This route takes you through Georgia's rugged, less-trodden south to the lush heart of the Imereti region. It's a journey of contrasts: from volcanic plateaus and sun-drenched cave towns to misty mountain passes and dense coniferous forests.

Akhalkalaki
Your tour begins in Akhalkalaki, a town on a windswept plateau at an altitude of approximately 1,700 meters. While the town itself has a functional, almost Soviet-style character, the surrounding area is fascinating. The name literally means "New Town," but its history dates back to the 11th century. Near the town, you'll find the ruins of the ancient Akhalkalaki fortress, strategically situated above the confluence of two rivers. This area is known for its large Armenian community, creating a unique cultural and culinary atmosphere compared to the rest of Georgia.

Vardzia
Driving west, you descend into the spectacular gorge of the Mtkvari River. Here lies Vardzia, the absolute highlight of southern Georgia. This 12th-century cave monastery was carved into the rock face of Mount Erusheti during the reign of King Giorgi III and his legendary daughter, Queen Tamar. Vardzia was once a fully functioning city with 13 stories, over 600 rooms, pharmacies, libraries, and a complex irrigation system. Although a powerful earthquake in 1283 caused a large section of the outer wall to collapse, the remaining caves are breathtaking. Don't forget to visit the Church of the Dormition, where you can admire rare frescoes of Queen Tamar.

On the way to Aspindza
Nearby, you can visit the Vanis Kvabebi Caves; less touristy than Vardzia, but just as impressive with their steep stairs and the small church clinging to the rock face. A few kilometers further, on the other side of the river, you'll find the ruins of Tmogvi Fortress. This is a place for the adventurous traveler: the fortress teeters on a narrow ridge high above the gorge. In the Middle Ages, it was an impregnable stronghold that controlled trade routes. The climb or detour to the top is challenging, but the panoramic view of the winding river and the rugged mountains is worth every step. Before reaching Aspindza, you'll pass Khertvisi Fortress, one of the oldest in the country. According to legend, it was visited by Alexander the Great. Its walls are astonishingly well-preserved and dominate the confluence of the Paravani and Mtkvari rivers.

Aspindza (coffee break)
Aspindza is a quiet town that serves as a hub for the region. It is best known for the Battle of Aspindza (1770), where the Georgians defeated the Ottomans. The remains of the Aspindza fortress stand prominently on a hill in the town.

Sapara Monastery
This beautiful monastery is nestled in a wooded gorge. Its architecture and detailed stonework are among the finest in the country. The monastery complex is an architectural timeline, with structures built during various periods of its centuries-long existence. These include churches, a bell tower, monks' cells, agricultural buildings, and the remains of a fortified wall and palace.

Akhaltsikhe (lunch break)
The largest city in the region is Akhaltsikhe, which means "New Castle." Its main attraction is Rabati Castle. This enormous complex has recently been fully restored and reflects the region's multicultural history: you'll find a golden-domed mosque, an Orthodox church, a synagogue, and a magnificent museum, all within the same walls.

Adigeni (optional)
From Akhaltsikhe, head west. You can now optionally drive to Adigeni to visit the Zarzma Monastery. This area is greener and more mountainous. The 14th-century bell tower is one of the largest in Georgia, and the serene atmosphere of this remote valley is deeply calming. After your visit, take the same road back to the turnoff and then continue to Abastumani.

Abastumani
This village was a favorite spa resort of the Russian Romanov family in the 19th century because of its exceptionally clean air and thermal baths. Thanks to the clear air, a famous observatory is located here. In the village, leave the main road and climb to this Astrophysical Observatory. In the evening, you can peer at planets and galaxies through telescopes. Admire the wooden houses with beautiful carvings along the Otskhe River.
The Zekari Pass
Back on the main road, head north towards the Zekari Pass
The pass connects the Samtskhe-Javakheti region with Imereti. At its highest point (2182m), you're literally above the clouds. The landscape here changes from arid rocks to vast alpine meadows where shepherds tend their flocks in the summer.

Sairme
On the north side of the pass, you descend to Sairme, a modern spa town nestled in the dense forests. Sairme is known for its four different types of mineral water, each with its own healing properties. The resort is beautifully landscaped and offers a stark contrast to the wilderness of the Zekari Pass.

On the way to Baghdati
As you descend the winding road from Sairme, pay close attention. You'll pass the "Thumbs Up" Shaped Rock. This natural rock formation looks exactly like a giant thumbs-up; a perfect photo opportunity and a comical sign from nature that you're on the right track. Eventually, you'll reach the plains of the Imereti region. You'll first pass through Nergeeti, a village known for its fertile soil and vineyards.

Baghdati (end point)
The journey ends in Baghdati. This town has a unique claim to fame: it's the birthplace of the great futurist poet Vladimir Mayakovsky. You can visit his childhood home here, now a museum. Unlike the arid south you've come from, Baghdati is humid, green, and famous for its excellent white wines. This route offers a cross-section of the Georgian soul: from the pious silence of the Vardzia Caves to the raw beauty of the Žekari Pass.