REGION

Kakheti is a true wine region of Georgia, famous for stunning landscapes that include snow-covered peaks and curving passes, and gorgeous cities. It’s one of the country’s most diverse areas. Kakheti offers several marvelous places to stay as well as many great places of interest. So, here are some of the best things you should see and do in Kakheti.

Kakheti is home to many different monasteries and churches. Some of the most distinguished ones are David Gareji, Nekresi Monastery, Alaverdi Cathedral, and Gremi Monastery.

• David Gareji is a complex of cave monasteries carved in the rock.

• Dating back to the 4th century AD, Nekresi is the oldest Christian church in the country. In the past, it was the most important spiritual, cultural, political, and educational center of the nation.

• The cross-domed Alaverdi Cathedral was built in the 11th century by Kakhetian King Kvirike. The height of the cathedral is more than 50 meters (164 feet), making it the second tallest religious building in the country after the Holy Trinity Cathedral in Tbilisi.

• Standing above the green valley of Alazan, Gremi Monastery (16th century) attracts travelers whose road goes between Telavi and Kvareli. Gloomy and monumental, the castle is the one of the most visited tourist points in Georgia.

Being one of the smallest towns in Georgia, Sighnaghi is also one of the most charming ones, complete with breathtaking landscapes, cobblestone streets, and pastel-colored houses.

Bodbe Monastery (4th century), is the final resting place of St. Nino, who converted the Georgian people to Christianity.

Prince Alexander Chavchavadze (1786–1846), one of the most influential figures in Georgian history. Thus, his palace and gardens in the village of Tsinandali is a must-visit place, with unique relics and memorabilia of the famous family of the 19th century. The park, laid out in an English style, features ancient trees and unusual plants such as Sequoia, ginkgo, and yucca. While you are there, don’t forget to visit Alexander’s winery as well.

The Ikalto Academy (12th century) was one of the most vital cultural-scholastic centers in the country. The academy taught theology, astronomy, philosophy, geometry, geography, and chanting, to name a few. However, besides those required classes, students learned practical skills of viticulture, wine-making, pottery-making, and metalwork.

Telavi, one of the oldest cities in the country, is the central city of the region that boasts various attractions for visitors. One of the most iconic landmarks to visit is Batonistsikhe, the residence of the Kakhetian kings during the 17th and 18th centuries. It includes a Persian-style palace where King Erekle II was born and died.