Across the Caucasus

Tbilisi is the most charming city in the Caucasus, with its gracious tree-lined boulevards, ancient churches and enjoyable public baths. The route heads south towards the Azerbaijani border and the sprawling Georgian Orthodox Davit Gareji Monasteries, founded in the 6th century. The riders then spin eastwards passing through the hill town of Sighnaghi, with its amazing views out over the immense Alazani valley, before stopping for a rest day in Lagodheki. Situated at the foot of the Greater Caucasus Mountains, the area is known for its vast forests and beautiful lakes. The route now heads west toward some of the country’s famous vineyards. Here the cyclists can sample some of the region's offerings including Saperavi, a red grape that produces a bold, fruity wine with strong acidity before returning to Tbilisi.

Pedalling out of the capital after a rest day, the cyclists will spin through the tree-covered hinterland, the ruggedness of the Caucasus Mountains and the lush habitat of the Adjara region. Here they will enjoy meeting the hospitable locals with their traditional dinners of toasting, dancing and singing. Crossing into Türkiye, the route will head to a rest day in the important crossroads city of Kars. The cyclists will then continue on to the end of this section at historic Erzurum, a mountain city and home to the notable Twin Minaret madrasa and the 13th century Çobandede Bridge.

Highlights

• Sighnaghi
• Georgian Vineyards
• Charming Tbilisi
• Caucasus Mountains