Located in the picturesque Borjomi Gorge in southeastern Georgia, the city of Borjomi sits at an elevation of 800 to 850 meters above sea level. Surrounded by majestic mountain ranges cloaked in lush forests, this charming resort town is home to approximately 13,500 residents. The city is split by the Kura River, which divides it into left and right banks. The name “Borjomi” is derived from the words “borj” (meaning “fortress wall”) and “omi” (meaning “war”), reflecting its historical roots. According to ancient legend, Borjomi was established as a natural fortress, with the towering Caucasus Mountains serving as its protective walls. To safeguard against potential invaders, watchtowers were built on the slopes of the gorge, remnants of which still stand today.
Primarily known as a renowned balneological resort, Borjomi’s mineral waters are celebrated for their therapeutic properties, particularly for the prevention and treatment of gastrointestinal disorders, metabolic issues, and ailments related to the bile ducts and kidneys. Visitors can also indulge in therapeutic baths using Borjomi water, which is beneficial for cardiovascular diseases, respiratory problems, and conditions affecting the nervous system.
Archaeological discoveries in the area, including ancient stone baths, attest to the fact that the healing properties of these mineral waters have been recognized since antiquity. In the 19th century, the first bottling plant was established in Borjomi, attracting even the royal family, who frequented the resort for its healing waters—a fact supported by preserved photographs.
Ecotourists are drawn to Borjomi not only for its Soviet-era spa heritage but also for its breathtaking natural beauty. No matter how many times you visit, the awe-inspiring scenery feels as exhilarating as your first encounter! The very location of Borjomi is remarkable, nestled within the gorge of towering Caucasian mountains, surrounded by coniferous and deciduous forests. The majestic peaks exude a sense of tranquility, grandeur, and depth.
Many illustrious figures have visited and cherished this place. Tchaikovsky, for instance, fell deeply in love with these landscapes. After arriving here by chance for the first time, he stayed for over two weeks. When he finally mustered the strength to leave, he was overwhelmed by a profound sense of longing. Doctors diagnosed his depression as “homesickness for Borjomi.” Yes, indeed! This is an official diagnosis! So, be cautious during your trip—many who have visited here exhibit symptoms of this peculiar condition.
Borjomi does not have a defined center, aside from the main square where nearly all minibuses stop. Tourists and locals often gather in the Central Park, where visitors can enjoy free access to mineral water. The park also features a cinema and a swimming pool, and children will surely delight in the wide array of amusement rides available.
The local mineral waters are not the only reason tourists flock to Borjomi. The city boasts numerous historical landmarks, including the Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Timotesubani, a significant site of Christian culture, and the remnants of ancient fortresses such as Petri, Atskuri, and Gogia. The Likani Palace, which has served as a retreat for important state figures since the 19th century, and the 19th-century home of Mirza-Riza-Khan, one of Borjomi’s symbols, are also noteworthy attractions. Visitors can learn about Borjomi’s history at the local museum, which houses over 40,000 exhibits. In the autumn, Borjomi celebrates its City Day, known as Borjomoba, featuring performances by folk ensembles. Festivities also take place on Georgia’s Independence Day, celebrated on May 26.
While in Borjomi, one cannot overlook the stunning Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park, recognized as one of the largest in Europe, encompassing about 7% of Georgia’s total territory. Entrance to the park is free, and it offers picnic areas and camping spots, as well as opportunities to rent horses for exploration.
There are also outdoor pools where visitors can bathe in the healing mineral waters, which remain warm enough for swimming even in winter. However, these pools are located deep within the park, requiring a three-kilometer trek, two of which are along forest trails. At the park’s entrance, a 19th-century building houses a museum. Admission is free, but the exhibits are limited to old photographs displayed on the walls. This building once housed an active spring and the first bottling workshop for mineral water.
For a bird’s-eye view of Borjomi, take a ride on the cable car, constructed in the 1960s. Notably, the cabins resemble bottles of mineral water. Ascending 500 meters above the ground, the cable car offers breathtaking vistas of the expansive landscape. The tranquil, measured pace of the town fades away as the snowy peaks of the mountains come into view, creating a stunning backdrop.
