Georgia Greater Caucasus Mountains
Stepantsminda
Stepantsminda, known locally as Kazbegi, lies at 1750 metres above sea level and is in the heart of the Georgia Greater Caucasus Mountains. It is the closest escape from the intense summer heat of the capital, Tbilisi, and is becoming a fast developing mountain resort. The road from Tbilisi to Stepantsminda is good and the journey takes under four hours. The town is 12 kilometres from the border with Russia.
The mountain views from Stepantsminda up to Gergeti village and Gergeti Trinity Church are outstanding. To crown it all, when the clouds clear the magnificent snow-caped Mount Kazbek reveals itself.
An increase in tourism in Stepantsminda has led to the availability of a wide selection of quality accommodation, and reasonable restaurants. When I was there in July 2024, there were a lot of heavy road works and building development to keep up with the town’s expansion.
The visitors centre has a wealth of information about places to explore in the area. For many tourists, the main focus is to visit the 14th century Gergeti Trinity Church.
Gergeti Trinity Church
Gergeti Trinity Church can be reached by road, but the hike is very worthwhile. It is a leisurely four-hour round trip, including time to soak up the surroundings.
A fellow traveller who had started the hike at the same time struck up conversation, and we continued together. The main route passes the ruined Gergeti Tower and a fast flowing stream. Mount Kazbek was cloud covered, but we caught a few glimpses of the other high mountains. A friendly dog joined us for a short time on the hike up, leading the way and making sure we weren’t lost.
The Gergeti Trinity Church is most impressive from a distance, without the crowds at the site, and even more so when you can see Mount Kazbek in the background. The inside of the church is dark and unpretentious.
The views on the hike back down are no less impressive as you look over Gergeti and to the mountains behind Stepantsminda. It was a great day with fresh mountain air, breathtaking scenery, and good company.
