Lykkers, escape into Bakhmaro’s mist‑shrouded peaks, where A‑frame cottages perch at 1,950 m and the air feels pure as spring water. This hidden alpine haven in Georgia’s Guria Region blends invigorating mountain breezes with a welcoming community spirit.

Guests can relax on the terrace while savoring dishes like kaymaghi, a rich clotted cream cheese beloved by locals. Exceptional service adds to the experience, making any meal here memorableBelow, discover how to reach this cloud‑kissed village, where to stay, and all the must‑do adventures—complete with costs, schedules, and insider tips.

Unique Location

Bakhmaro crowns the Meskheti Range, just 50 km from the Black Sea’s salty whispers. A soft mist often settles in its valleys, earning it the nickname “Kingdom of Clouds.” Daytime temperatures hover between 18–24 °C in summer, while nights stay cool at 10–14 °C. In winter, expect daytime highs of 0–4 °C and snow depths up to 50 cm, creating a true winter wonderland.

Best Season

July and August light up Bakhmaro with alpine meadows in full bloom. Don’t miss the Doghvi horse race on August 19—spectator entry is free, though VIP grandstand seats cost 10 GEL. September brings fiery foliage, with leaf‑peeping hikes best between September 15 and October 5. Winter sports run from December through March, with peak snowfall in January.

How to Get

From Tbilisi, marshrutkas depart Didube Station at 8 AM and 2 PM daily (fare 25 GEL, 4 hrs). Alternatively, rent a car at Tbilisi Airport (from 80 GEL per day) and drive 180 km via the E60 and Sh1 routes. At Chokhatauri, local minibuses to Bakhmaro leave hourly from 7 AM to 4 PM (fare 15 GEL, 1 hr). Private taxis run 24/7 (100 GEL).

Stay Options

Cottages start at 60 GEL/night (basic double room, shared bath) and climb to 120 GEL/night for deluxe units with en‑suite bathrooms and balconies. Book in advance—summer fills fast. Camping is also popular: Camping Guria charges 20 GEL per tent per night (power hook‑ups included). All accommodations open from May 1 to November 1; winter stays require heaters (additional 10 GEL/night).

Mountain Trails

Over 30 km of marked paths fan out from the village. The Sunset Trail (6 km loop) takes 3 hrs, with a 450 m elevation gain—guide fees are 30 GEL/half‑day, including oxygen canisters. For a sunrise trek, set off at 4:30 AM toward Gadrekili Peak (2,200 m), finishing at dawn around 6 AM. Trail maps are available at the tourist office (free) from 9 AM–6 PM.

Horse Festival

The annual Bakhmaro Cup is a vibrant showcase of equestrian skill. Races begin at 11 AM and wrap up by 4 PM. Local riders compete in three heats over distances of 800 m, 1,500 m, and 2,500 m. Family‑friendly stalls sell grilled khachapuri (15 GEL) and fresh fruit juices (5 GEL). Shuttle buses from Chokhatauri station run at 9 AM and 10:30 AM (10 GEL round‑trip).

Local Crafts

Stroll past timber workshops where artisans carve chess sets and decorative spoons from local oak. A live carving demo costs 10 GEL, and finished pieces range from 20–50 GEL. Nearby, weavers at the Community Center offer 1‑hr felt‑making classes (15 GEL), producing cozy slippers as souvenirs. Workshops run daily, 10 AM–4 PM.

Scenic Sunsets

Sunset Mountain lies 4 km east—reachable by shuttle jeep (20 GEL one‑way, departs at 5 PM). A short 20‑minute hike leads to panoramic platforms where skies ignite in orange and magenta. Bring a flashlight for the descent; rental bulbs cost 5 GEL at the visitor kiosk (open until 8 PM).

Winter Sports

When snow blankets the slopes, Bakhmaro transforms into a ski playground. The Powder Project offers daily ski passes (40 GEL) and equipment rentals (50 GEL/day). Guided off‑piste tours (half‑day) are 60 GEL, including avalanche beacons and transceivers. Snowshoe hikes cost 25 GEL and depart at 9 AM and 2 PM—pre‑booking is required.

Farmers Market

Every Sunday at 8 AM, Chokhatauri’s market overflows with organic cheeses, sweet honeycomb, and seasonal berries. Marshrutkas from Bakhmaro leave at 7 AM (15 GEL round‑trip) to accommodate early shopping. Prices: honey 20 GEL/kg, homemade cheese 25 GEL/kg, and fresh herbs 5 GEL/bunch.

Conclusion

Bakhmaro’s blend of crisp mountain air, vibrant festivals, and year‑round adventures makes it Georgia’s ultimate alpine secret. With clear transport links, transparent pricing, and a warm community awaiting your arrival, this “Kingdom of Clouds” promises memories that linger long after the mist lifts. Pack your bags, Lykkers—the slopes, trails, and sunsets of Bakhmaro are calling!