Georgia: The Gateway to Hiking the Majestic Caucasus Mountains

"Don't forget your socks—especially dry ones," says my guide Giorgi with a casual air. "It's the one thing you can't afford to leave behind when hiking."

I give him an understanding nod, though my attention is elsewhere. We're speeding down a rough, unpaved mountain road, heading toward the village of Juta, just shy of the Georgia-Russia border.

I want to contribute to the conversation about the importance of proper footwear, but my mind is consumed with the precarious state of our 4x4—wondering if it might get stuck in one of the giant potholes or slide into the ravine below.

Noticing my apprehension, Giorgi quickly offers reassurance. "We're nearly there. Trust me, the views will make it all worthwhile."

Scaling Mount Kazbek

Giorgi is an outdoor adventure guide at Rooms Hotel Kazbegi, perched 1,800 meters (about 5,900 feet) above sea level in Stepantsminda, the heart of Georgia’s Kazbegi region.

Originally constructed in the 1980s as a Soviet-era sanatorium, the building once served as a retreat for the country’s elite.

After years of neglect, it was restored by Adjara Group Hospitality and welcomed guests once again in July 2012.

The hotel's most striking feature isn't its architecture. From any of its shared spaces, particularly its expansive outdoor terrace, you'll be treated to stunning views of the surrounding natural beauty.

Mount Kazbek, the third-highest peak in Georgia, looms majestically with its snow-dusted summit reaching into the sky. Beneath its towering presence, the Gergeti Trinity Church sits at an altitude of 2,170 meters (7,120 feet), a cherished site for pilgrims and trekkers alike.

We arrive in Juta by mid-morning, just in time to avoid the rush of day-trippers who come from Tbilisi and nearby cities. The village is isolated in the winter, so when it's accessible, it becomes a popular destination.

After a steep climb, we reach the 5th Season mountain house, a well-known stop for hikers. It's famous for local delicacies like kuserbo, a dish of crispy fried potatoes mixed with salty mountain cheese.

"The food tastes incredible here, especially after we return from the pond," Giorgi comments with a grin.

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Vast and unspoiled natural beauty

He’s describing a glacial pond nestled at the base of Mount Chiukhi, nearly five kilometers away, accessible through a lush green river valley bordered by towering peaks.

The scenery is spellbinding – an untouched natural world, free from the scars of human progress.

At the pond, we encounter fellow hikers from all corners of the globe, reflecting Georgia's unique position at the crossroads of East and West. A group of adventurous Ukrainians takes a daring plunge into the icy waters for a bracing swim.

The rise of tourism

Nearby, a group of Russians and Turks relax and take in the summit views while enjoying some local cherries.

"This entire country is about the size of South Carolina, but there’s so much to explore," says Tim, a Colorado native on a two-week cycling tour through the Caucasus. "There are new mountain trails and cycling routes, as well as traditional hiking paths. And the food is incredible, plus the people are the friendliest I’ve ever met."

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He’s right, Georgia stands out. It offers breathtaking nature, delicious food, and a culture of warmth and generosity. What’s more, it’s still relatively under the radar as a tourist destination, preserving that sense of discovery for those who visit.

Lost in thought about the country’s untapped tourism potential, I suddenly slip knee-deep into a fast-flowing river at the foot of the hill. Giorgi helps me out, all while unable to hide his amused smile.

"No problem, my friend. You can borrow my dry socks," he says with a grin.