Gudauri or Bakuriani which is better. Looking for deals in Bakuriani? Goderdzi is the youngest ski center

Bakuriani
Resorts of Georgia

General information about the resort

Why? First, Bakuriani is sunny resort, since the quantity sunny days here is over 210 days a year. Secondly, in the place where the resort is located, less than 800 millimeters of precipitation falls annually. Therefore, local summers are a little cool (on average up to 15° Celsius), and winters are relatively warm (up to - 7° Celsius). Thirdly, the resort of Bakuriani is located at an altitude of over 1700 meters above sea level, on the picturesque northern slope of the Trialeti Range, close to Borjomi.

In addition to all the other advantages of this wonderful resort, Bakuriani is also the best ski resort in Georgia. The resort of Bakuriani is well equipped for those who like to ski in winter - numerous lifts, rental shops, several good hotels and much more. And what is here beautiful nature! In our opinion, you should definitely come here to look at this beauty. Majestic mountains covered with snow-white snow, numerous green firs and pines united in huge forests and glades. The beauty of the Bakuriani resort cannot be described in words!

In addition, this resort, one might say, has an "advantageous geographical position" in relation to many large settlements and airports in Georgia. So, for example, from largest airport the Georgian capital Tbilisi to the Bakuriani resort, a distance of 190 kilometers, which can be overcome in a couple of hours by car.

History of Bakuriani resort

Several decades passed, and the Georgian ski resort of Bakuriani became the main base for the preparation of the ski team of the Soviet Union, which prepared here for many competitions, including the Olympic Games.

When Soviet Union collapsed, and Georgia, like everyone else former countries Union, gained independence in the early 90s, the resort fell into disrepair. But more recently, the current authorities of the country have spent a lot of money to restore this wonderful resort.

After all, it was in the town of Bakuriani that Georgia wanted to host the 2014 Winter Olympics, investments in the development of this resort exceeded $ 2 billion. Today, Bakuriani resort is deservedly considered one of the most developed ski resorts not only in Georgia itself, but throughout the entire Caucasus region.

Bakuriani: useful information for tourists

But, the resort of Bakuriani is interesting for tourists not only because you can ski or snowboard well here. The very places where this resort is conveniently located are very beautiful and interesting for any tourist. Bakuriani is located at the very intersection mountain range Lesser Caucasus and various natural areas with wonderful flora and fauna. Tourists who come to this resort, in addition to skiing, can also make simple day trips along the local natural beauties - mountains, gorges, caves, mountain lakes and springs, etc. So, for example, the resort offers climbing the mountains Kokhta, whose height is 2155 meters, and Sekvelomta, the Tskhratskaro pass (altitude over 2700 meters), visiting the stunning beauty mountain lake Tabatskuri, the ancient monastic complex of Timotesubani (XI century), which is mainly located in caves, springs of Mitarbi, Tsikhisdzhvari and much more.

One of the most beautiful and interesting places in the resort - this is the Borjomi gorge. Not far from this gorge is the picturesque village of Daba, in which there is a small ancient chapel built right in the cave (by the way, Christian buildings in the caves are not such a rare occurrence here). Here you can also see one of the oldest trees in the world - the Georgian yew, whose age exceeds 2000 years. Not far from Borjomi there is another gorge - Tsagveri, as well as Borjomi, rich in healing waters.

Those tourists who prefer extreme vacation, can go from the resort of Bakuriani to one of the most the most beautiful places- Gorge Bakurianis-Tskali with its beautiful crystalline rocks, the height of which sometimes reaches several tens of meters.

In the Borjomi Gorge you can also go paragliding, jeeping, rafting and many others. extreme views recreation. Fishing enthusiasts can go fishing in the numerous mountain lakes where trout can be found, and in large quantities!

Few numbers:

(ბაკურიანი) is a famous Georgian mountain and ski resort, one of three, along with Hatsvali and Gudauri. Less popular than Gudauri, although in some ways it is even more interesting. Bakuriani is somewhat reminiscent of Adjarian, but there are still fewer civilizations.

Located at an altitude of 1700 meters from sea level. In summer, there are many hotels of different levels and several ski lifts. In the summer there are fewer hotels, the lifts almost do not work, but still people come here to breathe the mountain air. Children are often brought here.

