Hidden Gems of Georgia: 7 Villages You’ve Probably Never Heard Of

Giorgi Lomidze • April 7, 2025

When people think of traveling in Georgia, they often picture the cobbled streets of Tbilisi, the scenic mountains of Kazbegi, or the beaches of Batumi. But beyond these well-known spots lies a whole world of hidden villages in Georgia—quiet, authentic, and breathtakingly beautiful.

If you're looking for off-the-beaten-path Georgia experiences, here are 7 lesser-known villages that will show you the country’s soul.

1. Shatili – Fortress Village in the Clouds

Region: Khevsureti
Why Visit: Shatili looks like it came out of a medieval fantasy novel. Stone towers cling to cliffs, guarding the remote valley like ancient sentinels. The village is nearly untouched by modern life.
How to Get There: From Tbilisi, it’s a 6–7 hour drive. A 4WD is recommended due to the winding and sometimes rough roads.
Where to Stay: Small guesthouses or homestays in the village. Expect basic amenities—but warm hospitality.

2. Omalo – Gateway to Tusheti

Region: Tusheti
Why Visit: Surrounded by dramatic peaks, Omalo is your base for exploring Tusheti National Park. The traditional stone houses and untouched landscapes make it ideal for rural tourism in Georgia.
How to Get There: Only accessible by 4WD from late June to mid-October via the Abano Pass—one of the most dangerous and scenic roads in the world.
Where to Stay: Several cozy family-run guesthouses are available. No cell service—pure digital detox!

3. Udabno – Desert Vibes and Monastic Silence

Region: Kakheti
Why Visit: This surreal semi-desert village sits near the David Gareja monastery complex. The contrast between barren hills and ancient frescoes makes it unforgettable.
How to Get There: Around 2 hours from Tbilisi by car.
Where to Stay: Check out Oasis Club, a bohemian-style guesthouse run by travelers-turned-locals.

4. Chazhashi – UNESCO Village in the Heart of Svaneti

Region: Upper Svaneti
Why Visit: Chazhashi is part of Ushguli, one of Europe’s highest inhabited settlements and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Think medieval towers and jaw-dropping mountain views.
How to Get There: From Mestia, it’s about a 2.5-hour drive on a bumpy road.
Where to Stay: Local guesthouses offer a true taste of Svan hospitality (and food!).

5. Bochorna – Europe’s Highest Village

Region: Tusheti
Why Visit: At over 2,300 meters above sea level, Bochorna is often listed as the highest permanently inhabited village in Europe.
How to Get There: Similar route as Omalo—4WD only during summer months.
Where to Stay: Limited options. Most travelers do day trips or camp nearby.

6. Sno – A Quiet Neighbor of Kazbegi

Region: Mtskheta-Mtianeti
Why Visit: Just 5 km from Stepantsminda, Sno is known for its stone heads—massive sculptures of famous Georgian figures—and tranquil setting.
How to Get There: Easily accessible by taxi or marshrutka from Kazbegi.
Where to Stay: Combine with accommodation in Kazbegi or opt for a homestay in Sno.

7. Tabatskuri – The Lakeside Retreat

Region: Samtskhe-Javakheti
Why Visit: This village sits on the edge of Lake Tabatskuri and offers a peaceful escape with stunning lake and mountain views. It's also home to a unique mix of Armenian and Georgian cultures.
How to Get There: Around 3 hours from Tbilisi, with some rough roads near the end.
Where to Stay: A few guesthouses available, or bring your own tent for a lakeside camping experience.

Why Visit These Villages?

Exploring hidden villages in Georgia is more than just a scenic detour—it’s a way to connect with the country's ancient traditions, untouched nature, and warm, welcoming people. These destinations may not have flashy resorts or high-speed internet, but they offer something far more valuable: authenticity.

Whether you're chasing medieval history, mountain air, or moments of solitude, these off-the-beaten-path Georgia spots invite you to slow down and soak up the beauty of the journey.

Planning a trip?

Our team at Select Georgia Tours can help you organize a personalized experience to these and other rural destinations across Georgia. Let's go beyond the guidebook—together.