At the summit, visitors are greeted by a quaint little church, adding to the charm of the location. Nearby, you’ll find a Ferris wheel and a cozy café where you can enjoy a reasonably priced bite to eat while soaking in the panoramic scenery.
Interestingly, Borjomi (alongside Bakuriani) was once a contender to host the Winter Olympic Games in 2014. There is no shortage of leisure activities in Borjomi. Even if you explore all the attractions of this small town, you can take a scenic narrow-gauge train to Bakuriani, which features a major ski resort. The narrow-gauge railway is as significant an attraction as the ancient architectural landmarks in Borjomi. Stretching 37 kilometers, the journey takes about 2.5 hours, as the train climbs nearly a kilometer uphill. The train operates twice a day from both Borjomi and Bakuriani, with an average speed of just 15 km/h. This journey offers a wonderful opportunity to admire the picturesque surroundings and capture stunning photographs.
The most renowned mineral water spring is located near the entrance to Borjomi, and it is also the most well-maintained. Known as the Ekaterininski Spring, its history is both fascinating and surprising. The credit for the discovery of this mineral water surprisingly goes to Russian military forces, although it is essential to clarify that this was a rediscovery. Long ago, thousands of years in the past, people built baths in this area, but for reasons unknown, humanity abandoned these lands for centuries.
In 1829, during the Second Russo-Turkish War, fierce battles raged in these parts. The military campaign dragged on, with the fortress of Rabat, the main objective of the expedition, remaining unconquered. To make matters worse, an epidemic struck the troops. The Russian forces retreated and set up camp in the beautiful gorge. As they began to drink from the local springs, they were astonished to find that their ailments began to recede, and the soldiers rapidly returned to health. Thus, the world was introduced to Borjomi.
In 1841, the viceroy of the Russian tsar in Tbilisi, having heard of the miraculous properties of the water, sent his terminally ill daughter to Borjomi. A miracle occurred, and she was healed. This event marked a significant turning point for the region. The popularity and fame of the water spread rapidly, not just throughout the empire but far beyond its borders. The spring from which the viceroy’s daughter drank was named in her honor—the Ekaterininski Spring.
To this day, visitors can enjoy the fresh and warm Borjomi water from this source. However, it is important to note that the water loses all its healing properties just two hours after being drawn. Therefore, it is advisable not to stock up on it for later; take only as much as you can drink within the next hour.
If you wish to take some water home, there is a “cold” spring located near the entrance to the park, by the river. Even locals fill their containers from this source, as the water can be stored for about a week.
Here are some must-see attractions in the area:
The Palace in Likani – Currently serving as the residence of the President of Georgia, this magnificent palace is easily accessible by public bus, taxi, or car via Rustaveli Street, which transitions into Mtskheta Street. Open around the clock, you can explore this architectural wonder free of charge.
The House of Mirza-Riza-Khan – A turquoise symbol of Borjomi, this stunning building is located in the heart of the city on April 9th Street. Today, it operates as the Golden Tulip Borjomi hotel, one of the most stylish and beautiful accommodations in the area. Just twenty meters from the mineral springs and the park entrance, this 19th-century gem was once owned by the Iranian consul. After its renovation in 2016, the hotel retained its original style and interior. Despite its luxurious appeal and unique character, room rates start at an affordable $70.
The Green Monastery – This fascinating site is hidden within the forest, earning its name from the lush greenery surrounding it. The nearby red stones symbolize the blood of the monks who fought for their lives during Turkish invasions. Additionally, there is a spring on-site. You can reach the monastery by taking a bus that travels through Akhaltsikhe; it’s a 6-kilometer journey, but you’ll need to walk the final stretch to the monastery. The bus schedule includes departures at 08:45 and 14:45.
The Fortress of Atskuri – While today it consists mainly of remnants, the fortress is definitely worth a visit! From this vantage point, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the village of Atskuri, the Borjomi Gorge, and the Kura River. Access to the fortress is free, and you can enter through a tunnel that once served as a water supply. Buses to Atskuri are available from Borjomi, making it easy to explore this historical site.