Where is Gudauri? Gudauri resort in summer, or where to look for a cool climate and picturesque mountains in Georgia. Gudauri – a ski paradise with all the “conveniences”

At any mountainous country There must be ski resorts. In Georgia it is Gudauri. These places were also mentioned by Mikhail Lermontov and Alexandre Dumas. True, in those days there was no skiing here yet.

Photo: Ski resort Gudauri

On the ancient path

On southern slope The Kazbegi municipality of Georgia is located in the Greater Caucasus Range. The Georgian Military Road passes here through the Cross Pass. It is here, at an altitude of 2196 m, that the tiny village of Gudauri is located. On the highway this is the highest mountain locality. A ski center was created on its basis. This was facilitated by the high altitude of the location, which guarantees the presence of snow, as well as the short distance from Tbilisi - only 120 km.

Path connecting North Caucasus with Transcaucasia, has existed since ancient times. It turned into a full-fledged highway at the end of the 18th century, when it received the name Georgian Military Road. A Gudaur postal station was then opened in a roadside village. Lermontov, driving along the road, sketched the ruins of the fortress, which was located on the opposite side of the gorge. “Ruins on the banks of the Aragva,” that’s what he called his work. And Alexandre Dumas in travel notes described the local Mljet serpentine.

Georgian capital of freeride

The ski center in Gudauri appeared in 1975. All the necessary conditions were available for its development. Snow in the mountains falls in early December and lasts until April. The depth of snow at the height of winter reaches one and a half meters. In years rich in snowfall, skiing is possible from late November to early May. To extend the skiing season, snow cannons have been installed on some slopes.

The first tracks in Gudauri were equipped between 1975 and 1985. The lower station was built at an altitude of 1990 m, the upper one at 3307 m. The highest points were the peaks of the Kudebi and Sadzele mountains. The expansion of the ski center is still ongoing. It is now equipped with the most modern equipment. The Austrians took an active part in the construction, and they already know a lot about alpine skiing!

Freeride is considered the hallmark of Gudauri - skiing on virgin soil. This is facilitated by great depth snow, absence of avalanches and large stones. The slopes have a large number of off-piste runs for heli-skiing. Backcountry is also popular - hiking to the peaks without the help of ski lifts, followed by skiing or snowboarding down unprepared slopes. The slalom, giant slalom and downhill courses are designed for experienced athletes.

The total length of the trails reaches 50 km. There are 22 tracks in total, of which 20% have a high level of difficulty and are intended for professionals, and 80% are used by amateurs. The trails are prepared at night using snowcats. The cable cars operate quickly - the rise from the lower to the upper skiing points takes a total of 30 minutes.

Photo: The resort is suitable for both experienced skiers and children

There are four in Gudauri ski schools, where it is also possible to rent the necessary equipment. Don't think that only children study there. Training is carried out depending on the initial technical level - from beginners to advanced riders. There are six-day learning programs, and there are classes lasting from half a day to one day. The instructors speak Georgian, Russian, English, Italian, Polish.

Trails and cable cars

The “green” route “Pirveli” is in the first stage. Its length is 1053 m. It is perfect for beginner skiers. In the evening the track is illuminated. On Saturdays they offer night skiing under the stars. The lift operates until 22:00. Since the skiing height is low, snow cannons are installed here, just in case. There are several equipment rental points in the vicinity of the station. There is a tubing track with a running track 300 m long.

Photo: The slopes are served by about a dozen lifts

Above is the second stage. This is the main ski area. The blue slopes “Soliko”, “Tatra”, “Gudauria”, “Sportuli” are served by several ski lifts at once. One of them is the high-speed four-seater chairlift “Soliko” (2295 m). In parallel, there is a six-seater chairlift "Shino" with a length of 2800 m. It was opened recently - in December 2016. The Gudaura gondola cable car takes skiers to the same point. The cabins accommodate up to 10 people. Its length is 2800 m.

At the same altitude there is a small drag lift "Alpina". There is also a 600 m long Zuma rope rope. It serves the training slope of the same name, where children and beginner adult skiers train. For young skiers there are two belt lifts of the “Magic carpet” system. Free Wi-Fi is available along the trails. This height can be reached by car via mountain serpentine. Actually, this is where the resort itself is located with hotels, cafes and restaurants.

Above there is a snow park, which is serviced by the 1104 m long three-seater chairlift “Snow Park”. There are two short children's slopes “Baby” and “Bombora” with rope tows. Even higher, to the mark of 3006 m, you can climb to the top of Kudebi on the four-seater chairlift “Kudebi” with a length of 1063 m. Here, mainly, is the territory of the “red” slopes.

And finally, the apogee is the peak of Sadzele. The four-seater chairlift of the same name takes skiers to the point with an altitude of 3276 m. The length of the climb is 1504 m. Experienced skiers climb here, since the slopes are equipped exclusively with “red” and “black” trails. There are also six freeride zones.

Photo: Quadruple chairlift

Freeride is also practiced on the slopes of neighboring Mount Bidara (3174 m), but access to them is only possible by helicopter. This is the so-called heli-skiing area. The helicopter takes on board groups of 4-8 people. The cost of one flight is 510 lari (12,000 rubles) per person, three flights - 1,200 lari (29,000 rubles). The price includes transfer, avalanche equipment, helicopter flight and guides.

When and how much?

When planning a vacation in Gudauri, you should take into account the seasonal weather patterns in this region. The coldest months in the mountains are December and January. But this is the sunniest period. Heavy snowfalls occur no more than four times a month. The peak of vacationers falls on new year holidays. But from January 10 to January 25, the roads are quite deserted.

Photo: The season lasts from December to the end of April

The high season also falls on the dates from February 10 to March 10. At this time it is no longer cold. Snowfalls occur more often than in January. The snow depth is maximum, which is especially important for freeride fans. The sun in spring is often hidden by clouds. But there is almost no wind. April is considered the warmest and sunniest. However, there are already few skiers on the slopes.

IN winter period Lifts are on from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. From the end of March to April, opening hours vary: Mon.-Fri. from 9 to 15, Sat.-Sun. from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. From mid-July the cable cars are open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. What to do in Gudari in summer? Go hiking and admire mountain panoramas. You can go mountain biking or hang gliding in tandem with an instructor.

The cost of one lift for adults and children is the same - 10 lari (238 rubles). A child ski pass can be purchased for a child aged 6 to 16 years. A weekly ski pass for an adult costs 174 lari (4134 rubles), for a child 116 lari (2756 rubles). Five-day ski passes are popular: respectively, 143 lari (3398 rubles) and 98 lari (2328 rubles). Night skiing will cost 10 lari (238 rubles). Cheesecake riding is completely free. Lifts for children under 6 years old are also free.

Photo: Both adults and children can ride snowmobiles

Russians do not need a visa to travel to Georgia, but health insurance must be purchased. Alpine skiing refers to active species holidays with increased risk for good health. Medical ski insurance is more expensive than regular insurance, but saving in this case is not advisable. Typically, insurance, in addition to calling a doctor, includes the cost of transportation from remote mountainous areas, hospital treatment, as well as transportation from abroad to home.

A roof over your head and après ski

There are many hotels and apartments at the resort, however, during the high season, places need to be booked in advance. As you know, the closer the hotel is to the ski lift station, the more convenient, but more expensive. True, if available own car or transfer services to the ski lift (if provided by the hotel), this pattern does not matter.

In total, there are more than five dozen hotels and cottages in Gudauri to suit every taste and budget. Prices start from $25 per seat per person. Half board is often included in the price. Some hotels offer free house wine. The list of services may include Wi-Fi, use of a library, secure parking, billiards, and a sauna. Master classes on cooking khachapuri, khinkali and chacha are held for those interested.

In addition, it is possible to rent an apartment. These include, for example, large complex"New Gudauri", located right next to the gondola lift station. The complex includes cafes, bars and a grocery store. The choice of apartments is quite large. The apartments and rooms can accommodate up to eight people.

Photo: Real Adjarian-style khachapuri

For skiers, not only the slopes are of interest, but also “après ski” - a pastime after skiing. Of course, first of all you should visit bars and restaurants to fully appreciate the local wine and Georgian cuisine. There are plenty of such establishments at the resort. The prices are quite reasonable.

Excursions lasting from 4 to 12 hours are organized for those interested. The choice is quite large: the Georgian Military Road, Tbilisi, the cave city of Uplistsikhe, Cross Pass, Mount Kazbek and much more. Approximate price– from 243 to 660 lari (6-16 thousand rubles) for a group of four people.

Photo: Famous natural Georgian lemonade

How to get there

Minibuses run regularly from Tbilisi airport to Gudauri. Some transport companies give passengers homemade wine when ordering a round trip - 2-4 bottles per person! There are also connections to the resort from the airport. Shuttle Buses. The cost of a round-trip ticket is 70 lari (1,700 rubles). A taxi from the airport is not cheap.

Photo: You can get from Tbilisi and the airport to Gidauri by minibus

Minibuses also go to the resort from Tbilisi, from the bus station near the Didube metro station. All minibuses going to Gudauri, Kobi and Kazbegi are suitable. Travel time is about 3 hours. They do not have an exact departure time schedule. The cost of travel to Gudauri is 7-10 lari (170-240 rubles). You can also get from the metro by taxi. It costs less here than from the airport.

Russians travel by car to the resort from Vladikavkaz through the Verkhniy Lars – Kazbegi border crossing. You should first find out whether the Georgian Military Road is closed to traffic. This happens during heavy snowfalls. Another option is to fly to Tbilisi by plane and rent a car. The average rental cost is about 120 lari (3000 rubles) per day.

Our tourist club offers the following hiking programs:

Tell your friends!

You can get from Tbilisi Shota Rustaveli Airport to the Gudauri resort by minibus or taxi. You can also rent a car without a driver. Travel duration for public transport is 3 hours 53 minutes, cost – $3.4. The car will take the tourist in 2 hours 10 minutes, you need to pay a minimum of $63. The distance from Tbilisi Airport to Gudauri is 140 km.

Sometimes it is difficult to find the required minibus among others, because... Their route is usually indicated in Georgian. Stop minibus is not located near the airport, but at the Didube bus station, which takes almost 1 hour to get to. Minibuses do not operate at night, so at this time of day you can only get away by taxi. Payment for travel is carried out in local currency - lari.

Gudauri – harmony in everything

Gudauri is a fairly young resort, but rapidly developing. It is located on the slope of the Greater Caucasus Range and is famous for its mild climate, the absence of frosts and icy winds. Both beginners and professionals will find something to do here. To fully enjoy the stunning views of the Greater Caucasus Range, you can climb to the top of Mount Kudebi. There are no attractions as such at the resort, however, free time Every vacationer has the opportunity to swim in an indoor pool, play tennis, bowling, and visit restaurants serving Georgian cuisine.

