The most popular ski resorts in Georgia. Visit the resort of Bakuriani.

History of the resort

In the 19th century, after Borjomi mineral water gained popularity due to its unique healing properties, many vacationers from all over the Russian Empire began to come to the Borjomi Gorge. It was at this time that a narrow-gauge railway was built in the gorge (1898-1901), which connected Borjomi with Bakuriani and completely changed the life of the local settlements. This road is still in use today. During the construction process, it became necessary to build a bridge across the Tsemistskali River, which would connect Bakuriani with the Tsagveri resort. Mikhail Romanov entrusted the project of this bridge to the French architect Alexandre Gustav Eiffel. The bridge, designed according to Eiffel's design, was brought to Georgia and installed in 1902.

Today, despite the passage of time, the narrow gauge railway is still in operation and delights visitors with its authentic charm. A trip on this historic railway offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the past and enjoy the panoramic views before your eyes.

With the aim of introducing and acclimatizing plants of the high mountain Caucasus, a botanical garden was founded in 1910 on the western slope of Mount Kokhtagora. It was the director of the botanical garden, Kozlovsky, who received the first skiers who arrived in Bakuriani. Later, the son of the outstanding Georgian public figure Niko Nikoladze, Georgiy Nikoladze, a man with a European education who made a great contribution to the development of big-time sports, began to popularize winter sports and the development of the slopes of Bakuriani.

In the 30s of the last century, a ski base was already functioning in Bakuriani. The first ski slope opened in 1932. Children's sanatoriums have opened. Although the date of birth of the ski center in Bakuriani is considered to be 1935, when students of the Transcaucasian Industrial Institute (currently Tbilisi Technical University) held training camps here. Then other students joined them. A few years later, two 45- and 75-meter springboards were built. We built a cable car. We laid out trails for professional and beginner skiers.

A ski lift was built here in the 1960s, allowing even more people to enjoy winter sports. During the Soviet period, various types of winter sports competitions were held in Bakuriani and the USSR Olympic teams held training camps. Guests, fascinated by the landscape and nature of Bakuriani, called this resort the capital of Soviet skiing" and "the Soviet Davos."

In 2005, the resort sought rights to host the 2014 Winter Olympics.

Over the past decades, the resort has become not only attractive for vacationers, but also for professional athletes. It is often chosen to host international competitions in alpine skiing, ski jumping and snowboarding. Hikers can explore scenic trails surrounded by mountains and forests. More extreme tourists can try mountain biking or ride ATVs over rough terrain.

In 2018, at the 51st Congress of the International Ski Federation (FIS), it was announced that Bakuriani, a picturesque resort in Georgia, would host the 2023 Freestyle Ski, Snowboard and Freeski World Championships. This historic decision, taken under the leadership of then FIS President Gian Franco Kasper, underscores the importance of Georgia in global winter sport.

From February 19 to March 5, 2023, Bakuriani welcomed participants and spectators to this significant event. The championships were the first world winter sports tournament ever to be held in Georgia, highlighting the country's growing reputation as an attractive winter sports destination. In the lead-up to the championships, with the support of the MTA, Bakuriani made significant infrastructure improvements, including the addition of three new lifts to its ski slopes.

Ski resort Bakuriani

The Bakuriani resort is perfect for a family holiday, when you can teach children the basics of skiing, and for a more extreme holiday: the highest point of ascent is 2850 m above sea level, the length of the slopes is 5 km, there are also three jumps with a height of 45, 70 and 90 m and a luge track 1350 m long. For children and beginners there is a slope with an angle of 10–12 degrees. In addition, this resort is ideal for fans of ski mountaineering (traversing a mountain route by skiing and walking, and then skiing down without a piste), while skiers will appreciate the mountain and cross-country trails. In addition to ski slopes, Bakuriani has a park and an ice skating rink, as well as places for snowmobiling, sledding, horse-drawn carriages and ATVs.

For lovers of active recreation, the resort offers a variety of ski slopes suitable for different skill levels. No matter your experience, you can find trails here that will suit your skills and preferences. Mountain landscapes covered with fresh snow create a breathtaking atmosphere for everyone who wants to enjoy speed and adrenaline. The majestic coniferous forests and alpine meadows surrounding this resort offer the opportunity for walks and hikes, where you can enjoy the beauty of nature and the air enriched with phytoncides of coniferous trees.

