Exploring the abandoned sanatoriums of Tskaltubo offers a fascinating glimpse into Georgia’s Soviet past. On this guided group tour departing from Kutaisi, you’ll wander through empty sanatoriums, visit thermal springs with unusual architecture, and step back in time to an era when wellness tourism was state-sponsored. The entire experience lasts about four hours, making it a manageable yet enriching addition to your Georgian itinerary.
Two things I especially appreciate about this tour are the knowledgeable guides who share insightful stories about Soviet occupation and the history behind each site, and the stunning views from the old sanatoriums and their surrounding parks. The tour’s transportation means you spend less time walking and more time soaking in the atmosphere, which is a real plus when exploring abandoned sites.
A possible concern is the pace—the tour moves at a steady clip, so if you’re hoping for a leisurely, in-depth exploration of each building, you might find it a bit rushed. Also, some of the buildings are quite dilapidated, so a sense of adventure and a good pair of sturdy shoes are recommended. This tour offers great value for travelers interested in history, architecture, and the Soviet era—just keep your expectations aligned with the tour’s scope.
Key Points / Takeaways
- Authentic Experience: Get a genuine feel for Soviet-era sanatoriums with guided insights and close-up views of abandoned buildings.
- Stunning Architecture: The Spring #8 features some of the most unusual architecture you’ll see in the area.
- Historical Context: The guide shares engaging stories about the Soviet occupation and the purpose of each sanatorium.
- Convenient Transportation: The tour’s transportation between sites maximizes sightseeing time and minimizes walking fatigue.
- Photographer’s Dream: Plenty of opportunities to snap atmospheric photos of empty pools, old train stations, and lush parks.
- Family Friendly: Suitable for those interested in history or architecture, but be prepared for some uneven terrain.
Exploring Tskaltubo’s Abandoned Sanatoriums: A Deep Dive
If you’re visiting Georgia and have an interest in Soviet history, architecture, or simply love the thrill of exploring abandoned places, a tour of Tskaltubo’s sanatoriums is worth considering. While the town is renowned for its natural thermal springs—many still active—the abandoned sanatoriums tell a different story, one of a once-thriving health retreat left to nature and neglect. This guided tour from Kutaisi unlocks that story in a way that’s engaging, informative, and a little adventurous.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Tskaltubo.
Starting Out: Meeting in Kutaisi and Heading to Tskaltubo
The tour kicks off in Kutaisi at the Budget Georgia office around 2:00 PM. From there, a comfortable vehicle whisks you to Tskaltubo, a journey of about 20-30 minutes depending on traffic and road conditions. The ride itself is a chance to get a first impression of the landscape—undeniably lush, with rolling hills and the quiet charm of a town that’s seen better days.
First Stop: Thermal Spring #6 and Its Stories
Your first visit is to Spring #6, renowned for its thermal waters. The guide shares how these springs played a central role in Tskaltubo’s rise as a health resort during the Soviet era. Standing at the spring, you’ll get a sense of the place’s purpose—people came here to soak and rejuvenate in natural mineral waters. The guide’s stories about how these springs were part of a larger health industry make the site much more vivid.
Spring #8: Architecture with a Twist
Next, you’ll walk to Spring #8, famous for its unusual architecture. This spring’s building boasts a distinctive, avant-garde design that’s quite different from your typical bathhouse. It’s a highlight for architecture lovers and photographers alike. The guide points out interesting design elements, adding a layer of appreciation beyond the natural springs. From here, you’ll notice how the buildings hint at a once-ambitious project that has since fallen into disrepair.
Sanatorium Gelati: A Kid-Friendly Space with a View
The tour then takes you to Sanatorium Gelati, originally built as a facility for children. You’ll see an old playground and a beautiful viewpoint that overlooks the inner structural remains of the sanatorium. Walking through these empty spaces, you can’t help but imagine the bustling activity that once filled the halls—now silent but still evocative. The guide shares stories about how children and families once spent their summers here, giving the site a human touch.
