Unforgettable Road Trips from Tbilisi

Posted by Kaira Turner on February 17th, 2023

 Tbilisi, the capital city of Georgia, is not only a hub for cultural experiences and gastronomic adventures but also a gateway to unforgettable road trips that will take you to some of the most picturesque and historically significant sites in the country. Whether you're looking for natural wonders, ancient monasteries, or quaint villages, there's a road trip for you from Tbilisi.

Here are some of the best options:

1. The Georgian Military Highway The Georgian Military Highway is one of the most popular and iconic road trips in Georgia. This historic route connects Tbilisi to the Russian border, passing through the breathtaking Caucasus Mountains. The 200-kilometer drive takes you through scenic landscapes, including the Ananuri fortress, the ski resort of Gudauri, and the ancient town of Kazbegi, where you can hike to the Gergeti Trinity Church for panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

2. The Wine Route If you're a wine lover, you'll love this road trip. The Wine Route takes you through the lush valleys and rolling hills of Kakheti, Georgia's famous wine region. The drive from Tbilisi to Telavi, the region's main city, takes about two hours and is dotted with wineries, vineyards, and tasting rooms where you can sample some of Georgia's best wines. Some of the highlights of the Wine Route include the 18th-century Tsinandali Estate and the Alaverdi Monastery, where you can taste wine made using ancient traditional methods.

3. The Black Sea Coast If you're looking for a coastal escape, head to the Black Sea Coast. The drive from Tbilisi to Batumi, the main city on the coast, takes about five hours, but the scenic route is worth the trip. You'll pass through charming villages, rugged mountain passes, and picturesque beaches. In Batumi, you can take a stroll along the beach promenade, explore the historic Old Town, and enjoy some of the freshest seafood in the country.

4. The Davit Gareja Monastery For a more off-the-beaten-path adventure, head east from Tbilisi to the Davit Gareja Monastery, a complex of ancient rock-hewn monasteries carved into the desert cliffs. The 80-kilometer drive takes you through rugged terrain and offers stunning views of the semi-arid landscape. At the monastery, you can explore the chapels and cells carved into the cliffs and marvel at the intricate frescoes that have survived for centuries.

5. The Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park For nature lovers, the Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park is a must-visit. The park covers over 85,000 hectares of forests, rivers, and mountains and is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. The 160-kilometer drive from Tbilisi takes you through scenic valleys and quaint villages before arriving at the park entrance. Once inside, you can hike through the park's trails, visit the mineral water springs in the town of Borjomi, and enjoy a picnic amidst the stunning natural scenery.

In conclusion

There's no shortage of unforgettable road trips to take from Tbilisi. Whether you're interested in history, nature, culture, or gastronomy, there's a route for you. Just make sure you have a full tank of gas, some snacks, and a camera to capture the memories of your adventure in Georgia.