Travel Insights: Discovering Georgia with iBestTravel

iBestTravel editor, Alex Butler, recently traveled to Georgia. Here, she shares some tips and insights for anyone planning a similar trip.

My interest in Georgia was first piqued by sampling khachapuri – a perfect combination of cheese and bread – in a restaurant in my home of Dublin. With flavors like that, only good things could await travelers in this beautiful country, so I placed it on my must-visit list. While I was lured in by the promise of delicious food, I found that Georgia is an exciting and largely underrated tourist destination that deserves your consideration for your next adventure.

Where to Stay and the Vibe

My main stop was in the wine region of Kakheti, where I stayed at Tsinandali Estate, a splendid piece of the country’s viticultural history. It is essential to recognize the role of winemaking in Georgian history and culture; grape cultivation dates back around 8,000 years, making it the birthplace of winemaking. The hotel is built on the former estate of Prince Alexander Chavchavadze (1786–1846), a Georgian noble deeply linked to the country’s wine production.

In Georgia, wine is traditionally made in a qvevri, a clay vessel situated underground. This method is recognized as intangible cultural heritage by UNESCO. At Tsinandali, the well-traveled Prince introduced the European style of making and bottling wine, marking it as the first place where wine was bottled in the country. Today, it operates as a winery with vintages produced in both traditional Georgian and European styles.

With expansive grounds and breathtaking views of the Caucasus, this is a hotel designed for relaxation and exploration. Nearby, you can find the Prince’s home-turned-museum, Chavchavadze Estate, where you can learn about this colorful character. The hotel also celebrates Georgian cuisine, featuring multiple dining options, including Georgian restaurants that offer an array of local dishes.

Touristy Must-Do Activities

One iconic photo of Georgia is likely to showcase a stunning monastery set against lush mountain backdrops. In pursuit of that epic vista, I visited the impressive 11th-century Alaverdi Cathedral, which stands boldly amidst vineyards with the Caucasus Mountains as its backdrop.

This working monastery is steeped in history and features a winery as well. While the exterior is imposing, the interior captivates with its beautifully sparse design. Faded frescoes adorn some walls, and the soft light that filters through high, small windows gently illuminates the stone and dark wood of the interior. As I wandered through, the sounds of Georgian polyphonic singing created an ancient atmosphere, making it a truly incredible experience.

Culinary Delights

The most delectable dish I enjoyed was a rich lobiani (meat stuffed in bread), shkmeruli (chicken cooked in garlic and cream), accompanied by a fresh tomato salad—all savored with a glass of exquisite, peachy kisi wine at a local restaurant in Tbilisi. The kisi grape, indigenous to Kakheti, is used to create a skin contact wine, which has recently gained popularity in trendy wine bars across Europe. However, in Georgia, it has long been an integral part of the country’s wine culture.

Hidden Gems to Explore

I was utterly captivated by a visit to the Mirror Halls of Tbilisi State Academy of Arts. Behind this unassuming art school lies the former home of 19th-century Armenian merchant Vardan Arshakuni. This shimmering, mirrored interior was brought to life by Iranian artists, who were invited to decorate in the Qajar style, resulting in truly awe-inspiring details.

It’s no wonder that art students today seek inspiration among the kaleidoscopic details of this space. Moreover, visitors can explore the myriad cultural influences present throughout Georgia’s history. Now, the area exhibits student artworks, but primarily, visitors can wander and take in the stunning surroundings.

Memorable Experiences

While searching for a place to eat, I stumbled into a wine bar in Tbilisi, whimsically named Wine Not?, which promised a delightful charcuterie. Upon arrival, I discovered that there would be live Georgian music that evening, leading me to stay and experience the performance.

The lively crowd awaited the musical entertainment, which turned out to be a delightful display of Georgian urban folk music with a nostalgic twist. It was clear that these were beloved songs, as the audience sang along joyfully. Although I couldn’t comprehend the words, the atmosphere felt like a joyous sing-along among friends. During interludes, a few men amazed the audience with their exceptional polyphonic singing, solidifying my desire to delve deeper into Georgian music.

Alex Butler visited Georgia at the invitation of Silk Hospitality. iBestTravel does not accept freebies in exchange for positive coverage.