landscapes. - Day 3: Return to Mestia, enjoying the Caucasus Mountains scenery along the way. - **5-Day Itinerary**: - Day 1: Hike from Mestia to Ushguli, camping or staying in villages along the way. - Days 2–3: Hike in and around Ushguli, exploring Mount Shkhara and Lamaria Church. - Day 4: Return to Mestia. - Day 5: Relax in Mestia, visit the local museum and cultural sites. Ushguli is a place rich in history and natural beauty, ideal for hikers, photographers, and culture enthusiasts. Whether it's a short trip or an in-depth trek, Ushguli offers an unforgettable experience.

#Winter travel destinations Very beautiful, lots of snow, worth going. It's a city that I initially overlooked, but when I got there, I gave it number 1. If anyone has plans to travel to Georgia, keep this city on your list. It's a long journey, a bit of a long drive, but I guarantee that the view is beautiful, definitely worth driving up there. The road is a bit scary. If you're not an expert, I recommend renting a car with a driver.

#asiatrip Mestia, a picturesque town nestled in the heart of Georgia’s Svaneti region, offers visitors a unique blend of stunning natural beauty, ancient history, and vibrant local culture. Surrounded by the towering peaks of the Caucasus Mountains, Mestia is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide array of activities such as hiking, mountaineering, and skiing. The town itself, with its cobblestone streets and traditional stone houses, exudes a charming medieval atmosphere, transporting visitors back in time. One of Mestia’s main attractions is its historic architecture. The Svan towers, iconic stone structures that date back to the 9th century, dot the landscape and are a testament to the region’s rich heritage. These towers were once used for defense, and many of them are still intact, providing a glimpse into the past. Visitors can explore these towers and even climb some of them for panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Mestia also offers a fascinating insight into the culture of the Svan people, a distinct ethnic group with its own language and traditions. The Svaneti Museum of History and Ethnography in Mestia showcases artifacts, religious icons, and ancient manuscripts, providing visitors with a deeper understanding of the region’s history and cultural significance. For those seeking adventure, Mestia is a gateway to the nearby Ushguli, one of the highest settlements in Europe, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The journey to Ushguli offers breathtaking views of glaciers, waterfalls, and wildflower-filled meadows, making it a highlight of any trip to Mestia. In conclusion, Mestia is a hidden gem that offers an unforgettable experience for travelers seeking a mix of adventure, history, and breathtaking scenery. Whether you’re hiking through its mountainous landscapes or exploring its medieval towers, Mestia is a destination that will leave a lasting impression.

Half of Mestia is a paradise even without hiking. I stayed in Mestia for three days, didn't go to Ushguli, and didn't hike. I just wandered around, and the town itself was beautiful. I was lucky enough to experience two seasons. Many local drivers on the road would ask if you were going to Chali or Koruldi Lakes. There are signs in the town showing the kilometers and directions of various routes. If you have the energy, you can hike directly. Photos 2–5: I woke up early in the morning to find the world outside my window covered in snow. I walked from the town to the cable car (currently out of service), and it was all winter scenes with snow falling. After just two hours, it suddenly turned from winter to autumn, and the two seasons coexisted. Photo 6: I took this photo when I went out, and when I returned to my room in the afternoon, the same spot had become the photo below. Photos 7–8: Around 7:30 am, the sun shines on the mountains, turning the entire mountain range golden. Photos 9–15: I wandered from the town to the airport, surrounded by mountains. There are snow-capped mountains to the east and west, and autumn colors to the north and south. It's amazing. Photos 1/16–18: Taken in the evening. The golden mountains start at 6 pm and last for about 17 minutes. I was limited in my thinking, always thinking that the golden mountains only appear at sunrise.

Many people choose Mestia as a transit point when traveling in Georgia. From here, you can hike 🚶‍♀️ or take a minibus or chartered car 🚙 to Ushguli. The town is small and can be explored in a day. In Mestia, the Svaneti Museum of History and Ethnography 🏛️ is a great place to visit. The museum's collection and exhibits are exquisite. 👍 🏛️ Svaneti Museum of History and Ethnography 📍 Address: A.loseliani 7, Mestia, Georgia 🎫 Tickets: GEL 20 for foreign visitors 🕙 Opening hours: 10:00–18:00 (closed on Mondays) ✅ The Svaneti Museum of History and Ethnography 🏛️ is said to have been built in 1936. It is located on the way from Mestia to Hatsvali Ski Resort ⛷️, about a 10-minute walk 🚶 from the town center. ✅ The museum is divided into several exhibition areas: archaeological finds from the 3rd century, golden icons from the 11th to 14th centuries, manuscripts 📝 and books in Georgian, traditional handicrafts and furniture 🪑 of the Svan people, etc. ✅ Important exhibits include: stone, pottery, bronze, glass, and ancient coins 🪙 unearthed by archaeologists; golden icons and wood carvings and paintings 🖼️ preserved in ancient churches ⛪️; the first printed book 📚 in Georgian published in Rome in 1629, and various beautifully decorated ancient books. ✅ The museum has English guides, and the exhibits are labeled in English. The exhibits are well organized and the overall layout is exquisite. ✅ The museum has only one floor. Although it is not large, it has a rich collection of exhibits. It takes about 1.5 hours to visit the museum. ⭕️ Other: 🔸 Near the exit of the museum, you can see part of the tower complex (Svaneti) through the glass window. 🔸 There is a restroom 🚻 and a small souvenir shop in the museum. 🔸 There is a church ⛪️ not far from the museum, which you will pass on the way. 🔸 There is also 🎿 Hatsvali Ski Resort nearby, where you can take a cable car 🚡 to the top of the mountain.

