
Tusheti Protected Areas in Georgia is a real paradise for adventure seekers for whom majestic mountain ranges, fast-flowing streams, fresh air and wild spirit are the best ways to enjoy life! Ancient culture and medieval architecture of this part of the Caucasus in combination with breathtaking scenery makes this an ideal place to explore on two wheels.
Day 1-2: Flight to Tblisi where you will be brought to your hotel. Time to rest.
Day 3: Tblisi
We start our first tourday by morning sightseeing in Tbilisi. The observation of main highlights begins with city exploration: enjoy the view from the ancient and strategically located Narikala Fortress dating back to the 4th century located on the top of natural Abanotubani sulphur baths and Botanical garden. Then continue exploration of magical Old Tbilisi starting with grand Metekhi Church built in the 12th century, one of the city's architectural masterpieces. Kala medieval center and various historical museums will reveal you the turbulent past of Georgia, full of dramatic and dynamic history. Afternoon transfer to Turtle Lake at Mtatsminda Mountain. Get familiar with Tbilisi in adventurous way, feel the capital city's wild nature on a 15 km single track downhill ride! Late afternoon we head towards Telavi, the capital of Georgia's wine country, Kakheti. Getting ready for further exploration of Tusheti area located on the northern slopes of the Greater Caucasus Mountains. Overnight at hotel in Telavi.
Overnight: Hotel in Telavi, Meal plan: Breakfast
Day 4: Abano Pass and Rustic Omalo
Today we are leaving the civilization behind for 4 days! Drive to Abano Pass, the highest drivable mountain pass in Caucasus at 2,850 m. The scenery on our way changes from rolling hills and plains to lush forests and later alpine meadows. The biking distance for the day is 45 km. From Abano Pass connecting two regions of Kakheti and Tusheti, we take a long and enjoyable downhill ride to the valley. We reach the village Khiso, cool off and enjoy the scenery around and the twists and turns of Alazani river. Then ride uphill to village Omalo, where we can rest and immerse in the breathtaking views of Tusheti highland area, one of the most ecologically clean regions in the Caucasus. We spend a night at a local Tush guesthouse.
Overnight: Guesthouse in Omalo, Meal plan: Breakfast
Day 5: Tush Lifestyle and Nature
The day starts with a visit to the 17th century Kesolo fortress located on the mountain top with superb views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Jeep transfer or bike to village Ilurta to experience the Tush lifestyle. Optional activity: riding a horse to a traditional farm to observe traditional Tush activities - sheep and cattle breeding and production of famous Gouda cheese (followed by cheese tasting). Back on your bikes and take a ride through winding roads, following the course of Alazani River. Feel the cool breeze and see the idyllic picture of sheep crossing the river. At the end of this adventurous day (48 km biking), we are back to Omalo guesthouse for overnight
Overnight: Guesthouse in Omalo, Meal plan: Breakfast
Day 6: Wild Vistas and Charming Villages
The day is dedicated to biking from Omalo to Shenako and Diklo, overall biking distance is 35 km. Get ready and start the downhill ride in the valley of Pirikiti Alazani. Severe nature of this area inevitably attracts you and leaves unforgettable impressions of its wild spirit far away from civilization. Afterwards we continue to cycle uphill to Shenako, a beautiful village with traditional Tush watchtowers. Majestic Diklo Mountain overlooks the village containing a number of Georgian folk architectural buildings and an ancient church of Holy Trinity. Biking on to Diklo, experiencing the charm of pine forests and ancient but amazingly well-preserved watchtowers. As the evening approaches, it gets cooler and it's time to return home. Transfer to Omalo, a well deserved farewell dinner featuring local delicacies.
Overnight: Guesthouse in Omalo, Meal plan: Breakfast, dinner
Day 7: Medieval Chesho, Parsma and Girevi
Today we shall have a 45 km biking distance starting with cycling to Pirikiti Alazani valley and stop at Dartlo, perhaps the most charming village in Tusheti, rich in medieval tower houses and other elements of traditional lifestyle. On to Cheshno - another fine example of traditional Tush village worth exploring and a chance to enjoy the majestic view of Mount Komito (4200m). Free time to explore the village and take photos. Continue to Parsma and Girevi, unique villages leaving unforgettable impressions due to amazing medieval towers attached to almost every house. Back to Chesho, in case you are tired remember the vehicle backup is there, otherwise ride straight to your local house.
Overnight: Guesthouse in Chesho, Meal plan: Breakfast
Day 8: Farewell to Tusheti, on to Kakheti
Time to say farewell to medieval towers, wild nature and warm people of Tusheti. Today a 40 km biking distance includes Chesho - Abano Pass – Pshaveli - Telavi. After breakfast we leave our house in Chesno and start our bike trip to Abano Pass. By vehicle and cycle we continue to Pshaveli, administrative center of Tusheti. Here, you will be stunned by unparalleled views as your bike tours on dramatic mountain passes. Continue to Telavi, the capital of wine region Kakheti, rest and overnight at hotel.
Overnight: Hotel in Telavi, Meal plan: Breakfast
Day 9: Wine, Сulture and Love in Kakheti
We begin our last day with wine tasting and sightseeing in the lash valleys of Kakheti. Visit famous Enoteca wine respository at the estate of Prince Alexander Chavchavadze. Continue to Alaverdi Cathedral, dated to the 6th c, one of the highest religious buildings in Georgia (about 55 m). Feel the mystical atmosphere of this place of worship. Next stop is Signagni, a highly popular charming city, called "Town of Love". Consisting of narrow streets, the town is often compared with Verona. You can find here the museum of world-famous primitivist painter Pirosmani, originally from Kakheti. Back to Tbilisi in the evening, overnight at hotel.
Overnight: Hotel in Tbilisi, Meal plan: Breakfast
Day 10: Transfer to airport and flight
Data en prijzen op aanvraag
Inbegrepen accomodatie in hotels en campings (alle campeer benodigdheden zijn geregeld), maaltijden zoals in het programma, Engelse gids en chauffeur, lokale berg gidsen, alle activiteiten in het programma, transfers in 4WD, travel permits in beschermde gebieden, informatie pakket.
Niet inbegrepen Visum (kunnen wij verzorgen of op het vliegveld van Jerevan te regelen); eventuele verzekeringen; optionele excursies.
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