German village in Georgia (Elisabethal) & Wine tasting

Exploring the German Village in Georgia (Elisabethal) & Wine Tasting – A Detailed Look

If you’re considering a day trip from Tbilisi to experience some of Georgia’s charming rural scenes and rich wine traditions, this tour promises a well-rounded glimpse into the country’s lesser-known history and flavors. It’s offered as a private excursion, which means you get personal attention and a flexible pace—perfect if you want an authentic, intimate experience.

Two things that really caught our eye about this tour are the chance to explore a village with German roots—complete with its ruins and historic cemetery—and the inclusive wine tasting, which highlights a local grape variety with a fascinating backstory. On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is that the tour’s focus on specific historic sites might mean limited time at each stop, so if you’re looking for a long, leisurely exploration, it’s worth planning accordingly.

This experience is especially suited for those who enjoy history, local culture, and wine. Travelers keen on discovering Georgia’s diverse heritage or those curious about regional traditions beyond the usual tourist spots will find it particularly appealing. It’s a rewarding way to see a different side of Georgia, without feeling rushed, provided you’re okay with a full day out.

Key Points

• Private and personalized experience with hotel pickup and drop-off in Tbilisi
• Cultural insights into Georgia’s German heritage through visits to ruins and cemeteries
• Wine tasting featuring a rare grape variety with a direct connection to local history
• Duration around 5 hours, ideal for a half-day escape
• Tour is booked in advance, with good availability about a month ahead
• Affordable price point at $75 per person, offering good value for a nuanced experience

What This Tour Offers: A Closer Look

This tour combines history, culture, and wine—three pillars that showcase Georgia’s rich regional diversity. Starting with the German Lutheran Church in Asureti, you’ll see the architecture and get a sense of the once-thriving German community. Built in the mid-19th century, the church’s simple but elegant design reflects its cultural significance. After the deportation of the German settlers during WWII, the church was abandoned, now standing as a poignant reminder of that past.

Next, you’ll visit the German cemetery, where traditional gravestones with German inscriptions stand as silent witnesses to the community’s former presence. It’s a place that really touches on Georgia’s diverse cultural tapestry, illustrating how different groups have left their mark—even if only through memories and stones.

Then, there’s the sulfur bath, also from the 19th century, which was built by German settlers for health and relaxation. Though it might no longer be in use, it’s an interesting piece of the puzzle, showing how German craftsmanship influenced local architecture and wellness practices.

The most delicious part of the day? The wine tasting at Raminashvilebis Marani, where you’ll get to sample Shala, a unique grape variety cultivated by Otto Schall since 1931. This wine, with its distinctive flavor, highlights Georgia’s long-standing wine tradition and the regional expertise in viticulture. The tasting is included in the price, giving you a real taste of local craftsmanship.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Asureti German Lutheran Church

This church isn’t just an old building; it’s a symbol of Georgia’s historical mosaic. Expected to take around 30 minutes, you’ll have time to snap some photos and appreciate the traditional architecture. The site is free to visit, but it’s the stories behind it that really add meaning.

Stop 2: Elisabethtal Cemetery

Spanning another 30 minutes, the cemetery’s gravestones with German inscriptions reveal the cultural layers of the village. It’s a touching place, quietly telling the stories of those early settlers and their enduring legacy. Again, free to explore, but highly impactful.

Stop 3: Sulfur Bath

In the same 30-minute window, you’ll see the historic sulfur bath, a structure that once served as a health haven for German settlers. While not necessarily in use today, it’s visually fascinating—imagine the German craftsmanship and the blending of traditions from two continents.

Stop 4: Wine Tasting at Raminashvilebis Marani

Crowning the tour is about an hour at the local vineyard, where you’ll taste Shala, a wine with strong regional roots. The vineyard’s history with Otto Schall adds a layer of authenticity, and it’s a great opportunity to savor something truly unique. The tasting is included, so you can indulge without extra costs.

Why You Might Love This Tour

Travelers who are curious about Georgia’s lesser-known communities will find this tour refreshingly different from standard city tours. The focus on historic German sites provides a unique perspective, especially for those interested in cultural intersections.

If you’re a wine enthusiast, the inclusion of regional varieties like Shala makes this trip worthwhile. The stories shared by guides about the wines’ origins add depth to the tasting experience, and many reviews praise the guide’s knowledge and sense of humor—making the day both informative and fun.

The logistics are straightforward: hotel pickup and drop-off mean no fuss, and the private vehicle ensures you’re not stuck in a crowded group. Plus, the tour is well-priced at $75, considering the inclusions and personalized attention.

What to Keep in Mind

While the tour offers a good variety of highlights, some stops are brief, so you might find yourself wanting more time at each site. For example, the ruins and cemetery are poignant but small areas, and the sulfur bath is purely visual now. If you’re deeply interested in history, you may wish to combine this with other visits later.

Weather can influence the experience—most of the sites are outdoors—so check the forecast and dress accordingly. The duration is around five hours, which fits comfortably into a day but might be a long outing for very young children or those with mobility issues.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

If you’re after a mix of history, culture, and wine in a relaxed setting, this trip is a solid choice. It’s particularly suited for those interested in the stories of Georgia’s regional communities and who appreciate a more personal, intimate tour experience.

The tour’s focus on the German heritage of Elisabetal adds a fascinating layer to Georgia’s story that you won’t find in typical city tours. The inclusion of local wine tasting makes it a rewarding outing for wine lovers—especially with the chance to try a regional grape variety with historical roots.

Overall, it’s a well-priced, thoughtfully curated excursion that offers a good balance of sightseeing, learning, and tasting. If your trip to Georgia includes a day in Tbilisi and you want to see a different side of the country, this is definitely worth considering.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While most of the stops are outdoor sites and relatively short, the tour is generally suitable for travelers of all ages, but keep in mind it’s about 5 hours long with some walking involved. It’s a good choice if your family enjoys a mix of history and wine.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included in the tour. You might want to bring snacks or plan to eat afterward in Tbilisi.

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 10:00 am, with pickup from your hotel in Tbilisi included.

How much walking should I expect?
The stops are fairly compact, but be prepared for some walking around the sites—easy terrain, but comfortable footwear is recommended.

Is the wine tasting included in the price?
Yes, the wine tasting at Raminashvilebis Marani is included in the $75 per person fee.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your schedule shifts.

This tour offers a thoughtful way to explore Georgia’s diverse heritage—combining history, scenic views, and regional wine. It’s perfect if you’re curious about lesser-known stories and want a relaxed but engaging day outside the city.