Minibus Tbilisi - Gudauri. Bus

Price

Expectation

Travel time

For whom

Individual tourist

The minibus departs from the Didube bus station, which is located next to the metro station of the same name. The minibus will take 3 hours to get to Gudauri; travel will cost the tourist $3. Ski equipment is valued by the driver as an additional passenger, so in this case the fare is doubled. You can ask the driver to drop you off near the hotel if it is located near the highway. Tbilisi-Gudauri buses, although cheap, are an extremely inconvenient form of transport, especially in winter.

Minibus taxi Tbilisi – Gudauri:

Direct minibus flight to Gudauri

Schedule:

From 09:30 to 17:00

Route:

Tbilisi Airport – Didube Bus Station – Gudauri

Travel time:

3 hours 53 minutes (53 minutes – road to Didube bus station, 3 hours – minibus to Gudauri)

Expectation:

Comfort:

Low: comfortable seats, small luggage compartment, little space in the cabin.

Price:

$3.4 or 8 GEL ($0.4 – road to Didube bus station, $3 – minibus to Gudauri)

For whom:

For a family without children, for young travelers, a small group of tourists, without large luggage.

How to find a minibus stop at Tbilisi Airport:

Bus No. 37 “Airport – Tbilisi Center” departs from the airport, and you need to get to the “Metro Station Samgori” stop. Next along the passage, go down into the metro and get to the Didube station. The bus station is located at the exit of the metro tunnel, a three-minute walk.

Price

Expectation

Travel time

For whom

To get to your destination as quickly and comfortably as possible, you can order an individual Gudauri?pap=57adbb36f2232">transfer from Tbilisi to Gudauri. The car will take the traveler in 2 hours 10 minutes, the cost of an economy class car is $63, a minibus for 7 passengers is $129. An individual transfer is in demand among large companies, as well as groups of tourists who travel with their ski equipment. Often such a trip is cheaper than using public transport, because in the case of a booked car there is no additional charge for luggage. This service should be ordered in advance. on the website or by phone.

Schedule:

around the clock

Route:

hotel in Gudauri or at

Travel time:

Expectation:

If the taxi driver agrees to take you such a distance, then the wait for the car will not exceed 10-20 minutes.
There is no need to wait for the booked transfer; the driver meets the client at the exit from the arrivals area with a name plate in his hands.

Comfort:

Taxi on the spot: driving without companions and stops.
Pre-booked transfer: a large selection of car classes, assistance with luggage, Russian-speaking driver, the ability to prepay by card, a stove in the cabin, a spacious trunk, no surcharge for luggage.

Price:

From $63 per economy class car, from $129 per minibus per group

For whom:

Large families, groups of tourists, with ski equipment, night arrivals, for businessmen, for the first time in Tbilisi/Gudauri.

How to find a taxi rank from Tbilisi Airport to Gudauri:

The taxi rank is located at the exit from the airport building, on the right side.

Are you only allowed to ride on groomed trails? Be afraid of avalanches and sharp rocks on the way? Wait until the start of the season until mid-January? Gudauri is a ski resort that lives its own life, giving you complete freedom! Vast snow-white expanses, exceptionally beautiful reliefs of mighty Caucasus Mountains, modern trails and a vacation that will be remembered for a lifetime. You are welcomed by a young, promising resort offering a lot of entertainment for every taste.

The best ski resort in Georgia– Gudauri

It's really unique place, which is confidently gaining popularity all over the world. The Caucasus Mountains are captivating with their height (the highest in Europe), and amazing panoramas open up from here. Even the weather in Gudauri is formed in a special way for mountain ranges. The Arctic wind does not overcome the heights of the mountains, warm sea air “reaches” from the south, and snow falls almost every night. The snow cover at the resort is distinguished by its depth (usually up to 2 meters) and stability. The frosts are not severe here, the temperature is always comfortable for skiing and walking ascents into the mountains. Strong cold winds are rare. The sun practically rests on the untouched “virgin” slopes, making the snow sparkle with all the colors of the rainbow. Average indicators in January-February do not exceed – 7–12C.

How do you like the opportunity to make a dizzying descent not along the route that exists, but along the one that you have always dreamed of? This is possible exactly in Gudauri! You will not be allowed such “freedom” anywhere else in Europe.

The absence of sharp stones on the virgin lands and trails turned this resort into a Mecca for freeride. Nature itself took care of this by creating Better conditions for off-piste skiing in Gudauri. The cost of freeride programs for 1 person starts from 120 GEL ($44.4).

Excellently prepared pistes, the presence of slopes for both beginners and professionals, a modern snow park for skiers and snowboarders - the Gudauri resort has become a real “star” winter holidays in Georgia.

Only here you will see prepared trails up to 200m wide, which are leveled by snowcats twice a day. And the width of the slopes reaches 5 km. These vast expanses are ready to receive tourists from mid-December, providing stable snow cover. Another feature of this resort is avalanche stability, thanks to the unique topography. So you can ride safely without fear for your life and expensive equipment. Particularly worth noting is the variety of rope lifts; here you can reach the desired height in closed and open boxes.

Attracted by active recreation, stunning nature and freedom of choice - Gudauri ski resort is ideal for you!

