When you imagine some of the best places in the world to ski, your mind may wander towards Canada, Austria, Switzerland, or even Japan. What if we told you that you can experience a breathtaking ski vacation in the heart of Georgia, and no, we aren’t talking about the Peach State. In the Caucasus Mountains located in the country of Georgia, you’ll find a ski resort situated below the 15,938-foot Tetnuldi peak offering incredible views that perfectly blend nature and adrenaline together seamlessly.
Georgia may be an underrated European country known for its epic hiking trails, however it doesn’t pop to the top of the list when planning the perfect ski trip. Located near the remote mountain town of Mestia, in the Upper Svaneti region of Georgia, a trip to Tetnuldi Ski Resort to chase some fresh pow may just be one of the craziest winter adventures around the world to experience.
Tetnuldi is relatively unknown to the majority of skiers, who tend to make their way to more popular resorts, making the ski runs less populated and enjoyable. At a fraction of the price for a ski pass, off-piste ski enthusiasts can snag a six-day lift pass for just $75 (also including Hatsvali Ski Resort), an absolute steal in comparison to some other six-day passes that can run up to $1,000. Open seven days a week in late-December to mid-April from 10AM to 4:30PM, there’s certainly ample time to make use of the six-day pass, and with over 15 miles of marked trails to explore, it provides the perfect opportunity to get acquainted with the terrain before hitting the backcountry Tetnuldi is known for.
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High-altitude skiing with epic mountain views
A skier with her arms up staring out to the mountains – EvaL Miko/Shutterstock
The journey to Tetnuldi may be considered slightly rough for tourists to the area, especially when blanketed with a fresh layer of snow, however the 13-mile treacherous dirt road up to the resort is worth it once you get there. Recently making waves within the skiing and snowboarding community for its incredibly challenging runs and perfect weather conditions, Tetnuldi may not be as quiet as it currently is for much longer. With a top elevation of over 10,000 feet when Mount Tetnuldi’s pristine freshies appear, it makes for the ideal place to get an adrenaline rush as you make your way down over 3,200 feet of pure vertical runs.
If you’re a newbie to skiing, don’t worry. To tackle some of Tetnuldi’s ski runs, you don’t need to be an Olympic athlete. With trails for every level ranging from beginner to expert, and five lifts to get you there, Tetnuldi’s runs can be enjoyed by everyone at any skill level. For those looking to get into the high-alpine atmosphere with breathtaking mountain views and bottomless powder, backcountry trails are accessible by chair-lift, however due to the location, getting a guide to join you is advisable.
Around the ski resort and on the mountain, you’ll find plenty of places to relax and grab something to eat and drink. Snag one of the tables, grab a beer and kick back to take in the beautiful surroundings at the cozy wooden Tkharpel Hut Cafe. For something more substantial, head to Zubu Restaurant, just 10 minutes away from Tetnuldi Ski Resort, which serves up traditional Georgian cuisine like khachapuri, a cheese-filled bread topped with egg yolk and butter.
A whimsical stay in the town of Mestia
A tiny snowy mountain town – Photoaliona/Getty Images
A stay in Mestia is the perfect way to combine adventure and exploration to your winter vacation. Mestia also plays host to the nearest airport to Tetnuldi, Queen Tamar Airport, although the nearest airport accommodating international flights is Kutalsi International Airport (KUT), roughly six hours away from Tetnuldi by car. Nestled in a valley surrounded by mountain views, you’d never guess that this charming and quiet town was once the place of turbulent wars and invasions. The Svans, who have lived in the region for centuries, have preserved their traditional way of life and culture, and also their own unique dialect, so you’ll feel as though you’re truly living like a local while walking the quaint streets of Mestia.
Accommodations aren’t readily available within the close proximity of Tetnuldi, however Mestia boasts a variety of luxury hotels, as well as affordable guesthouses to rest your head after a day of shredding. A stay at the ultra-cozy Cottage Woodside, just a short walk to town center, offers guests an inviting terrace with mountain views at under $30 per night. Those looking for more privacy, a stay at In The Forest will quite literally have you staying exactly where you’d think. For $185 per night, this cute and cozy cabin surrounded by forest has no neighbors and a fantastic view over Mestia and to Mount Tetnuldi.
Travelers that aren’t keen on hitting the slopes can find many other outdoor activities to take part in while in Mestia. Since the area boasts many lakes and rivers, hiking and trekking to Chalaadi Glacier and Koruldi Lakes is a must-do while there. Culture enthusiasts can also learn about the region’s unique culture and traditions at Mestia’s Svaneti Museum of History and Ethnography.
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