What is there to see and do in Svaneti?
Mestia, Ushguli, Svan towers, glaciers and mountain lakes.
Short answer
In Svaneti, see Mestia with its Svan towers and Museum of History and Ethnography, hike to the Koruldi lakes or ride the Hatsvali cable car, and walk to the Chalaadi glacier. Don't miss Ushguli, a village of ancient towers and Lamaria church below Shkhara, Georgia's highest mountain. Allow at least 3-4 days for Svaneti.
Why
- Svan towers were built to protect families, and many are about a thousand years old.
- Shkhara, about 5,200 metres, is Georgia's highest peak.
- In winter, Svaneti has ski resorts at Hatsvali and Tetnuldi.
Details
Ushguli is reached from Mestia by 4x4, about 2 hours. In summer the multi-day Mestia-Ushguli trek with village homestays is popular.
Tip
Bring cash, as cards aren't accepted everywhere in Ushguli and small villages.
What may differ
Mountain weather changes fast and roads may close in winter, so plan a spare day.
People also ask
- What to see in Svaneti?
Sources
Information checked on October 3, 2026.
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