The Best Things to See and Do in Kakheti

Kakheti is home to many monasteries and churches. Some of the most distinguished are David Gareji, Alaverdi Cathedral, Nekresi Monastery and Gremi Monastery. David Gareji, in the desert bordering Azerbaijan, is a complex of cave monasteries carved in rock. Dating back to the fourth century, Nekresi is the oldest Christian church in the country. In the past, it was the most important spiritual, cultural, political and educational centre of the nation. The cross-domed Alaverdi Cathedral was built in the 11th century by Kakhetian King Kvirike III. The cathedral is more than 164ft (50m) in height, making it the second-tallest religious building in the country after the Holy Trinity Cathedral in Tbilisi.

One of the smallest towns in Georgia, Sighnaghi is also one of the most charming, complete with breathtaking landscapes, cobblestone streets and pastel-colored houses. You can visit the Sighnaghi Museum, look over the picturesque Alazani Valley, walk on the ancient defence wall or try local wines at several wineries scattered across the area. And if you are travelling with your loved one, you can even get married at the civil ceremony office, open 24 hours a day.

Saint Nino is an essential figure in Georgia, as she brought Christianity to the land in the fourth century. Bodbe Monastery, located very close to Sighnaghi, is her final resting place. King Mirian initially built the church over her grave, but it has since been rebuilt and renovated several times.

Prince Alexander Chavchavadze was one of the most influential figures in Georgian history, so his palace and gardens in the village of Tsinandali are a must-visit on your Kakhetian tour. The palace was restored a few years ago and displays unique relics and memorabilia of the 19th-century Prince’s family. The park, laid out in an English style, features ancient trees and unusual plants including sequoia, ginkgo and yucca. While you are there, don’t forget to visit Alexander’s winery as well.

The Ikalto Academy was one of the most vital cultural-scholastic centres in the country. Arsen Ikaltoeli and King David the Builder established the academy at the Ikalto Monastery in the early 12th century, and there students were taught theology, astronomy, philosophy, geometry, geography and chanting. Practical skills were on the curriculum too, with optional subjects including viticulture, pottery and metalwork.

Telavi, one of the oldest cities in the country, is the central city of the region and boasts various attractions for a stop on your tour. One of the most iconic landmarks is Batonistsikhe, the residence of the Kakhetian kings during the 17th and 18th centuries. It includes a Persian-style palace where King Erekle II was born and died.

Kakheti is home to various vineyards and wineries ready for you to tour and taste their products. Visit Schuchmann Winery very close to Telavi, Pheasant’s Tears Winery in Sighnaghi or Twins Old Cellar in Napareuli.

Besides being a wine lover’s paradise, Kakheti is home to some beautiful and luxurious resorts for you to relax and enjoy time in nature. Royal Batoni, Lopota Lake Resort and Spa, Kvareli Lake and Chateau Mere are just a few to explore.

Tusheti, recognised as a Unesco World Heritage Site, is one of Georgia’s most rural regions. Here, you can explore unspoiled nature, medieval defence towers and ancient villages.