Top reasons to visit Mestia
- Breathtaking Scenery: Mestia is surrounded by stunning landscapes, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
- Adventure Activities: Engage in skiing at local resorts or embark on exhilarating hikes, such as the trail to Ushguli.
- Rich Cultural Heritage: Explore historical landmarks and museums that reflect the unique Svaneti culture.
- Delightful Accommodations: Choose from charming guesthouses to modern hotels, catering to diverse preferences.
- Local Cuisine: Experience traditional Georgian food and warm hospitality in the heart of Svaneti.
Find great hotels in Mestia
Discover a range of delightful accommodations in Mestia, Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti, from charming guesthouses to modern hotels. Ideal for adventure seekers and ski enthusiasts, many establishments offer pet-friendly services to ensure a comfortable stay. Whether you're searching for the best Mestia hotels or unique lodging experiences, you'll find the perfect base to explore this stunning region of Georgia.
- Hotel Posta Mestia: Offering a charming blend of comfort and affordability, Hotel Posta Mestia is ideal for travellers seeking a pet-friendly retreat with spa amenities. With an impressive guest rating of 9.6 out of 10, this budget-friendly lodging boasts an onsite full-service spa, complete with a sauna and an indoor pool, making it a perfect spot to unwind after exploring the stunning Svaneti region. The hotel's pet policy allows dogs and cats, ensuring that your furry friends can join in your adventures. Enjoy a relaxing atmosphere while indulging in the various spa treatments available, ensuring a rejuvenating stay.
- Chalet Mestia: This 3-star accommodation, rated 8.8 out of 10 by guests, is a delightful choice for those eager to embrace adventure. Situated conveniently in Mestia, Chalet Mestia provides easy access to ski lifts and shuttles, making it a popular base for skiing enthusiasts. The property offers numerous outdoor activities, including mountain climbing, cave exploring, and hiking, perfect for adrenaline seekers. With bicycle rentals available nearby, guests can further immerse themselves in the breathtaking landscapes of the Caucasus Mountains, making it an excellent choice for active travellers.
- Grand Hotel Ushba: Boasting a guest rating of 9.4 out of 10, Grand Hotel Ushba is a budget-friendly option that appeals to ski lovers and pet owners alike. This hotel provides convenient access to ski shuttles and lifts, allowing guests to enjoy winter sports effortlessly. With activities such as onsite horse riding, ski lessons, and nearby rafting, guests can indulge in a variety of adventures. The hotel's pet-friendly policy ensures that your canine companions are welcome, making it an excellent base for both relaxation and outdoor exploration.
Where to stay in Mestia
Mestia, the heart of the Svaneti region, offers a unique blend of adventure and historical charm. This picturesque town is surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, making it perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. As you explore its hidden gems, you'll encounter stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. From exhilarating excursions to tranquil scenery, Mestia promises an unforgettable experience for every traveller seeking to immerse themselves in Georgia's enchanting atmosphere.
- Ushguli: Nestled in the breathtaking Svaneti region, Ushguli is renowned for its spectacular mountain scenery and rich cultural heritage. This village, one of the highest inhabited settlements in Europe, offers an extraordinary travel experience for adventure enthusiasts. Visitors flock here primarily from July to September for activities such as hiking, rock climbing, and exploring the nearby historic sites, including ancient monasteries. The stunning views of the surrounding peaks and the charming stone towers create an unforgettable backdrop for both adventure and relaxation.
- Zhibiani: Located close to Mestia, Zhibiani is a quaint village that thrives during the peak summer season. Renowned for its picturesque landscapes and adventurous pursuits, this destination attracts nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The vibrant scenery is complemented by opportunities for hiking and engaging in guided tours. Zhibiani is also in proximity to a national park and a scenic river, making it an ideal spot for those looking to immerse themselves in Georgia's natural beauty and historic villages.
