Georgia is a fascinating country topped by the Lower Caucasus Mountains at the peak and by all measures one of the world’s most spectacular nations. Whether it’s lush mountains, ancient cities, remote monasteries, coastal jungles, arid semi-desert plains or mountain tops, Georgia has it all. We have compiled the list of the most fascinating and amazing Mountain villages that you shouldn’t skip on your Georgia journey.

Although highlight cities such as Tbilisi, Kutaisi and Batumi are beginning to rake in tourists as the country is slowly gaining prominence, to really get a true feel for Georgia, it is better to visit its small towns and Mountain villages that are hidden in remote mountain regions.

Also Read: 9 Mountain peaks that are perfect for first-time climbers

Unique mountain villages in Georgia

Stepantsminda

Only a few hours north of Tbilisi you can end up in the heartland of the Central Caucasus, framed by peaks over 4,000 meters above sea level. Stepantsminda is a new name, changed during the 21st century. His old name was Kazbegi, from the famous Georgian writer Alexander Kazbegi who was born in 1848 there.

Above the picturesque medieval church of Tsminda Sameba (Gergeti Trinity Church) and farther above the mountain town of Stepantsminda you can see the 5,047-meter-high Kazbek Hill, the legendary stratovolcano on which Prometheus was allegedly tied. If you enjoy hiking then you should go farther up to Mount Kazbek.

Stepantsminda is full of attractions. You can visit the beautiful Trinity Church of Gergeti which looks down from the mountain towards Stepantsminda. If you go a little further you can see the Gveleti Waterfall in the Dariali Gorge and the Dariali Monastery. It is one of the most picturesque mountain villages in Georgia.

Also Read: Best Day Trips From Tbilisi To Explore The Georgian Countryside

Beshumi

Beshumi is a mountain resort situated at 1,900 meters above sea level on the eastern knees of the Arsiani mountain chain. The resort is located about 120 km from Batumi in the Khulo area and serves as the best location for those who want to avoid the city’s heat and noise. It is one of the most photogenic mountain villages in Georgia.

Gudauri resort, Georgia — Source: Unsplash

The resort ‘s strongest mix of alpine and coniferous vegetation provides an enticing atmosphere for recreation and is the perfect location for visitors who love picnics and walks. Besides, one can also enjoy horse riding and adventure tours here. Beshumi’s key highlights are Green Lake and the Khikhani Palace.

Bakhmaro

Bakhmaro is tiny heaven in Guria region of western Georgia. It is a breathtaking mountain resort set at almost 2000 meters above sea level. It is one of the unique mountain villages in Georgia. In addition to its breathtaking scenery, spectacular pine trees, alpine meadows and stunning views, the place is popular for its tiny quaint cottages that are spread across the lush valleys with a river running across them. The resort offers its visitors the mix of sea and mountain air that benefits people with breathing problems. There is a famous Gadrekili mountain which is known for its sunsets and picturesque views.

Shatili

Located north of the capital, Khevsureti shares a border with Chechnya. With a population of less than 3,000 Khevsureti is probably one of Georgia’s most remote areas. Within this picturesque area of Georgia, several impressive medieval cultural artefacts-castle walls, ceremonial sites and tombs-are still maintained. Constructed at 1.400 meters above sea level, Shatili is considered to be one of Georgia’s most important and excellent examples of vernacular architecture. Shatili is on the UNESCO World Heritage provisional list with its fortress-settlement and some 60 towers within it. Shatili is set on a rock. The towers constructed in stone – performed both housing and defensive purposes. Over the years, these houses have undergone a lot of chaos and luckily are still intact.

Dartlo

Dartlo’s village is tucked into the mountains around the Tusheti region which belongs to Kakheti even further. It looks like something out of a fairytale, nestled in the mountains with the river Alazani flowing along and a nearby waterfall. Flying through towers and old Dartlo houses and loving its panoramas and rooms, there’s less to see and more to experience.

Shenako

Another village in Tusheti which must be visited is Shenako. Its most prominent attraction is the old Holy Trinity chapel, which stands alone on a hillside overlooking the valley below. It’s a little village, so this is a nice spot to do if you want to live anywhere in a remote area of the mountains. This is a must-visit amongst the mountain villages in Georgia.

Omalo

Omalo is the core of the Tusheti region and the largest village. The community here is very large, unlike Khevsureti. Omalo is a great base from which to visit other villages in the region. However, it is worth visiting the old fortress (Keselo) that overlooks the village for its majestic views of Omalo and surrounding wetlands.

Also Read: 11 Best Things To Do On Your Trip To North Georgia: A Must Do

Mestia

Mestia is a highland town in northwest Georgia, in the Caucasus Mountains, at an elevation of 1,500 metres. The capital of the Svaneti region, Mestia is one of the country’s most beautiful historic regions. It is also the region ‘s principal tourism centre. Spend an enjoyable time exploring Svaneti History and Ethnography Center, the Hatsvali and Tetnuldi ski resorts etc.

Ushguli

Visiting Ushguli – tucked away in Upper Svaneti, an area that has won UNESCO praise, is completely worthwhile. In reality, Ushguli is a village divided into four hamlets and is renowned for its collapsing defence towers traditionally characteristic of Svan architecture. Here, going off the beaten road seems like a journey further into the past. This is added in to list of Must-Visit Mountain villages in Georgia

Ambrolauri

The Town Racha is one of Georgia’s most popular wine areas. It may not have Tusheti, Khevsureti or Svaneti’s elegance but it is always worth a visit. Racha ‘s climate is perfect for grape growing, which makes this mountain town of Ambrolauri the perfect stop for lovers of wine and mountains. The Museum of Fine Arts and Brakoni are among the most fascinating sights in this area.

Oni

Oni is another town, just 30 kilometres northeast of Ambrolauri. The town was founded in the 2nd century BC according to the legend, although it is probably much older as it has been inhabited since the Bronze Age. Visit The Local Museum of Oni, founded in 1937. It holds 15,000 archaeological artefacts, design features, and ethnographic items including textiles, coins, and books on art.

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While cities such as Tbilisi, Kutaisi, and Batumi are any traveller’s primary destination, to feel the true Georgian spirit, it’s advisable to visit some of its remote villages and small cities. If you are looking for an expert guide for your next trip to Europe, Pickyourtrail is the one-stop-shop for all your travel needs. Log on to www.Pickyourtrail.com for more information or leave a Whatsapp inquiry for more options.