October 2024
Nestled in the picturesque valley of the Mtkvari River, Tbilisi, has it going on.
Its diverse architecture features a blend of medieval, classical, and modern styles, with charming cobblestone streets, traditional wooden balconies, and futuristic glass structures.
The city is surrounded by rolling hills and ancient fortresses, like the Narikala Fortress, offering panoramic views.
As great as Tbilisi is, it was wonderful to get out the mountains of Stepantsminda. Formerly known as Kazbegi, this place is a picturesque mountain town in northeastern Georgia, located in the Mtskheta-Mtianeti region. Nestled in the Greater Caucasus Mountains at an elevation of about 1,740 meters (5,710 feet), it is famous for its stunning natural scenery and as a gateway to Mount Kazbek, one of Georgia’s highest peaks. The town is best known for the iconic Gergeti Trinity Church, which sits dramatically on a hilltop overlooking Stepantsminda, with the towering peak of Mount Kazbek in the background. Popular among hikers and nature lovers, Stepantsminda offers various outdoor activities, including trekking, mountaineering, and exploring the surrounding valleys and waterfalls.
We stayed in a hotel in the capital and a mountain hut AirBnB in Stepantsminda.
