Samtskhe-Javakheti

Samtskhe-Javakheti is one of the most mysterious and historically rich regions of Georgia. Here you will find ancient rock-hewn cities, volcanic lakes, medieval fortresses, and balneological resorts. This area is one of the most important hubs of Georgian history, the cradle of Shota Rustaveli's poetry, and the entry point of Saint Nino into Georgia.

Rock-Hewn Wonders

• Vardzia: A 12th-13th-century rock-hewn city and monastic complex, a symbol of the era of Queen Tamar. It comprises hundreds of caves, secret tunnels, and a church with unique frescoes.
• Vani Caves (Vanis Kvabebi): An 8th-century rock monastery in the Mtkvari Valley, pre-dating Vardzia, notable for its complex labyrinths.

Historical Fortresses

• Rabati Fortress: An impressive 9th-century fortress in Akhaltsikhe, combining Georgian, Ottoman, and European architecture. It houses a museum, a mosque, a church, and a synagogue.
• Khertvisi Fortress: One of the most powerful and striking medieval fortresses built on an inaccessible cliff at the confluence of the Mtkvari and Paravani rivers.

Resorts and Nature

• Borjomi: A world-famous balneological resort with its healing mineral waters. Here you can stroll in the historic Borjomi Park and bathe in open-air sulfur pools.
• Bakuriani: A leading ski resort, especially popular for family vacations. It hosts world-class winter sports competitions.
• Javakheti Volcanic Plateau: Georgia's "Little Iceland," known for its alpine lakes (Paravani, Tabatskuri) and abundance of migratory birds.

Meskhetian Cuisine

• Apokhti Khinkali and Tenili Cheese: The pearls of Meskhetian culinary art. Khinkali made from dried meat and thread-like Tenili cheese prepared with a unique technology and stored in sheepskin.
• Meskhetian Kada and Bakmazi: Delicious traditional pastries and natural sweets made from mulberries.