Georgia - The Cradle of Winemaking
9 Days Starting and ending in Tbilisi
Visiting: Tbilisi, Sighnaghi, Kakheti Province, Kakheti, Mtskheta
Tour operator:
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 12
Age range:
18-99
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians, Vegans, Meat, Please advise requests
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Private Available:
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Tour Overview
Georgia is one of the least known nations of Europe – in fact most people aren’t entirely sure whether it is actually in Europe. Hidden away and often eclipsed by its monumental neighbour it hides a wealth of diverse secrets. This trip encompasses the cultural heart primarily through the medium of food and wine. First we spend time in atmospheric Tbilisi and marvel at the numerous and diverse cultures that have left their mark on this city, from Ancient Persia and Medieval European crusaders to Imperial Russia and Ottoman Turkey and explore its delightful old city. We then travel to the ancient wine region of Kakheti, arguably the original home of all viticulture and taste the exquisite wines produced there and enjoy excellent cuisine and even try your hand at cooking local dishes. We also will visit a number of fascinating historical sites on the tour including the magnificent 11th century Alaverdi Cathedral situated at the foot of the majestic High Caucasus range and surrounded by vineyards. Georgia is renowned for its local hospitality so travel with us on this cultural, historical and culinary adventure and discover this intriguing and stunning country where few outsiders tread.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrival In Tbilisi
Location: Tbilisi
Accommodation Name: Hotel KMM or similar
Arrive in Tbilisi and transfer to the hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure with no guided activities. Overnight Hotel KMM or similar. No meals included.
Day 2 : Tbilisi Sightseeing
Location: Tbilisi
Accommodation Name: Hotel KMM or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Today you will meet your guide for a tour briefing at 08:30am at the hotel. Afterwards, embark on a guided walking tour around old Tbilisi, taking in the fascinating history of this long-overlooked region. You spend the day discovering sites such as the Narikala citadel, Metekhi Temple and Sioni Cathedral. Visit Sarajishvili Brandy Factory and take the opportunity to try some high-quality Georgian brandy. After the brandy tasting, visit Rustaveli Avenue and Freedom Square before enjoying traditional Georgian food at a local restaurant. During the meal we will also try some local wines. Later this afternoon you can enjoy some leisure time to amble through the streets of old Tbilisi. Overnight Hotel KMM or similar. (BL)
Day 3 : Tbilisi – Sighnaghi – Kvareli
Location: Sighnaghi
Accommodation Name: Hotel Chateau Kvareli or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
After breakfast drive east towards Kakheti. Visit Bodbe Monastery of St. Nina. Then continue to the picturesque town of Sighnaghi and take a leisurely stroll through this beautiful town admiring the fabulous views towards the High Caucasus range in the distance. Continue to a local cellar producing artisanal natural wines according to ancient Georgian traditions, where tasting will be offered with light snack. After wine-tasting we travel to Kvareli. On arrival we check in to the hotel and spend some time at leisure. For dinner we visit a local farmer’s house. You will be invited into this welcoming local establishment to enjoy organic food and wine and take part in the famous Supra, a feast led by the Tamada (the toastmaster). The experience here will allow you to be immersed in the food and wine of Kakheti and learn about folklore and agricultural traditions. Overnight at Hotel Chateau Kvareli or similar (BD)
Day 4 : Kakheti Province Including Alaverdi Cathedral
Location: Kakheti Province
Accommodation Name: Hotel Chateau Kvareli or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
After breakfast we visit Nekresi Monastery, founded in the 4th Century and Gremi architectural complex of the 16th c. This will be followed by a visit to the family run winery where we enjoy tasting with light snacks. Continue to spectacular Alaverdi Cathedral 11th Century located in the shadow of the Greater Caucasus range. Also visit the Apiary located nearby Alaverdi Monastery where you will be able to taste natural local honey. Back to the hotel there will be some time at leisure before later visiting Winery Khareba, tasting some excellent wines and an opportunity to participate in traditional Georgian bread making and also the churchkhela making process (a traditional candle shaped candy). Here you will also enjoy dinner. Overnight at Hotel Chateau Kvareli or similar (BD)
Day 5 : Kvareli – Tsinandali Residence - Ikalto Monastery - Telavi – Kvareli
Location: Kakheti
Accommodation Name: Hotel Chateau Kvareli or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning, visit the lovely Tsinandali Residence and its attractive grounds dating from the 19th century. Then continue to Ikalto Monastery and its academy founded in the 11th Century, where viticulture was taught as well as theology and philosophy. We visit one small winery for lunch and wine tasting. Continue to Vardisubani and witness the ancient tradition of winemaking in Georgia recognised now by UNESCO as a significant intangible cultural heritage. We have a short sightseeing tour in Telavi, an important town in Kakheti region. Later return to the hotel. Dinner this evening will be at the hotel. Overnight at Hotel Chateau Kvareli or similar (BLD)
Day 6 : Kvareli – Giuaani Winery – Tbilisi
Location: Tbilisi
Accommodation Name: Hotel KMM or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
After breakfast we leave Kakheti region and return to Tbilisi. On the way visit Giuaani winery in the village of Manavi. Here we will enjoy lunch and wine tasting before arriving in Tbilisi where any remaining time will be at leisure as will be evening for you to sample one of the many restaurants showcasing Georgian and regional cuisine. Overnight at Hotel KMM or similar (BL)
Day 7 : Tbilisi – Mtskheta (Unesco) – Chateau Mukhrani – Tbilisi
Location: Mtskheta
Accommodation Name: Hotel KMM or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Drive to Mtskheta, the ancient capital of Georgia and a site of immense historical and cultural significance. Mtskheta is packed full of historical monuments and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the 11th century Svetitskhoveli Cathedral and the 6th century Jvari Monastery. Continue to Chateau Mukhrani, known for the famous residence and winery of Prince Mukran Bagrationi, where we have the opportunity to taste some of the wines and enjoy some local snacks for lunch. Return to Tbilisi where you evening is at leisure. Our local team will make recommendations for you to go out in Old Tbilisi. Overnight at Hotel KMM or similar (BL)
Day 8 : Tbilisi
Location: Tbilisi
Accommodation Name: Hotel KMM or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
After breakfast take the funicular for panoramic views of the city, followed by a visit to the National Museum (closed on Mondays) which will give excellent context to the experiences from the tour. The rest of the day is at leisure to relax, go shopping or enjoy a glass of wine at one of the many nice cafes or wine shops. There will be a farewell dinner this evening at an excellent local restaurant and there will be Georgian wines to enjoy. Overnight at Hotel KMM or similar (BD)
Day 9 : Tbilisi Departure
Location: Tbilisi
Meals Included: Breakfast
You will be transferred to the airport for your onward flight. (B)
What's Included
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Arrival and departure transfers in Tbilisi
Transfers to and from the airport in Tbilisi are included.