Everything for the demanding tourist!

Why is this resort loved by extreme sports enthusiasts, abandoning “conservative” Europe? The secret is simple - backcountry and heli-skiing are thriving in the vicinity of Gudauri. This is a unique opportunity to descend from a great height along unprepared trails. Backcountry assumes that you will get to the place of descent on your own without lifts, conquering the selected slope. Well, here there are a lot of opportunities - unique landscapes, exciting adventures, traveling with a whole group and, of course, independent choice of slope.
Don't want to climb yourself? At your service is heli-skiing - lifting a skier to the starting point by helicopter, which will allow you to conquer any peak that is inaccessible to other snowboarders and skiers. It is this service that gives tourists the opportunity to ride along the magnificent snow-covered fields of Cross Pass. In Gudauri this all becomes reality.

The cost of heli-skiing varies depending on the mountain chosen, flight time and number of hours. Tours are organized in Gudauri by two companies Wucher and Heliksir. The cost of a one-day program starts from 2027 lari ($750). This includes descents, necessary equipment, a professional instructor, 2 guides, and a helicopter flight to the descent site. Possible multi-day tours for a group of tourists - the cost of 3 days, for example, taking into account the accompaniment of professional guides, the provision of equipment, etc. will be about 9459 lari ($3500).

Helicopter ride lasting 10 minutes for 5 people the most beautiful places– about 1757 lari ($650). You can choose any date and book your flight in advance. The main thing is that the weather in Gudauri remains clear for 10 days, then nothing will interfere with your adventures.

If you want to see stunning mountain panoramas, you can take a breathtaking paragliding flight. It is possible to fly with an instructor from Mount Kudebi for 200 GEL ($74). This is 15 minutes of unforgettable impressions and a powerful adrenaline rush! For just 350 lari ($129.5) you can take a paragliding trip to the picturesque Aragvi gorge; it will take about 25 minutes.

22 certified trails, a separate area for snowmobiling, exciting tubing (inflatable sleds are absolutely free throughout the resort) and almost 400 m of rope tows - no one will be bored here!

What you can see near the resort:

Gudauri - resort description

The resort itself is a small settlement in the Kazbek region. It arose on the slopes Caucasian Ridge(south) at an altitude of about 2000m above the sea. The distance from Tbilisi to Gudauri is about 130 km, to Batumi – 440 km. The settlement can be divided into 3 parts:

Upper Gudauri

This area is located above the main buildings, rushing up the road (Georgian military). Perhaps the most comfortable part of the resort. From numerous hotels you can get to the ski lifts (distance from 50m to 900m) in 2-10 minutes. The road to the center of the settlement along an excellent asphalt road will take 15 minutes, and if you move along ski slope- only 8 minutes. There are signs everywhere, it is impossible to get lost. If you wish, you can call a taxi - from 3 lari ($1.11). Upper Gudauri has a huge advantage - from almost every hotel you can go down to the slope on your own on a snowboard or skis. It’s also convenient to return – you can go on virgin soil or along a prepared route. Well, the views that open up from here are difficult to put into words!

Lower Gudauri

This area is considered the center of the resort. There is a police department, a decent market, and a bank with currency exchange. In this place . The largest is Marco Polo. From there there is a cable car to New Gudauri (the web camera will allow you to view this area of the resort). The distance to the ski lifts is about 500-600 m, can be reached on foot (10-15 minutes). Hotel owners offer transportation to their clients on a daily basis. Living in Lower Gudauri, you have an excellent opportunity to admire the stunning panorama of the Aragvi Gorge and Mount Shele.

To the south of this part of the resort there is a road that runs in a steep serpentine down to the village of Kumplistsikhe. These two villages are often considered a single whole, because in Kumplistsikhe there are many hotels for comfortable accommodation for tourists. The hotels were built along the main route (Georgian military road). If you move west from this transport artery, you will see the Aragv Gorge and its steep cliffs. There is a gentle rise on the eastern side of the road, it bends slightly to the north and leads directly to Mount Sadzele.

In Kumplistsikhe there is a tourist information center (in the very center), where you can find out the information you are interested in about recreation and the operation of ski lifts. Find out when the season starts in Gudauri. In this village there is the lowest lift station and equipment rental service (skis and snowboards).

Akhali Gudauri (New)

This area is considered the heart of the entire resort due to its favorable location. It is located near the second lift. and the most expensive housing in Gudauri, but living here is also the most comfortable in terms of location to highways and infrastructure and distance from the road (you can’t hear the noise of “civilization”).

New Gudauri is actively being built, but today there is a decent supermarket with reasonable prices and its own bakery. The Gudauri restaurant is also located here, with a view of the station. cable car(covered cabins). You can have a very tasty meal in the new cafe “Dizi”. There is an excellent menu and reasonable prices; you can drink excellent coffee (Turkish) for only 2 lari ($0.74). The establishment is located on the street. Novogudaurskaya at the very end of the avenue.

Getting to know the ski lifts and cable cars

Do you have any doubts about whether to go to this amazing resort? Appreciate the beauty for yourself - in Gudauri, an online web camera gives you this opportunity at any time of the day. After admiring the amazing mountains and choosing a suitable hotel, it’s time to get acquainted with the resort’s cable cars:

Ropeway No. 1– the length is 1010 m, it has three seats. It starts from the Marco Polo Hotel (the lower part of the resort) and takes tourists to the transfer station in New Gudauri. The cable car serves only one ski slope, which bears the same name “first”.

