1 out of 10
Things To Do in Stepantsminda

Gergeti Trinity Church, known locally as Gergetis Samebis Eklesia, is situated at an elevation of 2,170 meters on the right bank of the river Chkheri. This 14th-century church offers breathtaking views under the imposing presence of Mount Kazbek. The church is renowned for its isolated location atop a steep mountain, providing a serene and spiritual experience. It functions as an active establishment of the Georgian Orthodox and Apostolic Church. Inside, the church is quite simple, with minimal decorations and windows that allow little light. Photography of the interior is not permitted. The only way to reach the church is via a steep 1.5-hour trek which, though challenging, is well worth the effort, offering unparalleled views.

7 km
from city center 2 out of 10
Things To Do in Stepantsminda

Mount Kazbek, also known as Mount Kazbegi, is a trekking destination in Stepantsminda. This dormant stratovolcano stands 5,054 meters above sea level and is the highest mountain in Eastern Georgia and the third-highest peak in the country. Visible from the town of Stepantsminda, it is a striking feature of the region and serves as a major attraction for both trekkers and mountaineers. The climb to the summit is a popular mountaineering route in the Caucasus, offering breathtaking views and a challenging ascent. The journey to the summit of Mount Kazbek typically takes between 4 to 7 days, depending on weather conditions and the physical fitness of the group.

10 km
from city center 3 out of 10
Things To Do in Stepantsminda

Located on the border between Russia and Georgia, Dariali Gorge is a river gorge nestled at the eastern base of Mount Kazbek. It offers stunning views and steep granite walls that soar as high as 1,800 meters in some areas. Carved by the river Terek over millennia, the gorge stretches approximately 13 kilometers and serves as a dramatic passage through the Caucasus Mountains. While traveling along the famous Georgian Military Road you can pass through this picturesque landscape and explore the ruins of Dariali Castle along the route to the border.

36 km
from city center 4 out of 10
Things To Do in Stepantsminda

Situated just a brief seven-kilometer drive from Stepantsminda, near Gveleti Village, the Gveleti Waterfalls offer a serene retreat amid Georgia's natural beauty. Accessible via a paved road leading to the village, followed by clear signposts guiding the way, the journey to these falls is straightforward and rewarding. Once you arrive, a short hike along a service road transitions into winding trails amidst streams, cliffs, and alpine scrub, leading to the Small and Large Gveleti Waterfalls, positioned just 750 meters apart.

23 km
from city center 5 out of 10
Things To Do in Stepantsminda

Truso Valley, located just 22 kilometers northeast of Stepantsminda in Georgia, offers a glimpse into the region's rich history and breathtaking natural beauty. Situated at an altitude of 2400 meters above sea level, it stands as one of the highest inhabited points in Europe, although it is now deserted. While visiting the Truso Valley, you can explore a variety of sights within a single day, including the Zakagori Fortress-Complex, Keterisi Monastery, and natural monuments like the travertine formations, Abano Mineral Lake, and Keterisi Vaucluse. The valley is accessible by off-road vehicles, horseback, or hiking.

19 km
from city center 6 out of 10
Things To Do in Stepantsminda

Abudelauri Lakes, located in the picturesque region of Kazbegi, are a trio of glacial lakes known for their distinct colors: green, blue, and white. These lakes are accessible from June to September, with July being the optimal time to visit due to the blooming wildflowers. The green and blue lakes are situated close to each other, while the white lake is slightly further away, positioned at the base of the Chaukhi Glacier at an elevation of over 2,800 meters. The white lake, being the most striking, requires a bit more effort to reach but is well worth the visit.

6 km
from city center 7 out of 10
Things To Do in Stepantsminda

Juta Valley, located near the village of Juta in the Kazbegi region, is a haven for nature lovers, hikers, and photographers. The valley offers breathtaking views of the Chaukhi Mountain range and is home to the Chaukhistskali River, making it an ideal spot for serene hikes. The valley is dotted with grazing cows and horses, and during summer, sheep herders bring their flocks to feed on the fresh grass. While there are a few cabins and huts in the valley, amenities are limited, especially outside the peak tourist season in July and August.

9 km
from city center 8 out of 10
Things To Do in Stepantsminda

The Dariali Monastery Complex is located in the Dariali Gorge, nestled between the high mountains of the Greater Caucasus in the Khevi region of East Georgia. Just 10 kilometers from Stepantsminda and near the Georgia-Russia border, the monastery sits at an elevation of 1,300 meters above sea level. The gorge, carved by the roaring Tergi River, provides a picturesque setting for the complex. The monastery is open daily and welcomes guests to explore its facilities and learn about its history and ongoing construction efforts. Despite being a relatively new establishment, the monastery has been designed with a traditional aesthetic, using gray-rose stone to create a weathered look that blends seamlessly with the ancient landscape.

12 km
from city center 9 out of 10
Things To Do in Stepantsminda

Kazbegi National Park, situated in the the Mtskheta-Mtianeti region in northeastern Georgia, covers an expansive area of 9,030 hectares. Located on the northern slopes of the Caucasus Mountains, the park is a mix of alpine ridges, moraines, ever-snow-capped peaks, and inaccessible cliffs, with 35% of its area covered by forest. You can witness many rare and unique species of animals and birds at the park as well as camp in the region. Key historical and cultural sites within the park include the fourteenth-century Sameba Temple, the tenth-century Garbanikerk, the Sioni Basilica, the Akhaltsikhe Basilica, and the seventeenth-century Sno Castle.

0 km
from city center 10 out of 10
Things To Do in Stepantsminda

The Alexander Kazbegi Museum of Local Lore in Stepantsminda, located along the Georgian Military Road, offers a captivating glimpse into the region’s history and the life of famed writer Alexander Kazbegi. Housed in his family's estate, the museum spans two floors: the first showcases Georgian national clothing, weapons, old photographs, and archaeological finds, while the second features Kazbegi’s personal belongings, paintings, manuscripts, and study items.