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Borjomi Gorge
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The Borjomi Gorge is a deep river valley carved by the Mtkvari (Kura) River in central Georgia, cutting through the mountain ranges of the Lesser Caucasus. The gorge is world-renowned for its volcanic mineral water springs, which have been commercially bottled since the 19th century and serve as the foundation for the Borjomi spa resort. Geographically, the area is draped in dense coniferous and deciduous forests that form part of the Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park, one of Europe's largest protected areas. The climate is mild and considered therapeutic, a quality that made the region a favored retreat for the Romanov imperial family during the Russian Empire. Historically, the gorge was guarded by fortifications such as Petre Fortress, which monitored the strategic transit point between western and eastern Georgia. Today, the gorge is not only a hub for balneology but also a critical corridor for major infrastructure projects like the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan pipeline.
- Location: Georgia
- Top sights: panoramuli xedi bakurianze sak`arias goradan · Green Monastery · gogich`aant` g'elis k`vis darbazebis komplek`si cm.giorgis eklesiis nangrevebit`
- Nearby: Nunisi (11 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -2 | 0 | 4 | 8 | 14 | 19 | 22 | 22 | 17 | 12 | 5 | 0 |
| Rain mm | 46 | 36 | 54 | 57 | 69 | 64 | 45 | 43 | 49 | 57 | 52 | 46 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
The gorge is typically accessible via main roads running along the Kura river from neighboring towns. Travel into the valley is often routed through the town of Borjomi itself.
Best season
The best time to visit is during the warmer months from late spring to early autumn when the coniferous forests are lively. In winter, conditions in the gorge can be challenging.
Terrain & paths
The terrain consists of a deeply carved river valley with sometimes steep and uneven paths. Hikers should be prepared for unpaved trails within the forested areas.
What to bring
Sturdy hiking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are essential for exploring the forest paths. It is recommended to carry plenty of water and perhaps a small basic first-aid kit.
Parking
Parking options are generally found in designated spots within the nearby town or at the main entrances to the gorge. From there, visitors can proceed into the natural areas.
Safety
Visitors should be mindful of uneven ground conditions and potential slippery spots near the natural healing springs. It is advisable to stick to marked paths and monitor the weather.
Time needed
A typical visit to the gorge usually lasts from half a day to a full day, depending on the planned hikes. Some visitors choose to stay longer to fully experience the healing springs.
Geography
Facts
- Borjomi mineral water was first scientifically analyzed by imperial doctors in 1830.
- The Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park covers an area of over 850 square kilometers.
- The gorge spans a total length of approximately 60 kilometers.
- Petre Fortress dates back to the Middle Ages and is perched on a sheer cliff.
- The Romanov Summer Palace in Likani was completed in 1895.
- The region is home to over 800 plant species, including many Caucasian endemics.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
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Sights in the town Borjomi Gorge (6)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the Borjomi Gorge famous for?
Famous for its healing mineral water and Georgia's largest national park.
Can you taste the mineral water directly at the source?
Yes, in Borjomi Central Park you can taste the warm spring water for free at two pavilions.
What does the Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park offer?
Numerous marked hiking trails, campsites, and a diverse flora and fauna across over 85,000 hectares.
Are there historical buildings in the gorge?
Yes, Gogia fortress and the Romanov Palace in Likani are significant historical sites.
When is the best time for a visit?
From May to October for hiking; in winter, the nearby Bakuriani ski resort is attractive.
Borjomi Gorge: where is it located?
Borjomi Gorge is located in Georgia.
Borjomi Gorge: what is there to see?
Highlights include panoramuli xedi bakurianze sak`arias goradan, Green Monastery, gogich`aant` g'elis k`vis darbazebis komplek`si cm.giorgis eklesiis nangrevebit`.
Borjomi Gorge: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Borjomi Gorge: why is it worth visiting?
The Borjomi Gorge is a deep river valley carved by the Mtkvari (Kura) River in central Georgia, cutting through the mountain ranges of the Lesser Caucasus.
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