Ropeway No. 2– The length is 2310m, it is the longest in the resort. Starts in New Gudauri and delivers to dizzying heights at 2700m. This is where it is strategically located important object– a small area on the mountainside. Two more cable cars branch off from here to the top. The well-known cafe “Vitamin” in the area and throughout Georgia is located here. Tourists love this establishment for its delicious cuisine and amazing mountain panorama. The facade of the cafe is glazed, so you can sit comfortably on the sofas and enjoy the beauty of the Caucasus Mountains! A gondola cable car also leads to this area near the cafe.

Gondola (cabin) cable car– These are comfortable “boxes”, completely glazed. Starts from the center of new Gudauri (near “Gudauri Palace”). She will take you to the top station (Vitamin Cafe). Climbing this road is a very pleasant experience, even if you are not planning to ski down. It’s warm inside the cabin, there’s no wind, you can admire the snow-capped mountain peaks for a long time and survey the entire resort. The gondola road intersects with road No. 2, that is, you will get there along the same route, but more comfortably. Another road starts on the slope, leading towards Mount Sadzele. If you want to have a snack, the small cafe “Megobari” is at your service. Its peculiarity is that the tables are placed directly on the street, so you can bask in the warm sun.

The cabin road also operates in the summer, allowing you to admire the lush greenery and the magnificence of the mountain ranges.

The upper station is a kind of “square”, which is embraced by the slopes of three mountains: Udebi, Sadzele, Bidara, there are no lifts here. But it is from two cafes that additional cable cars are provided:

Ropeway No. 3– it is called the Kulebsky lift. The structure is three-seat, its length is 1060 m. The road starts from “Vitamin” and takes you to Mount Kulebi. The routes for professionals begin here, amazing views open up, and the elevation changes on the routes are clearly visible. Having reached Kudebi, tourists will be able to go out on their own mountain range, and its slopes are simply adored by freeriders for the opportunity to build a new route on untouched snow.

Cable car No. 4 and No. 5. The fourth road starts from the gondola station at the top and goes to Mount Sadzele, to the very foot. This is where the easiest route for beginners is laid. The fifth road starts at the top station of the fourth and takes you to the last cable car in the resort (Sadzele peak). Well, here real paradise for first-class professionals - two super-difficult descent routes (“black” slopes).

Ropeway– This is a lift for beginners, the length is short. The lower station is located in Akhali Gudauri directly between the stations of the cable car No. 2 and the cabin lift. The peculiarity of this road is that it is located at a distance from the main slopes and ski lifts, so that the best conditions for learning and first skiing experience are created for beginners.

Important information about lifts

All cable cars in Gudauri begin their work at the very beginning of the season (from about the 20th of December). They turn them on at 10.00 and turn them off at 17.00. In case of bad weather conditions(fog or strong wind) lifts may be turned off. In the spring, the lifts start operating (April - March) from 9.00 to 15.00 (this is on weekdays). On weekends – from 9.00 to 16.00. Starting from mid-July, cable cars are available to tourists from 10.00 to 16.00.

Remember, you need to purchase a Skypass to use all cable cars. This can be done at the lower station of the gondola cable car at a specialized ticket office. A one-time “pass” will cost 5 lari ($1.85). True, such a pass will allow you to go up to “Vitamin”, and then no more.
To climb other cable cars to the top, purchase a 3-time Skypass, it costs 15 GEL ($5.55). But the most profitable option is the so-called unlimited for the entire day of your stay at the resort. "Ticket" will give you the opportunity to ride without any restrictions on any cable car. Skypass costs 30 lari ($11.1).
When coming to the resort for a long time, you should think about purchasing a more profitable travel card option. For example, unlimited for 3 days will cost 84 lari ($31.08), not 90 lari ($33.3). For 4 days they offer Skypass from 112 GEL ($41.44). Children under 6 years old can ride on all lifts for free.

Sadzele – you inspire!

This peak in Gudauri is the highest point that can be reached using ski lifts. Conquering heights is already an unforgettable adventure, and that’s even without skis. At an altitude of 3268m you can feel like a real ruler of the Caucasus - you have conquered its main Ridge. A dizzying picture appears before your eyes. Vast distances, blue horizons and stunning mountains, beckoning with their pristine beauty. Looking west, you will see the picturesque Baydar Valley and the main road descending in curves. And beyond the road you can already see the Kelskoe plateau with its sleeping peaks of Kharisar and Sherkhota. The eastern side of the mountain opens up a panorama of the Khada gorge with the legendary Mtiul towers. If you conquer Sadzele from the south, you can see the Trussov Gorge, as well as the Terek Valley.

Mountains at your feet

Gudauri is not just modern slopes and extreme freeride. This amazing beauty mountains that fall in love and bewitch every person. You can contemplate these beauties while riding or just walking around the resort. If you are driving along the highway or relaxing in the Migabori cafe, the beautiful Lomissky ridge and the tops of volcanoes constantly appear in front of you. The closest peak to you is Bidara. Hidden behind the mountain is a pyramid-shaped (pointed) Dead Ena (its height is about 3500m). Immediately behind the slope is the peak of Sherkhota (it is flat), a little to the left there are several not very high peaks. Behind them begins a gorge with huge cliffs, a little to the left of it you can see Muketi Peak (height 2937 m). To the left of the mountain there is almost a ridge running away, one peak of which is Mount Lomisi (height 2452 m).

