GEORGIA by motorcycles on asphalt roads of the Lesser Caucasus - Adventure Expedition with transportation of motorcycles to Bulgaria

The event begins and ends near the city of PLOWDIW in Bulgaria, it is here that we deliver the motorcycles to the logistic base, it is also here that you can easily get a direct flight from Warsaw (PL) to Sofia (BG) at very attractive prices. Arrival/arrival from Poland and return of participants has been defined, as unorganized and on your own. From the practice of trips in this formula, the passage/flight of participants takes the formula of organization in groups, often accompanied by a pilot who also travels from/to Poland.

Participants should arrive in Plovdiv - the place where motorcycles transported from Poland are picked up - on the preceding day in the evening. For those arriving in Sofia on afternoon flights on the preceding day, we organize an evening collective transfer (one hour transfer for all) to Plovdiv. Here in Plovdiv, accommodation is on your own.

Today, in Plovdiv in the morning unload the motorcycles until 10:00 am and issue them to the participants. Immediately after the release of the motorcycles, we set off on the transit route.

1 transit day, with about 700 km planned to cover and a border crossing with Turkey. Passage mainly on highways, at an even pace at the allowed speed, with short stops every about 1 hour and refueling every about 2 hours.

Arrive at the accommodation in the predawn hours. 

The 2nd day of transit, to cover the scheduled about 800 km on the highways of Turkey. Drive at an even pace at the speed limit, with short stops every 1 hour or so and refueling every 2 hours or so.

Arrive at the accommodation in the predawn hours. 

The 3rd transit day relatively short - to cover the planned about 220 km and the Senaki-Poti- Sarpi border crossing. Drive mainly on the highway in the Turkish part of the transit. In Georgia by the coastal B2 we will also reach Batumi at a good pace. We will bypass the city, in the north of Batumi an important attraction that should not be missed -. Botanical Garden In Batumi. It is located directly on the shores of the Black Sea. It is one of the most beautiful places in Georgia and a real gem Adjaria region. Covering an area of about 108 hectares, here a wealth of exotic vegetation, spectacular coastal views and a relaxing atmosphere await nature lovers. The garden was founded in 1912 by Russian botanist Andrei Krasnov, who was inspired by similar gardens in Asia and Europe. The goal was to create a place to gather plants from different climatic zones of the world and study their adaptation to local conditions. The garden has grown over the years, gaining importance as a scientific center, but also as a tourist attraction. The collection of plants that make up the garden is divided into nine geographical sections that reflect different climate zones:

• Caucasus: Native plant species from the region, including rare and protected specimens.
• East Asia: Cherry trees, bamboos and magnolias give this section an exotic feel.
• New Zealand: Tree ferns and other characteristic plants of this island land.
• Himalayas: Plants typical of high-altitude areas in Asia.
• Mexico: Cacti and succulents adapted to dry climates.
• Australasia: Eucalyptus and acacia trees, which bring the atmosphere of Australian forests.
• Mediterranean: Olives, cypresses and aromatic herbs typical of the Mediterranean.
• North America: Sequoias, firs and pines from mountainous regions.
• South America: Tropical rainforest plants, palms and other species of the region.

An overnight stay with a Georgian dinner is planned near the Botanical Garden. Today we will also meet with our local chaperone-driver, who will accompany our group to travel around Georgia in his own pick-up truck, increasing the safety and comfort of our journey. 

Participants will be able to use the car and dispose of some of their luggage. Backpackers-passengers will also be able to use the car, transferring from a motorcycle to a more comfortable car on onerous stretches.   

Moving towards the Caucasus, the region Magrelia and Upper Svaneti. On the way, several attractions:

Located on a picturesque hill near the town of Tsikhisdziri, Petra Fortress is one of Georgia's oldest monuments, dating back to the 6th century. Built by the Byzantines, it served as a key strategic point on the trade route between Europe and Asia.

Kobuleti is a popular Black Sea resort, known for its beautiful beaches and quieter atmosphere compared to Batumi. The coast in Kobuleti is rockier, but cleaner and less crowded.

E97 road It runs through western Georgia, approaching the border with the Abkhazia - a region with a complicated political situation. The border with Abkhazia is closed and the border areas are controlled, so we will stick to the main roads.

