About this experience
A trip to rural Imereti is another way to discover the ethnic color and fantastic landscapes of Georgia. Hidden among the sheer cliffs of Tsqaltubo, the region is known for its hospitality and tranquil nature. During the journey, you will take in the surroundings from different perspectives: from the bottom of the canyon to the mountain peaks. In a peasant's house, you will taste upper Imeretian wines from the cellar, cheeses, and fruits. And near a secret waterfall, just as impressive as the Martvili ones, we will have a mini-picnic with grilled cheese or meat by the fire.
What to Expect
Travel from Kutaisi to Upper Imereti
You will depart from the ancient Colchis capital towards Gelati. On the way, you will be greeted by panoramic views of Svaneti from the Gelati Pass - on a clear day, you can see the peaks of the Caucasus Mountains: the mountains of Shkhara, Ailama, Samertskhle, Khvamli (where, according to legend, the giant from the Georgian epic Amirani was chained). Passing through picturesque villages, you will reach the resort area, Upper Imereti. In the Okriba region, I will tell you about the specific dialect, customs, and mentality of the local residents, somewhat resembling the Rachians. We will also talk about the ethnic diversity of Georgia as a whole - you will be amazed at how different the cultures and traditions of the nationalities living side by side can be on a small territory. There will be a short stop at the icy spring where you can drink the purest water before continuing.
Higher and Higher!
From the unnamed pass, breathtaking views of the Racha Range will open up to you. Passing by the former Soviet resorts of Orpiri and Gelati, you will ascend even higher on a serpentine mountain road, reaching a level where Racha, Lechkhumi, and Imereti with their clinging houses and cornfields will appear before you in all their glory. I will also take you to a waterfall in a picturesque canyon, very similar to Martvili's but not as popular (and that's its charm!). Here, you will have time to swim, sit and dream, look around. And if you want, we can grill cheese and meat over the fire.
Visiting Rural Residents
In a nearby village, you will be welcomed by local residents in a real peasant's house. They will treat you to Imeretian wines Isabella, Tsolikouri, and Tsitska from the home cellar and offer to taste Khvanchkara and local cheeses and fragrant fruits. Tkibuli hollow, where this place is located, is a very secluded and picturesque corner with its microclimate. Here, you can take very atmospheric photos against the backdrop of rural landscapes: huts on the mountainsides and pastures with corn and grapes. And most importantly, you will see how the life of simple Georgian peasants is arranged from the inside and experience the famous national hospitality!
Organizational Details
- One-third of the journey involves traveling on a rough road in a off-road vehicle. Transfer is included in the cost.
- Not included: food and personal expenses.
Julia
July 4, 2024
Sergey is amazing, intelligent person with a wide range of knowledge and good Russian language skills. He took into account all our wishes and made an excellent birthday for our celebrant. He is not a tour guide and will not speak loudly memorized phrases to you. He is rather your guide into the cul...
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Olga
May 31, 2024
For us, this trip turned out to be a surprise, because its content depends on the weather. But despite all the forecasts, we were lucky!) At first, we were trekking through a centuries-old forest until we reached the peak of the mountain. The magnificent view of the valley took our breath away, eagl...
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Alexandra
May 5, 2023
Spent a great day with Sergey in the depths of Georgia away from the crowds of tourists. It's not like a typical tour, more of a stroll through beautiful places with a good friend mixing stories about local life with personal family histories. The views are breathtaking :) Sergey perfectly senses th...
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