Kartli
Trialeti Range Thickets
Kartli is the historical heartland of Georgia, heavily bypassed by tourists who only stop for a quick museum tour before fleeing to the next generic landmark. Avoiding that superficial trap opens up the most diverse, historically dense area in the country. We explore the vast labyrinth of the Trialeti Range, uncovering forgotten villages and ancient monuments hidden deep in the forests.
Samshvilde Ruins
The southern marchlands are a raw patchwork of cultures displaying the ruined glory of the Georgian Golden Age. The trails lead to the massive archaeological site of Samshvilde, a city inhabited for six thousand years, before tracking through dense overgrowth to find abandoned Armenian monasteries. This is a place where history is not cordoned off behind glass; it is weathered, overgrown, and waiting to be found.
Tsalka Standing Stones
On the quiet Tsalka plateau, visitors walk among prehistoric standing stones and the remnants of megalithic fortresses. For a true physical adventure, the steep ridges of the Algeti and Tedzami valleys push past old bandit fortresses and peculiarly decorated ancient chapels. The terrain here is fiercely beautiful, demanding muddy boots in exchange for the best panoramic views.
Ateni Cliff Settlements
I have driven the off-road trails and hiked the steep canyons of Kartli to map out its most authentic experiences. Whether scaling the dramatic cliffs of the Ateni valley or sitting down with locals in a remote agricultural village, this is a Georgia most people never see. Leave the paved routes behind, and let us uncover the true character of the heartland.