Gelati Momastery, Prometheus Cave, Sanatoriums and winetour

Experience Georgia’s Rich Heritage and Natural Beauty in One Day

Imagine exploring the magnificent Gelati Monastery, wandering through the spectacular Prometheus Cave, and strolling past haunting abandoned sanatoriums — all for just $41 per person. This tour, offered by TravelKutaisi Ltd., delivers a well-rounded taste of Georgia’s history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant winemaking traditions in a single day. Starting in Kutaisi, the journey takes you into the heart of the region’s cultural jewels, offering a mix of awe-inspiring sights and authentic local flavors.

What stands out the most? First, the expert guides, like Giorgi, who bring the history alive with engaging stories and a friendly attitude. Second, the wine tasting at Nikoladze Wine House, which offers a hands-on look at Georgia’s ancient craft and some of the best wines you’ll find outside a vineyard. That said, a possible drawback is that Gelati Monastery is temporarily closed for conservation works, so you might visit Mostameta or Bagrati Cathedral instead. Still, this change doesn’t take away from the overall richness of the experience.

This tour is perfect for travelers eager to combine history, nature, and food into one accessible, well-organized outing. It suits those who appreciate authentic experiences, enjoy learning about local traditions, and want a flexible, guided day out without a hefty price tag. Whether you’re a history buff or a wine lover, this trip offers a little bit of everything.

Key Points

• Cultural and Historical Sites: Visit important landmarks like Gelati Monastery (alternatives included) and learn about Georgia’s medieval past.
• Natural Wonders: Explore the breathtaking formations of Prometheus Cave, including a boat ride on its underground lake.
• Haunting Sanatoriums: Walk through the abandoned sanatoriums of Tskaltubo, experiencing their faded grandeur and overgrown beauty.
• Authentic Wine Experience: Taste four distinctive local wines plus chacha, with insights from a family winemaker.
• Expert Guide: Guided by knowledgeable locals who make history and traditions come alive.
• Flexible & Value-Packed: All for just $41, including transport and drinks, with optional entrance fees.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting at Gelati Monastery

The tour kicks off at Gelati Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site, once the residence of King David the Builder. Although it is currently closed for conservation, your guide will likely suggest visiting Mostameta or Bagrati Cathedral instead — both glorious examples of medieval architecture and spiritual significance. The stories about King David and the monastery’s role during Georgia’s golden age add depth to your walk, making it more than just a visual experience.

Many reviews note the guide’s storytelling prowess. As Rommel puts it, “His knowledge in the history of Kutaisi & Georgia in general is quite profound.” This kind of commentary helps you appreciate the site beyond its stones — understanding its pivotal place in Georgian history.

Exploring Prometheus Cave

Next, the adventure moves underground to Prometheus Cave, one of Georgia’s most famous natural attractions. As you descend into its mysterious depths, you’ll marvel at intricate stalactites, stalagmites, and shimmering underground halls. The highlight is the boat ride across a hidden lake, making you feel like an explorer venturing into an ancient, underwater world. The cave’s formations are jaw-dropping and provide a perfect backdrop for photography.

Guests rave about the breathtaking beauty of the cave. Thien mentions, “The wine tasting was amazing as we tried a huge variety of wine and traditional Georgian food,” but the cave itself is just as delightful, offering a cool, otherworldly atmosphere that’s perfect for a few hours of adventure.

The Sanatoriums of Tskaltubo

After the underground marvels, you’ll walk through Tskaltubo’s abandoned sanatoriums. These grand buildings, once bustling with visitors seeking health cures, now stand silent, overgrown with nature. Their faded facades evoke stories of former glory and mystery. It’s an experience that combines history, architecture, and a touch of the eerie.

Travelers like Susan comment, “The amount of time spent at each stop was just right,” and the sanatoriums provide plenty of room to absorb the atmosphere without feeling rushed. The site offers a rare glimpse into Georgia’s health tourism history, with the ruins telling stories of a bygone era.

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Georgian Wine Tasting at Nikoladze Winery

The tour concludes at Nikoladze Wine House, located just a short drive from Kutaisi. Here, you’ll sample four local wines and two varieties of chacha, Georgia’s famous grape-based spirit. The winemaker shares his knowledge, explaining traditional fermentation techniques and the tools used for generations, making this part both educational and delicious.

Many reviews emphasize the quality of the wine experience. Maciej states, “Whole trip was amazing, Giorgi not only took us to those places but talked about the city, the cathedral, winemaking process, the history of Georgia, its tradition, and much more.” The accompanying cheeses, fresh bread, or homemade khachapuri elevate the tasting to a full flavor experience.

Practical Details and Tips

• Transport: Comfortable, air-conditioned transport is included, making the long drives between sites easy and relaxing.
• Guide: Guided by friendly, knowledgeable locals like Giorgi, who bring history and tradition to life with engaging stories.
• Price & Value: At $41, including guide and drinks, this tour offers excellent value, considering the number of sites visited and the quality of the experience.
• Entrance Fees: The cave entrance costs GEL 25, boat GEL 20 (optional), but the monastery and sanatoriums are free to visit.
• Flexibility: If Gelati Monastery is closed, the guide will suggest other significant sites, ensuring your day remains full.
• Language: Tours are available in English and Russian, catering to a diverse group of travelers.
• Booking: You can reserve with the option to pay later, offering flexibility for your travel plans.
• Age Limit: Not suitable for children under 18, likely due to the varied nature of sites visited.

Authenticity and Guide Quality

The guides truly stand out in this tour. Many reviews highlight Giorgi’s passion, deep knowledge, and friendly demeanor. As Dmitry notes, “Georgi is a Great Guide. Highly recommended for everyone who goes to Kutaisi.” Their storytelling enriches the experience, making history engaging rather than just observed.

The small group size and flexible attitude of guides like Giorgi and David allow for a personalized experience, where questions are welcomed, and the itinerary can adapt to your interests.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you enjoy history and culture, this tour offers insights into Georgia’s medieval past and early 20th-century health tourism. For nature lovers, the underground caves and overgrown sanatoriums provide a sense of discovery. Wine enthusiasts will appreciate the hands-on look at traditional winemaking methods, paired with tastings of high-quality local wines.

It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate a mix of guided storytelling and free exploration, with sites that are both visually stunning and historically meaningful. If you want a budget-friendly, well-organized day tour that balances education, scenery, and local flavor, this experience hits the mark.

The Sum Up

This tour combines the best of Georgia’s cultural, natural, and gastronomic offerings into a single, affordable package. You’ll walk away with a deeper appreciation for Georgia’s history, marvel at its natural splendors, and enjoy authentic wines made using centuries-old techniques. The excellent guides make all the difference, turning a sightseeing trip into a genuine learning experience.

It’s ideal for curious travelers who want to explore with ease and learn from passionate locals. The combined visits to monasteries, caves, sanatoriums, and a family winery make this a comprehensive taste of Georgia’s charm.

If you’re after a balanced, authentic, and enriching day, this tour will certainly deliver — leaving you with stories to tell long after you leave Kutaisi.

FAQ

Is the Gelati Monastery included in the tour?
The monastery is a highlight, but currently it’s closed for conservation. The guide will likely suggest visiting alternative sites like Mostameta or Bagrati Cathedral instead.

How much does the Prometheus Cave entrance fee cost?
The entrance fee is GEL 25, and if you choose to take the boat ride inside the cave, it costs GEL 20.

Are the sanatoriums free to visit?
Yes, the sanatoriums in Tskaltubo are free to walk around and explore.

What is the price of this tour?
The tour costs $41 per person, which includes guide, transport, and drinks. Entrance fees are additional if you opt for the cave boat ride.

Is the tour suitable for children?
No, it is not suitable for children under 18, likely due to the nature of sites and walking involved.

How flexible is the booking?
You can reserve now and pay later, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What languages are available?
The tour is offered in English and Russian, ensuring good communication for most travelers.

How long is the tour?
While the exact duration isn’t specified, expect a full day of sightseeing, with enough time at each site to appreciate its significance without feeling rushed.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, comfortable, air-conditioned transport is provided, making travel between sites easy and relaxing.

This tour is a fantastic way to see some of Georgia’s most intriguing sights without the hassle of planning multiple trips. It offers a good balance of guided narration, authentic experiences, and scenic beauty, making it well worth considering for your Georgia itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: