Shaori Fortress: A Bronze Age Megalith

07:00 — Set off from Tbilisi
An early start to complete the route in good daylight. On the way, a stop for coffee and a light snack.
The surrounding landscapes gradually change: green hills give way to a rocky plateau shaped by volcanic formations.

10:00 — Arrival in Tambovka Village
Safety briefing, gear preparation. Begin the ascent along shepherds’ trails, passing abandoned campsites and streams.

10:30–12:30 — Ascent to Shaori Fortress
The views widen as you go up the trail: Lake Paravani comes into sight, along with the Abul-Samsari ridge.
The route isn’t difficult but requires careful footing where rocks and mud appear.

12:30–13:30 — Explore the Fortress
At the summit awaits a true mystery of the Caucasus Mountains:

• Massive boulders stacked into powerful walls without any binding material
• Ruins of an ancient fortress, dating back to the 1st millennium BC
• Stunning views of Lake Paravani, the valley, and the volcanic plateau
• Plenty of room and time to take photos and enjoy the views.

13:30–14:30 — Have a picnic at the summit
For lunch we'll have Georgian bread, cheese, vegetables, sweets, and hot tea. Have some food, relax, warm up on the rocks, and share your impressions.

14:30–16:00 — Descent using an alternative route
If weather permits, we’ll return along the opposite side of the slope, offering different panoramic views. Wide fields stretch below — with some luck, you might spot flocks of sheep or birds of prey soaring overhead.

16:00–16:30 — Rest at the foot of the mountain
A short break before the journey back: wash up at the spring, enjoy some coffee, and change your shoes if needed.

16:30–19:30 — Return to Tbilisi
On the way back, you can stop at Lake Paravani to enjoy the sunset over the water or visit a local bakery to buy some fresh bread.

🎒 What to Bring:

• Trekking shoes (for rocky and grassy terrain)
• Windbreaker and fleece jacket — it can be chilly and windy at the summit, even in summer
• Hat or sun cap
• Neck gaiter
• Sunscreen
• Gloves (optional)
• 1.5–2 liters of water
• Lunch or snacks (if lunch is not included in the tour)
• Trekking poles (available for rent)