If you’re curious about Georgia’s Soviet past or love exploring decaying architecture, the Tskaltubo Abandoned Soviet-Era Spas Tour offers a fascinating glimpse into a bygone era. This guided experience from Kutaisi takes you through once-glamorous sanatoriums, bathhouses, and hotels that now stand as ghostly monuments overtaken by nature. It’s a mix of history, architecture, and a bit of thrill—perfect for adventurous travelers, history buffs, or urban explorers (Urbex lovers).
I love how this tour combines storytelling with the chance to wander through buildings that are both majestic and crumbling. The guides, notably Ana and Eva, receive high praise for their knowledge and friendliness. Their explanations help make sense of the buildings’ grandeur and decline, adding layers of meaning to the visual experience. Plus, seeing the Spring N6 bathhouse built for Stalin offers a rare peek into Soviet-era grandeur.
On the flip side, the tour’s focus on abandoned buildings means uneven floors, broken glass, and crumbling concrete. If you’re wary of walking through old, potentially unsafe structures, this might be a consideration. Also, access to certain buildings can change if they become inaccessible, so flexibility is key. Still, for most, the thrill of wandering through these historic ruins outweighs the minor risks.
Overall, a small-group tour, limited to seven people, ensures personalized attention and safety. The price represents excellent value compared to private exploration, especially given the transportation, guide expertise, and unique access to otherwise off-limits sites. Whether you’re an urbex enthusiast or just curious about Soviet architecture, this trip offers a memorable and photogenic adventure.
Key Points / Takeaways
- Authentic Soviet Architecture: See historic sanatoriums and bathhouses that reveal the grandeur of Soviet-era health tourism.
- Expert Guides: Guides like Ana and Eva are praised for their extensive knowledge and friendly approach, making history accessible and engaging.
- Unique Photo Opportunities: Capture stunning, haunting images of grand buildings overtaken by nature—perfect for photography enthusiasts.
- Limited Group Size: Small groups of up to seven travelers mean more personalized attention and safety.
- Historical Context: Learn about the rise and fall of Tskaltubo, including the story behind its waters dubbed “the waters of immortality.”
- Potential Risks: Be prepared for uneven surfaces, broken glass, and crumbling structures—prompting a careful approach.
Tskaltubo, a tranquil Georgian town, is best known for its mineral waters and historic sanatoriums that once drew hundreds of thousands of visitors annually. Today, many of these grand buildings lie abandoned, their elegant facades slowly succumbing to time and nature. The Kutaisi: Tskaltubo Abandoned Soviet-Era Spas Tour offers a chance to step into this ghostly landscape, guided by experts who bring the history and architecture back to life.
Why Take This Tour?
If you’re drawn to stories of the Soviet Union’s architectural ambitions or crave an unusual adventure, this tour hits the spot. It’s not just about looking at decaying buildings; it’s about understanding the cultural and historical significance of a place once considered a health and wellness mecca. The tour lasts about four hours, giving plenty of time to soak in the atmosphere without feeling rushed.
Two standout features immediately catch your attention. First, the guides are highly praised for their extensive knowledge and friendly demeanor, making complex history approachable and interesting. Nicu mentions how the tour provided “great information,” highlighting the value of local insights. Second, the stunning visuals—from the iconic colonnades of sanatorium Medea to the eerie, overgrown corridors—make it a photographer’s paradise.
The main downside? Since the buildings are abandoned, expect some uneven floors, broken glass, and general decay. While the guides do their best to ensure safety, walkers should proceed with caution. For those uncomfortable with such environments, this might be a slightly challenging outing. However, this sense of authenticity is also what makes the experience so compelling.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Tskaltubo.
What You’ll See and Do
Starting at Sanatorium Medea, built between 1954 and 1962, you’ll marvel at its impressive colonnade, reminiscent of classical architecture but rooted firmly in Soviet design. The building’s spacious corridors and original interiors from the 60s are a photographer’s dream, and as Michaela notes, the “beautiful hotel rooms” and fountains evoke a sense of the past grandeur.
Next, the tour moves to Sanatorium Metallurgist, where the dramatic entrance with a massive chandelier strikes you first. Walking through the halls, you’ll see remnants of a thriving hospitality scene—an old theater hall and a grand restaurant—now silent witnesses to a different time. The guide’s commentary enriches the experience, filling the space with stories and context.
The Spring N6 bathhouse is a highlight, as it’s one of the few still functioning sites. Built especially for Stalin’s visit, it offers a tangible link to Soviet history. Before leaving, the group explores an additional abandoned bathhouse, providing a more raw and untouched glimpse into the decay.
The Atmosphere and Photo Opportunities
One of the most striking aspects of the tour is the way nature has begun reclaiming these structures. Buildings are overgrown with vegetation, fountains are dry, and echoes of footsteps linger where crowds once gathered. As Rieke describes, the scenery has a “post-apocalyptic” feel mixed with haunting beauty. It’s a place where every corner seems to tell a story—an ideal setting for photographers and curious explorers alike.
Practical Details and Logistics
The tour departs from Kutaisi’s Central Park columns, right across from the Colchis Fountain, which is currently under construction. Transportation is included, so you won’t need to worry about navigating independently. The small group size of up to seven people keeps things intimate and manageable, especially in such potentially tricky environments.
Cost-wise, this experience offers solid value. The fee covers transportation, the guides’ expertise, and access to multiple sites, some of which are not open to the public without a guide. You’ll want to bring comfortable shoes and a camera—wearing sturdy footwear is essential given the uneven floors—and staying hydrated is a good idea, as the walk involves quite a lot of exploring.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This tour is ideally suited for history enthusiasts, architecture lovers, and urbex fans. It’s also perfect if you enjoy a bit of adventure and don’t mind walking through dilapidated buildings. However, it’s not recommended for children under 12, pregnant women, or travelers with mobility issues, as the terrain can be tricky.
Final Thoughts on the Experience
The Tskaltubo abandoned sanatoriums tour offers more than just photos of creepy buildings. It’s an immersive experience into Georgia’s Soviet past, told through architecture, stories, and the haunting beauty of decay. The guides, especially Eva and Ana, are praised for their knowledge and warmth, making the hour and a half drive from Kutaisi worthwhile.
This is a trip for those who appreciate authenticity over polished tourism and are comfortable with a bit of physical unpredictability. The opportunity to see buildings on the verge of collapse, yet still filled with history, makes for a memorable day. It’s one of those experiences that sticks with you long after you’ve left the site.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
If you prefer guided insights into history and architecture, enjoy exploring off-the-beaten-path sites, or want to add a touch of adventure to your Georgia trip, this tour is an excellent choice. It’s especially appealing if you’re seeking a small-group experience, which enhances both safety and engagement. For photographers and history buffs alike, the haunting scenery and fascinating backstories ensure a rewarding visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation from Kutaisi to Tskaltubo and back is part of the tour.
What should I bring?
Wear comfortable walking shoes, as there will be a lot of uneven surfaces, and bring a water bottle to stay hydrated. Don’t forget your camera for capturing the buildings’ eerie beauty.
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately four hours, making it a manageable half-day activity.
Is the tour suitable for children?
No, it’s not suitable for children under 12, as the environment can be challenging and potentially unsafe for younger kids.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Are there any restrictions on accessibility?
People with mobility impairments may find the uneven terrain and crumbling stairs difficult to navigate, so consider this before booking.
In the end, this tour is a rare chance to step into Georgia’s Soviet history, seen through the lens of striking architecture and nature’s slow takeover. It’s a worthwhile addition to any trip to Kutaisi for those with an adventurous spirit and a curiosity for stories buried in ruins.