Private gastronomic and wine tour – Kakheti

Explore Georgia’s Hidden Village Treasures with a Private Wine and Food Tour

This private gastronomic and wine tour in Kakheti offers a chance to dive into the heart of eastern Georgia’s culinary traditions. For $130 per person, the tour provides a 7 to 11-hour experience that includes visits to small wineries, traditional bakeries, and historic sites, all with hotel pickup and drop-off. Rated 5.0 based on 2 reviews, it stands out for its personalized approach, expert guidance, and authentic local encounters.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is its focus on organic wines, ECO-friendly food, and village life. It’s ideal for those eager to experience local traditions, meet farmers and winemakers, and explore picturesque Georgian landscapes. While the pace is relaxed, the tour involves some walking and participation, making it best suited for those comfortable with a full day of cultural and culinary discovery.

Key Points

• Private Guided Experience: Only your group participates, ensuring personalized attention.
• Authentic Local Encounters: Meet local farmers, winemakers, and families at small businesses.
• Diverse Stops: From a young organic winery to monasteries and charming towns.
• Culinary and Wine Tastings: Enjoy wine tastings, homemade lunch, and bread baking masterclass.
• Cultural Highlights: Visit Bodbe Monastery and explore Signagi’s picturesque streets.
• Flexible Duration: The trip lasts 7 to 11 hours, depending on your pace and interests.

Pickup and Start Time in Tbilisi at 9:00 am

This private tour departs from Tbilisi at 9:00 am, offering hotel pickup for convenience. The flexible timing allows for a leisurely exploration of Kakheti’s scenic villages and cultural sites. The group size is private, meaning no crowds or large bus groups—just your own party with a dedicated driver and guide.

The tour includes bottled water, wine tastings, a homemade traditional lunch, and alcoholic beverages. Fuel surcharges are covered, and the guide ensures a smooth, informative experience. Travelers are advised to wear smart casual attire and let the provider know about any dietary requirements, including vegetarian options.

Visiting Vellino Wine Cellar: Organic Wine at Its Best

The first stop is the Vellino Wine Cellar, introduced as one of the youngest winemakers in the region. This local entrepreneur revives traditional methods to produce real Georgian organic wines. The 1-hour visit includes an admission ticket and a tasting of their handcrafted wines. This stop highlights Georgia’s innovative approach to organic winemaking, blending tradition with modern sustainability.

The wine cellar is a great introduction to Kakheti’s winemaking scene, especially for those interested in organic and eco-friendly practices. The passion of the winemaker adds warmth to the experience, making it more than just a tasting session.

Traditional Bread Baking at Badiauri Bakery

Next, the tour visits Badiauri, a local Georgian bread bakery famous for its authentic baking techniques. Visitors participate in a bread masterclass, engaging directly in the cooking process. The 40-minute experience is free of charge for admission, giving an interactive taste of one of Georgia’s most beloved foods.

This stop offers insight into daily village life and the importance of bread in Georgian culture. It’s a hands-on activity that appeals to anyone interested in culinary traditions and food preparation.

Discovering the Significance of Bodbe Monastery

A highlight is the Bodbe Monastery of St. Nino, a sacred site linked to Georgia’s Christian history. It’s believed that St. Nino withdrew here after converting Georgians to Christianity, and she was buried at this small monastery. The 1-hour visit includes an admission ticket.

The monastery’s serene setting offers a peaceful break and a chance to appreciate Georgia’s spiritual heritage. Its historical and cultural importance makes it a meaningful stop during the day.

Exploring Signagi: The Pink City of Georgia

The charming town of Signagi serves as a centerpiece of Georgia’s wine-growing regions. Known for its pastel-colored houses, narrow cobblestone streets, and spectacular landscapes, Signagi is a favorite for visitors. The tour allocates 1 hour 30 minutes to stroll and soak in the views—admission is free.

Signagi’s tourist-friendly charm is complemented by its local wineries, small shops, and cafes. It’s an ideal spot for photographs and experiencing village life amidst a scenic backdrop.

Wine and Lunch at Velistsikhe, the Heart of Georgian Winemaking

The final stop is Velistsikhe, renowned as the center of traditional Georgian winemaking. Here, visitors enjoy a home-cooked lunch alongside another wine tasting at a local family’s house. This 2-hour experience emphasizes authenticity and warm hospitality.

The free admission to this site allows for a relaxed atmosphere, where guests can savor homemade dishes and local wines while learning about winemaking traditions passed down through generations. It’s a perfect way to conclude the day with genuine local flavors.

Scenic Drive Through Gombori Pass

After the day’s activities, the tour returns to Tbilisi through the Gombori Pass, reaching an elevation of 1500 meters. The drive offers beautiful views of Georgia’s landscape and provides a scenic, relaxing end to a full day of exploration.

This route is a highlight in itself, showcasing Georgia’s mountainous terrain and lush scenery. It’s a peaceful drive that leaves visitors with lasting impressions of the countryside.

The Experience with Your Way 2 Georgia

The tour is operated by Your Way 2 Georgia, a provider known for their personalized, private experiences. The guide is praised for being knowledgeable, kind, and attentive, especially for wine lovers. The inclusion of bottled water, wine tastings, homemade lunch, and hotel transfers makes the experience both comfortable and comprehensive.

With a free cancellation policy available up to 24 hours before the tour, guests can plan confidently, knowing they can adjust plans if needed.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private Kakheti tour suits those interested in authentic Georgian culture, wine enthusiasts, and food lovers. It offers a deep dive into village life, traditional cuisine, and local history. It’s ideal for small groups or families looking for a personalized experience and can accommodate vegetarian dietary requirements.

While the trip is quite full, it’s suitable for most travelers comfortable with a full day of sightseeing and some walking. It’s a great choice for those seeking genuine local interactions rather than large-scale tourist attractions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price of the tour?
The price covers hotel pickup and drop-off, bottled water, wine tastings, homemade lunch, fuel surcharge, and a knowledgeable guide.

How long does the tour last?
The duration ranges from 7 to 11 hours, depending on pace and stops.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children must be accompanied by an adult. The tour involves some walking and participation, so consider this for younger children.

Can dietary requirements be accommodated?
Yes, vegetarian options are available; please inform the provider at the time of booking.

What are the main highlights of the stops?
Highlights include organic wine tasting at Vellino, bread baking masterclass at Badiauri, visiting the historic Bodbe Monastery, strolling through Signagi, and tasting homemade wines in Velistsikhe.

Is this tour accessible for travelers with mobility issues?
The data does not specify accessibility details, so consider mobility when planning.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made 9 days in advance, but early reservations are recommended for preferred dates.

What should I wear?
The recommended dress code is smart casual.

Is this tour offered as a group or private experience?
It is a private tour, with only your group participating, ensuring an intimate experience.

This Private gastronomic and wine tour of Kakheti offers a wonderful mix of culinary delights, cultural insights, and scenic views, making it an enriching day for lovers of authentic Georgian traditions.