The country of Georgia is a mystical land seemingly out of a fairytale. While not everyone will describe it quite that poetically, there are many attractions, alpine valleys, and monasteries that will make it seem like that (not to mention Georgian food, hospitality, and wine). There's a reason why Georgia topped Lemming's list of emerging destinations!
Georgia is a very diverse, interesting, and ancient country. It is also very proudly Christian (except for the autonomous region of Adjara that is predominately Muslim). As one visits this alpine country one will be amazed at the sheer number of churches and monasteries everywhere. And most of these are very much active (one will often be greeted with their Georgian Orthodox chants).
Gergeti Trinity Church
One of the most remarkable and most iconic is the Gergeti Trinity Church (or Holy Trinity Church). This church is situated in the mountains like none other. Its extremely isolated location, its situation on a steep mountain, and being surrounded by the vastness of nature have made it something of a symbol of Georgia.
Gergeti Trinity Church is on the right bank of the river Chkheri has is at an elevation of 2,170 meters or 7,120 feet. It is set to the backdrop of Mount Kazkeki (a name that is actually nigh impossible for English speakers to pronounce correctly).
- Backdrop: The 5,034 Meter or 16,516 Foot Mount Kazkeki
- Elevation: 2,170 Meters or 7,120 Feet
- Affiliation: Georgian Orthodox and Apostolic Church
- Status: Active
The Gergeti Trinity Church was built in the 14th century. In times of danger, it is said that holy Georgian relics would be taken there for safekeeping. It is so isolated few could ever reach it.
One can drive all the way up to it (with the road being built in 2018). But to really enjoy the journey here, part down on the main road, hike up through the village, and up the mountain to the church. The experience will not be forgotten. It is a steep 1.5-hour trek up the mountain.
Tip: Hike Up (Don't Drive-Up) To the Church
If one is looking for a tour, there are plenty of tours offered in the center of the main city of Tbilisi. But for a more quality tour, contact (and preferably) stay with Envoy Hostel and Tours in Tbilisi.
- Envoy Hostel: Offers Some of The Best Tours In The Country
Envoy's tours are often a little more expensive than those in the streets, but they are much better planned and are very much worth the extra $10.00. Envoy specializes in tours to many of the main attractions in eastern Georgia as well as authentic village tours. They put an emphasis on quality and not just the price point.
If one is backpacking, then their hostel vibe is also one of the best in the city. One can see their listing on Hostelworld.
Gelati Monastery
Gelati Monastery is a UNESCO-listed medieval monastic complex near the centrally located city of Kutaisi. It was one of the first monasteries in Georgia and was first built in 1106 by King David IV of Georgia. This King is popularly known as David the Builder in Georgia and one is likely to see statues of him everywhere.
- Built: In 1106
- Built By: David the Builder
- Listed: As A UNESCO World Heritage Site
It was built as a monastic and educational center and is considered an exemplar of the Georgian Golden Age (a golden age brought to an end by the Mongolian invasions). Some of the murals that one can see in this church date back around 800 or 900 years.
UNESCO States it is:
"...a masterpiece of the Golden Age of medieval Georgia, a period of political strength and economic growth between the 11th and 13th centuries."
Ushguli Monastery
If one thought that the Gergeti Trinity Church at Kazbeki was remote, Ushguli can be thought of as the highest (and perhaps) remotest village in Europe. The small monastery here does not have the same notoriety as the others do, but it is perhaps even more awe-inspiring. Ushguli is alone a reason to plan a trip to the country of Georgia.
It is located in the remotest part of the Svaneti region of Georgia (a ludicrously remote and historically inaccessible region). It is part of the Upper Svaneti UNESCO World Heritage Site. While there are guesthouses in this remote and peaceful location, one's base is likely to be in the comparatively larger and more developed town of Mestia.
Here the best guesthouse is Nino Ratiani's Guesthouse. Nino Ratiani was the first to open a guesthouse in the valley over 25 years ago. She has incredible experience with tourists in the region (and offers the very best of Georgian cooking and hospitality).
She can arrange any tour to Ushguli and its ridiculously remote monastery (or anything else in the region).
- Elevation: 2,100 Meters or 6,900 Feet
- Backdrop: Shkhara (One Of The Highest Summits of The Great Caucasus Mountains)
- Population: Around 200 People (70 Families) Live In The Village