Other ski resorts in Georgia:

Route map in Gudauri

All trails at the resort are divided depending on the difficulty of their passage. This is important to remember, especially for beginner skiers.

Green (or blue) slopes– they are quite wide and almost flat. There are no sudden changes in elevation, bumps or curved turns here. True, with the right level of skill, you can accelerate decently. These “paths” are constantly maintained and leveled; they are also great for beginner skiers. To go down the green trails, you need to get to Vitamin. Here they start and wind their way along a huge slope almost to New Gudauri. There is also a green route near cable cars No. 4 and No. 5; it is quite long and safe.

Red slopes– tracks for steep turns and downhill. Suitable for professionals who are ready for difficult terrain, bumps and sudden changes in elevation. Two such routes (called “Kudebi” No. 2 and No. 3) from Mount Kudebi, which can be reached by the “Kulebsky lift”.
Black descents– this is only for pros! The trails are very difficult; athletes with extensive experience ski here. Entrance here is closed for beginners - there is a high risk of injury. Two black trails start from the top of Mount Sadzele.
The longest descent to Gudauri lasts approximately 7 km. And slalom lovers will appreciate the mountains for the height difference during the descent of up to 1000m.
The resort is equipped and training track– a great opportunity for beginners. Its length is about 350 m, and an “escalator” was built parallel to it; the tape allows you to quickly climb to the starting point, admission is free.

Gudauri Hotels

The peculiarity of this resort is its huge selection of accommodation for every taste. In addition, the hotels are practically not inferior in level of service to their European “star” brothers.

If you plan to live in Lower Gudauri - luxury complex is “Marco Polo” . There is everything you need for a status holiday: a swimming pool, bars and restaurants, a sauna, beauty salons, a solarium, billiards and much more. average price per room 490 GEL ($180). It is also attractive due to its good location, almost near its entrance (Gudauri Square) a huge track with a length of about 60 km begins, and you only need to walk 500m to the ski lift.

There is a nearby excellent hotel "Truso" – the atmosphere of a hospitable home reigns here, very cozy and comfortable. The peculiarity of the establishment is amazing Georgian cuisine with all its diversity. The restaurant is open 24 hours a day, you can pamper yourself with a massage, go to the Finnish sauna, or visit an excellent grill bar. The cable car (first stage) is literally 350 m away. A single room costs about 365 lari ($135).

From Hotel Carpe Diem it offers a magnificent panorama of the mountains, it is known for its level of service and friendly staff who speak excellent Russian (this is also not a problem in other hotels). An excellent hotel of European level, it offers a lot of additional options for tourists. The cost per room starts from 370 lari ($100). It is located near the second stage of the cable car. The distance to it is about 400m. You can see what hotels look like in Gudauri ( online camera) in real time.

Numerous hotels and guest houses also welcome guests in Upper Gudauri.
Hotel Abu– an excellent option for living. Almost from its doors to the track is 200 m, you can go down to the second ski lift on skis. A double room will cost 324 lari ($120).

Hotel Edelweiss– excellent hotel and acceptable prices. For a single room they ask for only 189 GEL ($70). Yes, the trails only take 10-12 minutes to walk, and from the windows of this hotel you can see magnificent views of snow-capped peaks. A special feature is that there is an excellent restaurant with panoramic windows, so you can combine eating and enjoying the views.

Apartments in Gudauri, as well as guest houses, are also available for every taste. Prices on average start from 162 lari ($60). The availability of inexpensive hostels is also encouraging. One of them "White Shino" , located in Upper Gudauri right next to the ski slope, you can ski down to the second ski lift. There are rooms with capacity from 2 to 10 people. Price per seat from 40 GEL ($15).

Gudauri – ski paradise with all the amenities

Even if you don't have special equipment for active rest- It's not a problem. The resort has an excellent rental service for everything you need. It is located in the center of the resort, a little to the right of the Kudebi store, near the lower station (the first stage of the ski lifts). If you are moving from the Smart market, you only need to walk 2 minutes (there is a sign). The prices are quite affordable. For the “necessary” set of boots, skis and poles they ask for only 30 lari ($11.1) and the same prices for boots and a snowboard. Renting speed skis or freeride skis will cost 50 GEL ($18.5). For just 10 lari ($3.7) you can buy glasses or gloves or a helmet. Prices are for the use of equipment for one day. Rent of other things: snowshoes from 20 GEL ($7.4), splitboards from 55 GEL ($20.35), beeper from 45 GEL ($16.65).

No prepayment required. Vehicle fleet updated in 2018. There are discounts when ordering a transfer in both directions. WiFi in every car. Drivers do not smoke. All-wheel drive vehicles. In case of flight delay, we wait for the passenger. Payment can be made in any way: online, by card through a terminal or in cash.

