Mestia
Mestia is the hub of Upper Svaneti, a valley of medieval stone defensive towers under 4,000 m peaks. It is the start of the four-day trek to Ushguli and of day walks to the Chalaadi and Koruldi lakes. Guesthouse half-board is standard and the local dialect and food differ noticeably from the lowlands.
How long to stay
June to early October for trekking; December to March for freeride skiing.
Typical daily budget
No budget published for this place yet
Best time to go
No seasonal guidance published for Mestia yet
Is Mestia right for your trip?
Based on what this guide covers, not a score. This is what Mestia is known for.
Great for
- Solo
Less of a focus
- History & culture
- Food
- Nightlife
- Nature
- Family
Build your Mestia trip
Top things to do
Chalaadi Glacier
Free entry · VerifiedMestia
A glacier tongue reached by a three-hour return walk through birch forest from the valley floor near Mestia.
Svan towers
Free entry · VerifiedMestia
Medieval family defence towers standing throughout the villages of Upper Svaneti, several open to climb.
Ushguli
Free entry · VerifiedMestia
A cluster of tower villages at 2,100 m below Mount Shkhara, among the highest permanently inhabited settlements in Europe.
Run a restaurant, café or tour in Mestia? List your business.
Popular activities
Koruldi Lakes day hike
Steep climb to alpine lakes above Mestia with a full view of the range.
Mestia to Ushguli trek
Four-day guesthouse-to-guesthouse trek through the high Svan villages.