Origin

Bakuriani was located close to the resort of Borjomi, so it very soon became an annex to Borjomi - people came here in the hot season to breathe air and drink mineral water. The place became so visited that even a narrow-gauge railway was brought here. In Soviet times, skiers liked this place and they began to come here first privately, then in an organized way. Several sanatoriums arose in Bakuriani (for example, the Dinamo sanatorium and the rest house for chemists), which were abandoned in the 1990s. Now Bakuriani has again become a resort, mainly for Georgian and Armenian tourists. Traffic from Russia mainly draws Gudauri.

What is there

Bakuriani is a settlement the size of one serious street. There is another semi-ring, which is also built up with hotels, so Bakuriani looks like a ring on the maps, and yet everything of value is concentrated in the western part of this ring. If you move along this street straight to the south, then it will run into the Didveli cable car. There are two important branches: in the center, the road to the bus station and the narrow-gauge railway station begins, and a little to the south, the nondescript road to Lake Tabatskuri begins.

On the main street there are several hotels, an expensive Ukrainian restaurant (with coffee for 3 lari) and another restaurant with normal general Georgian prices (two hundred meters from the first one). There are several markets here as well. summer time on the street they sell tomatoes and other vegetables.

In the very center near the police building there is an office tourist information. I do not know how it works in winter, but in the summer of 2014 it was closed.

There are more hotels in the southern part of the street, closer to the cable car, and many more are scattered around in the hills. In total, there is especially nowhere to walk in the city itself, there are many hills around, overgrown with fir trees.

In the northern part of the street is Bakuriansky Botanical Garden, which is on this moment more like a normal forest.

Lifts

Bakuriani has several lifts and quite a lot of ski slopes of varying difficulty. In particular, there are short and uncomplicated ones that beginner skiers can train on. The most famous lift is "Didveli", which rests on the Bakurian road. The lift leads to Mount Sakveli (almost 3000 meters), where there is a cafe, and from where the ski slopes begin - the longest is 4 kilometers. The lift is also interesting in the summer, although in July 2014 it did not work for some reason.

What to do in Bakuriani

In addition to skiing, there is much more of what skiers call "backcountry". The Botanical Garden and the Timotesubani Monastery are usually called as interesting places, but the first and second are now very inexpressive. But from Bakurian you can drive to Borjomi (in particular, by narrow-gauge railway) or, if the weather permits, get to Lake Tabatskuri. You can even climb dormant volcano Tavkvechili ( east of the lake). There are several marked trekking routes around Bakuriani itself through the forest. In Bakuiani there is a rental of horses, but it is expensive. In winter, you can ride an aerosleigh, and many people drive these sledges to Tabatskuri. In the summer, you can make a sortie to.

Bakurian bus station

Bakuriani has its own bus station, it is located in the center, not far from the narrow gauge railway station, a little away from the main street. Buses run from here:

To Tbilisi: 10 GEL. Each ace until 17:00

To Khashuri: 5 GEL. AT 14:00

A minibus from Borjomi runs to Tabatskuri, it costs 4 GEL per person, but it runs about once a day and not every day, about 4 pieces a week.

The Gudauri resort is a fairly young ski resort and is located in the Kazbegi region of the country. ski season starts in December and continues until April, but there are a number of slopes that you can ride even in May. In Gudauri, you can ride not only on special tracks, but also outside them. If you have extra money, you can book a helicopter flight and see the beauty of these places from a height (there are areas where no human foot has set foot). For beginner skiers there is the easiest route. It is better to rent skis in Tbilisi, as it will cost you 20-40 percent cheaper there. The longest ski slope at this resort is seven kilometers. Often there are avalanches at this resort, so when going to this resort, take at least basic equipment such as a shovel and a probe, especially such equipment can come in handy if you are going to ride off-piste. Do not forget about insurance, because without it you can not. If something happens to you, then in Gudauri you will be provided with only the first medical care, and then sent for treatment in Tbilisi.

