This bite-size country in the Caucasus defies what you might expect from a still-redeveloping post-Soviet state. Yes, its infrastructure is poor and many of the buildings are crumbling — which also lends the country a certain charm — but Georgia also has a spring in its step. It’s quirky, welcoming, not to mention incredibly cheap and easy to travel in.
If you’re thinking of travelling or backpacking in Georgia, I think there are three things that make this country stand out in particular.
Firstly, it’s the capital of Tbilisi. I felt this city alone was already worth the price of coming to Georgia. There are loads of things to do in Tbilisi. It may not be the most prosperous or famous city in the world, but it has seen some major revitalization, and its charm and warmth just made me want to stay there longer.
Secondly, the Caucasus mountains are simply stunning. If you enjoy mountain hikes or trekking through pastoral valleys dotted with traditional villages, then you’ve definitely come to the right place. The Svaneti and Kazbegi areas, right along the border with Russia, provide ample opportunities to enjoy Georgia’s epic nature. They’re easily the best Georgia backpacking destinations.
Thirdly, Georgia is filled with ancient churches and monasteries. Many of these you can find in unusual or highly scenic locations. For example, the Vardzia monastery consists of a system of caves dug into the side of the Erushili mountains. Other monasteries sit on top of hills or mountains overlooking nearby towns. The Caucasus was one of the earliest regions where Christianity became established and Georgia was once one of the first Christian states; today it’s still a deeply pious society, mostly following the Georgian Orthodox Church.
Try to spend as much time in the mountains as you can — if you ask me, this is where Georgia is truly at its best!
