Mestia, Georgia
Things to Do and Sightseeing Tours in Mestia
Lost among the snowy ridges of the Caucasus, Mestia is the heart of Svaneti, a rugged and distinctive region of Georgia where ancient traditions are carefully passed down from generation to generation. This small village, surrounded by majestic mountains, feels like a legend brought to life. The austere Svan towers, standing for centuries, bear witness to a past filled with fierce raids, clan wars, and the heroic resistance of the highlanders.
Reaching Mestia is an adventure in itself. The winding road takes travelers through narrow gorges, past rushing mountain rivers and towering cliffs that leave you breathless. As you ascend higher into the mountains, the scenery becomes even more striking - bizarre peaks, lush green rock formations, and steep, snow-covered slopes. The journey demands time and effort, but the road, lined with breathtaking views, becomes an unforgettable part of the experience. All that remains is to choose the path that will lead you to this extraordinary land.
How to Get to Mestia
There are several ways to reach Mestia: by plane, bus, shuttle bus, or private transportation.
Plane
Vanilla Sky operates regular flights on small aircraft from Tbilisi to Mestia. The journey takes about one hour. However, flights are subject to weather conditions and may be canceled. Tsaritsa Tamara Airport is located 2 kilometers from the center of Mestia, from where you can reach the town by taxi or on foot.
Bus and Marshrutkas (Shuttle bus)
- From Tbilisi: Marshrutkas depart from Didube Station early in the morning. Travel time is approximately 8-9 hours.
- From Kutaisi: Marshrutkas run from the main bus station and Kutaisi Airport. The journey takes around 5-6 hours.
- From Zugdidi: This is the most convenient and frequent route. The Tbilisi-Zugdidi train arrives in the morning, and shuttle buses to Mestia are available right outside the station. Travel time is about 4-5 hours.
By Car
The road to Mestia is a scenic serpentine route through gorges and mountain passes. The distances are approximately:
- From Tbilisi – 460 km
- From Kutaisi – 230 km
- From Zugdidi – 130 km
A four-wheel-drive vehicle is recommended, especially in winter when snowfall and icy conditions are possible.
By Train
A daily night train runs from Tbilisi to Zugdidi, arriving early in the morning. From there, you can continue to Mestia by shuttle bus or by renting a car.
When planning your trip, consider the season, weather conditions, and transportation schedules, as some services may be canceled during winter.
Mestia Attractions
The village of Mestia and its surroundings are filled with fascinating landmarks that should not be missed when traveling through Svaneti.
Svan Towers
The majestic stone Svan towers, true fortress-houses where residents sought refuge during enemy raids, are rightfully considered the symbol of this high-mountain settlement. These structures were designed to store food supplies for prolonged sieges. Additionally, they served as signal beacons - fires were lit on their roofs to warn neighboring settlements of approaching danger. Built next to dwellings, the towers also reflected a family's wealth and social status.
Museum of History and Ethnography
Mestia is the cultural center of Svaneti, preserving the rich history of a people who lived in the solitude of the high mountains for centuries, developing unique traditions, customs, and their own language. A visit to the Museum of History and Ethnography offers a deep dive into Svan culture, as the museum holds a remarkable collection of artifacts. Its walls house over four thousand unique exhibits, ranging from bronze relics to ancient manuscripts. Visitors can see intricately carved wooden chests, massive 19th-century tables, sacred Svan icons, ornate tiaras, ancient coins, military weapons, and even decorated Colchian axes. The region's remote location helped preserve these invaluable historical treasures, making the museum an essential resource for understanding Svan life and heritage. The best way to explore this collection is by booking a guided tour, where each exhibit’s story is brought to life.
Address: 7 Ioseliani Street, Mestia.
House-Museum of Mikhail Khergiani
Another intriguing site is the House-Museum of Mikhail Khergiani, dedicated to the legendary Soviet mountaineer whose life was inseparably linked with the conquest of mountain peaks. The museum showcases authentic furniture, personal belongings, and family relics that accompanied Khergiani throughout his journey. Among the most touching exhibits is an ancient suspended cradle where the future climber was once rocked. A special section of the museum is devoted to the history of Soviet mountaineering, featuring unique artifacts that illustrate the evolution of this extreme sport in the USSR. Adding to the historical ambiance is the majestic Svan tower located beside Khergiani’s house, completing the immersive experience.