Zugdidi, capital of the Megrelia region, is a city with a rich history and culture. Among the city's main attractions are Dadiani Palace - A magnificent 19th century complex that belonged to the princely Dadiani family. It now houses a museum with valuable artifacts, including a relic of the Holy Shroud. Zugdidi is also a great place to sample Megrelian cuisine, known for its pungent spices and unique dishes.

Enguri Dam is one of the largest hydroelectric projects in Georgia and the highest arched concrete dam in the world. It is interesting to note that the dam provides electricity to both Georgia and Abkhazia, being a symbol of cooperation despite political tensions.

Georgia's hidden gem, Delpak waterfall, is located near Khaishi, on the route leading to Svaneti.

Khaishi is a small village located at the foot of the Svaneti Mountains, which often serves as a starting point for tourists heading to the higher reaches of the mountains.

Shurishi is another charming village in the Megrelia region, known for its beautiful landscapes and traditional architecture.

Megrelia region Famous for its fertile valleys, tasty cuisine and unique culture. Megrelia's specialties include kubdari (meat pie) and elarji (thick cheese custard with corn flour). Megrelia is famous for its polyphonic songs, which are part of Georgia's cultural heritage.

Upper Svaneti is a true pearl of Georgia - a land of high peaks, medieval fortified towers (the so-called. swansea towers - characteristic stone buildings that served as shelter for local residents) and traditional villages. The region's main city is Mestia With the museum and our accommodation.

A day off, a day without a motorcycle, a day of relaxation in MESTIA. Surrounded by mountains and amazing views of the Caucasus. To be seen up close:

Mikheil Khergiani Historic House Museum in Mestia is a unique place dedicated to one of Georgia's most famous climbers, Mikheil Khergiani. It is located in the traditional Swanecan tower that was his family's home, and attracts both climbing enthusiasts and history buffs. Mikheil Khergiani, known as the "Tiger of Rocks," was a prominent mountaineer from Upper Svaneti who gained international fame for his incredible climbing skills. In the 1950s and 1960s, he took part in many expeditions, including to the most difficult peaks of the Caucasus, the Alps and the Himalayas. He was known for his extraordinary courage and technique, which brought him admiration among climbers around the world.

Swansea towers - characteristic stone defense towers from the 12th-13th centuries are a symbol of Mestia. They served as shelters and storage facilities. Many of them are open to the public.

Chalaadi Glacier - popopular trekking destination. The trail follows the Mestiachala River and offers views of the impressive glacier at the foot of the mountains.

Koruldi Lakes - These alpine lakes located above Mestia are ideal for trekking. The view of the snow-capped peaks of the Caucasus from here is unforgettable.

St. George Church - located on the outskirts of Mestia, a historic church in a picturesque setting

Rested, we set off for the next region - Imeretia, whose capital is Kutaisi. Depending on the weather, road conditions (road condition), composition of the traveling group we will choose one of the possible routes to Kutaisi:

• demanded by Ushguli - a unique place where time seems to stop, a paradise for lovers of mountains, history and authentic experiences. A visit here is a trip back in time and an opportunity to learn about one of Georgia's most fascinating cultures
• the same road we took here to Jvari

Both options have a similar distance, though slightly different crossing times. Each of the chosen routes has a tremendous amount to offer:

Ushguli is a group of four small settlements (Zhibiani, Chvibiani, Chazhashi and Murkmeli) in the region of Upper Svaneti in northwestern Georgia. It is one of the highest inhabited places in Europe, located at an altitude of about 2100-2200 m above sea level.. Ushguli lies at the foot of a majestic peak Szchara (5193 meters above sea level), the highest in Georgia, making the village an extremely picturesque and unique place. Ushguli is part of the inscribed on the UNESCO list of Svaneti, known for its unique stone defense towers dating back to the 12th-14th centuries. Ushguli is a symbol of traditional Svaneti culture, which has survived almost unchanged for centuries. It is a place where you can experience the authentic life of the Caucasian people. The village offers spectacular views of the snow-capped peaks of the Caucasus Mountains, the Shchara glacier and green valleys that delight every visitor. On a hill overlooking the village and mountains - the church Lamaria Dating back to the 9th to 10th centuries.

