Last summer I finally decided to visit the South Caucasus region, namely Armenia and Georgia. I had never visited it before but I have heard a lot of positive feedback about this hospitable land. I was excited, because I love history, mountains and trying new food. I found a tour that included visit to both countries during one week and went on my first Caucasus trip. I’d like to share my impressions in this post:

Days in Georgia

My tour started in Georgia, Tbilisi. I was met at the airport by the tour representatives and was transferred to the hotel. After check-in I went on a stroll around Old Tbilisi with its old-town streets, narrow lanes, old brick houses, friendly cafés, and small shops. In the evening I visited local café for cheese bread khachapuri and than enjoyed the lively noisy atmosphere of the city center.

On the second day our guided tour started and we headed to Mtskheta – the religious center with its churches. We visited Svetitskhoveli Cathedral – one of the most significant religious and cultural landmarks of Georgia. The cathedrals history, architecture and interior design with frescoes impressed me a lot. The guide told that Christ’s robe is buried beneath the church. This day we also visited Georgia’s calling card – Jvari Temple located on a hill. From the hill very beautiful view on Mtskheta and Aragvi and Kura rivers confluence opens. The photos from the hill are absolutely instagrammable!

Back in Tbilisi we had a very informative city tour led by our friendly and experienced guide. Tbilisi introduced itself with a mix of history and beauty. We explored the old town first with its Metekhi Church, the Abanotubani, with its old sulphur and then continued to the Peace Bridge glowing like a spine of glass across the water. A short cable-car ride would have taken us up to Narikala Fortress, from where opened a beautiful and unforgettable view on Tbilisi.

The next day we started our travel along Georgian Military Highway. We visited such beautiful sights as Ananuri Fortress, Gudauri resort and Gergeti Church. We were amazed by the majesty and beauty of Georgian mountainous nature.

The last days in Georgia turned to be a real fairy tale as we moved to Kakheti – the winemaking region. I felt traveling in small Italy. We explored vineyards, wine estates, tried local wines and met hospitable and friendly locals who treated us with local delicacies. Thanks to our knowledgeable guide we learn lot secrets about winemaking traditions in Georgia. We also tried the ultimate local dish chakapuli – a delicious lamb stew with herbs and white wine. Kakheti region impressed me a lot due to its diverse landscapes with sun-kissed vineyards, mountains and valleys. Thus my travel in Georgia ended leaving me with memories and impressions.

Days in Armenia

The next day we started our travel to Armenia. After crossing the border we had several hours of driving and then made our first stop in Tavush Province. It was an amazing area with lush forests and crispy fresh air. We visited medieval monasteries of Haghartsin and Goshavank and then had a pleasant walk in a cozy resort town Dilijan. We continued our way leaving Tavush and heading toward Gegarkunik Province. Here is located the highest freshwater lake in the region – Lake Sevan. The lake impressed with its azure water and enormous size – it is not just a lake, it feels like a small sea! We stopped here to taste local fresh delicacies like barbeque from ishkhan trout and kebab made from crayfish. Our travel ended in Yerevan – the capital of Armenia.

The next day we began our exploration of Yerevan with our friendly and guide. She told us that Yerevan is 29 years older than Rome! We get acquainted with the history of Yerevan, visited its central Republic Square, and even had a chance to plunge into the culture and history by visiting the Matenadaran –repository of old manuscripts and books, and the Genocide Memorial. Yerevan impressed me with its cozy atmosphere, smiling locals, a numerous open-air cafes, nice pink buildings and a mix of modernity and old. Just imagine a huge strolling modern Northern Avenue is located just near old quarters with small houses – it’s so original!

Our tour in Armenia concluded with a visit religious architectural masterpieces such as Noravank, Khor Virap and Gaghard Monasteries.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, I want to say that the South Caucasus is an original region unlike any place I have visited before. First of all, its people are warm and hospitable, its food is hearty and very filling, with generous portions and interesting combination of herbs and spices. I will remember Georgia for its landscapes, wine and the festive atmosphere. Armenia will stay in my mind for its long-lasting history and architecture.