Our next stop, just 15 minutes away, is Ananuri Castle, one of Georgia’s most popular places. It’s a 16th-century fortress with two churches and a citadel where the dukes of Aragvi lived. The complex also has a watchtower from the 14th century, older than the main fortress, used to watch for enemies. The fortress is on the shores of the Jinvali Reservoir, famous for its bright turquoise water, and surrounded by the Caucasus Mountains, making it a very picturesque place to explore.

The next stop is the Friendship Monument, also known as the Russian-Georgian Friendship Monument, located at an altitude of approximately 2,300 metres near the Jvari Pass. Perched on a cliff about 600 metres above the Demon Valley, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The monument is a striking semicircular structure made of concrete and stone, featuring a vibrant mosaic on its inner wall. The mosaic depicts the friendship between Russia and Georgia, including images of Soviet soldiers, Yuri Gagarin, Georgian and Soviet symbols, as well as representations of nature and industry. Built in a distinctive Soviet-era style, it is a unique and photogenic landmark in the region.

Our final stop is Stepantsminda (Kazbegi), located near Georgia’s northern border. The town’s main attraction is Kazbegi Peak, also known as Mkinvartsveri, which has long drawn the attention of mountain enthusiasts. From its summit at 5,054 metres, the panoramic views are truly unforgettable. In Kazbegi, we will visit the 14th-century Gergeti Trinity Church, situated at the foot of Kazbegi Glacier. Its isolated location atop a steep mountain, surrounded by the vast Caucasus landscape, has made it one of Georgia’s most iconic landmarks and a symbol of the country’s rich heritage. Note ‼️ From November to May, an off-road vehicle may be required for the trip to Gergeti. An additional fee of $25 per car is optional and to be paid in cash on site. Price is per car not per person. If guests prefer not to visit the church, they can explore Kazbegi on foot, take photos, and then we will drive back to Tbilisi.