Mestia, Georgia

All you need to know about our unique holidays, combining nature and fun.

Looking for a holiday to meet new people and explore beautiful places?

Experience Hiking with New Friends in Glorious Georgia

Embark on an unforgettable group hiking adventure to Mestia, the heart of Georgia’s majestic Svaneti region, with our expertly guided tours designed for solo travellers and those seeking the camaraderie of like-minded adventurers. Discover the rugged beauty of the Caucasus Mountains in the safety and comfort of a group, where every detail is taken care of, from logistics to accommodation.

The tour costs £695 and the next available dates are April 26-May 3 and May 4-11. More dates to follow in autumn. To check availability please use our booking page.

Connect with Fellow Nature Lovers: Join a community of enthusiastic hikers who share your passion for exploration and the great outdoors. Our group tours provide a unique opportunity to forge new friendships and create lasting memories as you traverse breathtaking landscapes together.

Expert Guidance and Insight: Travel confidently with our experienced guides who not only ensure your safety but also enrich your journey with deep local knowledge. From hidden trails to the best sunset spots, our guides will lead you through the most scenic routes, sharing the rich history and culture of the Svaneti region along the way.

Hassle-Free Travel Experience: Leave the planning to us. Our group tours include all transportation, accommodations, and meal arrangements. With the logistical details expertly handled, you can focus on enjoying the stunning views and exhilarating hikes without any stress.

Cost-Effective and Safe: Traveling in a group not only reduces costs through shared expenses but also provides added safety in remote and challenging terrains. Whether navigating through ancient trails or scaling rugged peaks, you’ll find confidence in the collective experience and support of the group.

Embark on a journey to Mestia with us and experience more than just a hike. It’s an exploration of spectacular landscapes, ancient cultures, and personal discovery, all while enjoying the safety and companionship of traveling in a group. Book your adventure today and step into a world of awe-inspiring beauty and shared adventure that only the Georgian Caucasus can offer.

Highlights

Chalaadi Glacier Hike: Journey through lush forests to the striking Chalaadi Glacier, where the trail winds past river crossings and open meadows against a dramatic mountainous backdrop.

Koruldi Lakes Trek: Challenge yourself with a trek to the serene Koruldi Lakes, perched high above Mestia, offering spectacular alpine vistas and a tranquil escape into nature.

Panoramic Views from Mount Hatsvali: Take the Mount Hatsvali cable car for easy access to stunning panoramic views of the Caucasus mountains, making it a perfect spot for gentle hikes and breathtaking scenery.

Svan Towers and Historical Architecture: Explore the medieval Svan towers and ancient architecture of Mestia, where each stone and pathway reveals the rich history of the Svaneti region.

Have a question?

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Inclusions/Exclusions

Included

Accommodation
Transport to meeting point
Excursions
Guide
Coffee/Tea

Not Included

Flights
Food (Kitchen Provided)

Daily Schedule - Georgia

DAY 1 - TRANSPORT TO MESTIA

Arrival in Georgia

MEETING POINT – MESTIA

Your transport will be waiting for you in the city you arrived in. We advise to arrive the night before so you’re ready to go the next day. We can also recommend accommodation for the first night. After settling at your new home for the next days there will be a welcome dinner to discuss the plans for the week’s hiking. Mestia will be the base for all hikes for the next 5 days. It’s great because you don’t need to carry all your stuff around and after a long day walking you know your warm shower and bed is awaiting you.

DAY 2 - KORULDI LAKES

Koruldi Lakes

The day hike to Koruldi Lakes from Mestia is a stunning adventure that showcases the best of Georgia’s Svaneti region’s natural beauty. Starting from the small but vibrant town of Mestia, known for its medieval watchtowers and picturesque setting, the trail to Koruldi Lakes begins with a steady climb through lush forests and alpine meadows. As you ascend, the path offers increasingly spectacular views of the surrounding Caucasus Mountains, including peaks like Ushba and Tetnuldi, famed for their dramatic silhouettes against the sky.

DAY 3 - USHGULI

Ushguli

A day hike in Ushguli, one of the highest continuously inhabited settlements in Europe, offers a truly memorable experience amidst the rugged backdrop of Georgia’s Caucasus Mountains. Starting from this UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its ancient stone towers and traditional Svan architecture, hikers can explore a variety of trails that meander through verdant meadows and along rushing rivers. One popular route leads to the Shkhara Glacier, providing stunning views of Mount Shkhara, Georgia’s highest peak.

DAY 4 - CHALAADI GLACIER

Chalaadi Glacier

Starting out, the path takes you through a beautiful forested area, following the Mestiachala River, whose rushing waters accompany you as you walk. The trail is well-marked and gradually ascends through the forest before opening out to more rugged terrain as you approach the glacier. As the trees thin, the full grandeur of the surrounding mountainscape becomes apparent, with the impressive peaks of the Caucasus surrounding you. The final approach to Chalaadi Glacier involves navigating a more rocky and barren landscape, with the glacier itself a striking feature against the stark mountainous backdrop. Standing before the glacier, hikers can appreciate the sheer scale of this natural ice formation, which dramatically underscores the raw beauty of the Georgian wilderness.

DAY 5 - FREE TIME

Free time

A chance to explore the village, rest your legs or go on another hike. Mestia, nestled in Georgia’s majestic Svaneti region, offers a captivating blend of cultural and natural attractions. Visitors can explore ancient Svan Towers, delve into the region’s rich history at the Svaneti Museum of History and Ethnography, and embark on stunning hikes to sites like Chalaadi Glacier and Koruldi Lakes. A cable car ride to Mount Hatsvali provides breathtaking views, while the Margiani Family Tower and House Museum offers insights into traditional Svan life. The local cuisine, with delights such as Khachapuri and Kubdari, adds to the authentic experience.

