Nikortsminda Cathedral (11th Century)
Shaori Reservoir
Nikortsminda Cathedral (11th Century)
Frescoes inside the Nikortsminda Cathedral
Qvabtkari- the waterfall of love
Monument to Wine Khvanchkara in Ambrolauri
The road from Ambrolauri to Barakoni Church
Barakoni Church of the Mother of God (18th Century)
Barakoni Church
Naturally semi-sweet red wine Khvanchkara (wine tasting for extra charge)
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Private Tour to Racha from Tbilisi with Medieval Churches, Wine Tasting & Lunch

Tbilisi, Georgia
Cultural ToursDay Trips & ExcursionsBus & Minivan Tours
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About this activity

Discover Georgia's legendary Racha wine region on this comprehensive 15-hour private tour from Tbilisi, combining medieval churches, dramatic mountain scenery, and authentic family-hosted wine tasting with traditional lunch. This remote region showcases centuries of Georgian heritage alongside pristine nature, visited by far fewer tourists than Tbilisi's standard routes.

Private full day tour to Racha includes visiting one of the most distinguished regions of Georgia known with its great wine, diverse nature and hospitable people. Tour includes visiting Shaori Reservoir covered with mixed deciduous trees beautiful at all seasons of the year, Nikortsminda Cathedral with rich ornaments built in the 11th century, Qvabtkari - the waterfall of love believed to help people get married soon, Barakoni Church which is one of the last monuments in the tradition of medieval Georgian architecture built in the 18th century and mountain spa and health resort of Utsera. Tour includes visiting local family for a lunch to taste Khvanchkara that is one of the best wines in the world and try delicious meals from the cuisine of Racha. Tour also includes visiting towns Ambrolauri and Oni and Nakerala Pass, known with its beautiful forest. Private tour to Racha is appropriate for people who love nature, historical sites and unique wine. Total drive 595 km (370 miles).

Highlights

  • ✓11th-century Nikortsminda Cathedral with intricate stone carvings
  • ✓Qvabtkari waterfall ('Waterfall of Love'), steeped in local folklore
  • ✓18th-century Barakoni Church, a rare example of late medieval Georgian architecture
  • ✓Private wine tasting and three-course lunch at a local family home featuring Khvanchkara wine
  • ✓Scenic drive through Nakerala Pass and mixed forests surrounding Shaori Reservoir
  • ✓Visits to mountain towns Ambrolauri and Oni with panoramic views

Insider tips

  • ★Racha's signature Khvanchkara is a semi-sweet red; local families often produce their own—ask about their winemaking traditions during lunch
  • ★The route covers 595 km with significant driving; request stops at scenic pullouts, especially near the reservoir and Nakerala Pass
  • ★Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) offer the best weather for photography; avoid winter when mountain passes can be hazardous
  • ★Bring layers—mountain weather changes rapidly, and you'll be on foot at several sites

Good to know

  • •Total duration is 15 hours including 5–6 hours driving; early morning pickup from Tbilisi required
  • •Private tour (1–6 passengers typical) means flexible pacing and personalised attention versus group tours
  • •Lunch and wine tasting included; vegetarian options available on request
  • •Sturdy walking shoes recommended for cathedral grounds and waterfall approach; not wheelchair accessible
  • •Mobile signal is patchy in remote areas; download offline maps if using GPS

Who it's for

History and archaeology enthusiasts interested in medieval Georgian architectureWine lovers seeking authentic, small-scale producers and educational tastingsNature photographers and hikers looking for off-the-beaten-path mountain sceneryCouples and small groups wanting immersive cultural experiences beyond Tbilisi

Best time to visit

Late spring (May–early June) and early autumn (September–October) offer ideal weather, clear skies, and lush landscapes. Summer can be very hot; winter roads may be closed or hazardous. Visit mid-morning to avoid arriving at lunch too early.

Frequently asked questions

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From€263
per person