Climate and weather

Bakuriani, located in the subtropical zone, is famous for its mild climate. Winters here are cold and snowy, with the average temperature in January being around -7C. The snow cover is stable and exceeds 50 centimeters, covering five months of the year. Such climatic conditions made the village an important center for the development of skiing in Georgia. In summer, the average temperature reaches +15C, and the annual precipitation does not exceed 750 mm, a third of which falls in the form of snow. These features distinguish Bakuriani from other mountain resorts in Georgia.

When does the season start?

The season in Bakuriani lasts from November to March, starting in early December and ending at the end of March. Winter here is characterized by sunny and calm weather, while the height of the snow cover can reach 64 centimeters. Summers in the region are hot, creating ideal conditions for a comfortable holiday. However, the most favorable period for visiting the resort is the end of winter (February).

Climatic resort Bakuriani

Bakuriani, with its rich heritage and varied opportunities, offers much more than just ski slopes. This resort attracts tourists with its unique combination of skiing and healing properties, making it a destination for those seeking recuperation and relaxation surrounded by magnificent nature. One of the main features of this resort is the presence of many children's sanatoriums specializing in the treatment of children with various diseases. These sanatoriums offer professional medical care and special programs for children, providing them with a comfortable stay and treatment.

Where is?

Bakuriani is a resort village located at an altitude of 1700 meters above sea level. It is uniquely located in the volcanic depression of the same name, surrounded by mixed and coniferous forests. These forests give Bakuriani a special beauty and make it attractive for recreation and tourism. In the vicinity of the village you can observe a variety of landscapes, including dark coniferous-beech forests and subalpine meadows.

Bakuriani, famous for its ski slopes and favorable climate, is located in the Borjomi Gorge, located on the northern slope of the Trialeti ridge. This resort is part of the Borjomi municipality in the Samtskhe-Javakheti region. The nearest city of Borjomi, famous for its mineral springs, is located at a distance of 86 km. The capital of Georgia, Tbilisi, is located about 180 km from Bakuriani, and Batumi is about 285 km.

How to get to Bakuriani?

From Tbilisi:

1. Public transport: Buses and minibuses from Tbilisi to Bakuriani depart from the Didube Central Bus Station, next to the Didube metro station. Flights start at 6:30 am, with the last departure around 6:00 pm. Travel time is about 3 hours, cost is 15 GEL.
2. Taxi: Travel time is about 2 hours. Drivers often talk about local attractions.
3. Car rental: You can rent a car at the airport. A passport and international driving license are required. The journey follows the E60 highway and takes approximately 2.5 hours in favorable weather conditions.
4. Train: Departure of an electric train from the Tbilisi railway station to the Black Cuckoo station, then transfer to a train along a single-track track. The trip takes over 4 hours but offers scenic views.
5. Transfer: Convenient, but more expensive.

From Batumi:

1. Minibus: Direct services depart from the old bus station daily from December 25 to March and August. Travel time is 5-6 hours, cost is 25 GEL.
2. Alternative route: First, get to Khashuri by any minibus in the direction of Tbilisi, then change to a minibus to Borjomi and then to Bakuriani. This option offers flexibility in scheduling and costs the same as a direct flight.
3. Transfer: The most convenient option, but quite expensive.

From Borjomi:

1. Narrow gauge tram: This is a unique way of transportation, the tram runs twice a day - at 7:15 and 10:55. Ticket price is 2 GEL. The trip provides a unique experience and opportunity to enjoy the local scenery.
2. Minibus: Flights depart every half hour, providing convenience and flexibility in planning your trip.
3. Taxi: Since the distance from Borjomi to Bakuriani is only 26 km, you can use a taxi. This is a fast and convenient option, the cost of the trip will be approximately 20-30 GEL.

Where to stay?

