Gudauri

Caucasus ski resort village on the Georgian Military Highway, known for high-altitude off-piste terrain

Gudauri is Georgia's main ski resort, perched at around 2,200 metres on the south-facing slopes of the Greater Caucasus, about two hours' drive north of Tbilisi along the Georgian Military Highway. The resort has runs for all levels — from gentle nursery slopes to serious off-piste terrain — and the snow season typically runs from December to April.

What sets Gudauri apart from better-known European resorts is the price and the emptiness. Lift passes, equipment rental, and accommodation are a fraction of Alpine costs, and even in high season you are unlikely to queue. Heli-skiing is available for those who want untouched powder on the surrounding peaks.

On the drive up from Tbilisi, just before the resort, the Russia-Georgia Friendship Monument sits on the edge of the Jvari Pass with panoramic views over the Aragvi gorge — a striking piece of Soviet-era engineering now carrying a more complicated meaning. In summer the area is popular for hiking, paragliding, and as a staging point for trips further up the highway to the Kazbegi region and Mount Kazbek.

Guide

Getting There

Gudauri is about 120 km north of Tbilisi along the Georgian Military Highway (S3), a two-hour drive in good conditions. The road climbs steadily through the Aragvi gorge before rising to the Jvari Pass. In winter it can be slow due to snow and heavy ski traffic on weekends; check road conditions before departing. Marshrutka minibuses run from Tbilisi's Didube bus station toward Kazbegi and stop at Gudauri, though departure times vary.

There are also regular ski shuttle services from Tbilisi during the winter season, bookable through hotels and guesthouses in the city. No public transport serves Gudauri independently — you either drive or join a transfer.

Guide

Things to Do

Gudauri is about skiing and mountains. In winter, the resort's lifts access terrain from easy nursery runs to demanding off-piste couloirs, with heli-skiing available for those who want untouched powder on the higher peaks. In summer, the slopes become hiking and paragliding territory, with the Russia-Georgia Friendship Monument near the top of the pass offering one of the most striking viewpoints on the Georgian Military Highway.