Nestled in the heart of the Borjomi region of Georgia, Bakuriani Ski Resort is a popular destination for skiing and winter sports enthusiasts. With its stunning mountain views, charming village atmosphere, and a variety of ski slopes suitable for all levels of experience, Bakuriani offers a memorable winter vacation experience. In this guide, we'll take a closer look at the ski resort and what it has to offer.
The Slopes, Trails, and Lifts
Bakuriani has 25 km of ski slopes with elevations ranging from 1,700 to 2,700 meters above sea level. There are 13 ski lifts in total, including chair lifts, surface lifts, and gondolas. The slopes are suitable for skiers of all levels, from beginners to advanced, with green, blue, red, and black runs.
The working hours of the lifts are from 10 am to 5 pm, but they may vary depending on the weather conditions. The ski season usually starts in December and lasts until March or early April.
Ski-Passes and Equipment Rental
The price of a one-day ski pass for adults is 50 GEL (~16 USD), while for children it is 30 GEL (~10 USD). There are also multi-day passes available, as well as family passes. Equipment rental prices vary depending on the type of equipment and the duration of rental, but on average, ski and snowboard rentals cost around 50-70 GEL (~16-23 USD) per day.
Skiing for Kids
Bakuriani offers several areas for kids to learn to ski, including a dedicated beginner area with gentle slopes and instructors available for lessons. There are also kids' snow parks with tubing, sledding, and other fun activities.
Instructors
For those who are new to skiing or want to improve their skills, Bakuriani Ski Resort offers ski and snowboard lessons for all levels. The instructors are highly experienced and certified, and lessons can be booked either individually or in groups. Private lessons cost around 60 GEL ($20) per hour, while group lessons start from 20 GEL ($7) per hour.
Night Skiing
Bakuriani Ski Resort is one of the few ski resorts in Georgia that offers night skiing. The slopes are illuminated with floodlights, creating a magical atmosphere for skiing under the stars. Night skiing is available on certain days of the week and is included in the price of the ski pass.
Infrastructure
The ski resort offers several amenities, including ski rental shops, ski storage facilities, first aid stations, and a variety of restaurants and cafes. There is also a spa and wellness center for those looking to relax after a day on the slopes.
For those who want to take a break from skiing, Bakuriani Ski Resort offers a range of activities including ice-skating, snowmobiling, and horse riding. There are also several cafes and restaurants located within the resort, serving Georgian and international cuisine.
Cafes and Restaurants
There are several good cafes and restaurants located in the resort area, offering traditional Georgian cuisine as well as international options. Some popular spots include Gino Paradise Bakuriani, serving Italian cuisine, and Café Nini, offering traditional Georgian dishes.
Accommodation
Bakuriani Ski Resort has a range of accommodation options including hotels, guesthouses, and apartments. Prices vary depending on the season and the type of accommodation, but a standard double room in a hotel will cost around 150 GEL ($50) per night. It is recommended to book accommodation in advance, especially during the peak season.
Best Time to Visit
The ski season in Bakuriani runs from December to April, with the best time to visit being between January and March when the snow conditions are optimal. The volume of snow on the trails varies each year, but on average, the resort receives around 4 meters of snowfall per season.
Getting There
Bakuriani Ski Resort is located 180 km from Tbilisi and can be reached by car. The drive takes around 3 hours, and there is parking available at the resort. Bakuriani Ski Resort is located approximately 195 km (121 miles) from Kutaisi International Airport and 200 km (124 miles) from Tbilisi International Airport.
Additional Tips
If you are driving to Bakuriani, it is recommended to have a 4-wheel drive car or snow chains, as the roads can be icy and slippery. It is also advisable to check the weather conditions and road closures before setting off. Finally, make sure to pack warm clothing and appropriate gear for skiing, as temperatures can drop below freezing on the slopes.
