Discover Georgia Food and drink

With Lyn Hughes

EXPERIENCE THE PEARL OF THE CAUCASUS ON AN EXCLUSIVE TOUR IN THE COMPANY OF WANDERLUST FOUNDER AND EDITOR-IN-CHIEF, LYN HUGHES

There are few places left in Europe that can be truly labelled ‘undiscovered’ but Georgia remains one of them. Set at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, lying across a key section of the fabled Silk Road route, it is a fascinating country – both culturally and visually. As Mike Gerrard wrote in Wanderlust, ‘If I had to come up with a description for Georgia, geographically as well as culturally, it would be Middle Eastern Europe’.

This 11-day small-group tour will see you visit Georgia’s cosmopolitan capital, Tbilisi, as well as the Unesco-listed former capital, Mtskheta, the ancient cave town of Vardzia, Gori (the birthplace of Stalin), and the vineyards of Kakheti, one of the oldest wine-producing areas in the world. You will have the rare chance to travel to the beautiful mountainous region of Tusheti and to explore some of Georgia’s breathtaking monasteries and fortresses. What is more you will do this in the company of not only the expert guides from Wild Frontiers, but also Lyn Hughes, the founder and editor Wanderlust. And if it’s good enough for the editor… 84 wanderlust.co.uk March 2019 HIGHLIGHTS Tbilisi Georgia’s cool capital is set on the banks of the Mtkvari River. Visit the Narikala Fortress, the soothing Sulphur Baths, the sixth-century Sioni Cathedral and Anchiskhati Basilica, and sample the lively café culture.

Tusheti National Park This magnificent mountain region is remote, pristine and protected. You will take exhilarating walks and visit remote villages, ancient churches, turquoise lakes and primeval forests.

Monasteries and fortresses See a range of extraordinary architecture including sixth-century rock-hewn monastery of Davit Gareja, ancient Khertvisi Fortress and Unesco-listed Jvari Monastery and Svetitskhoveli Cathedral in Mtskheta, the ancient capital and religious centre of Georgia. Enjoy wine tasting in the Kakheti region, visit a traditional farmers’ market in Telavi and experience a special home-cooked meal hosted by a local family.

“”Georgia has always intrigued me – I’ve long dreamed of exploring the littlevisited monasteries, the remote villages, the UNESCO sites and pristine mountain passes. And then there’s the wine, of course, considered some of Europe’s best. So come and join me in Georgia to experience this beautiful country together. Lyn Hughes