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Discover Kakheti wine tasting with our guide. Learn how to get from Tbilisi to Kakheti, top wine tou

Kakheti Wine Tasting: The Ultimate Guide to Georgia’s Wine Country

By Giorgi Lomidze • June 30, 2025

Kakheti, Georgia’s eastern gem, is more than just a scenic region—it's the heart and soul of the country’s ancient winemaking tradition. If you’re curious about wine tasting in Georgia, Kakheti is the place to start. Whether you’re planning a Kakheti wine tour, a day trip from Tbilisi, or looking for the perfect Kakheti Georgia tour, this guide will show you what to expect, where to go, and why Kakheti wine tasting is a must-do experience. Why Kakheti is Georgia’s Wine Capital Wine has been made in Georgia for over 8,000 years, and Kakheti is the region where this tradition is most alive. Rolling hills, endless vineyards, and a unique winemaking method using qvevri (clay jars buried underground) set Kakheti apart. Local families and world-famous wineries invite you to taste wines that are both ancient and innovative. The scenery, hospitality, and flavors here make every Kakheti wine tour unforgettable. How to Get from Tbilisi to Kakheti Traveling from Tbilisi to Kakheti is easy and rewarding. The main city, Telavi, is about a 1.5–2-hour drive from the capital. You can: Join an organized Kakheti wine tour : Many companies offer day trips or overnight tours, which include transport, tastings, and a local guide. Rent a car: Gives you freedom to explore small wineries and scenic villages at your own pace. Use public transport: Marshrutkas (minibuses) run regularly from Tbilisi to Telavi and Sighnaghi, but for a real wine tasting Georgia Kakheti experience, guided tours are more convenient. Top Experiences on a Kakheti Wine Tour 1. Wine Tastings at Family Wineries and Estates Kakheti’s family-run wineries are legendary for their warmth and authenticity. Taste qvevri wines straight from the source, often accompanied by homemade bread and cheese. Larger estates like Shumi, Tsinandali, and Khareba offer professional tastings and tours of their cellars. 2. Explore Sighnaghi – The City of Love This charming hilltop town is a favorite stop on any Kakheti Georgia tour. Sighnaghi’s cobbled streets, panoramic views, and boutique wineries make it a perfect spot for both culture and wine lovers. 3. See the Traditional Qvevri Winemaking Process Unique to Georgia, qvevri winemaking is recognized by UNESCO. During a Kakheti wine tour, you can watch (and sometimes help) with the process—crushing grapes, filling the clay vessels, and tasting wine that’s been aged underground. 4. Visit Alaverdi Monastery and Its Historic Cellar One of the oldest monasteries in Georgia, Alaverdi is also home to an ancient wine cellar still in use today. Many tours include this spiritual and historical highlight. 5. Enjoy Local Cuisine Wine tasting in Kakheti is never just about wine. Expect a full table of khinkali, khachapuri, mtsvadi (grilled meat), and salads. The food here is a perfect match for the robust, earthy wines of the region. What to Expect from a Kakheti Wine Tasting Experience Tastings are generous: Usually, you’ll sample 3–5 wines at each stop—sometimes more! Not just dry reds and whites: Try amber (orange) wines, sweet varieties, and even local chacha (Georgian grape brandy). Meet the winemakers: Many tours include a chance to talk with the family or owners, learning stories that go back generations. Prices: A typical organized wine tour from Tbilisi to Kakheti costs 120–200 GEL per person, including transport, tastings, and sometimes lunch. Private tours and luxury experiences are available too. Tips for the Best Kakheti Wine Tour Book ahead in peak season (spring and autumn) when the vineyards are most beautiful. Don’t drink and drive: Let a local guide handle the roads so you can enjoy every glass. Bring cash: Some small wineries only accept cash payments. Ask about vegan or vegetarian options if you have dietary needs—Kakheti cuisine is surprisingly diverse. Is Kakheti Wine Tasting Worth It? Absolutely. Wine tasting Georgia Kakheti style is an immersive cultural journey, not just a tour. Whether you’re a wine expert or just love a good glass, you’ll find something to remember—and probably want to take a bottle (or three) home. Plan Your Kakheti Georgia Tour Ready to taste history? Whether it’s a day trip from Tbilisi to Kakheti, a private wine tour, or exploring at your own pace, you’ll discover why Georgia is the birthplace of wine and why Kakheti is its crown jewel. So raise your glass—Gaumarjos!—and enjoy the best wine tasting Georgia Kakheti has to offer.