Georgia

Straddling Europe and Asia, Georgia has a charm all of its own. It’s famous for spectacular mountainous terrain, historic buildings, including a number of medieval fortresses, ancient vineyards, and colourful, rich traditional culture. It’s a fantastic destination for hikers, foodies, and anyone interested in exploring this vibrant, beautiful country.

Georgia’s vineyards are unmissable – the country claims to be the birthplace of wine, and ancient vineyards lie on its sunny mountain slopes. For the best wine in the country, head to Kakheti. This area has been used to grow grapes for winemaking for thousands of years, making it the oldest wine growing region in the world. Capital Tbilisi is a patchwork of history, reflective of its complex heritage. Previously under Persian and Russian rules, it’s a vibrant, lively city known for amazing bars, nightlife and restaurants, the reconstructed 4th-century fortress of Narikala, and picturesque architecture which runs the gamut from Art Nouveau to Eastern Orthodox churches, via brutal Soviet Modernist structures. Its cobblestoned streets are home to a strong cafe culture and great museums. Head to the remote mountain area of Svaneti for beautiful walking trails, or the awe-inspiring, honeycombed cave city of Vardzia to see some of Georgia’s more unique heritage.