Discover the wilds and culture of Georgia on foot with Walks Worldwide

Trekking expert Walks Worldwide has strengthened its walking programme in the Caucuses with the addition of a brand new, small-group guided adventure in Georgia.

One of the destinations featured in Levison Wood’s new travelogue, Eastern Horizons, Georgia is praised for its generous hospitality and local cuisine. Looking to encourage more people to discover this amazing area, Walks Worldwide have developed a new tour to allow travellers to really experience the best of Georgia’s unique landscapes and cultures. The ‘Trekking in the Caucuses’ Group Tour incorporates remote villages often cut off from the outside world, where traditional ways of life remain virtually unchanged.

This challenging trek takes travellers into the provinces of Khevsureti and Tusheti, the ‘soul’ of Georgia, through a landscape of snowcapped mountains, alpine meadows and roaring rivers. Experience wild camping and local guest houses, while taking in the best of what Georgia has to offer.

Arrive into the ancient capital of Tbilisi and admire the early Georgian Medieval architecture in one of the most ancient Christian civilisations in the world. You will have the opportunity to explore the city and enjoy the ritual of a sulphur bath before taking to the hills on a drive over the Datvis Jvari Pass and trekking up to the ancient Mutso Towers. Continuing upwards from Khonistchala to Khidotani, the true scale and beauty of the Caucuses range becomes apparent.

Here you can reach the highest point of the Atsunta Pass at 3,430m and appreciate the magnificent panoramic views before heading down to camp at Kvakhidi, deep in the heart of wild Georgia. Continuing the descent through remote mountain villages to Chesho, travellers will stay overnight with a local family to really learn about Georgian culture and custom. From here you can reach Tusheti Province, considered to be the ancient ‘soul’ of Georgia.

Other areas to visit are the Keselo Towers, a small medieval fortress built during the Mongol invasion in 1230 which is steeped in history. At 2926m, the Abano pass is the highest pass in Georgia accessible by vehicles, where you must pause to take photos at the Alaveri Cathedral. Grape-lovers can enjoy a local wine tasting here and are sure to be pleasantly surprised by the Georgian wine.

For a little culture and history, take a visit to Stalin’s birthplace and museum in Gori, or travel to Upliscikhe, a complex of rock-cut halls, temples, passage streets, wine pressers and tunnels from the Hellenistic period. This incredible experience is a welcome break from the turmoil of the 21st Century. In fact, this walking route generally does take you away from your troubles and into a whole new world of discovery, calm and contemplation.

Walks Worldwide Prices & Dates:

9 nights’ full board from £2,060pp based on 2 sharing, including return flights from the UK to Tbilisi, baggage transfers and English-speaking local guides. Departures are 25 July and 15 September 2018 and a maximum group size of 12.

For bookings phone 01962 302085 or visit walksworldwide.com