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Overland transport throughout with professional driver
All transportation within Georgia is provided with a professional driver.
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All accommodation
Accommodation throughout the tour is included.
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Services of English-speaking guide / tour leader
An English-speaking guide or tour leader will accompany the group.
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Meals as listed
Meals are provided as indicated in the itinerary (B – Breakfast, L – Lunch, D – Dinner).
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One glass of wine with mentioned lunches and dinners
A glass of wine is included with the meals mentioned in the itinerary.
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Wine tasting where mentioned
Wine tasting sessions as mentioned in the itinerary are included.
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Entrance fees for sites listed as part of the itinerary
Entrance fees to all sites listed in the itinerary are covered.
What's Not Included
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International flights
International flights are not included.
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Any airport taxes
Airport taxes are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.
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Visa – when required
Visa fees are not included and responsibility for obtaining visas lies with the traveler.
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Items of personal nature
Items of a personal nature such as souvenirs, laundry, and drinks not mentioned in the itinerary are not included.
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Tips (Discretionary)
Tips for guides and drivers are not included and are at the discretion of the traveler.
Mode of Transport
Travelers will be transported across Georgia in comfort, with airport transfers in Tbilisi and overland transport throughout the tour, all facilitated by a professional driver.
Accommodation
Guests will enjoy comfortable stays in hotels like Hotel KMM or similar, and Hotel Chateau Kvareli or similar, ensuring a restful night's sleep throughout their journey in Georgia.
Check out our Q&As
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Are meals included in the tour?
Meals are provided as indicated in the itinerary, with specific meals mentioned for certain days, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner on various days.
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What is not included in the tour?
The tour does not include international flights, any airport taxes, travel insurance, visa fees, items of personal nature like souvenirs and laundry, and discretionary tips for guides and drivers.
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What are the highlights of the tour?
The highlights of the tour include wandering through the old town of Tbilisi, learning about Georgian winemaking traditions and tasting wines, enjoying Georgian cooking masterclasses, sampling local dishes, and exploring historical sites like the Alaverdi Cathedral and Ikalto Monastery.
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What type of accommodations are included?
Accommodations throughout the tour are included, with specific mention of Hotel KMM or similar and Hotel Chateau Kvareli or similar for certain nights.
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What languages are the tours operated in?
The tours are operated with English-speaking guides or tour leaders.
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What is included in the tour?
The tour includes arrival and departure transfers in Tbilisi, overland transport with a professional driver, all accommodation, services of an English-speaking guide or tour leader, meals as listed, one glass of wine with mentioned lunches and dinners, wine tasting where mentioned, and entrance fees for sites listed in the itinerary.
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Is there a wine tasting included?
Yes, wine tasting sessions as mentioned in the itinerary are included.
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I’m a single traveller – will I feel out of place?
In a word, no. We get a good mix of single travellers and couples on our group tours.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
We are happy to allocate a twin room to two single same-sex travellers. If there is no one else to travel
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
No, sorry this is not possible.
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What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
We offer fully transferable group tour deposits (excluding any flight payments which are always non-refundable). You can change your group tour booking up to 10 weeks before departure and not lose your deposit – we will put your deposit towards any new group booking as long as you travel within 2 years of the original departure date.
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Can I alter the tour?
On our scheduled departures this isn’t possible, simply due to the fact that you’ll be travelling with other people. However, if you like the look of one of our advertised trips but want to tweak it slightly, then we can offer tailor made itineraries just for you, to accommodate your specific requirements.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
There are no hard and fast rules about what type of people travel on Undiscovered Destinations’ group tours – we attract people from all ages, nationalities and walks of life. What you are likely to find though is that travellers share a similar outlook about travel. We tend to attract people with a curiosity about the lesser visited corners of our planet.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
We have been going since 2004.
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Free Date Changes
Undiscovered Destinations allows you to make 2 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 70 days before the start of the tour.
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Undiscovered Destinations allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform undiscovered destinations, 70 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
Undiscovered Destinations requires a minimum deposit of 350 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of undiscovered destinations charges.
Up to 71 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 40% of booking price.
At 34 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.
At 20 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.
At 7 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.