2 days in Borjomi, Vardzia and Rabat

Featured ★ 4.8 adventure

2 days in Borjomi, Vardzia and Rabat

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Trip description

Svaneti—the lost world of a thousand towers —is a truly authentic, stunningly beautiful region with a fascinating history, incredible nature, and wonderful, proud, and hospitable people.
The beauty and uniqueness of Svaneti attract more and more tourists every year.
Just 15-20 years ago, few Georgians would have dared to come here for the weekend, but now foreign speech is heard everywhere, and in the local restaurants in the evenings there is an international crowd.

1. Vardzia

Vardzia is a complex of caves carved into the tuff wall of Mount Erusheti, in southern Georgia's Javakheti region. For four centuries, from the 12th to the 16th centuries, a city existed here, right within the caves. More than 500 chambers, spread over 13 levels and extending 50 meters deep, connected by narrow secret passages—that's Vardzia. You'll learn why this city was built and its history from its founding to the present day. Stroll its "streets" and peer into one of Queen Tamar's several hundred bedrooms. And on the way to the ancient complex, you'll see a stunning panorama of the well-preserved Khertvisi Fortress.
Next, we drive to the town of Akhaltsikhe, where we'll spend the night. We'll check into a family-run hotel and dine at the authentic restaurant "Mimino."
After dinner, anyone who still has the energy and desire can take a stroll to the Rabati Fortress, which towers majestically over the city. Tomorrow morning, we'll explore it more closely.

2. Rabat Fortress

The Akhaltsikhe Fortress, or Rabati Fortress, is also called the Georgian Jerusalem.
It was founded in the 9th century by the Turks, and only Muslims were allowed to live on its territory. The fortress has seen much throughout its history. Destroyed several times, often besieged, and ultimately absorbed traces of various cultures and religions.
We learn about its fascinating history by strolling through its atmospheric (and very Instagrammable!) streets and squares. Incidentally, today the Rabati Fortress is a true cultural and historical complex covering an area of approximately seven hectares.
After exploring, we'll have lunch at her cozy family restaurant, and then drive to Borjomi—the town that gave us the mineral water of the same name, accidentally discovered by soldiers of the Kherson Grenadier Regiment stationed here. Their commander, suffering from a stomach ailment, experienced unexpected relief, and he attributed it to drinking water from a local spring... That's how the world learned about Borjomi.

Features

Immersion in history

You will have a unique opportunity to visit ancient places where history comes to life at every step.

Comfort and Georgian hospitality

An overnight stay in a family-run hotel and dinner at the authentic Mimino restaurant will allow you to experience the warmth and soul of Georgian culture. Home cooking and comfort are the two ingredients I strive to incorporate into every tour.

Vivid impressions and excellent photos

The atmospheric streets of Rabat Fortress, the cave labyrinths of Vardzia, and the panoramic views of Borjomi are perfect for stunning photos that will capture unforgettable memories and garner likes on your Instagram.

Weekend tour

Two action-packed days are ideal for a short break with maximum benefits and impressions.

Comfortable route

All locations are designed to minimize travel fatigue and maximize travel enjoyment.

Featured ★ 4.8 adventure