Grand tour to Kakheti for wine lovers: Telavi-Kvareli-Sighnaghi

When it comes to Georgia, it’s impossible not to get excited about the country’s rich viticulture and its dramatic mountain landscapes. This private full-day tour from Tbilisi to Kakheti offers an in-depth look at the region’s history, architecture, and—of course—the wines. Priced at $110 per person, the tour is designed for those who value personalized experiences, with a typical booking window of around 78 days in advance. It lasts about 12 hours, making it a full but rewarding day for any curious traveler eager to explore Georgia’s eastern treasures.

What stands out most about this experience is the expert guidance and the opportunity to sample some of Georgia’s best wines in a relaxed, private setting. The friendly guide, Alexy, gets high praise in reviews for being responsible, knowledgeable, and personable—making the long drive feel like a journey with a good friend rather than just a tour. The scenic motor through mountain passes and forested roads is enchanting, and the stops—ranging from ancient fortresses to monasteries—are carefully curated to give a genuine taste of Kakheti’s historical depth.

One potential consideration is that lunch and wine tastings are not included in the base price, so you’ll want to budget extra for meals and beverages. But this setup allows you to choose your preferred dining options and wines, adding to the tour’s flexibility. This tour offers a solid balance of sightseeing, culture, and wine tasting, making it a fantastic choice for those who love history, stunning views, and a taste of Georgian hospitality.

Key Points

• Personalized private experience tailored for your group, avoiding crowded tours.
• Expert guide with great reviews emphasizing friendliness and responsibility.
• Rich itinerary that combines ancient fortresses, monasteries, mountain passes, and scenic views.
• Authentic wine tasting encounters at a famous tunnel winery in Kvareli.
• Incredible photo opportunities at Gombori Pass and other scenic stops.
• Flexible and hassle-free pickup from your Tbilisi hotel, streamlining your day.

Discovering Georgia’s Kakheti: A Full-Day Private Tour for Wine Aficionados

If you’ve ever dreamed of wandering through ancient stone fortresses, tasting authentic Georgian wines, and soaking up mountain vistas in one day, this Kakheti tour might be just what you’re looking for. I’ve looked into similar experiences and found that this tour strikes a nice balance between immersive cultural sightseeing and relaxed wine tasting, all bundled into a private, door-to-door package.

Starting from Tbilisi, this full-day journey takes you deep into Georgia’s renowned wine country, with the convenience of personalized service that many travelers appreciate. The tour’s cost of $110 per person is reasonable considering all the stops you get—if you’re someone who values an intimate experience over a crowded group, this could be a real winner.

What I Love About This Experience

First, the expert guide—specifically the one named Alexy, based on reviews—has a reputation for being friendly and responsible. It’s the kind of guide who makes the long drive feel relaxed and engaging, sharing stories about Kakheti’s history and its wines without overwhelming you. That personal touch can turn a good tour into a memorable one.

Second, the itinerary’s combination of landscapes, history, and wine offers a well-rounded look at Kakheti. From the 5th-century Ujarma fortress, where you can imagine Georgia’s ancient rulers, to the Gremi Church of Archangels with its striking ruins, each stop brings a different taste of the region’s past. The Gombori Pass—at over 1,600 meters—offers breathtaking panoramic views and is perfect for photos or just a quick stretch.

A Key Consideration

While the tour includes many fascinating stops, the wine tasting and lunch are not included in the price. This means you’ll want to plan for extra expenses if you want to indulge at the tunnel winery or enjoy a sit-down meal with local dishes. This offers flexibility—some travelers prefer to choose their own wineries and eateries—but it’s worth planning financially beforehand.

The Itinerary in Detail: What You Can Expect

Ujarma Fortress – Step into Georgia’s Ancient Past

Our day begins with a visit to Ujarma fortress, believed to have been established in the 5th century by Vakhtang Gorgasali, the founder of Tbilisi. The site is significant as it served as a royal residence and treasury, and its ruins offer a glimpse into Georgia’s early medieval history. The admission ticket isn’t included, but the opportunity to walk around and imagine the past is worth the 45-minute stop. It’s a highlight for history enthusiasts and adds a sense of stepping back in time.

Gombori Pass – Elevate Your Perspective

Next, we drive through the Gombori Pass, reaching an altitude of 1,650 meters. Here, you’ll find an observation deck—the perfect spot for photos and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and forest. The road here is lined with towering pine trees, and the area feels almost magical. The small stop is free, and it’s a refreshing break to stretch your legs and enjoy the scenery.