The ski resort of Bakuriani in Georgia, which relies mainly on tourism, has a wide range of accommodation for holidaymakers. This includes both luxury hotels of the European level, with prices ranging from 250-450 GEL per night, as well as more affordable options, such as guesthouses and small hotels offering accommodation for about 50 GEL per day. Almost every second house in the village is equipped as a guesthouse or mini-hotel, offering cozy rooms with the necessary amenities.

Most hotels and guest houses in Bakuriani provide three meals a day, including Georgian national dishes. While in larger hotels, in addition to additional services such as a bar, swimming pool, massage and gym, only breakfast is usually included.

For the convenience of tourists, accommodation in Bakuriani can be booked in advance through booking sites such as Booking, allowing you to choose an option suitable for any budget and preferences.

Ski slopes and lifts

Bakuriani, one of Georgia's premium ski resorts, offers a variety of slopes for skiers of all levels. The resort has the famous Didveli, Crystal, Tatra, Mitarbi and Kokhta tracks, as well as a specialized 25-meter track for beginners. The total length of the ski slopes is about 30 kilometers, with a maximum slope height of 2700 meters above sea level.

The slopes are equipped with cafes and equipment rental points, and instructor services are also available. Particularly noteworthy is the Didveli piste on Mount Sakvelo, intended for experienced skiers due to its sharp turns and significant slope. From the top station of this route there is a magnificent view of the village and its surroundings.

In addition to traditional ski slopes, Bakuriani has a 1,348-meter-long toboggan run and a special cross-country skiing area, located 10 km from the village center. The lower station on Mount Kokhta is located at an altitude of 1726 meters, providing a variety of elevation changes from 1780 to 2670 meters, which makes the resort attractive for both beginners and professional skiers.

Route map

Bakuriani, located in Georgia, has a unique feature in the organization of its ski slopes. The resort offers stepped descents where the level of difficulty gradually increases with altitude. This classification allows each skier to choose the appropriate level of difficulty, ensuring safety and pleasure from skiing, gradually moving from simple to more difficult routes.

The resort has trails of various difficulty levels, marked with standard colors: green for beginners, blue for intermediate skiers, red for more experienced skiers and black trails for professionals.

Didveli

The Didveli track in Bakuriani is one of the most popular among skiers due to its good equipment and versatility. It is suitable for both beginners and experienced skiers, providing unique skiing opportunities. The ski lift on the Didveli track is divided into three levels: the first level, 2,500 meters long, is served by cabins, the second level by a seated lift, and the third by rope tows.

The total length of the first two levels is 3200 meters, while all three levels together are 4000 meters long. It is important to note that the second and third levels of the trail are designed for more experienced skiers, so beginners should be careful when choosing a level to ski. Despite this, each level offers picturesque landscapes that everyone should see.

The trails are illuminated in the evening, allowing you to ski until 10 pm. Access to the ski lifts is via magnetic cards purchased at the ticket office. The uniqueness of the cards is that the same card is valid for all levels of the Didveli track, as well as on the Kokhta and Mitarbi tracks.

At each station of the Didveli route there is a cafe offering a variety of delicacies and homemade mulled wine. On the first level there is also a children's playground and a specialized luge track called Toboggan, the cost of which is 10 GEL. This makes the Didveli slope not only a skiing destination, but also an entertainment center for the whole family.

Crystal

The Crystal piste, located next to Didveli within the Crystal residential complex, is a great place for skiing and snowboarding. The length of the slope is 2056 meters and is marked as a medium level of difficulty (blue category), making it accessible to skiers and snowboarders who feel confident on the slope. However, there are several branches on the route that offer more challenging sections for professionals.

To climb to the top of the Crystal route, closed cabins are used that can accommodate up to 6 people, with an ascent time of about 4 minutes. Not far from the cabins is a rope tow that serves a small beginner run where coaches help beginners learn the basics of skiing. Next to it there is a special lift for sleds and cheesecakes.

At the bottom station of the Crystal highway there is a cozy cafe with a fireplace, offering delicious food. For children, there is a playground with carousels and a mini-town with a trampoline and swings, where parents can leave their kids under supervision for several hours.

The payment system in Crystal is carried out through magnetic cards, which are valid only on this route. Visitors have access to both one-time lifts and all-day passes. In addition, in the central building of the complex there is a rental of skis, snowboards and the necessary equipment, as well as a replenishment point for magnetic cards.

Tatra

The Tatra piste is a two-level ski slope offering a unique skiing experience for both beginners and more confident skiers. The first level of the track is 500 meters long, while the second level extends over 1800 meters. A special feature of the Tatra is its route passing through a picturesque forest, which adds to the riding experience.

There are two rope tows on the route, the cost of which is 2 GEL. Unlike some other slopes, Tatra does not offer day passes, which means paying for each climb separately.

The cost of renting skis for the whole day ranges between 35 and 40 GEL, which makes it affordable for most visitors. Instructor services, as on other slopes of the resort, cost approximately 50-60 GEL per hour. At the same time, there is the possibility of bargaining, which may be attractive to those looking for more favorable conditions. Overall, Tatra offers fun and accessible skiing in a unique natural environment.

Kokhta

Kokhta is a two-level ski slope that is well suited for both beginners and advanced skiers. The first level of the trail is 1400 meters long and is optimal for beginners due to its gentle difficulty. The second level, intended for more experienced skiers, extends to 2000 meters and offers more challenging skiing conditions.

The Kokhta is equipped with a seated lift, which provides convenient and quick access to all levels of the track. In terms of price, comfort and equipment, this route is comparable to the Didveli route, although it is a little shorter. This makes Kokhta an excellent choice for skiers looking for variety in skiing conditions at the Bakurian resort. With terrain suitable for a variety of skill levels, Kokhta is an attractive destination for both those just starting out in skiing and more experienced skiers looking for a new challenge.

25-meter

25-meter is a small ski run in the Bakuriani resort, designed specifically for beginners and beginners. This slope is ideal for learning the basics of skiing and snowboarding due to its accessibility and safety. The track is usually crowded, so there are five lifts here, almost identical in length.

Of these five lifts, three are drag lifts, the cost of which is 1 GEL, and the other two are seated, with a cost of 2 GEL per lift. In addition, the 25-meter track has a special sled lift, which is popular with both children and adults.

In general, services on the 25-meter course are slightly cheaper compared to other routes in the resort. There are more instructors and a wide selection of skis and sleds available for rental. The cost of training with an instructor for skiing is 50 GEL per hour, and for snowboarding - 60 GEL per hour. Ski rental will cost 10 GEL per hour or 25-30 GEL for the whole day. Snowboards can be rented for 15 GEL per hour or 35 GEL per day. Renting a sled costs 10 GEL per hour or 20-25 GEL for the whole day, making the 25-meter course an attractive place for beginners and families with children.

Mitarbi

The Mitarbi slope in Bakuriani, opened in 2016, is a newly revitalized ski route with a rich history. This track, which had a long period of closure for 30 years, has been carefully updated and modernly equipped, similar to the famous Didveli track. It is equipped with a two-level open lift, making it accessible to experienced skiers.

From the first impressions and reviews of those who have already tried Mitarbi, it becomes clear that the track is intended for professionals, and not for beginners or amateurs. The complexity of the track and its technical characteristics require a certain level of skill and experience.

The cost of a ski pass to Mitarbi is the same as to Didveli. The 3.5 kilometer long route leads to the highest point at an altitude of 2300 meters above sea level. From the tops of the route there are breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and neighboring Tatra, which makes Mitarbi not only a place for skiing, but also a great point for admiring the mountain scenery. A visit to this route will offer not only sporting challenges for professionals, but also an unforgettable experience of the beauty of nature.

Prices

Bakuriani offers a wide range of services at affordable prices, which makes the resort attractive to tourists of all categories. The average cost of accommodation in four-star hotels with buffet meals is 250 GEL per night for two, which is a very reasonable price for an offer of this level. Accommodation options also include the private sector, where the cost of a room is about 100 GEL.

In addition, prices for lift tickets and rental of necessary ski equipment are also quite reasonable, making the resort accessible to a wide range of visitors.

Ski pass

At the Bakuriani ski resort, access to lifts, including double chairlifts, rope tows and the new Tatra cable car, is provided through the purchase of a ski pass. These tickets, which are magnetic keys, allow visitors to use the lifts for a certain period of time. The price of the ski pass varies depending on the number of lifts and the season.

