Journey to Racha: mountains, churches, and Khvanchkara wine

What to expect

In one day, you will visit the most significant corners of Racha - a green land where people live surrounded by the Caucasian Mountains, forests, lakes, and ancient temples. The program includes:

Resort town of Surami, once inhabited by Georgians, Armenians, and Jews. You will explore the ancient fortress and forested slopes of the Lichkis Mountains, hear how Surami has guarded the approaches to the Rikoti Pass for centuries. Visit two churches, one of which is called the 'Wish Fulfillment Church'.

Mount Tskhra Jvari, located on the Nakeral Pass. Here you will see the 'Nine Crosses Church' and admire the distant Black Sea.

Lake Shaori - the largest reservoir in Racha-Lechkhumi and Lower Svaneti. You will learn the history of the reservoir and admire the expressive landscapes where the calm Shaori meets the forest-covered slopes of the Nakerala Range.

Nikortsminda Cathedral - a functioning Orthodox church from the 13th century. You will learn about the traditions of Georgian temple architecture through the example of a church that has undergone almost no changes in its 800 years of existence: even the cathedral's dome and unique frescoes have been preserved in their original form.

Khvanchkara Winery. We will also visit the birthplace of the famous red wine Khvanchkara. At the winery, you will learn about the winemaking culture and taste one of the most precious Georgian wines, which even Joseph Stalin was a fan of.