DAY 6 - CHKHUTI RIDGE

Chkhuti Ridge

The Chkhuti Ridge hike in Georgia’s rugged Svaneti region is a thrilling adventure for those seeking breathtaking mountain scenery and a challenging trek. Starting near the village of Mestia, this hike ascends steeply through dense forests before opening up to the dramatic vistas of Chkhuti Ridge. Along the way, hikers are rewarded with panoramic views of the towering Caucasus Mountains, including the prominent peaks of Ushba and Tetnuldi. The trail, marked by its diverse terrain and the serene beauty of alpine meadows dotted with wildflowers, offers a full-day excursion that encapsulates the wild and pristine nature of Svaneti, making it an ideal choice for experienced hikers looking to explore off the beaten path.

DAY 7 - TSVIRMI

Tsvirmi

The hike from Mestia to Tsvirmi is a rewarding journey that traverses the scenic Zuruldi Range in Georgia’s Svaneti region. The adventure begins with a cable car ride from Mestia to the top of the Zuruldi Ridge, offering hikers a convenient ascent and panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, including Ushba, Tetnuldi, and Layla.

From the ridge, the path leads to the Mentashi transmitter, a notable viewpoint that provides breathtaking vistas of the Caucasus Mountains. The subsequent descent into the picturesque village of Tsvirmi is both serene and scenic, with the trail winding through lush meadows and offering glimpses of traditional Svanetian architecture.

DAY 8 - BACK TO THE CITES

Back to the Cities

It’s time to pack your bags and head back to the town. We can arrange transport back to any of the major cities so you can catch your flight home or continue to explore this majestical country. Most of the taxis leave in the morning and the most common destinations are Tbilisi, Batumi and Zugdidi. We have lots of recommendations if you’re going to spend more time in Georgia

FAQs

What Level of Fitness is Required?

While there is nothing technical on the hikes there will be a good amount of hours of walking each day so a good general level of fitness is required.

What Age are your Guests?

The usual age of the groups is 27-49.

Do you have Single Rooms?

Single rooms are available, there is a an extra cost of £20 per night for single supplement.

Can I Arrive a Day Early?

We can sometimes accommodate you if arriving earlier or leaving later. There is a cost of £60 for each extra night. Our teachers will not be able to collect you or entertain you as it’s their day off. It’s easy to reach the house by public transport though.

Do you have WiFi?

Yes, WiFi is available throughout the house.

What Should I Bring with me?

We provide towels and bedding. You need some shoes comfortable for walking in. Before the course I will advise about the weather so you can decide which clothes to bring.

Do I need my Passport?

The United Kingdom is no longer part of the European Union after Brexit so everybody will need a passport to travel to Scotland.

How does Payment Work?

You can choose to make a 30% deposit and pay in full at least 30 days before the tour or alternatively pay the full amount in one go.

How many Guides will be with us?

There will always be one guide to accompany you on the hike so you don’t get lost. There will also be a driver transporting you to and from the hikes.

Accommodation

We always think a local touch is best. You’ll be staying in a family run guesthouse in the village. We will let you know the exact details 6 weeks before your arrival but it will most likely be Saba Guesthouse (pictured above) or similar.

Featuring inner courtyard views, Monte Bianco features accommodation with a garden, around 2.5 km from Mikhail Khergiani House Museum. The property features garden and city views, and is less than 1 km from Museum of History and Ethnography. The bed and breakfast also provides free WiFi as well as a paid airport shuttle service. The units provide views of the mountain and come with a washing machine, a fully equipped kitchen with an oven, and a private bathroom with a hair dryer and free toiletries. A stovetop and kettle are also featured. At the bed and breakfast, the units are equipped with bed linen and towels.

Our Guides

Giorgi

With over a decade of experience guiding adventurous souls through rugged terrains, Giorgi is an expert in wilderness survival and environmental conservation. A certified mountain guide with a degree in outdoor education from the University of Tbilisi, Girogi brings a deep passion for nature and a wealth of knowledge about the local flora and fauna. His enthusiasm for eco-friendly travel and his knack for storytelling ensure an educational and engaging experience. Whether you’re a novice hiker or a seasoned trekker, Girogi's expert guidance and infectious love for the great outdoors will inspire and challenge you on the trail.

Ana

A native of the Caucuses, Ana has been exploring and guiding in the mountains since his teens. With a background in geology and a professional certification in first aid, Ana combines her knowledge of the natural world with a strong commitment to safety. Her friendly demeanour and patient approach make him especially popular among families and beginner hikers. Ana specialises in crafting personalised hikes that cater to the interests and abilities of her groups, ensuring that everyone leaves with fond memories and a deeper appreciation of the natural world.I enjoy the outdoors, hiking, the beach, horse riding and baking! I thoroughly enjoy getting to know new people and experiencing different cultures and traditions. I look forward to meeting you!

Nino

Nino turned her lifelong passion for hiking and adventure into a career after completing her studies in tourism management. Fluent in English, Georgian and Russia, she has spent the past five years guiding tours across the diverse landscapes of the Caucuses. Nino is known for her vibrant personality and her dedication to creating inclusive and supportive environments for all hikers, regardless of their experience level. Her tours are not only about reaching the summit but also about understanding the culture and history of the places she guides, making each hike a comprehensive cultural experience.

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