Kutaisi -. Georgia's second largest city, is an excellent base for exploring the stunning sites of the Imereti region. The surrounding area abounds with natural and historical attractions that attract tourists from all over the world. The program does not allocate time to stay and explore Kutaisi, although we strongly encourage you to visit it on a separate trip.

Okatse Canyon - a spectacular rock formation surrounded by lush forests, with viewing terraces and paths suspended over the precipice. The visitor path leads over bridges and platforms, offering incredible views of deep gorges and a rushing river. Walking the 700-meter platform above the canyon is an unforgettable experience. There is also the Kinchkha waterfall, ideal for a short trip. The tour takes about two hours.

Prometheus Cave - located near Kutaisi, is one of the largest caves in Georgia. It consists of several underground halls with fanciful stalactite and stalagmite formations, illuminated by colorful lights. An underground walk through the cave includes spectacular stalactites, underground lakes and passages. There is also an optional boat ride through an underground river. The tour time is about 1 hour. The temperature in the cave stays around 14°C, so it is advisable to bring warmer clothes.

Martvili Canyon - a picturesque gorge where a rushing river has gouged green rock walls, creating waterfalls and natural pools. The main attraction of the canyon is a boat ride down the turquoise waters, which allows you to admire the beauty of the place up close. Besides, it's worth taking a stroll along the paths leading along the canyon. The boat ride lasts about 20 minutes, while exploring the entire canyon takes 1-2 hours.

We leave early in the morning, heading to the so-called. Georgian War Road to Stepancminda (former Kazbegi) under the border with the Russian Federation and under the five-thousander named Kazbek itself. The Georgian War Road is a historic route through the scenic South Caucasus, connecting the Georgian capital, Tbilisi, with the Russian city Vladikavkaz in North Ossetia. It is one of the most important and oldest roads in the region, serving both a strategic and commercial function since ancient times. The road was established back in ancient times as a merchant route, and in the 19th century it was reconstructed by the Russians, who used it to transport troops and supplies during their struggle for control of the Caucasus. The name "War Road" refers to its military importance.

On the way we will stop briefly in Gori. Gori is a city located in the region of Inner Kartlia, on the Mtkvari River. It is one of the oldest cities in the country, founded according to legends by King David IV the Builder in the 11th century. Gori plays an important historical, cultural and strategic role in Georgian history, but it is particularly famous for one reason: it Joseph Stalin's birthplace, one of the most controversial leaders of the 20th century. Gori is home to the Stalin Museum, which is also Gori's main tourist attraction. It houses an exhibit on Stalin's life and activities, including his desk, uniforms, documents and photographs. The museum also features his family home and a special train car that Stalin traveled in. We don't plan to visit the museum itself, nevertheless a few photos under the wagon will be an undoubted trophy from the site.

Not far from Gori is the Uplistsikhe, an ancient rock city from pagan times, which was one of the first urban centers in Georgia. It is a must-see on your tour of the region and we will stop there for a little longer.

We will reach Stepancminda (former Kazbegi) before the evening, passing the Gudauri (perhaps the most famous and popular ski resort with a place for extreme sports, in the summer a lot of paragliders spend time here) and Cross Pass.

A day off, not so free at all... 🙂 The surroundings are conducive to both hiking and driving. On the list of places to visit in the vicinity of our accommodation base are:

Larsi Checkpoint is the main border crossing between Georgia and Russia, located on the Georgian War Road. It is an important point for those traveling between the two countries, especially towards Vladikavkaz. The surrounding area, with views of the Terga River valley and the surrounding peaks of the Caucasus Mountains, offers impressive scenery. The border crossing is the starting point for further exploration of the Kazbegi region.

Gveleti Lake (Gveleti Lake) -. a small but picturesque lake located near the village of Gveleti, surrounded by the majestic Caucasus mountains. An easy trekking route is required to reach the lake, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and peaceful walks. 

