Georgia might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of a winter sports getaway. But this diverse little country has a number of alternative ski resorts to rival even the best-known slopes in Europe. In this guide, we will explore the four established ski resorts in Georgia and their unique offerings.
Gudauri Ski Resort: Best overall choice for skiing near Tbilisi
Gudauri Ski Resort
Nestled on the south face of the Greater Caucasus at an elevation of 2,200m, Gudauri is the largest and most developed ski resort in Georgia. Established in the 1980s, Gudauri is a popular resort town, well-served by hotels and restaurants. The resort boasts 22 ski routes covering a total of 70km, plus off-piste areas for experienced skiers. With 15 ski lifts, including open chairlifts and enclosed gondolas, Gudauri provides incredible opportunities for skiing enthusiasts.
Pros: Easy access from Tbilisi; great range of skiing for all levels; professional ski schools. Cons: Limited alternatives to skiing; relatively higher prices.
Ski lessons & equipment rental at Gudauri
Skis, gear, and ski clothes can all be rented in Gudauri. Carpe Diem Hotel offers equipment rental in the center of Gudauri and has a well-equipped store. Aviator Ski Rental also comes highly recommended. If you bring your own gear, make sure to check extra airline charges for transporting equipment and invest in the best ski boot bag for air travel.
Vagabond Adventures is Gudauri's premier ski school, offering private lessons for all levels, from beginner to freestyle. They also provide group lessons for children. Another option is The Alpine Project, which offers private and group courses in skiing, snowboarding, and climbing. It's worth noting that their instructors are locals and qualified mountain guides who prioritize harmony with the natural environment and supporting the local economy.
How to get to Gudauri
Gudauri is approximately a two-hour drive from Tbilisi via the stunning Georgian Military Highway. The most comfortable and safest way to travel is by booking a private transfer through GoTrip. If you prefer to drive yourself, be aware that the mountain roads can be challenging, especially in winter. Marshrukta minibuses also offer transportation from Tbilisi to Gudauri.
Bakuriani Ski Resort: Best choice for beginners & families
Bakuriani Ski Resort
Georgia's second-most popular resort, Bakuriani, is located southwest of Tbilisi in the Samtskhe-Javakheti region. With a history dating back to the 1930s, Bakuriani was once a training camp for Olympic skiers during the Soviet era. The resort offers five ski tracks divided into 23 ski pistes, covering a total length of 29km. Night skiing is also possible in the Didveli area.
Bakuriani is particularly suitable for families, with activities such as a newly refurbished cinema, an ice rink, and a toboggan ride. Its proximity to other popular destinations like Borjomi, Vardzia cave city, and Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park allows visitors to combine winter activities with sightseeing.
Pros: Suitable for beginner skiers and families; plenty of other activities nearby; good budget-friendly accommodation options. Cons: Can get crowded during peak seasons.
Lessons & equipment rental at Bakuriani
Bakuriani Ski Academy is a well-reviewed ski school that also offers equipment rental services.
How to get to Bakuriani
Private transfers are available from Tbilisi or Kutaisi to Bakuriani through GoTrip. Minibuses also depart from Tbilisi's Didube station approximately every hour. If you want to make the most out of your journey, consider taking the scenic Soviet-era steam train, the Kukushka, from Borjomi to Bakuriani.
Hatsvali Ski Resort: Best choice for culture
The Hatsvali ski lift in Svaneti
Located 8km outside the historic settlement of Mestia in the northwestern Svaneti region, Hatsvali Ski Resort offers a unique cultural experience. With five runs covering a distance of 10km, including a designated area for beginners, the resort provides a diverse skiing experience. The resort is connected to Mestia via a ski lift, and nearby Tetnuldi ski resort is ideal for freeride enthusiasts.
While visiting Mestia, be sure to explore the Ethnographic Museum and consider taking a day trip to Ushguli, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Pros: Dramatic mountain scenery, rich Svan culture and cuisine, plenty of accommodations and restaurants in Mestia. Cons: Farther from Tbilisi compared to other resorts.
Lessons & equipment rental in Mestia
Svaneti Spirit, located in Mestia center, offers lessons and equipment rental for skiing in Hatsvali.
How to get to Mestia
The fastest and most picturesque way to reach Mestia is by taking a short flight with Vanilla Sky. Alternatively, you can take a train from Tbilisi to Zugdidi and complete the journey with a 3-hour minibus ride.
Goderdzi Ski Resort: Best choice for escaping the crowds
Goderdzi Ski Resort
Goderdzi Ski Resort, located in the mountains of Upper Adjara east of Batumi, offers excellent skiing opportunities with fewer crowds. This underdeveloped resort is known for its quality snow and has the longest season among Georgia's ski resorts, running from early December until the end of April. With four pistes and cat-skiing options, it's a haven for skiing enthusiasts.
Pros: Excellent skiing, beautiful scenery, fewer crowds. Cons: Remote location, limited accommodations and services.
Lessons & equipment rental at Goderdzi
There are no established ski schools in Goderdzi, and rental options are limited. It's best to rent your equipment in Tbilisi or Batumi or arrange it through your hotel or guesthouse.
How to get to Goderdzi
Goderdzi is a four-hour drive from Batumi, but it requires a 4x4 vehicle as parts of the road are unpaved. Public transport options include taking a bus to Danisparauli village and completing the journey by taxi or utilizing the free shuttle service from Khulo. Transfer and accommodation packages from Batumi are also available through Mta Goderdzi Tour.
Skiing in Georgia FAQ
When is the Georgia ski season?
Georgia's ski season typically runs from mid-January until the end of April, with variations depending on weather and snowfall. Some resorts may open as early as mid-December, with Gudauri and Bakuriani opening before others. To check the current snowfall, you can use the live cam in Gudauri.
How much does it cost to go skiing in Georgia?
Day passes for all the resorts mentioned average around 40-50 GEL for adults and 25 GEL for children. Additionally, multiski card season passes are available, starting from 600 GEL for the winter season and 300 GEL for the spring season.
Where to rent or buy ski gear and clothes in Tbilisi?
Most resorts offer equipment and clothing rental on-site. If you prefer to buy ski clothes, there are recommended retailers in Tbilisi, such as Hypermarket Xtreme for professional equipment and Snowy Mountains for discounted new ski clothes and accessories.
If you're looking for an alternative skiing destination in Europe, why not give Georgia a try? With its diverse ski resorts, rich cultural heritage, and budget-friendly options, it's a hidden gem waiting to be explored.