Another good ski resort is Bakuriani. As for me, this resort is better than Gudauri, but this is my personal opinion (how many people, so many opinions, and everyone chooses what they like best). Bakuriani is a ski resort claimed to host the Winter Olympic Games- 2014, but as you know, he received this right Russian resort Sochi. In Soviet times, a Russian woman lived in these places. royal family and has survived to this day royal palace. At one time, the ski team of the USSR was trained at this resort. Now not only Georgians and Russians rest here, but also Austrians, Germans and representatives of other European countries(they also have where to ride, but everything is decided by the price). This resort is located 180 kilometers from Tbilisi, there are no problems with transport. locals call it Sun Valley. Borjomi springs originate in these places. At a distance of 30 kilometers there are wells with mineral water. For skiing, the weather here is very comfortable, in winter the average temperature is 6-7 degrees below zero, there is practically no wind, and the snow depth is more than 60 centimeters. You won't believe it, but warm weather you can see such a spectacle as skiers in swimsuits. Here you will have the opportunity not only to ride, but also to buy various interesting excursions. This area is quite popular among hikers. I repeat - this is my personal opinion, but for me this resort is more acceptable.

Visited many ski resorts, but did not find your favorite? Get ready for change! welcomes you unique resort Bakuriani, which thrives in the heart of Georgia and is ready to impress its guests. Mountains of amazing beauty, amazingly clean air, magnificent centuries-old pines and healing springs. Bakuriani is unlike any ski resort in the world. Well, where else can you race on an excellent track through the virgin forest that covers the slopes? Enjoy freeriding, forgetting about the limitations and dangers, take a helicopter over the mighty mountains and feel like the master of the world? And, of course, you will see stunning mountains that "hug" the resort from all sides, protecting it from severe frosts and cold winds. Bakuriani is a “sunny valley”, where warm rays caress the mountains almost 210 days a year.

Bakuriani - the birth of a "star"

This small settlement was "doomed" to the love and popularity of not only the indigenous people of the country, but also athletes from all over the world. Back in the early 30s, the area began to be developed precisely as ski base for athletes. A huge contribution to this was made by the Soviet politician A. Zhemchuzhnikov. A few years later, Bakuriani turned into a real VIP zone, where the "powerful" of this world (officials of the USSR) rested.

Later, numerous competitions in all kinds of winter sports were held in Bakuriani, and subsequently the USSR national skiing team was trained here.

Independent Georgia has completely transformed the resort - huge funds (more than 2 billion dollars!) have been invested in the creation of modern infrastructure. Experts from Europe were invited to create tracks (by the way, today all tracks are certified according to the FIS standard). It was Bakuriani who claimed to host the 2014 Winter Olympics. Today, the ski resort has become a real winter capital of the Caucasus, confidently overshadowing the numerous resorts in Europe.

Ski resort Bakuriani (Bakuriani)

The peculiarity of the "sunny valley" is that no one is bored here. If you are a professional athlete, endless snow-white slopes for extreme freeride are at your service. Mount Sakvelo is perfect for descent, giving unforgettable emotions.

Bakuriani does not limit his guests in the choice of entertainment. Backcountry - an experienced guide will accompany you to the top of any mountain, from where you will make a dizzying descent. Have you long dreamed of seeing the Caucasus from above? Heli-ski is at your service. An experienced helicopter pilot will "throw" you to the top, and the instructor will help you choose the route for the descent. By the way, heli-ski prices in Bakuriani are lower than in. Now you can surpass any skier and snowboarder by reaching the very high point. Pleasure will cost (depending on the height and mountain, as well as the duration of the flight) an average of 1850 lari ($684.5).

Only in Bakuriani you can make a dizzying flight over the mountains and the amazingly beautiful Borjomi gorge, see numerous waterfalls and snowy expanses. The cost of a paragliding flight varies (depending on the starting point) from 350 to 450 lari ($129.5 - $166.5). You are not extreme - then choose sightseeing tour by helicopter around the area. 10 minutes in the air - from 1660 ($592), but this is for a company of 4-5 people (very profitable!).

But this is not all surprises for the demanding tourist. In Bakuriani you can ride:

Skating - in outdoor park Bakuriani (free with equipment available) and on the territory of the Edem Hotel (cost from 2 GEL ($ 0.74)).

On modern snowmobiles - with an instructor you can make a "hike" in the mountains, ride around the village and along the magnificent coniferous forest. Renting a snowmobile will cost from 45 GEL ($16.65), they are offered literally at every step in the village.

There is an opportunity to ride ATVs - from 45 GEL ($ 16.65). Three modern ski jumps were built in Bakuriani, Georgia.

And in Bakuriani you can conquer the snow ski jumps!

There are three of them here different heights- 45, 70 and 90 meters. There is a desire to have fun by riding a sled or tubing - a huge plateau is at your service, where the height changes smoothly, so the risk is minimal, and the pleasures are maximum. Luge lovers will appreciate the modern downhill track, its length is about 1400 m.

