Racha region georgia - Shaori lake - Khvanchkara wine - Tours in Georgia

Racha-Lechkhumi

Racha is a mountainous region of outstanding beauty. Homeland of famous for its excellent wine Khvanchkara, and villages illuminated by fresh green nature. Located in the eastern part of western Georgia, next to Svaneti. Apart from the alpine zones, like the regions in the Caucasus, there is a much more diverse landscape. Shaori Lake is definitely worth a visit, which is probably the best among the easily accessible lakes in Georgia with its charm. Great place for camping, swimming, fishing and relaxing.

There are special routes in the wild for hiking enthusiasts. You will see caves and cross small, cold rivers. It is also possible to arrange a horse tour with the help of locals.

In terms of tourism, the region has not been fully developed yet. The villages of highland have a great effect. Which are located 3500 meters above sea level. They have preserved their old appearance with traditional houses typical for the region. Rachvelian were distinguished craftsmen, therefore there are many historical sights too. Mostly old churches and monasteries.

Khvanchkara wine

The region is famous for the highest quality wine called Khvanchkara. This name does not mean a grape variety. Alexandroupoli and Mujuretuli grapes are used to make this wine. It should be noted that these grape varieties grow only in specific microzones. The most productive area is 900 hectares. That is why its annual production is limited in quantity. It is one of the best and most unique wines among red semi-sweet wines.

What to see in Racha

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Shaori lake

the largest and most beautiful water reservoir in the village of Nikortsminda is very popular among those who are fond of backpacking and fishing. It occupies the area of 9.2 sq.km.

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Nikortsminda

Nikortsminda Temple is the masterpiece of national architecture. Monument had not experienced great changes during its existence.World Cultural Inheritance Monuments.

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Barakoni

this most beautiful monument makes guests and visitors astonished with its glory and beauty. No one expects that in such mountains will ever see the temple similar to Svetitskhoveli.

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Cave-freezer

Cave in the forest, 3 kilometers from the village of Nikortsminda. 1200 meters above sea level on a hiking route. It is called a freezer because the temperature is minus degrees and the locals used it as a refrigerator.

Cave freezer in Racha - Tours in Georgia
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Shovi

Climatic-balneological resort at 1500 meters above sea level. Local mineral waters and mountain climate are useful for treating gastrointestinal and respiratory tract.

Shovi Racha region in Georgia - Tours in Georgia
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Ghebi

A beautiful village whose name comes from Svanian and means a deep place. Svan influence is also felt in the local architecture. Because this area was part of Svaneti for some time. The specimen of the Svan tower is also preserved.

Ghebi Village in Racha -Tours in Georgia
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Short history

Traces of human life in this region can be traced back to the Bronze Age. Along with Lechkhumi, Racha is mentioned in historical sources under one common name, Takveri, which was part of the ancient Egrisi kingdom. Over time, the region was separated by its name.

In the X-XIII centuries, was subject to the kings of united Georgia. After the collapse of the union, it was the first part of Samegrelo and then of the Kingdom of Imereti. After the annexation of Imereti by the Russian Empire the region was given the same status. In the highland, were widespread Svan settlements. Probably because this area was part of the Svaneti principality for some time. Nevertheless, the local population is preserved with Rachvelian traditional culture and conversational accent.