Visitors to Georgia are mainly appealed towards its outstanding blend of quaint, historic and spiritual treasures. Its exquisite natural beauty is also a siren call for many! A perfect concoction of nature, culture and history, Rayna Tours’ Rabati Tour is one amazing day trip that satisfies both interests.

With a captivating tour guide, your approximately two hour drive from Tbilisi will journey you through some of the Southern Georgia’s illustrious routes, before you arrive at the quaint town of Akhaltsikhe whose centerpiece is a charming medieval castle, known as Rabati Fortress. Head inside this approximately seven-hectare castle complex encompassing many beautifully restored ancient structures on hilltop, from Jakelis Palace, citadel and dazzling golden dome to a Georgian Orthodox Church, a synagogue, and a mosque along with an 18th century madrasah (Islamic school).

Dating back to 12th century, it lets you grasp the rich Georgian history and culture in a single site, with deep influences of Russian, Soviet, and Ottoman empires. You’ll be greeted with the most breathtaking vistas at every turn; climb atop its towers, take a leisurely walk through its long hallways, and immerse in its remarkable surroundings made up of lush gardens, beautiful ponds, fountains, colonnaded towers, and wineries on terraces. For an authentic perspective of the region’s history, a must-explore here is Ivane Javakhishvili Samtskhe-Javakheti History Museum.

Continue your journey to the striking resort town of Borjomi, lying in the imposing Caucasus Mountains, along the lush valleys of Mtkvari River. Besides its attractions such as Iranian Blue Palace and the Museum of Local Lore, this history-drenched place is particularly well-known for its mineral spring containing therapeutic elements. Visit the Mineral Water Park to sop up the region’s verdant allure boasting tall pine trees, waterfalls, pools etc, and of course, relish the distinguished Borjomi Mineral Water directly from its source.

After a day of classic sightseeing, we’ll head back to Tbilisi where the tour culminates with a drop off to your hotel.