Bakuriani — Georgia's Family-Friendly Ski Resort
Located 180 km from Tbilisi at 1,700 meters above sea level, Bakuriani is ideal for beginners, families, and anyone who enjoys a relaxed winter holiday among pine forests and snowy meadows.
Overview
Originally built as a national training base for Olympic athletes, Bakuriani today blends tradition with comfort and modern facilities — one of Georgia's most approachable ski destinations.
Set in the Trialeti Mountains above Borjomi at 1,700–2,700 meters, Bakuriani earned its reputation as Georgia's original ski resort decades before the country's other resorts existed, and its gentler, family-friendly terrain still makes it the country's go-to choice for beginners and children learning to ski.
The resort is reachable by the Kukushka — a UNESCO-listed narrow-gauge railway that has climbed from Borjomi to Bakuriani since 1902, winding through forest before ascending into the mountains, a scenic alternative to the road that's become an attraction in its own right.
Outside the winter season, Bakuriani turns green and mild, drawing hikers, mountain bikers, and travelers looking to combine a night in the mountains with Borjomi's mineral springs, just 40–60 minutes away by road.
Georgia's Original Ski Resort
Built as a national training base, still the country's most approachable resort.
The Kukushka Railway
A UNESCO-listed narrow-gauge train from Borjomi, running since 1902.
Family-Friendly Terrain
Gentle slopes across Didveli, Kokhta, and Mitarbi ski areas.
Year-Round Appeal
Green summers for hiking, minutes from Borjomi's mineral springs.
Ski Area & Terrain
1,700–2,700 m
A vertical range spanning the Didveli, Kokhta, and Mitarbi ski areas.
30+ km of Runs
Gentle, family-friendly slopes — Georgia's most approachable ski resort.
15 Modern Lifts
Gondolas, chairlifts, and drag lifts across three linked areas.
Snow Park & Kids' Zones
Dedicated beginner terrain and tubing parks for younger skiers.
Ski Season
December through March, extended by artificial snow.
Snow Depth
Up to 1.5 m during December–February.
Night Skiing
An illuminated evening slope at Didveli.
High-Speed Links
Fast connections between the Kokhta and Mitarbi areas.
Sights & Activities
Kukushka Railway
A UNESCO-listed narrow-gauge train climbing from Borjomi since 1902.
Horse Riding & Snowmobile Tours
Guided winter activities through the surrounding forest.
Hiking & Mountain Biking
Trails opening up across the ski areas from April to October.
Borjomi Mineral Springs
Central Park and the historic Firuza pavilion, 40–60 minutes away.
Sledding & Tubing
Family-friendly zones around the resort in winter.
Cross-Country Skiing
Marked trails through the surrounding pine forest.
Vardzia Day Trip
Georgia's largest cave monastery, a scenic drive through the highlands.
Local Market
Wool goods, honey, and mountain cheese sold in the town center.
Average Temperatures & Seasons
At 1,700 m, Bakuriani stays noticeably cooler than Tbilisi year-round — summers rarely exceed 23°C, and snow cover is consistent through the winter months.
Distance & Accessibility
Nearest airport: Kutaisi International (KUT), 170 km. Rail and shuttle connection via Borjomi.
Book Transfer with Legend TravelAccommodation
Family Resorts
Cozy hotels near slopes with play areas.
Boutique Chalets
Mountain-view lodges with fireplaces.
Spa Hotels
Wellness and pool facilities.
Budget Guesthouses
Affordable, warm hospitality.
Dining & Local Cuisine
Warm Georgian mountain flavors served in family-friendly restaurants with hearty stews and hot chocolate.
Khinkali
Hot dumplings, a favorite après-ski meal.
Elarji
A stretchy cornmeal-and-cheese dish.
Kupati
Spiced Georgian sausage, grilled or fried.
Local Honey Wine
A warming regional specialty.
Mtsvadi
Grilled meat skewers over an open fire.
Kharcho
A spiced beef and walnut soup.
Khachapuri
Cheese-filled bread served across resort restaurants.
Mchadi
Cornbread served alongside cheese and stews.
Chacha
Grape spirit, often served after dinner.
Herbal Mountain Tea
Brewed from wild herbs gathered nearby.
Useful Information & Travel Tips
Currency
Georgian Lari (₾); cards accepted at hotels and larger restaurants.
Language
Georgian; English spoken at hotels and ski schools.
Power Outlets
Type C and F (220V / 50Hz).
Emergency Number
112 for all emergency services.
Equipment Rental
Available at both ski areas and in the town center.
Booking Tip
Reserve hotels well ahead during peak ski weeks.
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