Terga Valley stretches along the river of the same name, which flows from the glaciers of the Kazbegi mountains. The picturesque valley, surrounded by steep slopes, is a popular place for trekking and photography. A route along the valley leads to many of the region's attractions, such as Cminda Sameba and the Kazbegi Glacier.

Tower in Gergeti is one of the lesser-known, but very interesting monuments in the Kazbegi region. It is a medieval defense tower located on the mountainside. Although it requires a bit of effort to reach it, you will be rewarded with magnificent views of the Terga valley and nearby peaks.

Cminda Sameba (Holy Trinity Monastery) -. One of Georgia's most famous and recognizable monuments. The monastery is located at 2170 meters above sea level, on a hill overlooking the village of Stepancminda. Its picturesque location, with the majestic peak of Kazbek in the background, makes it an icon of tourism in Georgia. Cminda Sameba can be reached on foot (about a 2-hour trek from Stepancminda), by all-terrain vehicle, or by allroad motorcycle.

Truso Valley is one of the most beautiful places in the Kazbegi region. It offers views of picturesque meadows, hot springs, abandoned villages and natural rock formations. The route passes through a picturesque valley along the Tergi River and allows you to explore the region's unique flora and fauna. There are ruins of medieval towers and chapels in the valley, adding to its historic character.

Jute Valley, located at 2,200 meters above sea level, is one of the highest inhabited places in Georgia (though not the highest). It is an ideal place for trekking and climbing enthusiasts. A landmark place - the village of Juta, which can be reached without much effort. Surrounded by views of Chaukhi Massif - otouted as the "Georgian Dolomites," a picturesque rock massif that attracts climbers and photographers.

Kakheti is one of Georgia's most important regions, famous primarily for its wine production and rich wine culture that dates back thousands of years. Located in the eastern part of the country, the region impresses with a variety of landscapes - from the green vineyards of the Alazani Valley to the hills and mountain passes of the Caucasus. It is a destination that attracts both wine lovers and tourists interested in history, culture and nature.

City Gurjaani lies in the heart of Kakheti and is an important wine center of the region. It is known for, among other things. Gurjaani Kvelatsminda Church - A unique double-domed church from the 8th-9th century and numerous vineyards - The Gurjaani area abounds with vineyards offering traditional Georgian wines produced in clay amphorae (kvevri). 

Sighnaghi is one of Georgia's most picturesque towns. It is located on a hill overlooking the Alazani Valley. Undoubtedly, the city's biggest attractions are:

• Sighnaghi Fortress - with the best-preserved defensive walls and towers
• Bodbe Monastery - A holy place associated with St. Nino, the patron saint of Georgia
• architecture and atmosphere of an Italian town with narrow streets and colorful houses
• numerous wineries and restaurants offering local specialties and views of the Alazani Valley

Alazani Valley is a fertile area surrounded by the mountains of the Greater and Lesser Caucasus. The heart of wine production in Georgia. It is here that vineyards are scattered, producing well-known wine varieties such as. Saperavi (red) and Rkatsiteli (white). There are also a whole host of traditional wineries in the valley, where you can see the kvevri wine-making process up close. Well, and extremely picturesque landscapes, especially during the grape harvest (September-October), while we will be there.

After yesterday's Supra and wine tastings, today is a slightly later departure and about 300 km of road. We leave the easternmost patch of the real Georgia and start our return towards Batumi. On the road today the region Samcche-Djavachetia And the goal for today's end of the day Achalkalaki or Bordjomi.  Samcche-Djavachetia is a region in the southern part of Georgia, bordering Armenia and Turkey, with an extremely rich history, diverse landscape and numerous tourist attractions. It is an area where the pasts of Armenia, Georgia and Byzantium are combined in a unique cultural heritage. It is also known for its unique microclimate and picturesque mountain passes and lakes.

Depending on the chosen driving route (in good weather we will take the very local Tbilisi-Manglisi-Calka-Sakdrioni road via the Trialeti Planned National Park, with worse conditions - we will bypass Tbilisi from the north, take the Georgian war road to Surami, where we will descend to b8) several attractions, at which we will certainly stop if only for a few moments: 

Narikala Fortress is one of the most important and oldest buildings in Tbilisi, dating back to the 4th century. Situated on a hill overlooking the city and the Kura River, it offers incredible panoramic views. It is a symbol of Tbilisi's history and a witness to its turbulent history. The fortress can be reached on foot or by cable car, which is an attraction in itself.

