This charming little town set amidst the rugged, wild hills on the banks of the Potskhovi River on the southern edge of the country was once a centre of regional power for one of Georgia’s illustrious feudal dynasties. Today Akhaltsikhe still bears historical relics of its former greatness, albeit with a laid-back bucolic vibe.

The historic core of the town rises up on the north side of the riverbanks around the main drag of Kostava Street. Here, it’s possible to explore the newly renovated complex of the 10^th century Rabati Castle, containing amongst others, a museum along with churches, a mosque, and synagogue within its massive fortress. The attractions don’t stop there. This “off-the-beaten-track” town also offers up great access to the UNESCO Heritage Site at Vardzia, where the great churches of Tamar are hewn deep into the Georgian rock and the volcanic springs of the Borjomi Gorge. A little closer to home, your Akhaltsikhe tour guide will point out the enchanting Sapara Monastery and war torn Khertvisi Fortress on the hill.