Passengers	1-4	Land Cruiser Prado 2018	RAV 4 2015	5-7	8-12	13-16	17-35	vip-sprinter
Tbilisi-Gudauri	60-70$	110$	80$	80-90$	100-120$	120-130$	200$	150$
Kutaisi-Gudauri	100-110$			130-140$	170-180$	210-230$	250-350$	300$
Tbilisi-Kazbegi	100-120$	180$	115-135$	120-130$	130-140$	150-160$	300$	200$
Kutaisi-Kazbegi	140-150$			180$	210-230$	230-240$	350-400$	350$
Vladikavkaz-Gudauri	90$			120$	160$	190$
Wine as a gift	1 bottle	2 bottles	1 bottle	2 bottles	3 bottles	3 bottles	5 bottles	3 bottles

Gifts are awarded only when ordering a transfer from Tbilisi or Kutaisi (round trip). The discount does not apply to the transfer Vladikavkaz - Gudauri

2. Georgian Bus company is an official partner of Kutaisi Airport and one of the leading transport companies in Georgia, with more than 7 years of experience in the transport and tourism sector. Our fleet:

10 modern Mercedes-Benz Travego buses (2010-2015) with a capacity of 47 people;
7 medium-sized buses - Isuzu (2012-2014) with a capacity of 31 people;
15 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter minibuses (2012-2016) with a capacity of 15-17 people;
More than 25 comfortable Mercedes-Benz Viano/Vito minivans and all-wheel drive SUVs.

Reservations are made without prepayment at [email protected]. With the possibility of canceling the reservation one day before departure.

Passengers	1-4	5-7	8-12	13-18	20-30	31-45
airport Kutaisi-Gudauri	70$	100$	150$	170$	220-240$	300-380$
Gudauri - airport Kutaisi	60$	80$	120$	150$	200$	300$
Tbilisi-Gudauri	65$	85$	110$	130$	170$	250$
Gudauri-Tbilisi	55$	75$	90$	105$	150$	230$

For those traveling alone, there is an exclusive opportunity to purchase tickets online at georgianbus.com. ** We will take you to your address

Phone, Viber, Whatsapp, Telegram (24/7): +995 577 000 137 Christina (transfers) and +995 577 000 157 Tatyana (excursions). We speak Russian, English and German. Order a transfer from the website using the link.

5) GoTrip: More Than Just a Transfer! You will get there in a comfortable, clean and smoke-free car, on average 40% cheaper than the average market price

1. More than 100 drivers who speak Russian.
2. Booking in 2 minutes without prepayment and credit cards.
3. Stops for photos and waiting are free and unlimited.
4. The ability to plan your own routes or choose a ready-made one.

There are 5000+ reviews available on the site from people who have already used our service. 99% of whom rated us 5 out of 5.

Transfer from the South of Russia to Gudauri. Vladikavkaz↔️Gudauri↔️Tbilisi. Excursions around Ossetia, Georgia. All-wheel drive cars are comfortable. - Transfer from the Vladikavkaz↔️Gudauri↔️Tbilisi. Excursions in Ossetia, Georgia. All-wheel drive cars are comfortable. - Tel, Viber, WhatsApp, Telegram: +791 88 22 88 77 [email protected]

Where can you go skiing with a group of friends? Take a closer look at Gudauri! We tell you how to get to the Georgian resort, the weather in winter, routes, hotels, food and entertainment. Prices for lifts and equipment rental. Bonus - reviews and advice from tourists.

Gudauri is one of the most developed ski resorts in Georgia. It is located in the north of the country, not far from the Georgian-Russian border. Modern complex It’s especially popular with youth groups and extreme sports enthusiasts, but people also come here with children. There is no special entertainment, but after hitting the slopes you can spend time bowling, relaxing in the pool and enjoying local cuisine.

Exchange rate: 1 Georgian lari (GEL) ≈ 23 RUB.

Climate and weather in Gudauri

The mountain resort is famous for its mild winters, the absence of severe frosts and winds. The resort village is the highest mountain village on Georgian Military Road, and there is always a lot of snow in these places. The thickness of the snow cover in winter reaches 3 m. Due to the dry climate and altitude, snow lies in the mountains for a very long time.

Ski season starts in the middle or at the end December and lasts until the middle April. At the beginning of winter there are many sunny days. The temperature drops to −5°C during the day and to −10°C at night. IN January night temperatures often reach −15°C. February colder than January and characterized by heavy snowfall and frequent cloudiness. This month the temperature can drop to −20°C. However, due to low humidity, frosts are easily tolerated.

March famous for its heavy snowfalls. The temperature is quite comfortable - from 0°C to −5°C. IN April It's sunny at the resort and the air warms up above 0°C.

How to get there and how much it costs

Gudauri is 140 km away from Tbilisi. Many international flights arrive at the airport of the Georgian capital, so the main flow of tourists comes to the resort from Tbilisi.

Minibuses You can get to the mountain village from the bus station, which is located next to the Tbilisi metro station "Didube". It takes almost an hour to get here from the airport. Minibuses run from 9:30 to 17:00 every 1.5-2 hours. The journey by public transport takes 3.5-4 hours, the journey costs 7 GEL. They pay the same amount for bulky luggage. However, not all tourists choose this option, because it is inconvenient to carry ski equipment in the minibus.

Taxi. The taxi ride lasts 2 hours and costs from 150 GEL. To save money, they usually order a transfer for several people.

Road to Gudauri across the border. Many tourists travel by train or plane to Vladikavkaz and go to Gudauri by land transport through the Verkhniy Lars checkpoint. The distance of 80 km can be covered by taxi, minibus or regular bus.

Depending on the speed of crossing the border, the journey takes from 2 to 4 hours. Transfer by car (up to 4 people) costs $90, and delivery by minivan (up to 7 people) or minibus (up to 12 people) costs from $160.