Address: 34 Mikhail Khergiani Street, Mestia.
Attractions in the Vicinity of Mestia
For those seeking adventure, Mestia offers routes that immerse travelers in the heart of wild nature.
Mount Ushba
Mount Ushba is a legendary twin-peaked summit that captivates with its unapproachable beauty and formidable character. Its sharp ridges, rising to 4,710 meters above sea level, attract climbers from around the world, yet only a select few dare to challenge its steep slopes and treacherous ice fields. The journey to this mountain stronghold begins in the village of Mazeri, located within the Becho municipality. From here, trails lead not only toward the peaks themselves but also to the Ushba Glacier. The ascent to Ushba is a true test, reserved for the most skilled mountaineers. For unprepared adventurers, attempting to reach its summit can turn into a perilous encounter with the unpredictable forces of nature.
Chalaadi Glacier
Located 10 kilometers from Mestia, Chalaadi Glacier is a popular destination for hiking enthusiasts. The first part of the route can be covered by car, but the rest must be completed on foot. A suspension bridge over a rushing mountain river leads into the cool shade of the forest, revealing breathtaking views of sheer cliffs and wild, cascading streams. At the end of the trail, a spectacular sight awaits – an immense glacier descending from thousands of meters above.
Koruldi Lakes
Another picturesque destination is Koruldi Lakes. Though small in size, they are surrounded by vast alpine meadows where herds of cows graze against the backdrop of snow-capped peaks. Climbing to an altitude of over 2,700 meters rewards travelers with a sweeping panoramic view, stretching from Mount Ushba to the distant peaks of the Greater Caucasus Range.
Ushguli
Finally, those looking to experience the unique atmosphere of Svaneti should visit the ancient village of Ushguli. Located 46 kilometers from Mestia, it holds the title of the highest permanently inhabited village in Europe. Among the dozens of ancient Svan towers that once protected local families, visitors can truly sense the passage of time and the enduring spirit of the region.
Mestia is a land where age-old traditions and the untouched beauty of nature merge into one. Visitors have the chance to immerse themselves in the history of the Georgian highlands, take in mesmerizing mountain panoramas, and, of course, savor the unique flavors of local cuisine.
Food to Try in Mestia – Svan Cuisine
In the heart of Mestia, travelers can unwind in cozy restaurants and cafes that serve traditional Svan cuisine.
Kubdari
The culinary pride of the region is kubdari, a golden-brown flatbread filled with juicy, finely chopped beef mixed with onions, garlic, and dried herbs. A fragrant blend of spices gives kubdari its rich, bold flavor, while a final coating of melted butter enhances the pastry with a delicate, creamy finish.
Chvishtari
Equally popular are chvishtari – golden cornmeal patties with a thick, savory cheese filling. Traditionally made with suluguni, the cheese melts under the heat, infusing each bite with a delicate, buttery taste. Crispy on the outside and surprisingly soft inside, these hearty patties are highly satisfying – just a couple are enough to curb even the strongest hunger.
Tashmidjabi
Another staple of Svan cuisine is tashmidjabi, a thick mashed potato dish with a uniquely elastic texture. This consistency is achieved by carefully blending hot milk, butter, and melted suluguni while stirring continuously. The result is a delightfully stretchy dish that practically pulls with the spoon. Tashmidjabi is best enjoyed piping hot, accompanied by fresh puri bread.
Svan Salt
A true hallmark of the region is Svan salt, a fragrant blend of dried herbs and spices that gives it a distinctive amber hue and deep, aromatic flavor. This versatile seasoning is a perfect addition to meat dishes, vegetables, and savory baked goods. Before leaving Mestia, be sure to take home a few packets – this unique blend will allow you to recreate the flavors of Svan cuisine no matter where you are.