Monument Mother Georgia -. This monumental statue is located on Sololaki Hill in Tbilisi. It was erected in 1958, on the occasion of the city's 1500th anniversary. The statue depicts a woman holding a sword in one hand (for defense of the homeland) and a cup of wine in the other (symbolizing the hospitality of Georgians). It is one of the most distinctive symbols of Tbilisi.

Monument to the Chronicles of Georgia -. monumental architectural work by Zurab Cereteli, located on a hill above Tbilisi, next to the Zynval Reservoir. The monument shows Georgia's history in the form of huge reliefs depicting biblical events and key moments in the country's history. The site is awe-inspiring in its scale and detail of the sculptures, while offering beautiful views of the surrounding area.

Jwari Monastery (6th century AD). is one of the most important religious monuments in Georgia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is located on a hill overlooking the confluence of the Aragvi and Kura rivers. It is an example of cross-dome architecture and a testament to early Christianity in Georgia. According to legend, the site was sacred even before the construction of the monastery, where the first Christian cross was erected.

Pompeus Bridge – Pompey Bridge, is an ancient bridge erected during Roman times in the 1st century BC by Pompey the Great during his military campaign in the region. It is located near Akhalkalaki, in the Samcche-Djavakhetia region. It is a tangible proof of the Roman influence in Georgia and the extraordinary craftsmanship of the builders.

Diamond Bridge Kass Land -. a modern attraction in Georgia that is part of the Kass Land park in the Samcche-Djavakhetia region. The bridge is one of the longest glass bridges in the Caucasus region, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The bridge's glass elements allow you to admire the abyss beneath your feet, making it a popular destination for adrenaline-seeking tourists.

For today, about 220 km of very poor quality, but extremely scenic route. It will take about 6 hours to drive it, not counting stops, so we set off early, no later than 8:30 a.m. On the way a lot of places where we will stop.

Akhaltsikhe and Rabati Fortress -. one of the most impressive architectural complexes in Georgia. The fortress, which was originally built in the 9th century, has been restored and today combines Georgian, Ottoman, Armenian and European elements. On its grounds are: Jacob Pasha Palace, Church, Mosque, Historical museum.
From the observation decks you can enjoy a panoramic view of the city and the surrounding mountains.

Goderdzi Pass in the region of Adjara, on the border with Samcche-Djavakheti, at an altitude of about 2,000 meters above sea level. This place is particularly popular with nature lovers and winter sports enthusiasts. The road to the pass leads through picturesque villages and valleys.

In the village Makhuntseti There is an impressive arched stone bridge that dates back to medieval times. It is an example of traditional Georgian engineering, and the bridge itself blends in perfectly with the surrounding nature. You can also see an aqueduct in the area, which in the past was used to irrigate farmland.

Makhuntseti Waterfall is one of the most beautiful places in the region. About 20 meters high, the waterfall is surrounded by lush vegetation and rocks, making it a popular place for relaxation and photo shoots. In the summer, markets with local products and food are held near it.

We end the day in Batumi with an evening walk around the city and a farewell dinner. Tomorrow we begin the transit to Bulgaria.

1 day transit, scheduled to cover about 530 km and border crossing with Turkey. Passage mainly on highways, at an even pace at the allowed speed, with short stops every about 1 hour and refueling every about 2 hours.

Arrive at the accommodation in the predawn hours. 

The 2nd day of transit, to cover the scheduled about 800 km on the highways of Turkey. Drive at an even pace at the speed limit, with short stops every 1 hour or so and refueling every 2 hours or so.

Arrive at the accommodation in the predawn hours. 

The event ends near the town of PLOWDIW in Bulgaria, it is here that we arrive and leave the motorcycles, which will set off the next day to return to the country.

From Plovdiv - the place where the motorcycles being transported to Poland are loaded - the participants will be taken on an organized transfer to Sofia near the airport.
Here, depending on the flight schedule, returns the same day in the evening. or an additional night to be arranged near the airport and morning flights the next day.