Hidden gems of Artkhmelo valle

Hidden gems of Artkhmelo valle

Best time to visit: May-September 

 

Kazbegi region is one of the most attractive mountainous regions of Georgia. The region is famous for picturesque villages, waterfalls and mineral waters, old settlements and snow-covered peaks of the Caucasus mountains. Here the beauty of wild nature and of culture will make your tip interesting and attractive.

 

The itinerary

Day 1: Tbilisi – Ananuri Fortress – Horseback riding to Arsha waterfall – Arsha

Day 2: Arsha – Horsback riding in Artkhmelo valley – Arsha

Day 3: Arsha – Pasanauri – Tbilisi

 

The program


Day 1: Tbilisi – Ananuri Fortress – Arsha

  • Meet your guide in Tbilisi 
  • Visit Ananuri Fortress 
  • Stop for panoramic view point in Gudauri
  • Lunch in Gudauri
  • Check-in at guest house in Arsha

In the morning meet your guide and drive towards Kazbegi region. The first trop will be at Ananuri fortress (14-17 Century) – the main key point of Aragvi Saeristavo. the complex was built strategically in the valleys of two rivers (Aragvi and Verzatkhevi) protecting the whole area from enemies creating the natural gate for defenders. In history of Georgia Ananuri played an important role in numerous of wars. the complex includes several buildings: upper and lower castles, watch- towers, Churches, bell tower and water reservoirs. Nowadays it is overlooking on Zhinvali Dam – built in 1980s with capacity of 130 MW. During the construction the village Zhinvali was flooded. In winter when water level goes down you can see the 12th century church. After visiting Ananuri continue trip to Gudauri – the largest and most modern ski resort in Georgia. The ski slopes are for all levels with limitless opportunities for freestyle and skiing in an open environment. For lunch you will stop at small Taverna “Gunda” https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556409597097 .  After lunch you continue drive to village Arsha. Check in at small guesthouse Elegia https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61550566084789 Have a short rest and get ready for horseback riding to explore Arsha valley – located in the Caucasus Mountains, offering stunning landscapes, traditional villages, ancient churches, and breathtaking natural scenery. The main attraction is Arsha waterfall itself surrounded by lush greenery and rocky formations, with amazing picturesque views. Dinner and overnight at guesthouse. 

 

Day 2: Arsha – Horsback riding in Artkhmelo valley – Arsha

  • Breakfast in the hotel
  • Visit Sno monastery complex 
  • Horseback riding tour in Artkhmelo valley 
  • Outdoor picnic lunch 
  • Dinner and overnight in Arsha

In the morning after breakfast drive to a small quiet village Sno. Here you will see the Sno Fortress – small and solid fortress standing on a cliff, surrounded by mountains and impressive views of Kazbegi Mountain. The fortification was built in 16th century and served as a watchtower and defenders were controlling the river Sno valley. Sno is also the hometown of Catholicos-Patriarch Ilia II of Georgia and you can also visit newly built Church. Later continue drive to small village Akhaltsikhe and get ready for horseback riding to Artkhmelo valley. Duration of trail is about 3 hours. The valley is surrounded by majestic mountains, following up the river Artkhmostkali with opening breathtaking views and a serene environment. Riding dipper in valley you will reach the ruins of Artkhmelo village. After riding drive back to Arsha guesthouse and get ready for dinner. The host will prepare Khinkali and you also can participate and learn how this Georgian dish is done. Overnight at guesthouse.

 

Day 3: Arsha – Pasanauri – Tbilisi

  • Breakfast and check out from the guesthouse
  • Lunch stop in Pasanauri
  • Arrival in Tbilisi, end of the tour

In the morning after breakfast check out from the guest house and drive back to Tbilisi. For lunch you will stop in Pasanauri at small guesthouse and have lunch there. Girogi Aptsiauri the owner of this small beautiful guesthouse is the beneficiary of USAID Resilient Communities Program.  After lunch continue your drive, arrival in Tbilisi and end of the tour. 

Price: 520 GEL per person

We need at least 2 participants for the tour & look forward to hosting you on this wonderful getaway

Included: transportation and 2 nights’ accommodation at local guest house

Not included: meals, guide service and personal expenses. 

Meal: from 30 GEL per person

Local guide service: 70 GEL per day

hiddengeorgiatravel.com

Book to attend the Tour

520.00