Weather in Bakuriani

Have you ever seen skiers in swimsuits, who cut through the slopes, basking in the sun? Surprise for you! This resort is truly created for a person to satisfy all his needs. Spread out at an altitude of 1800 m above sea level on the northern slope of the most picturesque Trialeti Ridge, Bakuriani “fell” into the subtropical climate zone. And this is already surprising and gives a lot of opportunities. The winter here is very mild, the average winter temperatures are only -5 - 7 C. At the same time, there is no chilling wind, high humidity, penetrating to the bones and cloudy skies.

The ski season starts from mid-December and ends at the end of March. The most "interesting" month is February. You can ride and even sunbathe! The snow cover in the resort is stable - its value is from 50 to 70 cm (different months). The advantage of the resort is that avalanches are almost a unique phenomenon here, so there are no dangers for tourists. As for the stones on the slopes - there are none, the snow is carefully prepared for tourists.

Keep in mind that the weather is unpredictable. And sometimes it happens that in early and even mid-December there is little snow. For example, Didveli was supposed to open on December 8 this year. But, due to poor snow cover, it was postponed to the end of December. I was in Bakuriani at the end of November, when there was still little snow. Therefore, do not be afraid of some photos. Some were made in season, some a little earlier. Locals, by the way, do not advise to come before December 25th. Only a week before the new year, the resort begins to operate at full capacity.

Summer in Bakuriani is a different story. It will conquer lovers of comfortable rest, without scorching heat. There is very little rainfall and therefore a unique microclimate has formed - average temperatures rarely exceed +20 +22C. Fogs are a rarity, so be sure to admire the Bolshoi Caucasian Range and Elbrus. The peculiarity of the resort is the amazing air thanks to the huge pine forests.

Bakuriani - route map

This popular resort not in vain holds the palm - a lot of prepared tracks of varying complexity, comfortable lifts on different levels, no sharp stones on the way. The length of the prepared tracks in Bakuriani is about 5 km, but the “virgin lands” for freeride are almost 20 km.

Now the resort has 4 areas for downhill skiing or snowboarding. These are Mitarbi (Kokhta 2), Kokhta, 25 meters and Didveli. Each of the "areas" is divided into tracks of varying difficulty, which allows both professionals and amateurs to ski, and the views that open from the peaks majestic mountains– amaze the imagination of any tourist.

Scheme of routes of Bakuriani in the picture:

foto by bakuriani.ski, adaptation - website

Official website of Bakuriani ski resort

And now more about all the routes of Bakuriani:

Didveli is the most modern and comfortable

The track is superbly equipped, here you can ride both professionals and beginners. You have to climb very beautiful mountain Sakveli.

A three-level lift is provided. The first "floor" - you rise to 2500 m in comfortable cabins (gondola cable car). The second is an “open” lift with seating (2-seater chairlift) lifts another 700 m ( overall height- 3200 m). The third level is a yoke that will lift another 800 m (total height - 4000 m).

Please note that there are restrictions for tourists on the Didveli highway:

The second route is “black”, only for professionals with experience.

The third is “red”, complex, difficult terrain, a large slope.

The first is “green”, suitable for beginners, the track alternates with descents and almost flat plateaus.

You can ride Didveli in the evening (until 10 am), it is well lit, so there will be no problems. The elevation difference on the track will impress an experienced skier - from 1780 to 2675 m.

At each site-station you can taste delicious mulled wine, have a snack - there are cafes. At the lowest station, a children's playground for skiing has been built, from here a sleigh track starts.

Kokhta - "Beautiful" mountain

Such a literal translation is fully justified - the mountain is very beautiful, sparkling with snow-white steep slopes. This excellent route is not much inferior in terms of preparedness to Didveli, except perhaps in terms of length. The height of the mountain reaches 2200 m above sea level. For skiing, its most picturesque slopes are used.

Two huge tracks run down from the top. Kokhta 1 is almost 1.5 km of descent. Of these (almost 600m) - this is the most difficult descent marked "black". Here the slope reaches 52 degrees, and only the most experienced professionals can conquer the slope. The remaining 900 m is a "red" track with difficult terrain. The rise to the track is provided by a seated lift. The first level is a climb of 1400 m, and the second is 2000 m.

