Private Tour to Bakuriani Ski Resort and the Legendary Borjomi

Exploring the Georgia Mountain Escape: Bakuriani Ski Resort & Borjomi

If you’re dreaming of a full-day escape into Georgia’s mountain scenery, this private tour to Bakuriani Ski Resort and Borjomi offers a chance to see some of the country’s best natural sights in one go. While we haven’t experienced it ourselves, reviews suggest it’s a well-rounded day packed with stunning views, a touch of winter sports, and historical charm.

What really appeals is the ease of a private, guided experience that takes you from city to mountain with comfort and local insight. We love how travelers praise the knowledgeable guides and the chance to enjoy crisp mountain air and spectacular panoramas. On the flip side, one consideration is that not everyone will find all parts equally engaging, especially if you’re not big on winter sports or lengthy train rides. It’s best suited for those who want a mix of adventure, scenery, and relaxed exploration in a single day.

This tour would suit travelers looking for a comprehensive day trip that balances nature, history, and a taste of winter leisure. If you enjoy scenic train rides and want to see Georgia’s mountain resorts without the hassle of planning your own transport, this could be a good pick. It’s especially appealing if you’re traveling with a small group or prefer a more personalized experience.

Key Points

• Convenient private tour with transportation included makes for a hassle-free day.
• Stunning mountain views and crisp air provide a refreshing escape from city life.
• Variety of activities, from skiing and snowboarding to peaceful park strolls, cater to different interests.
• Scenic Kukushka train ride adds a nostalgic charm to the journey.
• Flexible enough for free time in Bakuriani, so you can choose leisure or adventure.
• Good value at $105 per person, considering the transportation, guide, and unique experiences.

Unpacking the Experience: What to Expect

This tour offers a well-organized day that balances sightseeing, outdoor activities, and relaxing moments. We’ll start bright and early, leaving Tbilisi at 7:30 am, to head towards Borjomi. The first stop is Borjomi Central Park, a lovely green space famous for its mineral waters. Here, you’ll hop aboard the Kukushka train, a charming narrow-gauge railway that’s been running for years, winding through the mountains. This ride alone is a highlight—think vintage engine chugging through snow-covered trees, offering postcard-worthy views.

The train ride takes around three hours, providing a slow, scenic journey that’s both relaxing and visually rewarding. We loved the way the train smoothly navigated the rugged terrain, giving us plenty of opportunities to snap photos and just soak in the landscape. The reviews mention that the admission to the train is only $2, making it a budget-friendly highlight.

As you arrive in Bakuriani, you’ll find yourself in a popular winter sports hub, surrounded by towering mountains and century-old pines. The area is known for over 200 days of sunshine per year, so even in winter, you’ll get plenty of sunshine and crisp air. Here, you can indulge in skiing, snowboarding, or just take leisurely walks along the well-maintained paths. One reviewer noted, “The sunny activities of the ‘sunny valley,’ surrounded by crystal clear air and strong pines, will carefully protect the resort from strong frosts and strong winds.”

The final stop is Borjomi’s Central Park again, where you can stroll through the picturesque landscape and enjoy the famous mineral waters. While the park entrance isn’t included in the ticket, many find it worth a visit for the peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty. One traveler shared, “You can be alone with nature, just enjoying the fresh air.”

Why the Tour Works Well

The comfort of a private, air-conditioned vehicle and a professional guide makes all the difference when covering such a broad area in one day. The guide’s local knowledge enhances the experience—pointing out landmarks, sharing stories, and ensuring you spend your time effectively.

The scenic train ride from Borjomi to Bakuriani is a major highlight, giving you a nostalgic journey through Georgia’s mountains, a unique experience that complements the outdoor exploration.

Winter sports enthusiasts will love the options available in Bakuriani, while those seeking a leisurely day will appreciate the peaceful parks and scenic walks. The flexibility to spend about 4 hours in Bakuriani means you can decide whether to hit the slopes or simply enjoy the mountain air.

The value at $105 per person is fair, considering the transportation, guide, and the opportunity to see multiple spots without the stress of planning. Keep in mind, there’s an extra cost for the Kukushka train ($2) and Borjomi park entry ($2), which are quite reasonable for what you get.

Possible Drawbacks or Considerations

One thing to keep in mind is that this is a long, full-day trip—about 12 hours of travel and sightseeing, which might be tiring for some. The itinerary is quite packed, so if you prefer a slower pace or want more time in any specific location, you might find it somewhat rushed.

Plus, while the guide service is generally praised, one review pointed out that they didn’t receive a guide during their visit, which can affect the overall experience. It’s worth clarifying what’s included at the time of booking.

Since the tour involves train rides and outdoor activities, weather conditions can influence your experience. Cold winter days are expected, so dress warmly, especially for the mountain parts.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive day exploring Georgia’s mountains, parks, and cultural sites without the stress of arranging logistics themselves. It’s suited for those who enjoy scenic train journeys and mountain vistas, and who appreciate a mix of outdoor activity and relaxation.

It’s also a good option for people traveling with a small group who prefer a tailored experience, as it’s private and customizable. If you’re keen on winter sports or want to experience Georgia’s famous mineral waters, this tour hits those marks.

However, if your main goal is to relax at a single spot or if you’re not comfortable with a long day of sightseeing, this might be a bit too busy. Also, if you’re traveling with children, consider their stamina for a 12-hour day.

FAQs about the Tour

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, the mix of outdoor activities and scenic train ride might appeal to older children, especially those who enjoy nature and winter landscapes. Keep in mind the long hours and cold weather.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 12 hours, starting at 7:30 am and returning in the evening, so it’s a full-day experience.

Are meals included in the price?
No, lunch is not included, so planning to bring snacks or purchase food during the day is recommended.

What costs are extra?
You’ll need to budget for the Kukushka train ticket ($2) and Borjomi park entry ($2), as these are not included in the main price.

How comfortable are the transportation vehicles?
The tour offers comfortable, air-conditioned transfer vehicles, making the journey more pleasant, especially during long drives and mountain passes.

Can I customize the sightseeing time?
Since it’s a private tour, you have some flexibility to spend more or less time at each stop, depending on your interests and stamina.

Is there a guide during the entire trip?
Most reviews mention guide service, but one noted that they did not receive a guide at all, so it might depend on the specific arrangement. Confirm the guide’s presence when booking.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly, especially in winter, as you’ll be outside for extended periods, and the mountain air can be quite chilly.

Is the tour available year-round?
While not specified, given the winter sports emphasis, it’s likely best suited for the winter months, but check with the provider for seasonal availability.

What makes this tour special?
The combination of a scenic train ride, opportunity to ski or walk in Bakuriani, and peaceful parks in Borjomi make it a well-rounded Georgian mountain experience.

This tour offers a solid balance of scenery, activity, and relaxation, perfect for those wanting to see Georgia’s mountains without the fuss of self-planning. With a friendly guide and unforgettable views, it can be a highlight of your trip—just be prepared for a full day and chilly mountain air.