Racha – Georgian Switzerland
Racha is one of the most beautiful and distinctive mountainous regions in northern-western Georgia. It is situated on the southern slopes of the Great Caucasus Mountain Range. Racha has two administrative centers – Ambrolauri and Oni. The captivating nature of this region, the snowy slopes of the Caucasus, the coniferous forests, the abundant rivers and the hospitality of the Rachvelians, make unforgettable impressions on every visitor.
HIGHLIGHTS:
- Shaori reservoir
- Nikortsminda cathedral
- Khotevi church
- Chelishi monastery
- Barakoni church
- Resort Utsera
- Resort Shovi
TOUR DETAILS:
- Category: cultural activities
- Available: late spring-early fall
- Age: optional
- Duration: 3 days
- Route length by transport: 550 km
- Group size: optional
ITINERARY:
Day 1: Tbilisi – Nikortsminda – Ambrolauri
In the early morning you will depart for wonderful Racha (known as Georgian Switzerland). On the way breathtaking views of the region will unfold. You will see attractive Shaori reservoir and later, will head to Nikortsminda Cathedral. It is a Georgian Orthodox Church built in 1010-1014 during the reign of Bagrat III of Georgia. Frescoes inside the Cathedral date back to 17th century. Next you will see Khotevi Church – the church of the Archangel, built during the 13th century. Afterwards, you will go to Ambrolauri and visit Ambrolauri Museum of Fine Arts, established in 1965. You will rest and overnight in a guesthouse.
Details:
By transport: 270 km
Overnight – guesthouse
Day 2: Ambrolauri – Oni – Shovi
After breakfast you will drive to Oni. You will visit Chelishi Monastery of the Mother of God located in the west of Nikortsminda, gorge of the River Shareula. Later, you will see Barakoni Church which is one of the most important monuments of ancient Georgian domed architecture in Racha and dates back to 1753. You will also visit museum of Oni and synagogue, which was built in 1895. You will dine and overnight in a guesthouse/cottage in Shovi.
Details:
By transport: 55 km
Overnight – guesthouse/cottage
Day 3: Shovi – Utsera – Tbilisi
On this day you will visit two beautiful mountain climatic, health and spa resorts on the south slopes of the main Caucasus ridge – Shovi and Utsera, distinguished by their unique mineral waters and beautiful landscapes. In the evening you will return to Tbilsi.
Details:
By transport: 225 km
TOUR PARTICIPANTS SHOULD BRING:
- Trekking shoes
- Rainproof coat
- Sunscreen
- Sun hat/cap
- Sunglasses
- Personal hygiene items
TOUR PRICE INCLUDES:
- Transportation via comfortable vehicle
- Certified guide service
- 2 Overnights in the guesthouse/cottage
- Meals included for the duration of the tour
TOUR PRICE:
| Number of people | Group of 10 | Group of 9 | Group of 8 | Group of 7 | Group of 6 | Group of 5 | Group of 4 | Group of 3 | Group of 2 | 1 Person |
| Price per person | 147€ | 155€ | 164€ | 176€ | 192€ | 209€ | 241€ | 295€ | 364€ | 648€ |
