Essential Georgia
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"MIR is the best travel company we have ever toured with - the attention to detail, the experiences planned, the quality of the staff and the wonderful surprises MIR has planned"
Connie Kincheloe
Culpeper, VA
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The tiny country of Georgia, hugging the shore of the Black Sea in the shadow of the Caucasus Mountains, was a formidable power in the ancient world. Today, after regaining its status as an independent nation, Georgia is celebrating its unique national identity.
Days 1-3: Tbilisi, Mtskheta, Ananuri, Gudari
Rooted at the crossroads of East and West, the Georgian people have maintained their own traditions and beliefs. Walking the Old Town in Tbilisi, admire the 13th century Metekhi Church of the Virgin and the Old Caravanserai, built to house the city's merchants. Visit the 6th century Anchiskhati Basilica, the city's oldest sacred structure, and sample Georgian wines. Outside of Tbilisi, visit UNESCO-listed Mtskheta, capital of the early kingdom of Iberia, and the 17th century Ananuri fortress complex before stopping at the highest village on the Georgian Military Highway, Gudari.
Days 4-5: Kazbegi, Kutaisi
Take a day trip to the small alpine village of Kazbegi to tour the 14th century church of Tsminda Sameba (Holy Trinity) and its bell tower, their silhouettes dark against the mighty Mt. Kazbek, one of the highest peaks in the Caucasus range. Travel on to Kutaisi, the capital of the ancient Kingdom of Colchis, where King Aeetes reigned and guardedthe Golden Fleece. Here, visit Kutaisi's treasures: Gelati Monastery and Bagrati Cathedral, both World Heritage Sites.
Days 6-8: Bakuriani, Vardzia, Gori, Tbilisi
Head up to Bakuriani, one of the country's favorite ski resorts. Traveling overland, explore the cave town of Vardzia, admire fortresses and cathedrals and visit Stalin's hometown, Gori.
Days 9-11: David Gareja, Signagi, Tbilisi
Venture east to appreciate the exquisite monastery of David Gareja before traveling on to the hill-town of Signagi to wander the narrow streets and admire the richly carved balconies and the green valleys below. Spend a final afternoon exploring Tbilisi.
Trip Details
| Length of Trip: |
11 Days |
| Departures in 2009: |
Your choice of dates - start on a Thursday |
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| Land Tour Cost |
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| 2 traveler minimum |
From $4,295 |
| Single Supplement |
From $995 |
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MIR Signature Features
- Walk the charming Old Town of Tbilisi
- Visit the UNESCO sites of Mtskheta and Kutaisi's Gelati Monastery and Bagrati Cathedral
- Make your way to the shores of the Black Sea to discover the polyphonic sounds
of Adjarian mountain music
- Explore the 12th century cave town of Vardzia
Map
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Days 1-3:
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Tbilisi with day trips |
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| Day 4: |
drive to Telavi |
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| Day 5: |
drive to Tbilisi |
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| Day 6: |
drive to Bakuriani via Gori |
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| Day 7: |
Bakuriani, day trip to Vardzia |
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| Day 8: |
drive to Batumi |
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| Day 9: |
Batumi |
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| Day 10: |
drive to Kutaisi |
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| Day 11: |
drive to Tbilisi |
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| Days 12-13: |
Tbilisi |
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| Tbilisi |
Narikala Fortress, Mother Georgia Monument, Anchiskhati Basilica, Sioni Cathedral with the Cross of St. Nino, Metekhi Church of the Virgin, Rustaveli Avenue and Old Town |
| Mtskheta |
"Historical Monuments of Mtskheta" (UNESCO World Heritage Site), Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, Jvari Church |
| Ananuri |
Ananuri fortress complex, Zhinvali Reservoir, Arkalas Canyon, Aragvi River Valley |
| Gudaruri |
Highest village on Georgian Military Highway |
| Kazbegi |
Tsminda Sameba (Holy Trinity) Church and Bell Tower |
| Bakuriani |
Alpine village, Borjomi Gorge, Timotesubani Church |
| Khertvisi Fortress |
Cliff fortress, Javakheta Mtkvari & Artaani Mtkvari |
| Vardzia |
Cave complex |
| Gori |
Birthplace of Joseph Stalin, Stalin House Museum |
| David Gareja |
Twelve Cave Monasteries |
| Signagi |
Bodbe Convent Complex |
About Essential Trips
Essential trip prices are subject to hotel availability for your selected travel dates. Hotel upgrades and additional nights are available upon request. Contact us for a descriptive itinerary and booking details.
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