The Costa del Sol’s great isn’t it. Sun, sea, sangria – what’s not to like? No wonder Brits have been flocking to southern Spain since the 1960s. But sometimes the familiar isn’t as fun or exciting as the unknown; the road less travelled. That may explain why holidaymakers have begun travelling a little further afield, specifically to the tiny European country of Georgia.
Sitting in the Caucuses and on the Black Sea, Georgia is paradise for those after spectacular views and the great outdoors. Prior to Covid, the Eurasian country, which only has a population of 3.7 million, saw a staggering 9.3 million travellers visit. Such astonishing numbers marks Georgia out as one of Europe’s most up and coming holiday destinations.
It boasts great skiiing in the winter and tranquil sandy beaches, where sunbathers can bask in 29C heat in the summer months. Georgia really has got it all. And it keeps popping up on lists of some of the world’s most underrated tourist destinations, including Contiki, Workaway and Buzzfeed.
When it comes to food, Georgia is famous for its dumplings. Meat-eaters and vegetarians are equally well-catered for in this corner of Europe and the country’s street food scene is tip top.
Oh, and did we mention that Georgia is home to some of the best wine-making in the world, using an 8000-year-old traditional method? Yes, you don’t need an eye test, it really does say 8000.
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Now that you know that Georgia is one of Europe’s lesser known bright lights, allow Express.co.uk to break down three destinations that should be top of your travel bucket list.
Shekvetili
This incredible resort on the Black Sea is a prime location for anyone seeking sun and stunning vistas. Shekvetili enjoys a subtropical climate meaning that visitors can be sure to get a great tan whilst soaking up the heat on the area’s gorgeous beaches. When you’ve finished with the beach, get lost in the green pine forest before heading to one of the resort’s fantastic seafront restaurants.
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Gudauri
If you’re more of a skiier than a sunbather, then Gudauri is the place for you. Situated only two-and-a-half hours from the Georgian capital Tbilisi, holidaymakers can be on the slopes in very short order. And plenty of slopes there are too! The resort is the country’s most developed as has around 70km of piste and you can get as high as 3300 feet, meaning you’re looking down on the clouds. Gudauri is open for business from December to April and because of Georgia’s modest reputation as a ski destination you’ll more or less have the mountains to yourself.
Tbilisi
Any discussion of this beautiful country wouldn’t be complete without unpicking the very best of its capital. Tbilisi is steeped in history and is blessed with eye-popping architecture. Visitors to the city can ramble through the cobbled streets, dipping in and out of wine bars, restaurants and cafes, as well as sucking in the fresh air in Tbilisi’s magnificent parks. The Old Town is particularly popular with tourists as is the funicular, which provides fantastic views out over the buzzing metropolis below.
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