Best things to See and Do in Telavi
The central city of Kakheti region, Telavi, is a historical city boasting stunning mountain landscapes, beautiful architecture, ancient monasteries, and picturesque valleys. Aside from being a famous tourist destination, Telavi, and the whole region, is recognized as the center of traditional Georgian wine-making. The city is not big but has some interesting sights for you to check out.
Explore Batonis Tsikhe
Building
Batonis Tsikhe, or the Fortress of the Master in English, is one of the best-preserved medieval royal palaces in the country. Built by King Archil in the 17th century, the fortress was the residence of Kakhetian kings during the 17th and 18th centuries. King Erekle II expanded the area of the castle in the second half of the 18th century. Today, the area houses a museum dedicated to King Erekle II, where you can see the bedrooms, the king’s throne, and his sword.
See the Giant Plane Tree
Forest
This tree has stood here for almost a century now, making it one of the oldest and most unique attractions of Telavi.
Relax at Nadikvari Park
Park
Once you get tired of walking, you can relax at Nadikvari Park. Enjoy beautiful nature, an open-air theater area, walking trails, and views of the city.
Visit Museum of Qvevri Jars and Wine
Museum, Winery
Twins Wine Hotel is home to qvevri wine museum, situated in the village Napareuli. Here, you’ll learn all about the different phases of qvevri wine-making as well as well as the production of the vessels themselves.
Explore the Estate of Prince Chavchavadze
Winery, Building, Museum
Schuchmann Wines Chateau & SPA
Resort, Spa Hotel, Golf Hotel, Hotel, Winery with Rooms
Schuchmann Chateau is very close to Telavi, making a great place go on the wine tour. Featuring its own vineyard, you can enjoy a guided tour, listen to the viticulture and try their local wines.
Visit Alaverdi Monastery
Church, Cathedral, Monastery
Alaverdi Monastery, located in Akhmeta municipality, and only a 25-minute drive away from Telavi, is another must-see places once in the area. Some parts of the church date back to the 6th century, while the present-day cathedral was built in the 11th century. It is believed that the monastery was founded by Joseph Alaverdeli, one of the Assyrian monks who came to Georgia from Antioch and settled here. Back then it was a small village with a pagan religious center dedicated to the moon. With a height of more than 55 meters, the monestary was the highest religious building in the country until 2004, when the Holy Trinity Cathedral in Tbilisi was constructed. The place gets very crowded during an annual religious festivity called Alaverdoba.
Explore the Ancient Academy of Georgia
Church, Monastery, Ruins
Volcanic Iceland Epic Trip
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