Tour to Kakheti. Sighnaghi – Bodbe Monastery – Tsinandali – Telavi – Winery – Gombori

Set out on a captivating journey through Kakheti, Georgia’s renowned wine region. Explore the charming town of Sighnaghi and the serene Bodbe Monastery before discovering the grandeur of Tsinandali Palace. Enjoy the rich winemaking heritage at a local winery, where you’ll savor the finest vintages crafted using traditional methods. As you wind through the Gombori mountains, the breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture will enchant your senses. But there’s more to uncover in this historic region – the delectable Georgian cuisine and the opportunity to truly connect with the local way of life.

Key Points

• Excursion from Tbilisi to Kakheti region, exploring highlights like Sighnaghi, Bodbe Monastery, Tsinandali Palace, and a local winery.
• Immersive Georgian cooking class and opportunity to taste traditional cuisine and regional wines.
• Visit to the revered Bodbe Monastery, a significant religious and cultural site in Georgia.
• Tour of Tsinandali Palace, showcasing the lavish lifestyle of Georgian nobility and the region’s winemaking heritage.
• Ample free time in the charming town of Sighnaghi to wander the cobblestone streets and shop for local crafts.

Overview of the Tour

The tour to Kakheti offers a full-day excursion from Tbilisi, allowing visitors to enjoy the rich cultural and natural heritage of this renowned Georgian region.

Highlights include the charming town of Sighnaghi, the historic Bodbe Monastery, the grand Tsinandali Palace, and a visit to a local winery.

Travelers will have the opportunity to experience Georgian cuisine and explore the country’s ancient winemaking traditions.

The tour includes air-conditioned transportation, a cooking class at a Georgian home, and admission to the Tsinandali museum.

With a maximum of 19 travelers, the experience promises an intimate and authentic exploration of Kakheti’s captivating sights and flavors.

Departure From Tbilisi

Typically, the tour departs from the meeting point at 9 Aleksandr Pushkin St in central Tbilisi at 9:30 am. Travelers are picked up in an air-conditioned vehicle and begin their journey to the Kakheti region. The drive offers scenic views of the Georgian countryside as the group heads east.

Departure Time	Meeting Point	Transportation
9:30 AM	9 Aleksandr Pushkin St, Tbilisi	Air-conditioned vehicle

The comfortable transportation ensures a relaxing start to the day’s adventures in the Kakheti wine region.

Georgian Cooking Class

After departing Tbilisi, the tour makes its first stop at a traditional Georgian house, where travelers partake in a hands-on cooking class.

Guided by a local chef, they’ll learn the secrets of preparing authentic Georgian dishes, from hearty stews to delicate pastries. Participants get to roll up their sleeves and dive into the preparation, mastering techniques like kneading dough and simmering aromatic sauces.

The class offers a unique culture, allowing visitors to connect with Georgia’s rich culinary heritage.

Upon completing the cooking session, everyone sits down to enjoy the fruits of their labor, savoring the flavors of the homemade dishes over conversation and laughter.

Visiting the Winery

Next, the tour group makes its way to a local winery to enjoy the rich wine culture of Kakheti. Here, they’ll learn about the traditional methods of winemaking that have been passed down for generations.

The guide leads them through the winery, sharing insights into the unique terroir, grape varietals, and production processes that contribute to the region’s renowned wines.

The visitors have the opportunity to:

1. Observe the traditional Qvevri clay vessels used for fermentation and aging.
2. Taste a selection of the winery’s finest vintages, learning to discern the nuances of aroma, flavor, and texture.
3. Engage with the winemakers, gaining a deeper appreciation for the art and science behind Kakheti’s acclaimed wine heritage.

Exploring Bodbe Monastery

The tour group then ventures to the picturesque Bodbe Monastery, a revered spiritual site nestled amid the rolling hills of Kakheti.

Founded in the 4th century, the monastery is said to be the burial place of St. Nino, the woman who converted Georgia to Christianity.

