day 1
Arrival in Tbilisi.
Meeting at the airport
Transfer and accommodation at the hotel.
day 2
Tbilisi - Racha / Shaori / Nikorsminda / Barakoni / Oni / Lake Shaori (Racha-Lechkhumi) (305 km).
Racha-Lechkhumi is Georgian Switzerland. This is the region of picturesque mountains and green gorges. This region is surrounded by Caucasian ridges and glaciers. The legend says: that one day, the Georgian hunter climbed to the Nakerala ridge. Looking down he saw the narrow and deep gorge of the river Rioni. The view was so amazing that he compared it to the well ("cha" in Georgian) and in amazement cried out: "What kind of well?" ("Ra cha?"), and so that this place was called Racha. Oni is mountainous region of Racha , famous for its health resorts. The district center of Oni is 800 meters above sea level, but some villages are located up to an altitude of 1,500-1,800 meters.
Breakfast.
After breakfast: we will drive to Racha. Passing the districts of Tkibuli and Terjola we will go to the administrative center of Racha - Lechkhumi : Ambrolauri. During the tour we will cross the Nakerala Pass (1,700 m above sea level). On foot we will rise to the top of 9 crosses ("Tskhara Jvari"). Journey time: 3 hours (2 km). There is a unique view of western Georgia, and if you're lucky with the weather, you can see the Black Sea from the top. After a walking tour, we will go to Lake Shaori, which is located among breathtaking landscapes. We take pictures and have lunch.
Free time.
After lunch we will visit the Nikortsminda Cathedral (10th-11th century), which is located in 14 km south-west of Ambrolauri. We will visit the orthodox church Barakoni (XVI-XVII century) and the Georgian winery (we taste wine "Khvanchkara"). Further we will go to Oni.
Check in hotel.
Dinner in a traditional Georgian family In the evening, where we will try Georgian cuisine, as well as exquisite Georgian wine.
Overnight at Oni.
