Itinerary

1. To Tbilisi

   This evening we take an overnight flight from London Heathrow to Tbilisi.

2. Arrival in Tbilisi

   We arrive in Tbilisi in the early hours of the morning, where we will be met by our guide and driver and transferred to Strofi Hotel for a two-night stay. Our rooms will be ready upon arrival for a three-night stay. Breakfast will be available, and you are welcome to spend the day resting or exploring the city at your leisure before dinner.

3. In Tbilisi

   After breakfast, we meet with a Georgian Orthodox priest who will share a short lecture on Georgian Christian traditions, offering insight into the deep spiritual heritage of this ancient land. We then set out on a guided walking tour of Tbilisi’s Old Town. Highlights include a visit to the historic Metekhi Church, followed by a cable car ride to Narikala Fortress, which offers stunning panoramic views over the city. From there, we descend on foot to the brick-domed Sulphur Baths, passing one of Tbilisi’s synagogues along the way. Our tour continues with visits to the beautiful Sioni Cathedral and the Anchiskhati Church, the oldest surviving church in Tbilisi. After lunch we’ll enjoy a visit to the Dry Bridge Flea and Art Market and the golden domed new Sameba Cathedral.

4. Drive to Gudauri via Gori

   This morning, we travel to the remarkable Uplistsikhe Cave Town, a rock-hewn city dating back to the first millennium BC. Once a thriving hub on the Great Silk Road, this ancient cave city features winding tunnels, pagan temples, early Christian churches and dramatic views over the Mtkvari River. We then continue to Society Biliki in nearby Gori - a community organisation founded in 1997 that supports internally displaced children and families from conflict affected regions. We'll make a quick visit to the Stalin museum before continuing to Gudauri, for a two-night stay at Marco Polo Hotel.

5. In Gudauri - visit Kazbegi

   This morning, we set off on one of Georgia’s most breathtaking drives, following the Tergi River through the dramatic landscapes of the Truso Gorge, passing ancient stone villages tucked into the mountains. Our journey brings us to the alpine town of Kazbegi, nestled at the foot of Mount Kazbek. Here, we switch to 4WD minibuses for an unforgettable climb through woodland trails to reach the iconic Gergeti Trinity Church. This 14th century church is one of Georgia’s most photographed and spiritually significant landmarks. After lunch, we take a scenic drive through the spectacular Dariali Gorge. Along the way, we stop to visit a newly built monastic complex, a peaceful place of prayer and renewal nestled among the mountains. We then head to Gudauri for the evening.

6. Drive to Telavi

   Today we travel to Kakheti, Georgia’s famous wine region, known for its scenic valleys and ancient winemaking traditions. We stop at the Ananuri fortress complex, overlooking the stunning Jinvali Reservoir, before continuing to the Twins’ Winery. Here, we visit the wine museum and enjoy a tasting of traditional Georgian wines made in clay vessels. Later, we visit the beautiful Alaverdi Cathedral, set in the Alazani Valley with the Caucasus Mountains as a backdrop - a peaceful and historic site. We end the day with a two-night stay near Telavi at the elegant Chateau Schuchmann Hotel.

7. In Telavi

   This morning we visit Kvelatsminda Church in the village of Gurjaani, unique in Georgia for its two cupolas. We continue to Bodbe Nunnery, a major pilgrimage site and the burial place of St Nino, who brought Christianity to Georgia. Next, we explore the fortified hilltop town of Sighnaghi, with its cobbled streets and sweeping views over the Alazani Valley and the distant Caucasus Mountains. We end the day with a wine tasting at a local winery, before returning to the hotel.

8. Drive to Tbilisi

   We start the day with a stroll through Telavi, visiting its vibrant agricultural market. Next, we meet a local Qvevri master, who’ll share insights into Georgia’s ancient method of wine storage in large clay vessels buried underground. We then visit two important UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Jvari Monastery, overlooking the Aragvi and Mtkvari rivers, and Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, believed to hold relics of Christ’s robe and one of Georgia’s holiest places. Our final stop is Samtavro Monastery, home to a small chapel built by St. Nino, before we return to Tbilisi for a two-night stay at Clocks Hotel.

9. In Tbilisi - free day to explore

   A free day to explore on your own. Perhaps visit the National Museum or just enjoy some time at the local cafes. We'll then get together for a farewell dinner.

10. Return home

    This morning we transfer to Tbilisi Airport for our early morning flight back to London Heathrow.

11. Meet the People

    Former McCabe director, the late Rosemary Nutt, travelled in Georgia and Armenia for many years and developed a great love and affinity for the region and its people. Through her connections we have developed pilgrim itineraries to both countries.

     

Essential Information

Practical information

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