- Kashveti: A hidden gem in the Svaneti region, Kashveti offers a unique cultural experience for those seeking to delve into the local heritage. While its visitor numbers are notably seasonal, peaking in the summer months, the village boasts a serene atmosphere and historical landmarks. Travellers can explore ancient sites that reflect the rich history of the area, providing a fascinating insight into the cultural tapestry of Georgia. For visitors looking for a more introspective journey, Kashveti is a perfect choice.
Things to do in Mestia
Shopping
Mestia offers a charming shopping experience with local boutiques selling traditional Svaneti crafts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, visit the nearby town of Zugdidi, approximately 48km away, where you can find larger markets and shops featuring a wider range of Georgian products.
Recreation
In Mestia, the Mta Resort offers a serene wellness experience with rejuvenating spa treatments and breathtaking mountain views. Nearby, the Svaneti Wellness Centre provides yoga sessions and traditional Svanetian healing practices, allowing for relaxation and connection with nature amidst the stunning landscapes.
Adventure
Mestia offers thrilling hiking trails that lead you through breathtaking landscapes, with stunning views of the Caucasus Mountains. Engage in exhilarating skiing at the nearby Hatsvali Ski Resort, where fresh powder and diverse slopes await. For a unique experience, try paragliding to soar above this picturesque region.
Nightlife
In Mestia, the vibrant atmosphere comes alive at venues like Cafรฉ Lali, where local music and dance create a lively setting. The Svaneti Hotel Bar offers a more relaxed vibe, perfect for enjoying regional wines while soaking in the stunning mountain views.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Mestia
For a budget-friendly trip to Mestia, consider visiting during May or October when accommodation prices are lower. Book your hotel about a month in advance for the best deals, and look for last-minute offers on platforms like Expedia. Sundays are typically the cheapest days to stay, while Thursdays are the priciest. Use Expediaโs search tools to filter by budget and eco-friendly options. Combining your hotel, flights, and activities into a package can also lead to significant savings. Explore the area on foot or utilise public transport to enjoy free activities and local sights.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Mestia are May and October, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to February to March and November, where prices are slightly higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel in Mestia about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Mestia is Sunday. The most expensive day to stay in Mestia is Thursday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can arrange the results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to view the most affordable hotels at the outset. Furthermore, you can refine your choices by hotel category; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that you can book.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel reservations in Mestia with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in Mestia
Mestia is an ideal destination for adventure and outdoor enthusiasts, offering stunning scenery and rich cultural experiences. Visitors can explore various points of interest, including historical landmarks, museums, and scenic dunes, providing a perfect blend of culture and nature. Whether youโre seeking a taste of local history or simply wish to enjoy the breathtaking landscapes, Mestia has something to captivate every traveller.
- Mestia Town Hall: This civic building embodies the spirit of Mestia with its charming architecture and inviting atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy excursions that provide insight into local governance and community life, all while soaking in the surrounding mountain vistas.
- Upper Svaneti: A historic village rich in culture, Upper Svaneti offers an authentic glimpse into the traditional Svan lifestyle. Wander through ancient stone towers and learn about local customs and folklore, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.
- Ushba: Known for its striking dune-like formations, Ushba presents an exceptional opportunity for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. The scenic views of the peaks and valleys create a serene backdrop for outdoor exploration.
Best time to go to Mestia
The best time to visit Mestia can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Mestia falls in August, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Mestia falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Mestia
Reaching Mestia is convenient via two major airports. KUTaisi International Airport (KUT-Kopitnari) is situated 95km away, with notable hotels such as the 4-star Tskaltubo Plaza and the 3.5-star Oasis Villa, the latter offering free transportation to the airport. Batumi International Airport (BUS), located 167km away, also provides good options, including the luxurious Sheraton Batumi Hotel and the Grand Bellagio Batumi Convention & Casino Hotel, both within a few miles of the airport and offering various transfer services. These airports ensure accessible travel to the beautiful region of Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti.