Gelati's golden mosaics, Motsameta's cliffside saints and Tskaltubo's crumbling Soviet spas, three faces of Imereti in one day from Kutaisi.
| 08:30 | Pickup in Kutaisi, drive about 20 minutes to Gelati monastery to see the 12th-century cathedral and its mosaics (restoration scaffolding may cover sections, checked at booking). |
| 10:00 | Short drive to Motsameta monastery, perched on a cliff above the Tskaltsitela river gorge, a 10-minute walk from parking. |
| 11:00 | Return toward Kutaisi, stop at Bagrati cathedral for views over the old town and the Rioni river. |
| 12:30 | Lunch in Kutaisi, Imeretian specialities such as khachapuri and lobio (lunch cost not included, checked at booking). |
| 14:00 | Drive 25 minutes to Tskaltubo, walk through several abandoned Soviet-era sanatoria and see the still-functioning mineral bathhouses. |
| 15:30 | Optional stop at Kutaisi's covered market for local produce and souvenirs. |
| 16:30 | Return to your Kutaisi hotel, end of tour. |
Is Gelati monastery still an active religious site?
Yes, it functions as a working monastery and is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so modest dress is expected.
Can we go inside the Tskaltubo sanatoriums?
Several buildings allow walk-in access and others are fenced off or unsafe; your guide will indicate which are open on the day, checked at booking.
Is this tour suitable for travellers with limited mobility?
Motsameta and parts of Tskaltubo involve uneven ground and some steps, so it is better suited to travellers comfortable walking for short stretches.
Do we need to book entrance tickets in advance?
No advance booking required for Gelati, Motsameta or Bagrati; Tskaltubo bathhouse entry fees, if any, are paid on site.