Here are the approximate prices for ski passes in Bakuriani:

• A one-time lift will cost 10 GEL.
• Three lifts cost 21 GEL.
• A day pass for adults is offered at a price of 35 to 40 GEL, and for children - from 20 to 25 GEL. The day pass is valid from 10:00 to 17:00 and the price may vary depending on the season.
• The evening pass, which is valid from 17:00 to 21:30, costs 25 GEL.

These varied pricing options allow skiers to choose the right type of pass for their needs and budget. The availability of both one-time lifts and day and evening passes makes visiting the resort convenient for all categories of guests, from casual visitors to those who plan to spend the whole day on the slopes.

Ski and snowboard rental

On the territory of the Bakuriani ski resort there are many shops offering rental and sale of ski equipment and accessories. Most of these shops are located near the lower lift stations, making them easily accessible to resort visitors.

Equipment rental prices vary depending on location and availability. For example, ski rental on the Didveli slope costs 10 GEL per hour or 35 GEL for the whole day. Snowboards can be rented for 40-45 GEL per day. Instructor services cost approximately 50-60 GEL, depending on the specialist chosen.

The 25-metrovka station offers some of the lowest rental prices in Bakuriani:

• Ski rental costs 10-30 GEL per day.
• You can rent a snowboard for 40-50 GEL per day.
• Sleighs will cost 5-10 GEL per hour.

For those who plan to ride for several days in a row, discounts are available for long-term rentals. It is recommended to check the current prices for equipment rental on the official website of the Bakuriani ski resort in order to obtain the most accurate and up-to-date information. This will help you plan your expenses at the resort and choose the most suitable rental option.

Off-Piste Activities

Bakuriani offers a variety of off-ski activities, making it an ideal holiday destination for both active winter sports enthusiasts and those who prefer more relaxing activities.

1. Ice Skating and Sleigh Riding: Visitors can enjoy ice skating at the local skating rink located in the central park. Luge and cheesecake slopes are also available, ideal for both adults and children.
2. Children's entertainment: For the youngest guests of the resort there is a Children's ski school and specially equipped ski areas. Didveli Park and Joy Land playground are open all year round, offering entertainment for the little ones.
3. Horseback riding and snowmobiling: Tourists can ride horses in and around the village or go on an exciting snowmobiling trek through the mountains.
4. Visit to the Borjomi resort: Located near Bakuriani, the Borjomi resort offers walks in a local park with springs of healing mineral water and hot water pools.
5. Additional entertainment: In Bakuriani Park you can experience extreme sports on steep jumps or spend time at the skating rink, as well as organize horseback riding or snowmobile excursions.

What to see in the vicinity of Bakuriani?

The surrounding area of Bakuriani offers many interesting places to visit, each of which allows you to dive deeper into the culture, history and nature of Georgia:

1. Borjomi National Park: Famous for its healing mineral waters, the park offers visitors the opportunity to taste water directly from an underground geyser. There are also pools with hot Borjomi water, ideal for a relaxing swim.
2. Botanical Garden in Bakuriani: Founded at the beginning of the 20th century, this garden contains up to 1,500 species of plants, including alpine, mountain and exotic species. This is a great place to walk and explore the flora of the region.
3. Tskhratskaro Pass: Offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Caucasus Range and intermountain plains. The pass is the gateway to Javakheti, famous for its volcanic highlands.
4. Vardzia Cave Monastery: This is a unique cave city of the 12th century, which is a whole complex of rock-cut rooms, including temples, monastic cells and public spaces.
5. Timotesubani Temple: Dating back to the 11th century, it is an important monument of Georgian architecture.
6. Lake Tabatskuri: A picturesque lake among the mountains, ideal for picnics and walks.
7. Bakurianitskali Gorge: A wonderful place for nature lovers and hiking.
8. Borjomi town and narrow gauge railway: Offers unique scenery and the opportunity to visit the famous resort town.

These places allow tourists vacationing in Bakuriani to experience the unique culture and nature of Georgia, offering a wide range of activities and attractions.