Land of the Sun Full Day Wine and Grapes Tour in Kakheti

Explore Kakheti’s Charm with the Land of the Sun Wine and Grapes Tour

This full-day tour in Kakheti offers an engaging experience for those eager to see Georgia’s renowned wine country. Priced at $25 per person, the tour lasts roughly 7 to 9 hours, with a well-balanced mix of cultural sights, scenic views, and authentic wine tasting. Starting from Tbilisi, the journey takes visitors through picturesque villages, historic monasteries, and vibrant towns, making it ideal for anyone interested in Georgia’s rich traditions and stunning landscapes.

We appreciate how this tour combines cultural highlights with hands-on experiences like bread-making and local wine tasting. The small group size—limited to 18 travelers—ensures a comfortable and personalized atmosphere. A key note: lunch is not included, so planning for about $25 extra for a meal is advisable. This tour is suitable for those looking for a relaxed day exploring Kakheti’s renowned wine-growing region, with highlights that appeal to history buffs, food lovers, and wine connoisseurs alike.

Key Points

• Affordable price at $25, with excellent value for a full-day experience
• 7 to 9 hours of sightseeing and tasting, departing at 9:00 am
• Visits Bodbe Monastery, Manavi Village, Badiauri Village, Sighnaghi, Telavi, and the Alazani Valley
• Wine tasting at a local winery is included
• Stops include cultural landmarks and scenic vistas of the Caucasus foothills
• Small group size of up to 18 travelers ensures personalized attention

The Journey Begins at Bodbe Monastery of St. Nino

The tour starts in Tbilisi with a drive lasting about three hours to reach Bodbe Monastery. This historic site was once part of the Saint George complex and has been an active convent since 1889. It also served as the site of the coronation of Kakhetian kings and functions today as a significant cultural and educational center. Visitors can admire its architecture and reflect on its historical importance, although the admission fee is not included in the tour.

After exploring Bodbe, the group heads towards Manavi Village, where a local farmer’s family welcomes visitors. Here, tasting homemade wine, churchkhela, and spices gives insight into traditional Georgian foodways. This stop lasts about 40 minutes and remains free of charge, emphasizing the authentic, homegrown aspect of the experience.

Discover the Secrets of Georgian Bread in Badiauri Village

Next, the tour visits Badiauri Village, renowned for its rustic bread. Visitors have the chance to discover the art of Georgian bread-making through a master class if desired. The village offers tastings of cheese, wine, chacha, churchkhela, and honey, providing a flavorful look into local culinary traditions. This stop lasts about 30 minutes and is free of charge, making it a highlight for foodies.

Enjoy Stunning Views in the Alazani Valley

From Badiauri, the journey continues to the Alazani Valley, where sunlight highlights the enchanting landscape at the foot of the Caucasus Mountains. The one-hour visit offers sweeping scenic views and a chance to appreciate the fairy-tale atmosphere that makes this region special. While admission is not included, the real draw here is the breathtaking natural beauty and the sense of tranquility that envelops the valley.

Sighnaghi: The City of Love and Its Picturesque Streets

The tour then moves to Sighnaghi, often called the “City of Love”. Visitors enjoy a leisurely stroll through the charming streets, lined with colorful houses, cafés, and art galleries. Sighnaghi’s panoramic views of the surrounding landscape make it a perfect setting for photos. This one-hour stop offers free exploration, highlighting the city’s romantic ambiance and its reputation as a most picturesque town in Kakheti.

Experience Kakheti’s Capital, Telavi

The next stop is Telavi, the capital of Kakheti. Known for its cozy atmosphere, visitors can soak up local life through a relaxed walk through the town. The one-hour visit provides a glimpse into daily Georgian life, with opportunities to browse local markets or enjoy a cup of coffee. This stop is free of charge and adds a local flavor to the day’s itinerary.

Conclude with a Wine Tasting in a Local Kakheti Winery

The day’s highlight is the wine tasting at a local winery, where visitors savor exquisite Georgian wines. Since Georgia is famous for its centuries-old winemaking traditions, tasting here offers a genuine experience of the region’s vintage varieties. This part of the tour is included in the price, rounding out the day on a flavorful note.

Practical Details and Logistics

The tour departs from Meidan BazarMRQ5+WMC, Tbilisi at 9:00 am and concludes back at the same meeting point. The group size is limited to 18 travelers, promoting a comfortable experience. The air-conditioned vehicle provides a smooth ride between stops, with bottled water offered throughout the day.

Travel time from Tbilisi to Kakheti and back** is approximately 3 hours, leaving ample time during the day for sightseeing and activities. Since lunch is not included, travelers should budget around $25 for a meal or plan to bring snacks.

Why This Tour Stands Out in Kakheti

What makes this tour appealing is the balance of cultural, scenic, and culinary highlights. Visitors enjoy the historical significance of Bodbe Monastery and the romantic charm of Sighnaghi, combined with hands-on experiences like bread-making and wine tasting. The inclusion of breathtaking views in Alazani Valley and the cozy atmosphere of Telavi ensures a well-rounded exploration of Kakheti.

The small group size fosters a more intimate experience, allowing for personalized attention from the guide. The price point of $25, with the bulk of the key activities included, offers excellent value for money. The positive reviews underscore the quality of the wines, the knowledgeable guides, and the stunning scenery that makes this tour memorable.

Suitable for a Wide Range of Travelers

This tour suits history buffs eager to learn about Georgian culture, food lovers interested in bread and cheese, and wine enthusiasts keen to taste local varieties. It is particularly appealing to those who appreciate scenic drives, picturesque towns, and authentic experiences without the need for extensive physical activity.

Since the tour is accessible to most travelers and includes transportation, water, and a guide, it offers a convenient way to explore Kakheti in a single day. Its flexible schedule and free cancellation policy make it a reliable option for planning a day trip from Tbilisi.

Land of the Sun: A Rich Taste of Kakheti

The Land of the Sun Full Day Wine and Grapes Tour presents an authentic look into Georgia’s famous wine region. Starting with cultural landmarks like Bodbe Monastery, moving through authentic villages, and ending with wine tasting, it combines history, scenery, and gastronomy seamlessly.

While the tour offers an excellent overview, travelers should plan for extra expenses for lunch and keep in mind that admission fees for some stops are not included. This well-organized and warmly reviewed tour delivers great value and a truly enjoyable experience of Kakheti’s scenic and cultural riches.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the drive from Tbilisi to Kakheti?
The drive takes approximately 3 hours each way, giving ample time for sightseeing and stops.

What is included in the tour price?
The tour price of $25 includes transportation, bottled water, wine tasting at a local winery, and the services of an in-person guide.

Are the stops at museums or attractions paid separately?
Some stops, like Bodbe Monastery, have admission tickets not included in the tour fee, so additional costs may apply.

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, lunch is not included. Travelers should budget around $25 for a meal or bring snacks.

What type of transportation is used?
An air-conditioned vehicle is provided for the entire day, ensuring comfort on the drive between destinations.

Is this tour suitable for children or mobility-impaired travelers?
While most travelers can participate, those with mobility issues should consider the walking involved at stops like Sighnaghi and Telavi.

What makes this tour unique compared to other Kakheti trips?
Its combination of cultural, scenic, and culinary stops, along with personalized guide service and small group size, makes it stand out.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What are the main highlights of this tour?
The Bodbe Monastery, Sighnaghi’s romantic streets, wine tasting experience, and the stunning views in Alazani Valley are key highlights.

Who is this tour best suited for?
It’s perfect for history and culture enthusiasts, food and wine lovers, and those seeking scenic beauty in Georgia’s Kakheti region.