Mestia Travel Essentials

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"Highland Beauty in Mestia"

Mestia Tourism

Mestia is a small town located in the Svaneti region of Georgia, a country in the South Caucasus. It is situated in the northwestern part of Georgia, in the Greater Caucasus Mountains. The region is known for its rugged terrain, lush green valleys, and pristine alpine beauty. It's a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, and skiers.

The main reason to visit Mestia is to experience the beautiful mountain scenery and traditional Georgian culture. The town exhibits its traditional Svaneti architecture. Many of the houses in Mestia are made of stone and wood. They have characteristic defensive towers, which were historically used for protection against invading forces.

Svaneti is known for its rich cultural traditions. The Svan people, an ethnic subgroup of Georgians, have their own language and a unique way of life, distinct from Georgians. The local culture is characterized by folklore, traditional music, and a strong sense of community. Mestia is home to the Svaneti Museum of History and Ethnography, which showcases the history and culture of the Svan people. 

You explore the centuries-old stone houses and churches as well as the iconic Ushguli towers. The town and the surrounding region offer a range of outdoor activities, including trekking, skiing, and mountaineering. Hiking trails, such as those leading to the iconic Shkhara Glacier, are a major draw for adventurers. The town is home to some of the most stunning vistas in the world, and a trip to Mestia can be an ideal starting point for a hike or trek in the Caucasus Mountains.

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How to Reach Mestia

How to Reach Overview

Mestia can be reached by road or air. There is a small airport, Queen Tamar Airport, which connects Mestia to Georgia's capital, Tbilisi. The most common and practical way to get to Mestia is by taking a domestic flight from Tbilisi to Queen Tamar Airport in Mestia. Another option is to take a marshrutka (minibus) from Tbilisi to Mestia, but be prepared for a longer journey, usually lasting around 9-10 hours due to the mountainous terrain. Travelers can also opt for a combination of bus and shared taxi services, breaking the journey into segments and possibly reducing the overall travel duration.

How to reach Mestia by road

Traveling by road is another common way to reach Mestia. To do this, you'll generally travel by private vehicle. This route offers scenic views but involves a considerable travel time of 9 to 10 hours. Another option is to hire a private taxi or driver to take you from Tbilisi to Mestia. This is a more comfortable and flexible option, but it can be more expensive than taking a marshrutka. 

How to reach Mestia by train

There are no direct train services to Mestia. However, you can take a train from Tbilisi to Zugdidi. Georgian Railways operates an overnight train and a day train service on this route. The overnight train is a convenient option as it allows you to rest during the journey. Upon arrival in Zugdidi, you can continue your trip to Mestia by marshrutka or taxi, which takes about 3 to 4 hours.

How to reach Mestia by bus

To travel to Mestia by bus, you can take a marshrutka (minibus) from the Didube Bus Station in Tbilisi to Zugdidi. The journey to Zugdidi takes about 5 to 6 hours. From Zugdidi, you can catch another marshrutka to Mestia, which takes an additional 3 to 4 hours. The total cost for the bus journey is quite affordable, making it a budget-friendly option for travelers. However, it requires multiple transfers and can be less comfortable than other modes of transport.

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