For a simpler descent, it is better to choose the Kokhta 2 (aka Tatra) track with a length of about 3 km. The skiing area is also divided into two areas. A “red” descent starts from the top, smoothly turning into a “green” track, and then again into a “red” one. It is worth remembering this, because not everyone can cope with the drops - the total length is about 3 km. The peculiarity of this route is that you can ride through pristine forests, descending from a height. There are 2 lifts - both tows. At the end of the track there is a special tug for skis, and also starts from here chairlift to the trampolines.

For beginners, it is better to choose the so-called "Plateau" for skiing. It is located directly at the foot of Kokhta, the length is about 400 m. There is a very slight slope (12 degrees), so you can have a great workout.

The 25-meter track is for everyone!

This is a very small lower slope of Kokhta (almost the foot), where everyone can hone their skills. There are always a lot of people here and 4 lifts work continuously. 2 of them are rope tows, others are open chairlifts. By the way, there is also an unusual toboggan lift, which is used by many children and adults. The track is located almost in the center of Bakuriani, so there are many cafes, restaurants and small shops around.

Mitarbi - a novelty of the Bakuriani ski resort

At the end of 2016, a new track was opened at the resort, which has not been used for more than 30 years. It bears the name of the village of the same name, which is located about 2 km from Bakuriani. A new descent runs away from the top of Kokhta 2 and ends near Mitarbi. Its length is about 3.5 km. Difficulty level is red. A modern cable car was built, which cost more than 17.4 million dollars.

Equipment rental in Bakuriani

Traveling to the resort is easy. Here you can rent any equipment, while also bargaining! Almost every lift station has a "rental". You can rent skis from Didveli for 10 lari ($3.7) for 60 minutes of skiing. It is more profitable to take for a day - it will cost 20 lari ($ 7.4). If you need a snowboard, the price for a day of use starts from 25 GEL ($ 9.25). The services of a professional instructor will cost from 45 GEL ($16.65) for 2 hours.

Near the Tatra track, skis cost 25 lari for the whole day ($ 9.25), snowboard - from 30 lari ($ 11.1). But the instructors here are the most expensive - from 35 GEL for 1 hour ($ 12.95). Near Kokhta there is also a rental service, the prices are almost the same as in Didveli, however, there is a much larger selection of equipment. Backpacks, goggles, poles, freeride boards, etc.

The cheapest equipment rental near the 25-meter highway. Learning to ride with an instructor costs 17 GEL ($6.29). Rent skis - 5 lari ($ 1.85). You can take a sled for only 3 lari per hour ($1.11), but it is more profitable to rent for a day - 9 lari ($3.33). A snowboard will cost 10 lari ($ 3.7) per hour, per day - 20 lari ($ 7.4)

Important! Prices tend to change every year. Therefore, do not be surprised if they are different in place. This year I was in Bakuriani, when all the rental offices were still closed and it was not possible to clarify the cost. If you have up-to-date information on prices - write in the comments.

Have you come to Bakuriani with children and want to teach them how to ski? No problem, the resort has a ski school for children. It will not be difficult to find an experienced instructor for adults - you can check the contacts in information center in the village.

Ski pass 2018/2019

Some cable cars in the resort operate year-round, because the resort is very appreciated for its crystal clear Mountain air and excellent comfortable climate. Ski lifts start their work in summer at 10.00, and in winter (though not all) at 9.00. They turn off at 17.00, except for night runs, which operate until 22.00.

To climb the desired mountain, take care of buying a ski pass in advance. You can do this near any station in the resort or cinema building.

If you climb Didveli, a one-time "ticket" will cost 7 GEL. For three lifts pay 21 GEL. But it is most profitable to purchase a "pass" for the whole day - it costs 15 GEL for children, and 25 GEL for adults.

A detailed table with prices in Bakuriani for the season 2018-2019 is given below. Prices are in GEL. You can learn more about the Georgian currency and the current exchange rate .

For reference:

Barcode - a paper ticket with a barcode;

Multi pass - paper ticket;

Card — personalized rechargeable card;

To use the card, you need to present a passport or driver's license;

Child tickets are valid for ages 6 to 18;

Student tickets are valid only for citizens of Georgia;

Pensioners of Georgia can get a ski pass for one day - free of charge.

As you can see, the prices in Bakuriani are quite reasonable, an order of magnitude lower than in Europe, but the atmosphere here is simply amazing.

Hotels in Bakuriani

Choosing a hotel in Bakuriani is not an easy task. Every year a dozen new hotels appear here. The resort is actively built and growing. New, modern hotels in Bakuriani please the eye with their beautiful view and comfortable inside. Accommodation here can be found for every taste: from simple rooms in the private sector to beautiful luxury hotels or villas.

I chose this year for an overnight stay The Valley Resort Bakuriani . The hotel is new. Reviews are good. Well, the most important thing is the location. There is nothing closer to Didveli than him. Literally 5 minutes walk and you are at the ski lift. The rooms are new and spacious. There is a kitchen corner: a stove, dishes, a kettle, a sink, etc. The Internet worked stably and quickly. TV has a large selection of channels. In addition to a soft and comfortable bed, there is a table and a sofa. It seems that everything is quite simple and without pathos, but at the same time, everything you need is there. And most importantly, clean and comfortable. Perhaps the only negative, and even then with a stretch, could be called remoteness from the center. But what to do there? From entertainment only cinema. Grocery stores is within walking distance. It seems to me that it is easier to go to the center once or twice than to get to the slopes for a long time every day.

The Valley Resort Bakuriani

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Also popular are the following housing options:

BM Plaza Hotel. If the Valley Resort is located near Didveli, then this one is suitable for those who like Kokhta. Close to ski lifts, great and friendly staff. Booking rating 8.6.

Orbi Palace Apart Hotel & Spa. Orbi is one of the largest construction companies in Georgia. Its buildings are always stylish and of excellent quality. It is not surprising that here, too, their hotel is one of the most popular and has a high rating. Some of the premises have been sold to private hands and are rented out as separate apartments. So don't be surprised when you search for a huge number of Orbi names. As a rule, all of them are new studios with a high rating and good reviews. Located near Didveli. 10 min walk.

Apollo Hotel . Excellent trio in the center of the resort with a very high booking rating of 9.2. Small minus - far from the lifts. Walk for a long time. Other than that, great option!

Crystal Hotel. Another good option within walking distance from the Tatra and Didveli ski lifts. Stylish, small. WITH great choice services and entertainment in the hotel. Something between a three and a four with a rating of 8.6.

During the season, it often happens that the above hotels are fully booked. Therefore, it is most convenient to simply choose from available options. Here link for all housing options in Bakuriani. Enter the desired dates, add search filters and choose to your taste!

Where to eat delicious food?

Most tourists eat at restaurants attached to the hotels where they stay. Therefore, on the streets you will not often find individual restaurants. Of the same that is worth noting the restaurant of Ukrainian cuisine and khinkal number one. I'll tell you a little more about the second one.

Firstly, this is a very budgetary institution. Here you can get enough for 4-5 dollars.

Second, it's crazy. I have never met such delicious ones in, or in! And in my life, I have tried them in many places. But be aware that they are slightly sharp. Although, in the cold season, this is even a topic. You warm up faster

The menu in the cafe is modest: khinkali for 0.8 lari, and pasties for 2.5 lari.

It is located near the information center. Literally fifty meters away. I marked it on the map.

Bakuriani on the map

The resort is not geographically large. There are not many attractions. And yet, the map of Bakuriani may be useful to you. At least in order to visually evaluate the above voiced descriptions. Exchangers with a good exchange rate are located in the center, not far from the information center.

Click on the button at the top right and a list of all locations marked on the map will open.

Sights of Bakuriani

Since Bakuriani is a small village. It is very difficult to get lost, because everywhere there are signs that will “direct” you to the ski lifts and ski slopes. To be honest, there is by and large nothing to see in Bakuriani itself. You can name only a cinema, a botanical garden, a playground and a skating rink. But outside of it there are a lot of attractions. Samtskhe-Javakheti is one of the most beautiful corners Georgia.

By the way, in the village there are several stands with detailed maps the entire resort. One of them is next to the information center.

If you move north, you will find yourself in the botanical garden, where it is pleasant to walk both in winter and in summer. grow here different types trees, stunning flowers bloom in summer. Its peculiarity is that in the middle of the grandiose mountains there are many small clearings overgrown with ferns and shrubs, in summer you can see berries.

Tourist Information Center

There is a cinema in the center of the village. In it, in addition to showing films in three languages ​​(most often in Russian and Georgian), you can buy a ski pass. There is also a tourist information office. Here they give out maps for free, talk about trails, equipment rental services. The center is open from 9.00 to 17.00 (in season), in summer - from 10.00 to 15.00.

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What to see nearby

Excursions, hiking to the mountains, visiting mineral springs, acquaintance with the grandiose gorges and climbing the peaks of Bakuriani - get ready for outdoor activities because you will never be bored!

This amazing resort can safely be called multifaceted. In addition to rich skiing programs, the resort is ready to surprise its guests. And both in winter and in summer. Very close (30 km) is the most picturesque

In winter, Georgia can offer quality pistes, stunningly beautiful and high mountains, the relative stability of the snow cover and its national cuisine. The most modern equipment for laying tracks and lifts with a huge capacity have been brought to the mountains. Only quality housing is lacking, which creates a lot of problems and negative reviews from those who are accustomed to European service.

To date, four ski areas can be distinguished in Georgia.

All of them are located in different corners countries, so you have to choose one thing or spend a lot of time on the road.

Gudauri

• Height: 2196 m
• Official website: https://gudauri.travel/

Gudauri - young ski center Georgia, which is located near the Cross Pass and a Georgian military road passes through it. The tracks here are long and with a noticeable slope, so you should soberly assess the level of your skiing. If you don’t know how to ski, be sure to sign up with an instructor, because it’s very easy not to calculate your strength.

The village is perfect for winter holiday company or with children, if everyone is already on skis. There are a lot of blue slopes here, which is why many amateurs come here who want to ride without extreme sports. And one of the main problems is overcrowding during peak season in the complete absence of the entertainment industry and problems with the service. But, let's be honest, in principle, you cannot go to Georgia with applications for European level service. Otherwise, the prices would be quite different.

Tracks

In total, 22 tracks are equipped in Gudauri. Of them:

• 2 black;
• 3 red;
• 17 blue;
• 4 green;

On last year's maps, blue maps were listed as red, so you should not count on gentle slopes. You must be confident on your skis or take a training course with an instructor in order to ski safely. For zero beginners, only green trails are suitable. But in a day or two of practice, you can safely ride on the blue slopes, of which there are a lot.

The slopes are served by five 3 or 4 chair lifts. The resort also has one cable car with 8-seater closed cabins. Near the ski lifts there are ski pass sales offices, equipment rental points, cafes and restaurants. At the lower station cable car infirmary works.

Ski pass price

The Georgians themselves believe that the prices for skiing in Gudauri are greatly inflated. This is probably true, but for those who skied in Slovakia, Austria or France, the cost of ski passes in Georgia will seem almost like a gift for New Year. Current prices can be viewed on the official website.

Hotels

In Gudauri available for settlement:

• 6 3* hotels;
• 7 hotels of 4* category;
• 1 5* class hotel;
• 17 establishments without a category;
• Over 120 private cottages and houses (listed through Airbnb)

The only 5* hotel belongs to the famous Marco Polo chain and has been operating in Gudauri since 1988. But there are more than enough options where you can cheaply rent a room or apartment for a family.

Vacation with children

All conditions are created here for recreation with children. The ski school "Skigudauri" constantly organizes groups for kids from the age of 4 years. Snowmobiling courses are offered for children at the Seturebi Snowpark. Classes are led by experienced skiers and animators. In New Gudauri, near the gondola, a tubing track is equipped. There is an escalator next to it. Retail outlets and equipment rental points of the health resort offer children's skis, clothes and shoes, helmets, masks.

Many hotels have children's playrooms, which are serviced by experienced teachers. The hotels employ nannies who know Russian and English.

Advantages and disadvantages

We tried to study the reviews of tourists about the rest in Gudauri and form a general opinion of tourists.

• if there is snow, then the season starts in December and closes in May (in fact, there were seasons when it was not even in February);
• Stunning views;
• The complete absence of stones and other obstacles on the slopes;
• Possibility of accommodation high in the mountains, near ski lifts and slopes;
• Availability a large number accommodation establishments of all classes;
• Budget prices compared to the Alps;
• Long runs;

• overcrowding during the peak season;
• low level of service budget hotels and public catering;
• lifts are open only from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.;
• there is absolutely nothing to do in the evening;
• instability of weather conditions;

Bakuriani is a city that competed for the 2014 Olympic Games

• Height: 1700 m
• Official site: http://bakuriani.ge/ru/

Bakuriani is the oldest ski resort Georgia. The resort is known for its picturesque slopes and healing mineral springs. Bakuriani is located on the northern slopes of the Trialeti Range, 38 km from Borjomi. This is one of the best places for relaxation, if the skiing itself is in the background for you. After 2 hours of training, even a bear will slide down from the “blue” slopes of Bakuriani without the risk of breaking something 🙂 But in free time you can drink mineral water wine, make snowmen, fool around and relax in the family circle by the hearth. The main thing is to have snow.

Tracks

Bakuriani is equipped with:

• 2 black tracks;
• 2 red slopes;
• 3 blue slopes;
• training trails in the valley;
• Luge track;
• 3 ski jumps 45, 70 and 90 meters long.

Delivery of skiers to them is carried out by 3 lifts (1 ski lift, 1 cable car and 1 chairlift).

It is better for beginners to winter recreation to ride on a special track 300 meters long and with a slope of only 10-12 degrees in the center of Joy Land, as well as on the blue routes Didveli-1 and Didveli-2.

Experienced skiers are advised to go down the tracks "Kokhta-1" and "Kokhta-2" with a length of 1500 and 3000 meters, respectively. On these slopes the angle of descent reaches 52 degrees. A special track is equipped for slalom lovers in Bakuriani.

Ski pass

Ski passes in Bakuriani are cheaper than in Gudauri, but the ski area here is smaller, as is the height.

Hotels

In Bakuriani you will find:

• 1 hotel category 2 *;
• 5 hotels of 3* category;
• 5 4* hotels;
• 25 establishments without a category;
• Over 130 private homes and cottages (via Airbnb).

"Threes" and "Fours" in Bakuriani almost do not differ in the quality of service. You need to choose rooms in them based only on the convenience of the location and the landscape that opens from the windows of the chambers. Living in a private house is suitable for those who want to know the real life of the highlanders and get acquainted with the customs of the Georgian people.

Vacation with children

Bakuriani is much more suited to family vacation than Gudauri, since the infrastructure of the resort itself is more developed here and there is something to do besides skiing.

Open for children Entertainment Center Joyland. This establishment provides skiing courses for children aged 4-14 on special slopes that are equipped with mini-lifts. It also has tracks for riding tubing (inflatable "cheesecakes"), and a special play area for kids. IN central park In Bakuriani, children can enjoy ice skating and horse-drawn sledges.

Many hotels in the resort have indoor heated pools, with compartments 30-60 cm deep, designed for children. In the hotels of the health resort, guests are offered the services of professional animators and nannies.

Advantages and disadvantages

• The presence of mineral springs and the ability to combine treatment and skiing;
• mild climate with average temperature-6…-8°C;
• Healing mountain air, flavored with aromas of pine needles;
• Developed entertainment industry, which consists of several dozen establishments of various types.

Flaws

• Short season (ends in March);
• a small selection of tracks (especially difficult ones);
• There may be problems with snow cover until February;
• low throughput of lifts and the formation of queues near them

Hatsvali - somewhere very far in the mountains

• Height - 1800 m

Hatsvali is a small ski resort 7 km from the city of Mestia, which is also called the country of a thousand towers. The town is located in Svaneti, but so far it can be called a developed ski center with great difficulty. This place is more suitable for those who are not looking for cool service, but just want to go somewhere very far from civilization, where they can just walk in the mountains, breathe the air and ski.

Hatsvali infrastructure speaks for itself:

• four-seater chairlift (length 1400 meters)
• 2 rope tows for beginners and children of 300 and 600 meters
• the total length of the tracks is only 2.6 km so far

But lifts are quite inexpensive:

Goderdzi is the youngest ski center

• Height - 1700 m
• Official website: http://goderdzi.com

The construction of Goderdzi began only in 2011. It is located in a unique climate zone in Adjara, on the pass of the same name - just 100 kilometers from Batumi. Due to its proximity to the sea and high rainfall, Goderdzi will receive the title of "the snowiest resort." The thickness of the snow cover here is three times greater than in Gudauri and Bakuriani.

• Length of slopes: 13 km (the longest is 7 km)
• Ski area: 2390 m - 1700 m, elevation: 690 m.
• The cost of a daily ski pass is GEL 30 (USD 12), a weekly ski pass is GEL 174 (USD 73).