Skiing and snowboarding in Georgia: the 5 best winter resorts
Are you a winter sports enthusiast looking for the perfect skiing destination? Add Georgia to your list of must-visit winter destinations!
Are you a winter sports enthusiast looking for the perfect skiing destination? Add Georgia to your list of must-visit winter destinations! A small yet highly mountainous republic, Georgia is the ideal place to spend your snowy vacation. The country offers well-equipped and affordable ski resorts, along with outstanding backcountry skiing in perfect conditions.
With lift passes under €15 a day, full meals for €5 at the top of the slopes, and affordable hotel nights, Georgia is quickly becoming the preferred destination for European and Asian skiers. Especially since it enjoys good snow coverage for much of the year and the seasons are long. Less crowded than the Alps, Georgia's ski resorts are peaceful and allow you to make the most of your winter stay. We recommend heading to one of these 5 ski resorts in Georgia, chosen according to your level and preferences:
Gudauri
Gudauri is Georgia's largest ski resort and the most popular one. It's also the most modern, with a fully English-speaking ski school. This makes it a perfect destination for beginners and experienced skiers alike. You can also enjoy backcountry skiing and ski touring... until June!
Located just two hours from Georgia's capital, Tbilissi, in the Greater Caucasus range, it's easily accessible and well-equipped. Gudauri sits at 2,196 meters altitude. Its longest run spans 7 kilometers. And in addition to enjoying excellent skiing conditions, you'll be able to admire views of Mount Kazbek at 5,033 meters, Georgia's second-highest mountain.
Goderzi
If you're looking for a more peaceful getaway, head to the newer Goderzi resort. Situated at 2,000 meters altitude, near Batumi, it offers excellent snow from November to April. It remains quite small for now, with just two lifts. But because of its often snow-blocked road, Goderzi offers unbeatable tranquility. You can be sure you'll find fresh tracks every day!
Also take advantage of the resort for backcountry skiing, and even cat-skiing for adrenaline seekers.
Mestia
Mestia is a small ski resort with a few lifts and heli-skiing, located in the magnificent Svaneti region in Georgia. It's precisely its location that gives it its charm, even though it's difficult to access. You can take the opportunity to discover Svan culture and the picturesque village of Usghuli.
The town of Mestia serves two ski resorts: Hatsvali and Tetnuldi. This region is known as Georgia's freeride mecca. Even when other parts of Georgia are snow-free, you'll find snow here.
Bakuriani
Bakuriani is the ideal ski resort for family getaways in Georgia. Located near the town of Borjomi, it is accessible by train.
The resort has 26 km of slopes, most suitable for beginners, though it also features some challenging runs. It's particularly appreciated for its forest setting, something you won't find at the other, higher-altitude bases.
Bakhmaro
If you want to ski backcountry and only backcountry, head to Bakhmaro in western Georgia. A base for trekkers in summer, this small town transforms into a skier's paradise in winter. In recent years, the resort has offered cat-skiing at very affordable prices and in stunning pine and mountain landscapes.
Frequently asked questions
Bakuriani is ideal for beginners with its 26 km of slopes, most of which are easy. Gudauri is also recommended thanks to its English-speaking ski school accessible to all levels.
Daily ski passes in Georgia are very affordable, often under €15 per day. Meals at the top of the slopes cost around €5, making it one of Europe's cheapest ski destinations.
The ski season in Georgia generally runs from November to April depending on the resort. At Gudauri, you can even ski until June thanks to the high altitude and excellent snow conditions.
Gudauri is accessible in just 2 hours from Tbilissi. Bakuriani is served by train from Borjomi. Mestia is more difficult to access but remains reachable by car or plane from Tbilissi.
Yes, Georgia is renowned for its backcountry skiing. The Mestia region, with Hatsvali and Tetnuldi, is considered Georgia's freeride mecca. Bakhmaro also offers cat-skiing in stunning pine and mountain landscapes.
