Mountainous Georgia - Kazbegi

You will depart from Tbilisi early in the morning, in the direction of Kazbegi.100 miles (160 km) along the Georgian Military Road, it runs between Tbilisi, Georgia and Vladikavkaz, Russia. On the way, there are some very interesting places to visit.

Ananuri Fortified Castle Ensemble is a sixteenth-century castle complex on the Aragvi River. The fortress stands beside the famous Georgian Military Highway, overlooking the large lake of Jinvali. Its high, turreted stone walls protect two churches, a watchtower, and a reservoir. The main church facade is beautifully carved with animal, floral and Celtic style patterns.

The next stop on the way is Gudauri, a remarkable ski resort in Georgia. The resort is at the altitude of 7217 feet (2200 meters) above sea level. The first lower lift station is at 6528 feet (1,990 meters ) above sea level and the last, or top, the station is at 3,306 meters called summit Sadzele. The resort offers high-quality skiing opportunities. The ski season lasts from December through April.

From Gudauri, you'll continue your trip to Gergeti Trinity Church. At an altitude of 7119 feet (2,170 meters), the twelfth or thirteenth-century monument was erected on the southern slopes of Mkinvarcveri. Gergeti Trinity Church is an important temple, remarkable for its beautiful scenery. The Gergeti Trinity Church is set poignantly on a hill directly below the towering white massif of Mount Kazbek, which sits at 5,033 meters. Built six hundred years ago, its stones have weathered repeated blizzards, rain and invasion to stand as a proud symbol of Georgian resilience in the face of adversity. It is the photographer’s perfect shot.