We share the best things to do in Kazbegi, Georgia’s spectacular northern frontier hiding in the clouds of the Caucasus
After trekking the Highlander Svaneti, I headed for Kazbegi in northeastern Georgia. Surrounded on three sides by Russia and occupied South Ossetia, the nature-packed borderland is famed for its rich medley of deep green gorges, snow-capped summits and implausibly-placed medieval churches.
The region’s main town is Stepantsminda (more commonly known as Kazbegi), huddled in the lee of the imposing Mt Kazbek which at 5,054m (16,581ft) is Georgia’s third-highest peak and the seventh-highest in the Caucasus Mountains.
Unsurprisingly, hiking takes centre stage in this dramatic destination, with Stepantsminda the perfectly positioned gateway to the region’s mountains and valleys.
Best things to do in Kazbegi
From its iconic mountaintop church to natural mineral springs known for their healing powers, these are the best things to do in Kazbegi.
1. Gergeti Trinity Church
The mountain-top church is probably Georgia’s most recognised symbol. Perched on a bluff at 2,200m (7,218ft), with the striking Mt Kazbek rising behind, the Gergeti Trinity Church (Tsminda Sameba) is certainly one of the most photogenic.
Built in the 14th century, the stone church and adjoining clergy houses can be reached from Stepantsminda either by a short but steep hike or by road. The out-and-back 5.5km hike takes one to two hours on the way up but is, naturally, much quicker on the way down. It takes 15 minutes to cover the 6km winding road by car. Taxis and minibuses can be organised in town starting from around 15 GEL per person ($6 USD). Admission to the church complex is free.
2. Gergeti Glacier
From Gergeti Trinity Church, it’s possible to continue hiking over the Arsha Pass to the meteorological station at Bethlemi Hut. From here, you will get an intimate view of the Gergeti Glacier enveloping the southeastern slopes of Mt Kazbek. The scene is stupendous but the hike is not for the fainthearted with the trail reaching a literally breathtaking height of 3,634m (11,922ft).
The 26km return route is a challenging day hike. It ascends nearly 2,000m (6,562ft) and takes around 10-12 hours to complete. Another option is to only go as far as the Gergeti Glacier lookout point at 2,950m (9,678ft) which is a 13.8km return hike and…
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