Winter is a magical time to experience a holiday in Georgia and the breathtaking Caucasus region. While spring, summer, and autumn are perfect for hiking adventures, wine tasting, and basking on the beach, winter transforms the landscape into a snowy paradise ideal for skiing and snowboarding. The mountains are blanketed in thick snow, and Georgia’s top-notch resorts eagerly await visitors, offering a diverse range of slopes and runs.
What makes Georgia’s mountains truly special is the protective embrace of the Caucasus Mountains, which shield the country from harsh Arctic cyclones. Even with Mount Elbrus, the highest peak in Europe, towering above, the months from November to May remain relatively mild, thanks to a gentle breeze from the Black Sea. While snow falls consistently, severe frosts are a rarity, creating an inviting atmosphere for winter sports enthusiasts.
These ideal conditions have fostered the development of exceptional ski resorts. The first ski resort in Georgia opened its doors in the early 1900s, paving the way for many more to follow. Among the most renowned ski destinations are Bakuriani and Gudauri. Gudauri is celebrated for its soft snow, extensive runs, and stunning mountain vistas, while Bakuriani has long been recognized as a premier training ground for winter sports athletes, boasting challenging slopes that attract professional skiers and snowboarders. Additionally, the emerging ski chalets of Khatsvali and Tetnuldi, located near Mestia, are quickly gaining popularity.
Gudauri is the closest mountain resort to Tbilisi, just 120 kilometers (about 2 hours) away. Starting at an elevation of 2,200 meters (7,218 feet), the upper station of the cable car soars to 3,007 meters (9,865 feet) above sea level. The resort features a variety of runs, ranging from beginner-friendly to the more challenging “red run,” with the longest slope stretching an impressive 7 kilometers. For those seeking adventure, heliskiing and expansive areas for free skiing are available.
Experienced skiers and snowboarders flock to Gudauri for its renowned soft snow, but the resort offers year-round activities as well. Enjoy bowling, unwind in spa facilities, take a dip in the indoor swimming pool, or savor delicious Georgian cuisine and fine wines at local restaurants.
Bakuriani is located 180 kilometers from Tbilisi and just 30 kilometers from Borjomi. This charming resort has a storied history, having been a favored destination since Soviet times as a training camp for winter sports such as slalom, bobsleigh, biathlon, and ski jumping. Bakuriani even garnered attention as a candidate to host the Winter Olympic Games in 2014.
Ideal for family holidays, Bakuriani offers numerous slopes suitable for beginners and children, alongside picturesque trails perfect for leisurely walks and hikes. Surrounded by lush forests and fresh mountain air, it’s an idyllic retreat for those seeking relaxation.
Mestia is a newer mountain resort nestled in the heart of Svaneti, known for its unique culture, ancient towers, and majestic snow-capped peaks. While there are no ski slopes directly in the town, two nearby resorts—Khatsvali just 8 kilometers away and Tetnuldi 15 kilometers away—offer excellent skiing opportunities. Although Mestia is quite distant from Tbilisi (over 450 kilometers), the breathtaking beauty of the area more than compensates for the journey.
Khatsvali is still developing its ski offerings, currently featuring three runs that cater to professionals, experienced skiers, and beginners alike, all at an altitude of 1,865 meters (6,118 feet). Tetnuldi stands out among Georgian ski resorts for its challenging runs, set against a stunning backdrop. The mountain of the same name reaches 4,869 meters (15,975 feet) and boasts a cable car that spans 3,165 meters (10,384 feet), providing ample space for skiing—the longest run extends a remarkable 9.5 kilometers.