My first stop in Georgia is at the almost completely intact Roman fortress of Gonio with its 18 magnificent towers and ancient bath-house.
Kutasi is Georgia’s second city and one of the world’s most ancient. Here I can explore the Bagrati Cathedral, the History Museum and the Old Jewish district.
Close by and well worth a few hours is Sataplia Nature Reserve, home to the magnificent caves and the world’s largest collection of dinosaur tracks.
Vardzia is a beautiful cliff-side monastery site that I will visit with a step back in time and have a delicious trout lunch next to the river.
I now head for Armenia and their capital city of Yerevan where I will have a couple of days to explore the museums, churches, markets and restaurants that make Armenia such a delight.
On my journey towards the mountains dotted with ancient caravanserais I visit the monastery of Khor Virap with it’s wonderful location beneath Mt. Ararat before heading to the turquoise waters of Lake Sevan where I wild-camp on the lakeshore.
Winding my way north through the breathtaking Debed Gorge my last stop in Armenia is at the fabulously located Haghpat Monastery.
Back in Georgia I arrive in Tbilisi, the beating heart of the country where I have a day or two to wander the cobbled streets of the old town, visit numerous historical churches, museums and fortresses and of course indulge in fine Georgian cuisine.
A trip to Georgia would not be complete without a trip up the Military Highway to the beautifully located town of Kazbegi situated within a stunning mountain range close to the Russian border. Hiking is the most popular activity here and the hour long trek up to the spectacular monastery is well worth the effort as too is the overnight trek to the glacier.