Alaverdi Monastery – Spiritual and Architectural Wonder

The Alaverdi St. George Cathedral is a highlight for architecture lovers. Founded by Yosef Alaverdeli in the 6th century, this monastery complex boasts Georgia’s second tallest religious building at over 55 meters. The free access allows you to admire its grandeur and imagine the centuries of worship that have taken place here. It’s a peaceful spot that adds a spiritual dimension to the trip.

Telavi and Batonis-Tsikhe Fortress

In Telavi, the regional capital, you’ll see the monument to King Irakli II and enjoy a brief exploration of the main city. The Batonis-Tsikhe Fortress offers more insight into Kakheti’s strategic past. Although admission isn’t included, the historic ruins and town atmosphere give you a real sense of the local life and history.

Gremi and the Church of the Archangels – A Monument to Kakheti’s Glory

The Gremi Citadel, built in the 16th century, was once the capital of Kakheti. Its gloomy, monumental appearance makes it one of Georgia’s most visited ruins. As the guide probably explains, it was a thriving city and seat of kings. Nearby, the Church of the Archangels continues the story of Kakheti’s medieval power. Expect to spend around 45 minutes here, soaking in the views of the lush Alazani valley.

Tunnel Winery Khareba’s – The Heart of Georgian Wine

In Kvareli, the tour includes a visit to the famous Tunnel Winery Khareba’s. This underground wine cellar is carved into the mountain and offers tastings of authentic Georgian wines. The experience lasts about an hour, and while the price isn’t included, the guided insight into Georgian winemaking methods—especially the traditional use of Qvevri vessels—is one of the tour’s crowning jewels.

Bodbe Monastery – A Sacred Stop

Next, you’ll visit the Bodbe Monastery, home to the relics of St. Nino, who brought Christianity to Georgia. The monastery’s beautiful setting and the new cathedral under construction showcase Georgia’s ongoing spiritual devotion. The free entrance makes this a peaceful pause before heading to Sighnaghi.

Sighnaghi – The City of Love

Finally, the tour concludes in Sighnaghi, often called the City of Love. Its cobblestone streets, restored facades, and romantic atmosphere make it a delightful place to wander. The city walls offer fantastic views of the surrounding countryside, perfect for a relaxed stroll and some memorable photos. The one-hour stop is free, giving you time to soak in the charm and perhaps visit its famous wedding chapel.

Practical Insights: What This Tour Means for You

Transportation is comfortable and reliable, with air-conditioned vehicles that handle Georgian mountain roads well. The private tour setup ensures you aren’t part of a noisy crowd, and the guide’s local knowledge enhances every stop. Expect the timings to be flexible, but be prepared for a long day, as the itinerary is packed.

Pricing at $110 per person covers all taxes, fees, and the convenience of door-to-door pickup, which can save you the hassle of navigating public transport or taxis—especially helpful if you’re unfamiliar with Tbilisi. Just remember that lunch and wine tastings come as extra expenses, so plan accordingly.

This experience appeals most to history lovers, wine enthusiasts, and travelers who appreciate a personalized touch. If you’re traveling solo, a couple, or a small group, the private setting offers intimacy that large tours can’t match. If you’re short on time but want a comprehensive taste of Kakheti, this tour packs in a lot without feeling rushed.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for wine lovers eager to explore Georgia’s famous wine-making traditions firsthand. It’s also perfect for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path cultural experience combined with stunning scenery. The expert guide and flexible itinerary mean you’ll get valuable insights and the ability to customize certain stops if desired. Travelers interested in historical sites, medieval architecture, and mountain landscapes will find plenty to admire here.

However, it’s worth noting that the long duration and the extra costs for tastings and meals mean you need to be comfortable with a full day of sightseeing. If you prefer a more relaxed pace, consider choosing specific parts of the itinerary to focus on instead of the whole tour.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour offers door-to-door pickup from your Tbilisi hotel, making the start and end of your day seamless.

How much does wine tasting cost?
The wine tasting at Tunnel Winery Khareba’s is not included in the $110 price, so expect additional costs if you want to sample wines there.

Can I customize the itinerary or choose specific stops?
Since it’s a private tour, you can discuss your preferences with your guide. However, the described itinerary provides a comprehensive look at Kakheti’s highlights.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, but you can plan for your own meals or additional tastings during the day.

Is this tour suitable for children or non-drinkers?
Yes, the sightseeing and historical stops are suitable for all ages, but wine tasting is for those 18 and older.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes and shoes for walking, and layers for mountain stops like Gombori Pass, where the temperature can vary.

In the end, this Kakheti day trip offers a well-balanced combination of history, scenery, and wine tasting in a private setting, emphasizing personal service and local authenticity. It’s perfect for travelers who want to go beyond the usual sights and truly experience Georgia’s famed wine culture and stunning landscapes in one memorable day.