Early winter in Kazbegi: quiet roads, warm tables
Discover early-winter Georgia, moving from cosy Tbilisi to serene Kazbegi on a relaxed, culture-rich journey. Discover the hidden beauty of Georgia.
Trip Overview
Description:
The Experience
Georgia in early winter moves between stillness and warmth. Tbilisi’s streets carry the scent of baking bread and woodsmoke, its churches glowing softly above the river. A few hours north, the mountains rise in long, quiet lines; Kazbegi feels held in its own weather, where clouds drift low and villages sit close to the valley floor.
This journey traces these shifts in mood, from vineyards and cave towns to monasteries on distant hillsides. The days unfold steadily, shaped by landscape, history and the gentle rhythm of Georgian hospitality. It is a week that invites pause: a glass of wine in a small cellar, the sound of a river below a fortress, a simple meal after time in the mountains.
Who This Trip Is For
This is for travellers who enjoy culture with space around it — people who appreciate monasteries in winter light, slow drives through valleys, and the ease of staying in small mountain towns.
It suits those who like movement without hurry and who don’t mind that mountain weather may soften visibility or shift plans.
It may not be ideal for anyone seeking a packed schedule or guaranteed high-altitude conditions. The appeal here lies in atmosphere and quiet detail rather than speed.
Highlights
Day 1 — Arrival in Tbilisi
A private driver meets you at Tbilisi International Airport. Settle into your hotel and take the day gently — resting, or walking through the nearby streets and cafés before the week begins.
Day 2 — Tbilisi: Cathedrals, Baths and the Old Town
Begin at the Holy Trinity Cathedral, a symbol of Georgia’s modern spiritual life.
Continue to Metekhi Church above the river, then the outer walls of Narikala Fortress, which has anchored the city for centuries.
Walk through the Sulphur Bath District and into the old town’s lanes before lunch at a local restaurant.
Afternoon brings Meidan Square, Shardeni Street, the Bridge of Peace and Anchiskhati Basilica, Tbilisi’s oldest surviving church.
Dinner is at a traditional Georgian restaurant.
Overnight in Tbilisi.
Day 3 — Bodbe and Sighnaghi
Drive east to Bodbe Monastery, a quiet hillside complex and the resting place of St Nino.
Continue to Sighnaghi, with its cobbled streets and views across the Alazani Valley. Spend time along the town walls and small squares.
Visit a winery in Manavi to learn about Qvevri winemaking and taste three local wines.
Return to Tbilisi for the night.
Day 4 — Mtskheta, Ananuri and the Ascent to the Highlands
Head towards Mtskheta, the former capital, to visit Svetitskhoveli Cathedral and the hilltop monastery of Jvari above the meeting of two rivers.
Continue north to Ananuri Fortress overlooking the Zhinvali Reservoir.
Follow the Georgian Military Highway, pausing at the Gudauri viewpoint before reaching Stepantsminda (Kazbegi).
Check into your hotel and settle in for a quiet evening in the mountains.
Day 5 — Kazbegi and the Dariali Gorge
After breakfast, travel by 4x4 to Gergeti Trinity Church, set alone against the vast slopes of Mount Kazbegi.
Visit Dariali Monastery in the gorge below, then stop for lunch at a local restaurant.
Later, take a short hike to Gveleti Waterfall, an easy walk through the valley with moderate ascent and descent.
Dinner can be at the hotel or a nearby restaurant.
Overnight in Kazbegi.
Day 6 — Uplistsikhe and Return to Tbilisi
Drive south to Uplistsikhe, an ancient cave town cut from sandstone. Explore its narrow passages, temples and theatre before lunch nearby.
Continue back to Tbilisi for your final evening, marked by a folk show dinner with regional cuisine.
Overnight in Tbilisi.
Day 7 — Departure
Breakfast at the hotel followed by a private transfer to Tbilisi Airport. A quiet end to a week shaped by mountains, monasteries and winter roads.
Inclusions
Staff:
- English-speaking guide service, days 1–7
- Driver service, days 1–7
Transport
- Two airport transfers by climate-controlled sedan (2 pax), minivan (4 pax), minibus (6–12 pax) or bus (14–16+), days 1 and 7
- Transport for touring by climate-controlled vehicle as above, days 2–6
- 4x4 vehicles to Gergeti on day 5
Accommodation & Meals
- 4 nights in Tbilisi (B)
- 2 nights in Kazbegi (B)
- 6 breakfasts
- 1 dinner
Experiences & Fees
- Two bottles of spring water per person daily
- Excursions as per programme
- Entrance fees as per programme
- Wine tasting on day 3
- Folk show dinner in Tbilisi on day 6
- All local taxes
Exclusions
- Visa fees (if applicable)
- Insurance
- Flight tickets
- Early check-in / late check-out
- Alcoholic beverages
- Personal expenses
Request Add On Services
Extend Your Stay
Add nights, add cities, slow the pace, linger longer.
Milestone Moments
Birthdays, anniversaries, celebrations, planned to your brief.
Private Experiences
Art, culture, cuisine, and special access, arranged for you.
Tailored Requests
Dietary needs, accessibility, preferences, and thoughtful touches.
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