Kakheti: Georgia's Premier Wine Region
Discover Kakheti, Georgia: a historic wine region with stunning landscapes, ancient monasteries, and unparalleled cultural experiences.
Kakheti, the easternmost region of Georgia, is celebrated as the cradle of Georgian wine culture. Rolling vineyards, ancient monasteries, and charming towns dot the landscape, offering a rich tapestry of history, culture, and exquisite wines made in traditional qvevri.
A brief summary to Kakheti
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Local tips
- Visit during the harvest season (September-October) to witness traditional wine production and participate in the grape harvest festival.
- Explore family-run maranis (wine cellars) for intimate and memorable wine tasting experiences.
- Hire a car or driver to explore the region's scattered attractions, including remote monasteries and vineyards.
- Stay overnight in Sighnaghi or Telavi to fully experience the region's charm and enjoy the local cuisine.
- Try Kakhetian specialty dishes like mtsvadi (grilled meat), chakapuli (stew), and churchkhela (candle-shaped candy).
Getting There
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Car
From Tbilisi, take the Kakheti Highway (E60) towards Telavi. The drive is approximately 1.5-2 hours. Alternatively, take the newer route via the Gombori Pass (Highway 38), which offers scenic views but can be slower due to winding roads. Car rentals are available in Tbilisi, with prices starting from $35 USD per day. Fuel costs for the round trip will be approximately $15-20 USD. Parking is generally available in most towns and at major attractions, with hourly rates around 1-2 GEL.
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Public Transport
Take a marshrutka (minibus) from Tbilisi's Samgori Metro Station to Telavi. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and costs around 12 GEL. Marshrutkas depart frequently throughout the day, with the first one leaving around 9 AM and the last one around 6 PM. From Telavi, you can take local taxis or other marshrutkas to reach various destinations within Kakheti. A taxi ride from Telavi to Sighnaghi will cost approximately 20-30 GEL.