Nestled just a 2 to 2.5-hour drive from Tbilisi and Kutaisi, Bakuriani Ski Resort is an ideal destination for families looking to enjoy a winter holiday while honing their skiing and snowboarding skills. Positioned at an altitude of 1,700 meters above sea level, this enchanting settlement is surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Trialeti Range and towering pine trees. The climate here is pleasantly mild, thanks to Bakuriani’s unique location in a transitional zone between continental and coastal climates. With minimal winds in the area, it’s perfect for those who prefer to ski without the biting cold.
The resort’s infrastructure has its roots in Soviet times when Bakuriani served as a training base for Winter Olympic athletes. Since then, it has become a beloved destination for thousands of visitors who come to ski, sled, explore the nearby hills, practice cross-country skiing, or simply unwind while breathing in the crisp mountain air. Recent renovations have transformed Bakuriani into one of Georgia’s most popular ski resorts, blending its rich history with modern amenities.
In addition to its winter sports offerings, Bakuriani is home to several mineral springs, including Mitarbi, Likani, and Bakuriani, which are readily available in shops throughout Georgia. This makes Bakuriani not just a winter sports haven but also a fantastic place for health treatments. Nearby, the village of Tsikhisjvari boasts hot springs, adding to the wellness experience.
If you’re planning a skiing or snowboarding trip to Bakuriani, the best time to visit is from January to the end of March, when the snow cover is optimal for winter sports. The resort currently features five operational tracks: Didveli, Kokhta-2, Bakuriani Park, “25,” and JoyLand, offering more than ten pistes of varying difficulty levels, including options suitable for children.
For beginners and young skiers, JoyLand is the perfect spot to start. The “25” track, named after a nearby 25-meter ski trampoline, is gentle and ideal for novice skiers. Didveli is renowned as one of the most beautiful tracks in Georgia, located on the slopes of Mount Sakvelo, where breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains await. The Sakvelo slopes feature blue and red pistes, with the longest run stretching approximately 4 kilometers. At the summit, a chair lift provides access to exhilarating descents along red and black routes.
Bakuriani also boasts three trampolines ranging from 45 to 90 meters high, with the highest starting point for skiing at 2,850 meters above sea level. For those new to the sport, several schools staffed with experienced instructors are available to teach skiing and snowboarding. Here in Bakuriani, age is no barrier—learning these skills is accessible for everyone, young and old alike.
If your family members aren’t as enthusiastic about winter sports, they can enjoy a playground or skating rink in Central Park, try sledding, or even take a scenic carriage ride. For parents eager to tackle some of the steeper slopes, many hotels in Bakuriani offer childcare services, allowing you to hit the slopes while knowing your children are well cared for.
The stunning surroundings of Bakuriani also invite exploration. Consider taking a day hike or a jeep tour through the picturesque Borjomi gorge, or visit the charming town of Borjomi, where you can ride the narrow-gauge railway on the retro train known as the “Cuckoo.” A trip to the nearby Akhaltsikhe, with its medieval Rabat fortress, will immerse you in the area’s rich cultural heritage. After a day on the slopes, unwind by the fireplace while enjoying Georgian cuisine, tasting local wines and chacha, or indulging in a game of pool or table tennis—a perfect way to relax and recharge.