Discover Racha in Autumn with Travel Art

A journey to Racha begins to leave its mark long before you arrive. Wooded slopes give way to mountain views, and when Shaori comes into sight, you will want to stop and take it all in. Here, the road to a place is as memorable as the place itself.

At Shaori, water, forest and mountains come together in a landscape that autumn colours in its own way. The woods along the shore gradually turn yellow, gold and red, their colours reflected in the water. In sunshine, the shades grow brighter; in mist, Shaori takes on a different mood. The outlines of the mountains soften, and stillness settles around the lake. A walk along the shore, with a moment to pause in the cool air, is one of the quiet pleasures of travelling through Racha.

If you enjoy active travel, Tskhra Jvari will leave a lasting impression. The walk up brings a sense of anticipation: you pause along the way, look back and see how the landscape changes as you gain height. The ascent is planned around the weather and the group’s abilities, so allow enough time and save some energy for this part of the route.

At Nikortsminda, it is the skilfully worked stone that draws your attention. As you walk around the church, you can examine its reliefs and carved patterns up close. Some details are immediately visible; others are pointed out by your guide. Their stories help you understand what you are seeing, and you look at the building again with renewed interest.

A longer journey through Racha leaves time to explore Oni as well. A walk through the town and a visit to its local history museum reveal more about the region’s everyday life and past. A stop at Barakoni adds another chapter to your introduction to Racha’s church architecture.

At the end of the day, it is time for local food. Rachan lobiani, a bread filled with beans, is especially welcome after a long walk. A cooking class gives you the chance to help make it yourself.

Your introduction to the Rachan table continues with a taste of Khvanchkara. Your host pours their own wine and tells you how they tend the vineyard, choose the right moment to harvest and who taught them the craft. After a meeting like this, Khvanchkara will be linked in your memory to someone you have come to know, their wine cellar and a day spent in Racha.

On Travel Art’s Racha tours, nature, culture and local flavours complement one another. You can begin with a day trip or choose a longer itinerary.

Come to Racha with us and discover places you have yet to know!