Where Eastern Europe meets Western Asia. Georgia is in the heart of the Caucasus Mountain range. With 3 peaks tipping the 5000m scale this is a range to respect. The trip is based in the remote Svaneti region, in the old historic village of Mestia. In 2016 the Georgian government invested in 2 new ski resorts nearby to help promote tourism for the local economy. Hatsvali which is lower, tree lined and good for bad weather days and the freeride oriented Tetnuldi. Incredible terrain accessed straight from the lifts and due to the high altitude you know the snow quality is going to be exceptional. The ever friendly stray dogs generally outnumber the free riders. Due to its remote location, and challenging mountain roads, most skiers and snowboarders opt for the easier to access Gudauri in the east than heading to Mestia in the west. This trip is for those keen for an adventure, an immersive cultural experience, incredible cuisine and the quietist resort I’ve every experienced. There are also options for touring and overnight homestays in the Unesco world heritage site and village of Ushguli.
Accommodation
We have chosen to stay in the Old House hotel in Metsia. Modern rooms blended into traditional architecture. To say we are well received and looked after is an understatement. The family give us the warmest welcome and are extremely accomodating. The food is plentiful and excellent local wines and beer. Some nights we head into the town to eat and listen to local live music. As with all courses the rooms are based on twin sharing.
Logistics
It is possible to fly 3 airports in Georgia. The main is in the capital of Tbilisi but you also have options of Kutasia or Batumi. The transfer to Mestia is long, around 8hrs from Tbilisi and 5hrs from the others. Often people like to arrive 2 days earlier into the Georgian capital, Tblisi and spend a day and a night there before taking the train across to the west and then a shorter transfer up to Mestia. This will allow for the full Georgian cultural experience. It is up to you how you travel but we will arrange and advise on transfer. During our stay we have private 7 seater 4×4 vehicles and the same drivers will transport us all week to wherever we choose to ride.
Courses
Included
- 7 nights accommodation (based on twin sharing)
- 6 days guided snowboarding
- Return transfers to/from Tbilisi
- Avalanche safety equipment (if required)
Not included
- Flights
- Lift pass