Sanatorium Medea and Druzhba: Echoes of a Past Wellness Boom
Following Gelati, the tour visits Sanatorium Medea and Druzhba, two more examples of grand Soviet architecture. Although these buildings are now abandoned, they still showcase impressive construction techniques and styles. The guide explains their original purpose, helping you appreciate the scale and ambition of the Soviet wellness industry. Walking through these sites also offers plenty of chances for photos, especially of the weathered facades and empty corridors.
The Tskaltubo Train Station: A Nostalgic Farewell
The final stop is the abandoned train station, a relic of the infrastructure that once connected this resort town across the Soviet Union. Standing amidst overgrown platforms and rusting tracks, you get a sense of the scale of the operation, and how visitors arrived here in droves decades ago. One reviewer mentions that the guide paid close attention to safety, making it easy to feel confident exploring these often fragile structures.
Wrap-up and Return
After exploring the train station, the group heads back to Kutaisi, arriving at the starting point roughly four hours after departure. The entire experience is well-paced, and the group size tends to be small, making it easy to ask questions and get personalized attention from your guide.
Why This Tour Stands Out
One of the most common compliments from previous travelers is how knowledgeable and friendly the guides are. Their stories bring the silent buildings to life, making the experience much more than just wandering through empty ruins. Several reviews mention that the guide answered questions patiently and paid careful attention to safety, which is reassuring when exploring abandoned sites with uneven floors or fragile structures.
Plus, the transportation between sites is a huge time-saver, allowing you to see multiple locations without tiring yourself out walking long distances. This makes the tour perfect for travelers with limited time or those who prefer a structured, guided experience rather than wandering on their own.
Who Should Consider This Tour
This experience is best suited for those who enjoy history, architecture, or offbeat travel. If you’re curious about Georgia’s Soviet past or love visiting atmospheric abandoned places, you’ll find plenty to fascinate here. It’s also a good choice for families or groups who want a guided, safe exploration of a unique historical site. However, if you prefer lush forests or active outdoor adventures, this might not be the perfect fit.
Price and Overall Value
While the exact cost isn’t specified here, this tour includes all transportation and guiding fees, which makes it a good deal compared to the expense of arranging private transport or visiting independently. The four-hour duration hits a sweet spot—enough time to see multiple sites without feeling rushed or drained.
Final Thoughts
If you’re after an authentic, visually striking look into Georgia’s Soviet-era sanatoriums, this tour offers a memorable experience. The combination of fascinating architecture, evocative ruins, and stories from a knowledgeable guide makes it a compelling choice. It’s especially perfect if you’re intrigued by history and enjoy a bit of adventure in exploring abandoned places.
The tour’s focus on safety, small group sizes, and rich storytelling makes it accessible for most travelers, and the scenic stops add a touch of beauty to the somewhat haunting abandoned sites. You’ll leave with a stronger sense of the history that shaped this quiet town—and plenty of great photos to prove it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this tour suitable for children or families?
Yes, it can be suitable for families interested in history or architecture. Just be aware that some of the buildings are quite dilapidated, so sturdy shoes and caution are advised.
How long does the tour last?
The whole experience runs about four hours, including transportation and stops at multiple sites.
What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable walking shoes are important, as some sites involve uneven or fragile floors. Bringing water and a camera is also recommended.
Are the abandoned buildings safe to explore?
Your guide pays close attention to safety, but since these are abandoned sites, some structures may be fragile. Follow the guide’s instructions and exercise caution.
Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in planning.
Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation from Kutaisi to Tskaltubo and between sites is part of the package.
Will I learn about the history of the sanatoriums?
Absolutely. The guide shares engaging stories about the Soviet occupation, the purpose of each sanatorium, and the town’s development over time.
In all, this tour offers a well-rounded, engaging look at Tskaltubo’s abandoned sanatoriums, blending history, architecture, and a dash of adventure—sure to appeal to curious travelers eager to explore Georgia’s unique past.