From UNESCO Heritage And Caves To Vineyards And Spas
A Guide To Georgia’s Imereti Region
Find out what gives this quintessentially Georgian region its own unique twist
Located in western-central Georgia along the banks of the Rioni River, the Imereti region is known for mild winters, lush greenery, and perpetual blossom.
Packed with must-visit landmarks – everything from historical sites to a network of vineyards still making wine using traditional methods – many people start their visit in Kutaisi. Once the capital and now traditionally Georgia’s second city, it’s one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, first settled around 100,000 years ago. Home to Wizz Air, the city is easily reached from a host of European destinations and has a thriving social scene packed with modern cafés, restaurants, and famous nightclub Reflector.
Many people begin their trip to Kutaisi with Bagrati Cathedral. Originally built in 1003 by King Bagrat III, this almost fairytale-like structure overlooks the city from Ukimerioni Hill – making it the perfect spot to catch a sunset – and serves as an important monument of Georgian culture.
Many people begin their trip to Kutaisi with Bagrati Cathedral. Originally built in 1003 by King Bagrat III, this almost fairytale-like structure overlooks the city from Ukimerioni Hill – making it the perfect spot to catch a sunset – and serves as an important monument of Georgian culture.
Gelati Monastery, established by King David ‘the builder’ IV in 1106, is UNESCO-listed and just a short trip from Kutaisi. Consisting of various buildings erected between the twelfth and thirteenth centuries, the stunningly colorful and well-preserved interior frescoes are the main draw – along with the scenic location.
Kutasi is the perfect base for exploring the rest of Imereti. Hiring a driver-guide is often preferable to renting a car, due to local knowledge of the roads and wilder places.
Another landmark worth visiting is the 40-metre-high Katskhi pillar formed from natural limestone – a so-called stairway to heaven that daring monks historically climbed to be closer to God. According to legend, the god of fertility and richness lived on the pillar before Christianity. To avoid disappointment bear in mind that, since this is a working monastery, tourists aren’t allowed inside.
Sataplia cave is another natural structure that will take your breath away. Located in Sataplia reserve just seven kilometers from Kutaisi, the 900-meter-long cave is full of stalactites and stalagmites, illuminated by beautiful colored lights. It’s believed touching the heart-shaped stalagmite in the middle of the cave can make your wishes come true.
Arguably even more impressive is Prometheus Cave, located in the village of Kumistavi around 20 kilometers from Kutaisi. Named after the legend of Prometheus, who is said to have been chained to a rock outside the cave for crossing Zeus, the cave is 1,420 meters long and has with six halls open to the public (though there are 22 in total). One of the best ways to explore is by boat tour – float past hanging waterfalls and unusual natural structures.
Just 10 kilometres from Kutaisi is Tskaltubo, a former spa town that has recently attracted many curious, art-loving travelers. The town is a place of contrasts. Within the crumbling sanatoriums, there lies beauty in the life growing out of the buildings, which has been the focal point of many visitors geotagging the town on Instagram. The thermal waters in Tskaltubo are said to have a high volume of radon, which is said to help with inflammation, contributing to the many legends of people going to the town as a prescription to their ailments. Now, the luxury Tskalbuto Plaza stands as a place of respite and relaxation for those wanting to explore a town that is in the midst of a well-deserved rediscovery.
For a more comprehensive spa experience, head to the renowned Sairme Wellness Resort, south of Kutaisi in the Baghdati municipality. The biggest resort in Europe and Caucasus, it encompasses 60 hectares of greenery and six hot and cold mineral-water springs, along with a comprehensive list of rejuvenating treatments. The resort is also home to a zipline, along with recreational courts – for those travelers who are seeking a bit of adrenaline before their relaxing retreat.
With historic landmarks, world-class spas, and vineyards dotted amongst lush green landscapes, there’s a lot to love about Imereti. And with routes from Venice, Barcelona, and Berlin, this jewel of western-central Georgia is just a short flight away.