Description
Samtskhe-Javakheti – Cave Monasteries, Fortresses, and Untouched Landscapes
The Samtskhe-Javakheti Cultural Tour is a 2-day journey through one of Georgia’s most historically rich and visually striking regions, located in the southern part of the country.
Once a key center of medieval Georgian politics, trade, and spiritual life, Samtskhe-Javakheti preserves an exceptional concentration of cultural and architectural heritage. The region offers a unique combination of dramatic landscapes, ancient fortifications, and centuries-old monasteries.
During the tour, you will explore the remarkable Vardzia Cave Monastery (12th century), a vast rock-hewn city carved into the cliffs. You will also visit the peaceful and lesser-known Sapara Monastery (10th century), hidden in a forested valley, as well as the historic Khertvisi Fortress, one of the oldest fortresses in Georgia.
The journey continues to the scenic Paravani Lake, the largest lake in the country, surrounded by vast volcanic landscapes and offering a unique, almost untouched atmosphere.
This tour is ideal for travelers seeking authentic experiences, rich history, and diverse natural and cultural attractions in a less touristy part of Georgia.
In the morning, you will head to the resort town of Borjomi, famous for its natural mineral water springs. Here you will enjoy a walk in Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park and taste the world-famous Borjomi mineral water directly from the source.
Later, you will continue to Akhaltsikhe, where you will explore the impressive renovated Rabati Castle, a unique complex combining different cultural and architectural layers.
The journey then takes you to the peaceful Sapara Monastery, beautifully located on a forested mountain terrace, offering a calm and atmospheric setting.
In the afternoon, you will visit the spectacular Vardzia Cave Monastery Complex (12th–13th centuries), one of the most remarkable historical and architectural sites in Georgia, carved directly into the rock.
DETAILS:
Driving – 380 km (6 h)
Overnight – 3* hotel
After breakfast, you will visit the centuries-old Khertvisi Fortress (2nd century BC), one of the oldest fortifications in Georgia, dramatically located in a river valley surrounded by mountains.
Afterward, you will continue to the stunning lakes of the Javakheti region – Paravani and Sagamo.
Paravani Lake is located on the Javakheti Plateau, between the Abul-Samsari and Javakheti Ranges, at an altitude of 2,073 m above sea level. Nearby, Sagamo Lake lies at an elevation of 1,996 m and is known for its peaceful atmosphere and scenic surroundings.
You will also visit the Poka Nunnery of St. Nino (11th century), an important spiritual and cultural site in the region.
In the evening, you will return to Tbilisi.
DETAILS:
Driving – 440 km (8h)
Other Activities
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