Svaneti Winter Adventure
Explore the remote and beautiful Svaneti region
Hosting excellent lift served pistes, the real magic of Svaneti is in its off-piste and freeride. Being relatively high and close to the sea, Svaneti gets excellent and sometimes relentless snow fall.
On the piste
The resorts of Hatsvali and Tetnuldi (a single ski area) host some beautiful runs for more experienced skiers seeking speed with incredible views, delicious food and the unique ancient culture of this remote region.
Side country
Right next to the pistes of Hatsvali are huge pine and birch forests where you can practice and refine your technical skills, with a quick escape to the piste if you want to take it easy.
The real magic is by the side of Tetnuldi. Most of the resort lies above the tree line, with vast wide open powder bowls, almost all lift-served or within a short hike's distance.
For the most adventurous, huge couloirs lie within easy reach of the resort.
Ski touring
Being a large mountain region, there are many ski tours of varying difficulty. Whether you want to focus on big turns on the descent, or want to focus on the epic views, Svaneti has plenty in store for you.
Transport to other parts of Svaneti and guiding services not included in quoted price
Svan Culture
Isolated from the rest of the country, Svans were the last in Georgia that the Soviets tried to tame. Their language has links to ancient Sumerian, they have their own cuisine, and polyphonic singing with some songs many thousands of years old. Each town features multiple medieval towers used (among other things) in disputes between families. In Svaneti you will find much of the magic of Georgian culture distilled to its essence.
The Leo Pilpani theatre in Mestia hosts twice-weekly events, including singing and puppet shows.
Aprés-ski
With plenty of excellent restaurants and bars in Mestia, you can toast the day's skiing and sate your doubtless huge appetite. Whether you want traditional or more modern Georgian food, Mestia has you covered.
From €1000 per person
Accommodation
Typically staying together in a family-run guesthouse, or small independent hotel. Warm and comfortable private rooms usually with shared bathrooms. Private bathrooms is an option.
Sample Itinerary
Day 1: arrive Tbilisi/Kutaisi and travel by minibus to Mestia. Collect lift passes (if needed). Relaxed dinner at guesthouse.
Day 2: after skiing, traditional Georgian feast (supra) featuring a table groaning under the weight of the food. Toasts led by a Georgian toastmaster (tamada) with translation.
Days 2 - 8: Options are skiing at Hatsvali and Tetnuldi resorts. Transport included. Optional visit to smaller local village.