Svaneti
Svaneti (Svaneti) (Georgian: სვანეთი) – The historical region and a modern administrative-territorial division in Western Georgia. One of the highest mountainous regions of Georgia, distinguished by its amazing nature, unique architecture and ancient history. Svan towers, the peaks of the Caucasus and a variety of attractions leave an unforgettable impression on anyone. Having visited Svaneti, it is impossible not to feel the spirit of freedom that lives here everywhere. There are no time frames that separate the past and the present, and this is perhaps the only place in the world where the past and the present go hand in hand and peacefully coexist with the people who inhabit this truly lost world. A world that attracts with its unusualness and magnificence, grandeur and antiquity. If you are looking for an unforgettable adventure in a land full of legends, then you should visit Svaneti and see Georgia’s highest peaks, pristine forests and towering villages that blend harmoniously with the mountain ranges.
One of the most recognizable features of Svaneti are its ancient towers, true architectural works of art made of stone and wood, known as “Svan fortresses”. These unique architectural structures, built hundreds of years ago, were not only symbols of the status and power of the Svan families, but also served as homes and defenses in case of attack. Rising to the sky, surrounded by mountains, these 20-25 meter giants with walls one and a half meters thick for centuries reliably protected the local population, withstanding avalanches of any strength and any number of enemies. On the floors of the towers, connected by an internal wooden staircase, lived Svan families, and the platform crowning the top of the tower was used as a fighting ground. The towers rise above the valleys and present an incomparable spectacle. Their mysterious aura attracts researchers and travelers from all over the world. The main tourist destination of Svaneti is its cultural heritage and alpine nature.
Mestia
Mestia Village (Georgian: მესტია) – The administrative, cultural and religious center of Svaneti. In summer, Mestia is transformed into a real paradise for travelers and nature lovers. Fans of picturesque landscapes and history will find many interesting sights here. One of the most distinctive settlements in Georgia, simultaneously demonstrating to visitors the history of the country and its unique nature. The ancient village annually attracts thousands of people with its classic Svan towers, the majestic peak of Ushbi and stunning alpine nature. Hospitable residents of this amazing place are happy to tell about its history and traditions, making the trip even more exciting. They have preserved ancient traditions, including Svan polyphonic songs and dances, which can be seen at various festivals and events.
Top attractions of Svaneti:
Shkhara Mountain Peak
Shkhara Mountain Peak (Georgian: შხარას მთა) – The majestic peak in the Caucasus and the highest point in Georgia, rising to 5,068 meters above sea level. “Shkhara” in Svan means “nine”, which is how many peaks there are on Shkhara. Most of the peak is covered with glaciers, under which granite and crystalline schists settle. The Inguri River originates here. This mountain, famous for its beauty, fascinates climbers and tourists. Shkhara not only symbolizes the natural splendor of Georgia, but is also a source of inspiration for many. Its glaciers and slopes beckon daredevils ready to conquer its majestic heights.
Ushba Mountain Peak
Ushba Mountain Peak (Georgian: უშბას მთა) – Double-headed peak. Its southern peak reaches a height of 4,700 meters above sea level, and the northern one – 4,690 meters. Two beautiful glaciers descend from the slopes formed by Paleozoic granite and shale – the Ushba glacier and the Guli glacier. Due to its exceptional beauty and inaccessibility, Ushba is of particular interest to mountaineering enthusiasts. From a technical point of view, climbing its northern peak is relatively easier than the southern one. Currently, there are 19 routes in this part of Ushba, of which 7 are the most difficult – category 6A. On Northern Ushba there are 4 routes of the same category, where a total of 13 routes have been completed.
Tetnuldi Ski Resort
Tetnuldi Ski Resort (Georgian: კურორტი თეთნულდი) – Tetnuldi ski slope is the longest in Transcaucasia, its length is 9.5 km. And the largest difference in altitude is 1.7 km. The slopes here are presented for different tastes and skill levels and are designed for intermediate and professional athletes. The ski resort located on the slopes of Mount Tetnuldi offers unlimited opportunities for off-piste skiing. Fans of freeride, backcountry and ski touring will find here a wide variety of skiing opportunities from untouched virgin fields to passable forest areas and couloirs. The cable car to the top of Mount Tetnuldi is equipped with open and closed lifts and in addition to the ascent is a way to enjoy panoramic views.
Khatsvali Ski Resort
Hatsvali Ski Resort (Georgian: კურორტი ჰაწვალი) – The ski resort on the Zuruldi ridge has two working formats: summer and winter. In winter, people go skiing here, and in summer, they just go up to the top to breathe fresh air and look at the mountains. Hatsvali’s ski slopes are adapted for skiers of different skill levels, and a modern cable car system ensures fast and safe movement. Hatsvali boasts impressive panoramic views and a unique Svan cultural heritage. One of the main advantages of the resort is its proximity to Mestia, which allows tourists to get acquainted with the ancient culture, traditions and architecture of Svaneti.
Ushguli Community
Ushguli Community (Georgian: უშგულის თემი) – Ushguli is considered the second highest settlement in Europe. a land of numerous proud towers and ancient temples. Situated at an altitude of 2,200 meters above sea level, at the source of the Inguri River and at the foot of Mount Shkhara (5,068 meters). This is the place where the Svaneti and Main Caucasian ranges meet, creating breathtaking natural landscapes. The isolation of the settlement, due to the high altitude and difficult terrain, has helped preserve the traditional Svan way of life, architecture and customs. This is a magnificent example of the resilient spirit of the Svan people and the amazing beauty of the Georgian mountains.
