Kakheti: Signagi, Bodbe Monastery, Telavi, Wine Tour. Private tour

Exciting Private Day Trip from Tbilisi to Kakheti for $111

This full-day private tour from Tbilisi costs $111 per person and lasts approximately 11 hours. It’s a well-paced journey through Kakheti, Georgia’s renowned wine-producing region, ideal for visitors eager to explore top attractions without the hassle of public transport. The tour features pickup and drop-off at any Tbilisi hotel, ensuring convenience, and is led by a highly qualified guide with Wi-Fi access onboard.

The itinerary is carefully curated to include Bodbe Monastery, the charming town of Signagi, a wine tasting session, and demonstrations of traditional bread and cheese-making. The tour’s reviews highlight educational guides, stunning scenery, and delicious wine and food experiences, making it a comprehensive day trip. A notable limitation is the absence of dinner, so travelers may wish to plan accordingly.

Key Points

• Private, all-inclusive day tour with pickup and drop-off from Tbilisi hotels
• Price of $111 per person for a full 11-hour experience
• Visit Bodbe Monastery, Signagi, and Telavi, the wine capital of Georgia
• Includes wine tastings, bread and cheese workshops, and scenic mountain views
• Highly rated with a 5.0/5 rating based on 18 reviews and 94% recommendation rate
• Led by knowledgeable guides, with Wi-Fi on board for easy sharing and information

Exploring Bodbe Monastery of St. Nino

The tour begins with a visit to Bodbe Monastery, a significant spiritual site where Saint Nino’s remains rest. Visitors can follow the legend behind her burial site and bathe in the healing waters of the holy spring. The monastery’s peaceful atmosphere and spiritual significance make it a meaningful start to the day, with an admission ticket included.

The legend of Saint Nino and the religious history draw many visitors, making this stop both cultural and spiritual. The tranquil setting and the spring’s waters are believed to have healing properties, and the site offers a glimpse into Georgia’s Christian heritage. The time allocated allows for a relaxed walk and reflection, though the visit is brief at about one minute in terms of entrance time, focusing on the significance rather than extensive sightseeing.

Signagi: The Italian-Style Town of Love

Next, the tour heads to Signagi, often called the “City of Love” for its romantic ambiance. The town’s Italian-inspired streets feature colorful houses, the longest fortress wall in Europe, and breathtaking views of the Alazani Valley. This charming town is the perfect setting for a leisurely stroll.

A local home restaurant provides a traditional Georgian lunch, where guests can participate in preparing khinkali (Georgian dumplings) and sample local bread and cheese. Signagi’s artistic atmosphere and panoramas make it a favorite stop, with around three hours allocated for exploration and dining. This stop offers free admission, emphasizing culture and regional culinary traditions.

Georgian Bread and Cheese-Making Demonstrations

On the way to Signagi, the tour makes a quick stop at Badiauri, where bread baked in the traditional Shoti style is showcased in a Master Class. Here, participants observe the art of Georgian bread-making and learn about local cheese production. This 30-minute stop offers a taste of Georgia’s culinary craftsmanship and provides insight into regional food traditions.

Later, another visit to Badiauri offers a second opportunity to see Churchkheli, a traditional confectionery, and experience additional bread-making master classes. These demonstrations highlight Georgia’s baking techniques and offer tastings, enriching the cultural experience.

Telavi and the Kakheti Wine Heritage

The journey continues to Telavi, recognized as Georgia’s wine capital. Here, local experts guide visitors through the Kakheti method of wine-making, which is listed as UNESCO intangible heritage. Participants learn about Qvevri, the traditional clay vessels used in wine fermentation, and the varieties of Georgian wines.

The wine tasting session includes 5-6 different wines, along with cognacs and chachis. This two-hour experience offers an in-depth look into Georgia’s world-famous wine culture and allows guests to savor local flavors in a relaxed setting. The admission is free, but the tasting is a key highlight, emphasizing Georgia’s reputation as the birthplace of wine.

