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Koruldi Ridge: A Svaneti Hiking Highlight

Hike to Koruldi Ridge for breathtaking Caucasus views. A challenging trek with rewarding panoramas of Mount Ushba and the Svaneti region.

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Koruldi Ridge, near Mestia, Georgia, offers stunning panoramic views of the Caucasus Mountains and the iconic Mount Ushba. Reachable by hiking or 4x4, it's a challenging but rewarding trek through alpine meadows to the serene Koruldi Lakes, continuing to the ridge for even more breathtaking vistas.

A brief summary to Koruldi Ridge

  • 3MXR+HX7, Mestia, GE

Local tips

  • Start early! The hike to Koruldi Ridge is long and strenuous, so begin your trek as early as possible to avoid the midday sun and allow ample time for rest stops.
  • Check the weather forecast. Mountain weather can change rapidly. Ensure a clear day for the best views and to avoid hazardous conditions.
  • Wear appropriate footwear. Sturdy hiking boots are essential for the rocky and uneven terrain.
  • Bring plenty of water and snacks. The hike is demanding, and there are limited opportunities to resupply along the way.
  • Consider a 4x4 option. If hiking the entire distance is too challenging, hire a jeep to reach the Koruldi Lakes and then hike to the ridge.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Seti Square in Mestia, head east towards the Old House Hotel. The cobblestone road gradually ascends, becoming steeper as you approach the trailhead. Follow the signs towards Koruldi Lakes, passing through a wooded area. The initial climb to the Mestia Cross takes approximately 2 hours. From the cross, continue along the dirt track to Koruldi Lakes, another 2-2.5 hours. The final ascent to Koruldi Ridge involves a steep climb over loose stones. Consider that the total hike from Mestia to the lakes can take 4-4.5 hours. * Cost: Free (hiking).

  • 4x4 Vehicle

    Hire a local 4x4 from Mestia to drive up to Koruldi Lakes. Negotiate the price beforehand, as it can vary. The journey is rough and can be scary for some, but it significantly shortens the hiking distance. From the lakes, you can hike to the ridge. * Cost: Approximately 80-150 GEL for a one-way ride to the cross, prices are negotiable. A private tour to Koruldi Lakes starts from 220 GEL.

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Discover more about Koruldi Ridge

Koruldi Ridge, rising above Mestia in Georgia's Svaneti region, is a magnet for hikers seeking unparalleled views of the Caucasus Mountains. The adventure begins in Mestia, a town known for its medieval Svan towers and stunning natural setting. The most popular route involves a trek to the Koruldi Lakes, a group of alpine lakes reflecting the surrounding peaks, and then onward to the ridge itself for even more expansive panoramas. The hike from Mestia to Koruldi Ridge is demanding, gaining significant elevation. The initial ascent leads to a viewpoint marked by a cross, offering a place to rest and enjoy views back towards Mestia. From there, the trail continues to the Koruldi Lakes, traversing a mix of terrain from forests to open alpine valleys. While the lakes themselves can be somewhat underwhelming, their reflective surfaces create stunning visuals when the weather is calm. For those continuing to the ridge, the climb becomes steeper and more challenging, often over loose stones. The reward, however, is a breathtaking 360-degree view, including the majestic Mount Ushba. The ridge offers several vantage points, each providing unique perspectives on the surrounding landscape. Hiking to Koruldi Ridge requires a good level of fitness and proper gear, but the experience is well worth the effort. Alternatively, 4x4 vehicles can transport visitors to the lakes, shortening the hike but still allowing access to the stunning scenery.

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