Cycle the Silk Road Across Georgia

Travelling from Tbilisi to the Black Sea largely on two wheels (though not altogether continuously as some sections are driven for safety/logistical reasons) takes you through a great diversity of beautiful landscapes, from the sweeping grassland vistas of the Javalkheti Plateau to the dense, lush forests of Machakhela. The itinerary is well-designed to offer a full day of riding but also plenty of time in the evenings to relax or to explore cultural sites, such as the stunning rock-hewn settlement of Vardzia or the questionably reconstructed Rabati Castle. Happily, outside of a few hotspots there aren’t too many other tourists. The spectacular rocky descent to Vardzia is a highlight, but do make sure to pack your gloves as it’s a long way down and you’re going to be gripping hard!

Alex was an excellent guide, and I sense quite flexible in tailoring the trip to each group. Most of the accommodation was family-run guest houses, which were usually quite comfortable, and always provided copious and delicious home cooking (and sometimes cognac or chacha). Even the lunches tended to be enormous, so there was never any danger of being hungry! Georgia is definitely somewhere I’d like to return to – particularly to explore the greater Caucasus, but there’s even good hiking just on the edge of Tbilisi – so I’d suggest extending your holiday a little if you can.

One of the best cycling trips I've done, and I've done quite a few!

There was lush scenery, a lovely group of like-minded people to be spending time with, fun guides who've done it many times before and vast quantities of food usually supplemented by the local homemade chacha and wine.

The riding is great: some moderately challenging climbs (but perfectly doable for anyone with a reasonable level of fitness) and the descents are just sublime - in particular the 8km rocky, hairpinned descent to Vardzia and the 20km+ descent from Goderdzi (mostly gravel but in the process of being tarmac'd) both had me grinning like a loon all the way down.

Although the trip is rated 'challenging', I found it easier than the 'Cycle the backroads of Morocco' trip, which is rated as 'moderate'.

Yes the accommodation is a bit short of Western hotel standards at times but it's all perfectly fine, adds character (particularly the homestay on day 5) and is all part of the adventure. It's best if you just go with the flow and don't mind sharing a room.

There are a lot more swimming opportunities than advertised - definitely take advantage of the chance to try out the ramshackle hot sulphur bath in Vardzia before jumping into the cold river right next to it. Also the green lake on the Goderdzi pass day and the waterfall pool on day 6.

Agree with one of the earlier reviews that the final night felt a bit flat compared to what went before - Batumi isn't the nicest of places to end the trip.

Most of our group stayed on at least one extra night in Tbilisi and the team were happy to drop them off at their hotels in town rather than at the airport, where the trip is officially supposed to end.

Wow! What an amazing experience. One I'll never forget. Georgia is stunning and cycling is a great way to see it. The guides, places we stayed, food, logistics, I can't fault it.

It's more than 90 % road less than 10% gravel. Soon the biggest downhill will be a sealed Rd. So it's basically a road trip. They need to change the bikes imo as they are not suitable for riding on the road. Be prepared for a lot of challenging uphill riding which was a highlight for me and the group were very fit - but if you are just riding to work a few kilometers and think you can fly up these hills on these bikes you might be delusional about your own fitness level so I recommend a few weeks of 30 to 50km hilly rides so you come prepared. The trip was well organized / guided. The food was ok. The accommodation mixed. The views are great and get better as the trip progresses. On the last day I think we could have stayed closer to the national park. It was late morning before we started riding . Also I think the trip would benefit from an extra day especially in and around the national parks. All in all a good trip.

This was a fantastic trip with beautiful varied landscapes, excellent local cuisine and hospitality. Alex expertly led us through big climbs, off road descents, deep gorges and open plateaus; taking in some of the highlights of Southern Georgia on route. Whilst some of the climbs are long, they are all perfectly doable and the off road descents are fun, even for someone who doesn't like loose gravel!!

I would throughly recommend this trip for any keen cyclist keen to visit an up and coming tourist destination!

Very much enjoyed the cycling trip in Georgia.

Alex was a great and fun guide. Explaining the history, politics and customs along the way whilst keeping our spirits up. The food at every stop is amazing. The hosts at guesthouses are very hospitable, even without speaking English.

The cycling was very good with amazing views along the way. Never too demanding (climbing, speed or technical) and with freedom to go at your own pace. The more narrow and busy parts of the road are done by car to avoid accidents.

if you are looking to see a beautiful country, eat great food and meet wonderful guides, with a tough challenge, this may be the trip for you! Mainly on tarmac so mountain bikes did make these sections extra difficult however, there were some off-road sections! Lots of ups and lots of downs - and going through the countryside both Rezi and Alex gave us such a wonderful insight into their country which both of them are so proud of. The back up drivers were also very supportive. Food in Georgia is great. The last evening was a bit flat - certainly expecting more of a celebration that we had all finished! Also you cannot get direct flights which can make the journey there a little challenging in itself!

This was an interesting trip, and with the guides help gave a valuable perspective on Georgian culture and politics. The daily rides were tough, rewarded by stunning scenery. On the negative side, the mountain bikes provided didn't seem suited to the majority of cycling on main roads, neither particularly to the one steep and rocky off road descent. Furthermore, the accommodation provided on at least one occasion was really not up to what one might expect of a holiday in this price range. The logistics worked well, it was a good holiday, but I would have appreciated more imaginative use of small roads, tracks and off road sections, and less reliance on main roads.

Fantastic trip cycling across Georgia. Our guides: Alex and Rezi were fantastic. Knowledgeable, patient, funny they really added to the trip. I always felt safe and well looked after. Our support drivers were also brilliant, never far away and always on hand to chat, take photos and top up our water bottles. The food and accommodation were both excellent also, I was never hungry and even being vegan, I always felt I had plenty of choice and enough to fuel up. I would say though about 90% of this trip is on tarmac, with two long gravel descent sections. So if you're looking for a complete gravel experience, this isn't the trip. We really bonded as a group and had a fantastic time together. Thanks for the unforgettable experience!

Lovely trip, great guides, beautiful country and good food!

Inkalinka_on_the_bike

Oh, Georgia, you've truly outdone yourself! With your captivating diversity and vibrant culture, you delivered a daily infusion of new wonders and memories waiting to be embraced.

Let's talk cycling – a challenge but the kind you run towards rather than from. Each day I was left full of accomplishment and anticipation for the day ahead. Much of this involved peddling through picturesque landscapes with occasional stops for snacks and photo opportunities. Fellow riders became cheerleaders, to friends, sharing stories sweets and motivating each other up mountains meeting four legged friends along the way. 🐄🐶 :man-biking:💪

Lucky for me and my inability to navigate myself around a slightly larger than average supermarket, we had the amazing David! (our guide). This modern-day explorer navigated us though the sometimes questionable terrain, to offbeat local hideaways, rivers and yes Mountains! And oh boy, the food! 🍽️🌮 David unveiled a world of culinary delights (seriously, the portions were massive), all while immersing us in the vibrant tapestry of Georgia's culture through the guest houses that hosted us.

And guess what? David had a squad that nailed the logistics! Navigational wizards and van-driving heroes made sure we were never without hydration, snacks, or that much-needed pick-me-up. 🚐💧🥪

Whether you're a thrill-seeker with in pursuit of an adventure, a trailblazer chasing challenges, or simply a nature enthusiast yearning for some quality time outdoors, I'm shouting from the handlebars– this trip is your calling! And let's not forget the pièce de résistance – the cheesy bread that'll have your taste buds dancing with joy! :cheese_wedge:🍞🌄 So, are you ready to roll? Georgia awaits with open arms and wheels spinning! 🗺️:woman-biking:🌟