Traveling to a snowy town full of cold and peaceful atmosphere, surrounded by mountains and houses covered in pure white snow, is a beautiful and relaxing experience. But what made this trip even more memorable was when we met a cute cat, who walked up to us fearlessly and made an extremely cute face, asking for food. This cat looked cozy with its fluffy fur. Even in the freezing cold, it didn't show any signs of being cold. When we brought it some snacks, it came to cuddle up with us and meowed softly, making our hearts melt. It made us feel that even in the cold snow, there was still warmth from the cuteness of this little animal. Sharing food and seeing the little cat happily eating was a moment that made this trip even more special. Cats not only made us smile, but also made us feel a little connection to nature and the animals around us. Even in a place covered in snow, there is still cuteness hidden in every corner! #100TravelTips

A snow hunting trip and sleeping in the pine forest in Mestia is an exciting and challenging experience, filled with the beauty of nature covered in thick snow, especially when staying in the middle of a pine forest surrounded by pure white snow. The quiet and refreshing atmosphere of the forest makes every breath feel pure and natural. At night, sleeping in the pine forest is extremely private. The sound of the gentle wind and the falling snowflakes create a peaceful and beautiful atmosphere, especially if you sneak a peek at the night sky, with stars and sometimes the aurora borealis, which you might be lucky enough to see. Snow hunting in Mestia will allow you to experience the challenge of traveling along the snow trails, up the mountains or down the valleys, in search of the most beautiful viewpoints. Here, you can see the breathtaking view of the Caucasus Mountains. The tall pine trees covered in snow make the whole trip feel like you are in a fairy tale world. Whether it is the challenging journey, the tranquility of sleeping in the middle of the forest or the unparalleled view of pure white snow, Mestia is a place that must be visited once in a lifetime for those who love nature and adventure!

📍Mestia, a small snow town - a paradise for hiking enthusiasts Mestia is located in the center of Svaneti, the oldest, most unique, most remote, and most inaccessible area of Georgia. It is known as the 'Caucasus Secret' of Georgia and is a paradise for skiing enthusiasts. Mestia, a small town in Georgia surrounded by snow-capped mountains🏔️, is known as a hidden paradise deep in the Caucasus and also as God's backyard. Surrounded by verdant mountains, misty clouds☁️, and magnificent mountain ranges, it is also a world-famous hiking destination with stunning scenery. In the town of Mestia, you can take two segments of the ski mountaineering cable car🚠 to reach the high mountains and overlook the 360-degree snow-capped mountains. Along the way, various wildflowers, nearby green plants, and distant snow-capped mountain scenery are breathtaking. The top platform offers a distant view of the majestic snow-capped mountains opposite, making it a great spot for checking in👍🏻👍🏻.

After a bumpy 6️⃣-hour journey, we finally arrived at the small town of Mestia in Georgia🇬🇪. Although the journey was long, the scenery was endless. Along the way, there were suspension bridges, waterfalls, green mountains, and clear waters. Unexpectedly, we could see double rainbows🌈 up close, which was super Lucky Lucy! 📍Svaneti Towers in the village of Mestia These towers are the most prominent symbols of the original residential areas in this region. The architectural style is somewhat similar to the watchtowers in Batan Village, Sichuan, China. The tower was built by the Svans (Georgians living in the Svaneti region) in the 8th century to protect their families. The entire tower was constructed entirely by human labor, without any mechanized facilities. Therefore, the Svaneti Towers also symbolize the strength of the family; the stronger and wealthier the family, the more male members it has, and the higher the Svaneti Tower will be. The high towers stand under the blue sky, white clouds, and snow-capped mountains, making them look full of spirit.

🌟Highlights: The Mestia hiking route in Georgia is a world-class classic route, one of the must-walk routes for hiking enthusiasts. 🚉Transportation Guide: First, fly to Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia 🇬🇪, then take Vanilla Air from Tbilisi directly to Mestia. Alternatively, fly from Tbilisi to Kutaisi, then take a bus to Mestia. 🗓Route Arrangement: Mestia Village - Zhabesi Village - Adishi Village - Iprali Village - Ushguli Town Make sure to buy water and dry food in Mestia Village. 🧳Clothing Preparation: I went in the summer, wearing a quick-dry short-sleeve shirt + sun protection jacket on top, quick-dry pants on the bottom, and a softshell jacket in the backpack for rain. 📝Tips: The total distance is about 65 kilometers, completed in 4 days. There are places in the villages for resupply, meals, and accommodation. I personally think the difficulty is moderate, suitable for enthusiasts with some hiking experience. Prepare the hiking app AllTrails in advance to avoid getting lost. Prepare cash in advance, with an average cost of 1600 RMB per person for food and accommodation.