Visitors are captivated by the ornate architecture, including the stunning cathedral and the tranquil gardens.

They explore the monastery’s history and learn about the important role it has played in Georgia’s religious and cultural heritage.

The group takes time to wander the grounds, soaking in the serene atmosphere before continuing on to the next stop on the itinerary.

Discovering Tsinandali Palace

From Bodbe Monastery, the group continues their journey to the historic Tsinandali Palace, the former estate of the 19th-century Georgian aristocrat Alexander Chavchavadze.

This grand palace offers a glimpse into the lavish lifestyle of Georgia’s nobility. Visitors can admire the palace’s elegant architecture, stroll through the meticulously manicured gardens, and explore the on-site winery.

The experience provides a deeper understanding of Georgia’s rich cultural heritage:

1. The palace’s neoclassical design and opulent interiors showcase the refined aesthetic sensibilities of the Georgian nobility.

2. The surrounding gardens, with their ornamental fountains and diverse flora, reflect the aristocracy’s appreciation for nature and landscape design.

3. The winery’s production methods and tasting session allow visitors to appreciate the enduring tradition of Georgian winemaking.

Lunch and Free Time

After exploring the cultural riches of Tsinandali Palace, the group enjoys a hearty Georgian lunch. They savor traditional dishes like khinkali (juicy meat dumplings), khachapuri (cheese-filled bread), and badrijani (eggplant rolls with walnut paste).

The meal is accompanied by the region’s renowned wines, which the travelers have learned about during their winery visit. With bellies full and palates delighted, the group is given free time to wander the charming town of Sighnaghi, taking in its cobblestone streets, historic architecture, and stunning vistas overlooking the Alazani Valley.

Shoppers browse the locally-made crafts and textiles, while others simply soak in the tranquil atmosphere of this picturesque, 18th-century town.

Return to Tbilisi

As the sun begins to dip below the horizon, the group bids farewell to the picturesque town of Sighnaghi and boards the air-conditioned vehicle for the return journey to Tbilisi.

The drive back provides a final opportunity to reflect on the day’s experiences and soak in the serene countryside views.

Upon arrival in the capital, the tour concludes with a sense of satisfaction and cultural enrichment.

The tour has offered:

1. Immersion in Georgia’s renowned wine culture.
2. Exploration of historic monasteries and palaces.
3. Appreciation for the region’s culinary delights.

With newfound knowledge and cherished memories, the travelers depart, eager to share their Kakheti adventure with friends and family.

Since You Asked

Can I Book the Tour for a Private Group?

Yes, you can book the tour for a private group. The tour operator offers private tours, allowing you to customize the itinerary and enjoy a more personalized experience with just your travel companions.

Do You Provide Pick-Up and Drop-Off From My Hotel?

Yes, the tour provider offers hotel pick-up and drop-off services. They’ll pick you up from your hotel and return you there at the end of the day’s activities, ensuring a seamless and convenient experience.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour offers flexibility to extend the duration. Travelers can customize the itinerary and spend more time exploring the region’s highlights. Additional activities and stops can be arranged based on individual interests and preferences.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have a strict dress code, but casual, comfortable clothing is recommended. Visitors should dress in layers as the weather can be unpredictable, and wear comfortable walking shoes for exploring the historic sites.

Can I Request a Vegetarian or Halal Meal?

The tour operator should be able to accommodate vegetarian or halal meal requests if you let them know in advance. They aim to provide an authentic Georgian culinary experience, so they’ll do their best to cater to your dietary needs.

The Sum Up

Travelers will return to Tbilisi with unforgettable memories of their journey through Kakheti. The rich history, stunning landscapes, and delicious Georgian cuisine have left an indelible mark. From the charming towns of Sighnaghi and Telavi to the serene Bodbe Monastery and the elegant Tsinandali Palace, this tour offers a true taste of Georgia’s cultural heritage. The winery visit and scenic drive through the Gombori mountains complete this immersive experience, leaving visitors eager to explore more of this captivating region.