Adishi Village
Adishi village (Georgian: ადიში) – The small village, but its role in the cultural heritage of Georgia is immeasurably great. Compared to other villages in Svaneti, Adishi is “untouched”. Stone houses built in the Middle Ages are decorated with Svan towers, and the glacier of the same name looks down on the village like a guard. In Adishi is the Church of St. George, revered by all Svans. For centuries, it was in Adishi that the oldest manuscript in the Georgian language, dating back to the 9th century, was kept. A person who finds himself in the village of Adishi, located in the heart of the Caucasus Mountains, will have a truly unique experience, since this is one of the oldest places in Svaneti.
Latali Community
Latali Community (Georgian: ლატალის თემი) – The community, which unites 10 villages, is distinguished by the abundance of temples and sanctuaries – there are more than 60 churches built and painted in the Middle Ages. Many churches are located high in the mountains, far from the village. The Svans believed that churches should be built as high as possible, from there closer to God. Historically, Latali has always played the role of the cultural and spiritual center of Svaneti. The community is located at the confluence of two rivers, the Inguri and the small Mulkhura River. On the southern side is the Glacier and the Laila Pass. From some points there is a good view of the Ushba .
Okrotskali Lakes
Okrotskali Lakes (Georgian: ოქროწყალის ტბები) -The Lakes (Big and Small Okrotskali) are located on the eastern slope of the Kodori Range. This route is becoming more and more popular and attractive for travelers every year. Beautiful valleys, panoramas, turquoise and dark blue lakes create the impression of a journey into a fairy-tale world. The route from the Big Lake to the Small Lake is very difficult and dangerous. You will have to overcome a steep slope and two passes. However, the view of the small Golden Lake is worth it. From here, in good cloudless weather, Abkhazia and the sea coast are visible.
Koruldi Lakes
Koruldi Lakes (Georgian: ქორულდის ტბები) – The Koruldi Lakes are located at an altitude of 2850 meters above sea level and are surrounded by the glaciers of the Caucasus. Their majestic waters reflect the beauty of the valleys and mountain peaks such as Shkhara, Tetnuldi, Ushba and Laila. The surrounding landscape is considered one of the most impressive in Georgia and provides unique opportunities for photography and inspiration. The endless expanses, the sparkling blue lake and the peaks reflected in the mirror of the lake leave an unforgettable impression on the visitor. Visiting this beautiful place does not require much effort and anyone can get there by SUV.
Ice Lake
Ice Lake (Georgian: ყინულის ტბა) – The beautiful nature of Svaneti is a wonder to be seen with your own eyes. It is difficult to find a place here that will not fill a person with impressions, but one beautiful place really stands out. This place is called Ice Lake and is located at an altitude of 3200 meters above sea level. The lake, located between ice-covered mountains, also often freezes. The highest peaks of the Caucasus – Elbrus and Ushba – rise above the lake. This beautiful sight can be visited at any time of the year, although the best time to come is in the summer to enjoy the changing colors.
Shdugra Waterfall
Shdugra Waterfall (Georgian: შდუგრას ჩანჩქერი) – The stunning waterfall sparkling with all the colors of the rainbow is located in the rocky mountains of Svaneti and is one of the most impressive natural phenomena of the region. The flow of water is so strong that anyone who approaches it instantly becomes wet. Crystal clear water flows from the waterfall from a height of more than 100 meters, creating a stunning water spectacle. The sound of falling water is accompanied by rainbow splashes and you can feel the cool refreshment of the air. This place is ideal for those who want to escape the bustle of the city and enjoy nature.
Residence of Queen Tamara
Queen Tamar’s Residence (Georgian: თამარის რეზიდენცია სვანეთში) – The popular historical monument of Svaneti in the village of Chazhashi. Queen Tamar often visited Svaneti, so a residence named after her was built here, the ruins of which have survived to this day. Part of the residence was also a traditional tower with a wall and other auxiliary buildings. Chazhashi, a village in the Ushguli community, means “stable” in the Svan language. Queen Tamar, who arrived in Ushguli, stopped her horses in this village. This is where the name of the village comes from.
Tower of Love
Tower of Love (Georgian სიყვარულის კოშკი) – The separate tower of the Kurdiani family, built on a large boulder, on the bank of the Inguri River, on the road from Mestia to Ushguli. It has three floors, which are connected by steep stairs. In Svaneti, rich in amazing legends, one of the most touching legends is associated with this tower. Because of the love stories associated with it, it is commonly called the “Tower of Love.” Under the boulder located under the tower, a clear spring gushes out from the ground, visible to all when the river recedes. They say these are tears shed from the tower.
Svaneti Historical and Ethnographic Museum
Svaneti Historical and Ethnographic Museum (Georgian: სვანეთის ეთნოგრაფიული მუზეუმი) – The Museum houses 4090 exhibits – from the four-part poem “adishi” to samples of ancient Svan fabrics and ceramics. It houses materials obtained as a result of archaeological excavations in the territory of Svaneti, unique examples of Georgian engraving art and iconography; Ancient manuscripts; Examples of early and late medieval military equipment, iron, silver, copper items, jewelry, ceramics and textiles. Ethnographic items telling about the life of ancient Svaneti and much more.
*The full list of attractions in the region is presented in the section –Attractions