Scenic Gombori Pass and Mountain Views

A highlight of the tour is the Gombori Pass, where travelers ascend to 1620 meters, offering breathtaking mountain vistas. The stop provides the perfect photo opportunity and a chance to taste local tea and coffee in the fresh mountain air. This 10-minute stop is brief but impactful, showcasing Georgia’s diverse landscape and natural beauty.

The panoramic views from the mountain pass provide a sense of the rugged terrain and scenic diversity that define Kakheti. It’s a moment of tranquility and appreciation for Georgia’s varied geography, especially after a busy morning of sightseeing.

Revisiting Badiauri for Georgian Culinary Crafts

Back in Badiauri, the tour features additional demonstrations of Churchkheli making and bread crafting. This 30-minute segment deepens understanding of Georgia’s distinctive culinary arts. Guests can observe the craftsmanship involved and perhaps sample fresh baked goods or sweets, completing the culinary immersion of the day.

Practical Details and Tour Logistics

The tour is fully private, meaning only your group participates, allowing for a personalized experience. The guide provides information and stories throughout the day, making each stop educational and engaging. The Wi-Fi access onboard supports sharing moments in real-time, and the pickup and drop-off at any Tbilisi hotel add convenience.

The tour departs at 9:30 am and ends around 8:30 pm, offering a relaxed pace without feeling rushed. The only notable exclusion is dinner, so plan to dine separately after the tour concludes.

Why This Tour Stands Out

The combination of cultural visits, wine tasting, and culinary demonstrations makes this Kakheti tour a rich experience. The expert guides and scenic stops are praised in reviews for their knowledgeability and warmth. The $111 price point is competitive, especially considering the comprehensive itinerary and private nature of the tour.

Guests particularly appreciate the variety of activities, from historic sites to local food crafts and mountain views. The wine and food experiences are consistently highlighted as the best parts, with guests noting the top-quality wine tastings and the participation in traditional food preparation.

Perfect For Who and What To Expect

This tour suits adventurers interested in Georgian culture, wine, and food, and those who prefer private, guided experiences. It is ideal for travelers who want to see multiple sites in a single day without the stress of self-driving or navigating public transport.

The pace is comfortably moderate, with a mixture of sightseeing, tasting, and culture. The guide’s storytelling enhances the experience, making complex traditions accessible and engaging.

The Sum Up: A Well-Rounded Kakheti Experience

This private tour from Tbilisi to Kakheti combines history, scenery, and gastronomy into one seamless day. Its competitive price, personalized approach, and high guide ratings make it a strong choice for visitors eager to explore Georgia’s wine country.

While the dinner is not included, the many tasting opportunities and cultural stops more than compensate. The tour’s focus on authentic experiences and scenic beauty ensures an enriching and enjoyable day in Kakheti, especially for those who appreciate guided insights and local craftsmanship.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour is designed for most travelers, though physical activity is minimal and involves some walking at sites like Signagi and Bodbe Monastery.

What is included in the price?
The full-day private experience includes guide service, Wi-Fi onboard, admission tickets to Bodbe Monastery, and demonstrations of bread and cheese-making.

Are food and drinks included?
Lunch at a home restaurant in Signagi is included, featuring traditional Georgian dishes and participation in food preparation. The wine tastings are free, but additional drinks outside the tasting are not.

What should I bring for the tour?
Comfortable walking shoes, a hat or sunscreen for mountain stops, and a camera for scenic views are recommended.

How long are the stops at each site?
Stops vary from 30 minutes at Badiauri to around 3 hours in Signagi, allowing enough time to explore, dine, and enjoy each location.

Is the tour private?
Yes, this experience is exclusively for your group, providing flexibility and personal attention from the guide.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund if canceled in time.

How do I book this tour?
Reservations can be made through the provider, Ushba Travel, by confirming your details and choosing your pickup location in Tbilisi.

What distinguishes this tour from others?
Its private, all-inclusive nature, focus on local food and wine, and high guide ratings make it a standout choice for experiencing Kakheti authentically.