Pros - getting to the ski resort is quick, cheap and picturesque mountain road. Cons - there are transport delays at the border. In addition, the Cross Pass is sometimes closed to travel due to heavy snowfalls and the danger of avalanches. There is no need to worry - the road is needed not only for tourists, but also local residents, so it can be cleaned quickly.

Trails

Gudauri is a large and modern ski resort in Georgia. There is excellent infrastructure that is suitable for inexperienced skiers, professional athletes and off-piste skiing enthusiasts.

There are 22 trails on the slopes with a length of more than 70 km. The longest of them stretches for 7.5 km. It is noteworthy that 80% of the local tracks are red and blue. The steepness of complex slopes reaches 50°. Every morning the snow is processed by snowcats, and on some routes they use machines for artificial snowmaking.

Gudauri routes from a bird's eye view

The slopes are served by 12 lifts. The lower one was built at an altitude of 2000 m, and highest point- on Mount Sadzele (3258 m). The main cable cars of the resort:

"Gudaura" - A 10-passenger gondola lift designed for blue runs.
"Snow Park" - a three-chair cable car used by extreme sports fans.
"Kudebi" - a three-chair lift leading to the top of the mountain of the same name. It is used by those who want to ride on red runs and in freeride areas.
"Pirveli" - three-chair cable car for servicing the lower green route.
"Shino" - cable car, designed for 6 chairs and laid from a height of 2150 m.
"Soliko" - A 4-chair lift designed to serve blue runs and beginner routes.
"Sadzele" - a four-chair cable car to the top of the mountain, created to serve the black and red slopes.

Bugeli. Skiers and snowboarders enjoy using the rope tows "Alpina", "Bombora" and "Baby". The Zuma yoke was created for green slopes and children's skiing areas. Next to it there is a tubing track with a length of 0.3 km.

Off-piste skiing. Freeride fans ride along the slopes under the ski lifts. They cut through the eastern and western slopes of the Bidara and Chrdili peaks, as well as the northern slopes of Sadzele. Throughout the winter season, heli-skiing tours with instructors are organized from Gudauri.

Prices for ski lifts in Gudauri in 2018-2019

A single lift costs 7 GEL, three lifts cost 18 GEL, and night skiing costs 10 GEL. A daily ski pass costs 40 GEL for adults and 25 GEL for children from 6 to 16 years old. For a ski pass for a week you need to pay 232 GEL. You can use a multi-pass, which is valid in all ski centers in the country.

Prices for rental equipment and clothing in Gudauri

A standard set for the day - skis, poles, boots or snowboard and boots - costs 30-35 GEL. At rental points resort village can be rented:

skis - 20 GEL;
ski boots - 20 GEL;
helmet and gloves - 10 GEL;
snowshoes - 20 GEL;
avalanche equipment set - 50 GEL;
snow shovel - 12 GEL;
skis for ski tour - 70 GEL;
splitboards - 60GEL;
telescopic ski poles - 15 GEL;
beeper - 40 GEL;
freeride backpack - 5 GEL.

Housing in Gudauri is located at altitudes from 2000 to 2750 m above sea level. The development is divided into Lower, Upper and Central. Gudauri is a popular ski resort in Georgia, and there are many guest houses and about fifty 3* - 4* hotels. You can stay in guest houses with meals “ full board”, and hotels offer rooms with breakfast or two meals a day included.

Price double room in Gudauri hotels during the winter season 2018-2019:

Tourists like that some hotels in Gudauri have exits directly to the slopes, while others are located just a 5-10 minute walk from the ski lifts. Those who choose housing far from ski areas usually negotiate a transfer with the owners of the guesthouse or hotel.

Prices for food in cafes and restaurants

Restaurants, cafes and grill bars in the ski resort of Georgia - Gudauri feed tourists with dishes of European and Georgian cuisine. There are establishments offering Buffet. Lunch for two in an inexpensive establishment without alcohol will cost 30-35 GEL.

Cost of individual dishes and drinks in cafes and restaurants of the resort:

omelette with ham and cheese - 8 GEL;
omelette with vegetables - 7 GEL;
sandwich - 13 GEL;
salad - 6-14 GEL;
hot dish - 8-19 GEL;
mushrooms with suluguni - 12 GEL;
chicken shkmeruli - 21 GEL;
kebab - 12 GEL;
pizza - 19-24 GEL;
soups - 7-12 GEL;
side dish: potatoes and vegetables - 5-8 GEL;
kebab - 8-18 GEL;
grilled trout - 13 GEL;
khinkali, 1 pc. - 0.7-1 GEL;
khachapuri - 9-12 GEL;
shoti bread - 2 GEL;
coffee - 2.5-3.5 GEL;
lemonade - 2 GEL;
mulled wine - 5GEL;
wine, 1 l - 15 GEL;
chacha, 1 l - 60 GEL.

It is convenient to buy products at the Smart supermarket.

Excursions and entertainment

One of the most famous ski resorts in Georgia, Gudauri cannot boast of a very extensive après ski program. There are no special attractions at the resort. After skiing, tourists relax in bars, go to restaurants and a bowling club.

Many establishments show films about skiers and snowboarders, and organize entertainment and music programs with live music. A visit to spa salons and baths costs $20-50 per person.

In order to fully enjoy the panorama of the Caucasus Mountains, lovers of active recreation climb Mount Kudebi (3006 m). Snowmobile safaris and paragliding with an instructor are popular in the village.

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