Shovi

Shovi is an under-the-radar destination in the Georgian region of Racha, positioned in the majestic mountains of the Greater Caucasus. This idyllic resort attracts visitors seeking clean mountain air, untouched nature, and above all, the famous healing mineral springs. The surrounding dense coniferous forests and snow-capped peaks provide a wide-open backdrop for every stay. The nature here is overwhelming and has fantastic opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, and bird watching. Culinarily, travelers can enjoy the unique Rachan cuisine, including the famous Lobiani (bean bread) and the exquisite, semi-sweet Khvanchkara wine that is cultivated in this region. Traveling to Shovi is usually done from the capital Tbilisi via scenic mountain roads, which is an adventure in itself. The best time to visit is during the summer months and early autumn, when the weather is mild and nature is in full bloom, creating the excellent conditions for outdoor activities.

Nearby cities

Kutaisi

Kutaisi is the third-largest city in Georgia and the center of the Imereti region.

Samtredia

Samtredia is a bustling city in the Imereti plain, known for its importance as a railway hub.

Zestafoni

Zestafoni is an industrial city in Imereti, whose economy is closely linked to the processing of manganese ore.

Chiatura

Chiatura is a unique mountain town famous for its extensive network of Soviet cable cars.

Tkibuli

Tkibuli is a mining town in western Georgia, surrounded by dense forests and steep mountains.

Khoni

Khoni is a small town in the western Georgian lowlands, distinguished by its traditional silk production and agricultural products.

Tskhaltubo

Tskhaltubo is a formerly world-famous spa town, valued for its radon-infused mineral springs.

Ambrolauri

Ambrolauri is the charming center of the Racha region, known for its fine wines and spectacular scenery.

Lentekhi

Lentekhi is a peaceful town serving as the gateway to Lower Svaneti.

Ushguli

One of the highest continuously inhabited villages in Europe, decorated with ancient stone defensive towers.

Sairme

Sairme is a renowned balneological resort in the forested mountains of Imereti, famous for its mineral springs and wellness retreats.

History & landmarks

Martvili

A mesmerizing natural canyon renowned for its emerald green waters, cascading waterfalls, and boat tours.

Katskhi Pillar

The Katskhi Pillar is a 40-meter-high natural limestone monolith in Imereti.

Nature

Rioni River

The Rioni is the main river of western Georgia, originating from the glaciers of the Greater Caucasus.

More places

Chiatura Manganese Mine

Chiatura Manganese Mine is one of the world's largest manganese ore deposits, operating for over a century.

Tkibuli Coal Mine

Tkibuli is the center of Georgian coal mining, extracting hard coal primarily for domestic needs.

Zestafoni Ferroalloy Plant

The Zestafoni plant processes manganese ore from Chiatura and is one of the world's largest producers of silicomanganese.

Gelati Monastery

Gelati Monastery near Kutaisi was one of Georgia's first cultural and spiritual centers.

Bagrati Cathedral

Bagrati Cathedral in Kutaisi majestically crowns the Ukimerioni Hill.

Sataplia Nature Reserve

The Sataplia Nature Reserve is famous for its well-preserved dinosaur footprints and a beautiful karst cave.

Imereti Tea Plantations

The rolling hills of Imereti and Guria were once the center of Soviet tea production.

Kutaisi Free Industrial Zone

This industrial zone in Kutaisi promotes local and foreign investments in technology, textiles, and household appliances.