German village in Georgia (Elisabethal) & Wine tasting

Travelers seeking a blend of history, culture, and wine will find this full-day private tour from Tbilisi to Kakheti truly rewarding. Priced at $75 per person, it offers a well-rounded experience that includes hotel pickup, transport, wine tasting, and visits to historical sites. The tour is highly rated, with a perfect 5.0 from seven reviews, and is often booked about a month in advance—so planning ahead is wise.

What I find particularly appealing are two aspects: first, the chance to explore the German heritage in Georgia, especially through the ruins of the Elisabethal village and its Lutheran church—an unusual and poignant glimpse into the region’s multicultural past. Second, the wine tasting experience, which revolves around the rare and celebrated Shala wine made from the Asuretuli Shala grape—an authentic taste of local tradition that originated with German farmers and is still produced near the village. One standout feature is the personalized nature of the tour—being private means undivided attention from your guide, making for a more relaxed and in-depth day.

A slight consideration to keep in mind is the pace of the program. The tour covers a lot of ground and history in just five hours, so if you’re particularly interested in in-depth visits to each site, or want time for a leisurely lunch, you might find it a bit brisk. Still, for a rundown that balances cultural discovery with scenic vistas and wine, this tour hits a sweet spot.

Key Points

Authentic German Heritage: The tour explores the ruins of a 19th-century Lutheran church and German cemetery, offering insights into Georgia’s diverse past.
Quality Wine Tasting: Sample the unique Shala wine, which carries a tradition dating back to German settlers and is highly praised by previous guests.
Historical Significance: Learn about the German settlers’ influence, from the sulfur baths to the wine vineyards near the Algeti River.
Personalized Experience: With private transportation and guide, you get tailored attention and flexibility in your schedule.
Scenic and Cultural highlights: The tour combines picturesque sites like Ilia Lake and Bodbe Monastery, giving a well-rounded view of Kakheti.
Value for Money: For $75, the combination of transportation, guide, and wine tasting provides a solid value, especially considering the private nature of the tour.

A Detailed Look at the Experience

Booking and Value

Priced at $75 per person, this tour provides good value when you consider the inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off, private vehicle service, and a wine tasting experience. It generally attracts bookings about 33 days in advance, suggesting it’s popular among travelers who want a well-organized, hassle-free day out that maximizes their time. Think of it as a cultural and scenic sampler, with the cost covering all logistics and guided insights.

Transportation and Timing

The tour lasts about five hours, starting around 10:00 am, which makes it a manageable day trip, even if you’re based centrally in Tbilisi. The private vehicle ensures comfortable, direct transfers—no need to worry about navigating public transport or sticking to rigid schedules. It’s especially convenient for those who value personalized service and the flexibility to explore at your own pace.

The Route and Sites

Asureti German Lutheran Church

Your first stop is the Asureti Lutheran church, built in the mid-19th century by German settlers. It’s a simple yet elegant example of German architecture and served as a central focal point for the community. Today, the ruins evoke a sense of history and loss, as the German community was forcibly deported during WWII. Walking among the remnants, you’ll get a palpable sense of the village’s multicultural past. One reviewer described it as a “poignant reminder,” and I agree that these ruins make history feel personal and real.

Elisabethtal Cemetery

Next, the tour visits the German cemetery, where traditional gravestones with German inscriptions tell stories of early 19th-century settlers. Despite some neglect after WWII, efforts have been made to preserve this site, which remains a vital link to Georgia’s German heritage. It’s a quietly moving spot, giving visitors a chance to connect with the personal stories of those who called Elisabethtal home.

Sulfur Bath

The German sulfur bath in Asureti showcases the settlers’ architectural influence—constructed with skill and thought, with a notable reputation for therapeutic properties. Though it’s no longer operational, it stands as a monument to their craftsmanship and desire for wellness. History buffs and architecture enthusiasts particularly enjoy this site.

Raminashvilebis Marani – Wine Tasting

No tour of Georgia is complete without wine, and here you’ll experience Shala, a rare grape variety known as Asuretuli Shala. Made since 1931 on vineyards near the Algeti River, this wine is a testament to the German influence on Georgian viticulture. The tasting session, often highlighted as a highlight by previous guests, is led by knowledgeable hosts who share the story behind the wine—from Otto Schall, the German farmer who helped establish the vineyards, to the distinctive taste and aroma that sets this wine apart. Many reviews praise the wine as “delicious,” and the opportunity to sample such a unique local product adds real depth to the experience.

Additional Highlights

Other stops include scenic views of Ilia Lake and visits to Bodbe Monastery, which though not detailed in the initial info, are often part of Kakheti tours for their religious and scenic significance. These sites allow travelers to sample Georgia’s religious architecture and enjoy beautiful natural landscapes.

Guides and Reviews

Guides like David and Irakli receive praise for their balanced approach—providing enough information without overwhelming, all while maintaining a sense of humor and friendliness. Guest reviews often mention their guides’ professionalism and knowledge, which enhances the personalized feel of the tour.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

The experience suits travelers interested in history, wine, and authentic local culture. It’s perfect for those who appreciate a small, private group environment where they can ask questions freely and explore at a relaxed pace. It’s also a good choice for people curious about Georgia’s diverse past, especially its German heritage, as well as wine lovers excited to taste a product rooted in history.

The Sum Up

This full-day private tour from Tbilisi to Kakheti offers a thoughtful, well-balanced mix of history, scenery, and wine. The chance to see ruins such as the Lutheran church and cemetery, alongside tasting a rare local wine like Shala, provides a genuine glimpse into Georgia’s cultural mosaic. The personal guiding and private transportation mean you get flexibility and intimacy, making it ideal for those who prefer a tailored experience over crowded group tours.

While the itinerary is packed and moves at a swift pace, it’s perfect for travelers who want an overview of Kakheti’s highlights in a manageable, well-organized day. If you’re captivated by authentic stories, historic sites, and regional wines, this tour will leave you with memorable impressions—and a few new favorites, like Shala wine.

This experience is best suited for curious travelers who value comfort, personal attention, and a mix of history and gastronomy. It’s especially recommended if you’re short on time but still want to absorb the essence of Georgia’s premier wine region and its diverse heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately five hours, starting around 10:00 am, which makes it a manageable day trip from Tbilisi.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off from anywhere in Tbilisi. This means no fuss with transportation logistics.

What is the price for?
The $75 includes private transportation, a guide, and wine tasting. Lunch and additional entrance fees are not included, but the value covers a lot of ground and experiences.

Can I participate if I don’t speak Georgian or Russian?
Most likely, yes. Guides are experienced and can communicate effectively in English, making the experience accessible.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable shoes for walking around ruins and scenic sites are recommended. Since the tour is private and flexible, check with your guide if you want to bring extra snacks or water.

Are there any group discounts?
The tour is private for your group, but the provider offers group discounts if booking multiple spots or sharing with friends.

What kind of wine will I taste?
You will sample Shala, made from the rare Asuretuli Shala grape, a specialty with a long-standing tradition in the region.

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
Yes, most travelers of all ages can participate, though young children might find some sites less engaging. The focus on history and wine makes it more suited for adult or older children.

What should I consider if I want a more leisurely experience?
Since the tour moves briskly to pack all highlights into five hours, if you prefer a more relaxed pace, you may want to discuss extending some stops with your guide or considering a different tour option.

This comprehensive experience offers a captivating glimpse into Georgia’s past and present—perfect for travelers eager to explore beyond the capital and enjoy authentic regional flavors.