Discover Bakurianis Andeziti

Bakurianis Andeziti combines its mountain setting with the history of andesite mining. The town lies on the northern slope of the Trialeti Range, in the headwaters of the Borjomula River, at an elevation of about 1,800 metres. Healing mineral springs are mentioned in the surrounding area. Its geography and industrial history offer two distinct ways to describe the town.

Andesite mining and settlement history

Andesite extraction began in 1932; Bakurianis Andeziti subsequently developed around an industrial enterprise. Its industrial profile includes an andesite quarry, grinding mills and sawmills. The town was developed as a workers’ settlement: its historic facilities included apartment blocks, a kindergarten, a school, a club, a canteen, shops, a clinic and a library. This development brings together the history of mining and that of a settlement with both residential and community facilities.

The school and library have survived; the library holds around 17,000 books. In 2019, residents reported that it was used by children and adults. Before visiting, confirm the condition of the buildings and the collection again. While the quarry and workshops represent the industrial side, the school and library reflect the social infrastructure of the workers’ settlement.

Bus connections and seasonal access

A regular bus service connects the Bakuriani bus station with Andeziti and Tsikhisjvari in both directions. Routes and fares can change, so check the current timetable and fare before travelling. Tabatskuri has its own seasonal access conditions: the road is closed in winter, and access from Bakuriani is by snowmobile. The route from Bakuriani over the Tskhratskaro Pass to Tabatskuri is about 30 kilometres each way. Weather and road management can affect seasonal access; check conditions before setting out. When planning, keep the distinction in mind: the bus service connects Andeziti and Tsikhisjvari with the Bakuriani bus station, while travel to Tabatskuri is a separate, season-dependent matter.

Tours and other activities

A snowmobile tour offers panoramic views of Andeziti from elevated points. A snowmobile route in the wider area also includes a ride around Lake Tabatskuri. Quad bike tours in the Borjomi–Bakuriani area also go to Bakurianis Andeziti; the package includes safety equipment, a guide service, and photo and video recordings. Bakuriani also has an international-standard bike park, as well as horse-riding and jeep tours. The options differ in destination and type: the snowmobile tour offers panoramic views of Andeziti, the quad bike tour includes the town as a destination, while the ride around Lake Tabatskuri is part of a route in the wider area. Facilities, routes, operators, availability and included commercial services can change; check the latest details before booking.

The wider destination: Samtskhe-Javakheti

Samtskhe-Javakheti is an administrative region comprising the historic provinces of Samtskhe and Javakheti. The region also includes the Javakheti Protected Areas, with lakes, distinctive marshes, and subalpine and alpine meadows. From birdwatching towers in the protected areas, visitors can observe 140 species of breeding and migratory birds. Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park extends across Samtskhe-Javakheti, as well as Imereti and Shida Kartli.

Discover more destinations: Akhaltsikhe, Bakuriani, Akhalkalaki, Tmogvi, Tsaghveri, Borjomi, Zanavi, Abastumani

Back to the wider travel guide: Samtskhe-Javakheti.