IBEROGEORGIA - Travel Catalog

3023 Southern Fortresses

2 Days  |  Georgia

About this trip

Discover the "Southern Fortresses" on a historical 2-day getaway. This journey focuses on the Samtskhe-Javakheti region, a border area famous for its impressive defensive structures.

History in Stone

We will visit the Rabati fortress in Akhaltsikhe, a unique example of restoration that blends Ottoman and Georgian influences. We will also explore the immense cave city of Vardzia and the fortress of Khertvisi, one of the oldest in the country. Ideal for a weekend extension from Tbilisi, immersing yourself in medieval history and the arid landscapes of southern Georgia.

Mapa Ruta

Itinerary Summary

DAY 1: Tbilisi - Gori - Uplistsikhe - Akhaltsikhe
248 km
DAY 2: Akhaltsikhe - Vardzia - Khertvisi - Tbilisi
287 km
🗺️ Road Map

Detailed Itinerary

DAY 1: Tbilisi - Gori - Uplistsikhe - Akhaltsikhe

We will leave behind Tbilisi to travel west and venture into the Kartli region. Our first stop will be in the city of Gori, where we will visit the Stalin Museum. In this historical complex we will delve into the life of the controversial Soviet leader, observing his original birthplace and his imposing personal armored train car. A few kilometers away, we will go back in time visiting Uplistsikhe, a fascinating rock-hewn city carved into sandstone. We will walk through its ancient streets, exploring theaters, pharmacies and pagan temples dating from the Iron Age, all with privileged views of the Mtkvari river. After this archaeological immersion, we will continue our journey south, crossing changing landscapes until we reach Akhaltsikhe. This city, a crossroads of cultures, will welcome us with the imposing silhouette of the restored Rabati Fortress, where we will end the day and stay overnight.
Accommodation: Hotel Gino Wellness Rabath ⭐⭐⭐⭐
248 km  |  04:12 coche

DAY 2: Akhaltsikhe - Vardzia - Khertvisi - Tbilisi

Today, we will begin the day exploring the majestic Vardzia, an extraordinary 12th-century rock-hewn monastery-city that will transport us to the past. We will venture into its labyrinthine tunnels to discover unique medieval frescoes and visit its ancient cellars, witnesses to the millennia-old winemaking tradition of the area. We will continue our route towards the imposing Fortaleza Khertvisi, one of the oldest fortifications in Georgia, strategically located in the Samtskhe-Javakheti valley; there we will admire its robust walls and enjoy unparalleled panoramic views. Finally, we will head towards Tbilisi to conclude the day. Although an extensive road journey awaits us, this will become a memorable experience in itself, offering us a continuous visual spectacle. We will cross dreamlike landscapes dominated by the imposing mountains of the Lesser Caucasus, where wild nature and peaks will accompany us throughout the entire journey until we reach the vibrant capital, thus closing a day full of history and natural beauty.
Accommodation: Fin del viaje
287 km  |  05:30 coche

Rates per Person without meals (Indicative prices)

Group of... Price per Person Single Suppl.
1 People 740€ +50€
2 People 460€ +50€
3 People 380€ +50€
4 People 320€ +50€
5 People 290€ +50€
6 People 290€ +50€
7 People 270€ +50€
8 People 260€ +50€
✅ PRICE INCLUDES
  • Accommodation: 1 nights in selected hotels.
  • Meal plan: Bed & Breakfast.
  • Transport: Private vehicle with A/C and fuel.
  • Guide: Professional Spanish-speaking guide.
  • Logistics: Staff expenses (guide/driver).
  • Water: 1 bottle per person/day.
  • Taxes: Local taxes.
  • Tickets: Monuments according to itinerary.
❌ NOT INCLUDED
  • International flights.
  • Travel insurance.
  • Lunches and Dinners (unless indicated).
  • Alcoholic beverages and tips.
  • Personal expenses.
Nota: Indicative prices subject to availability.