Gudauri is a ski resort built on the slopes of the Great Caucasus Mountains, along the historic Georgian Military Road once known as the “Heavenly Gorge.” Located just 120 km from Tbilisi, roughly a 1.5 to 2-hour drive away, the resort spans elevations from 2,000 metres at its base up to 4,200 metres at its highest heli-ski access points, with regular ski and snowboard slopes reaching a maximum elevation of 3,276 metres. The resort features well-developed infrastructure, and thanks to its south-facing position, skiers and boarders can enjoy sunshine throughout the day during the ski season, which runs from December to the end of April.
Heli-Skiing
Gudauri is one of Europe’s premier heli-ski destinations, with virtually unrestricted access up to 4,200 metres. A fleet of helicopters transports skiers, snowboarders, and their guides to remote peaks for some of the most exclusive skiing experiences in the world.
Cross-Country Skiing
Remote valleys and untouched foothills around Gudauri offer exceptional cross-country skiing, just a short distance from the resort’s groomed trails and lifts. Hiring a guide allows visitors to make the most of the terrain and enjoy fresh, virgin snow.
Skiing & Snowboarding
With 22 ski slopes totaling 70 km, including a longest run of over 5 km, the resort is equipped with an artificial snow-making system and served by both chairlifts and enclosed gondola cabins. Chairlifts and gondolas carry skiers and snowboarders up to the Kudebi Mountain, above the tree line, with a vertical drop of about 1,000 metres.
Slopes cater to skiers and snowboarders of all levels โ beginner, intermediate, advanced, and expert โ and for experienced skiers, Gudauri offers four FIS-approved disciplines: slalom, giant slalom, super slalom, and speed skiing. The resort also offers unlimited off-piste skiing, with reliably thick snow cover guaranteed by its high altitude.
Ski School and Rental
Gudauri Ski School offers lessons in both skiing and snowboarding for beginners of all ages, as well as advanced coaching for more experienced skiers and boarders looking to refine their technique. Up-to-date ski and snowboard equipment rental is available through ski schools, local outfitters, and hotels throughout the resort.
Entertainment and Activities
Beyond skiing, Gudauri offers a snow park, a dedicated kids’ park, night skiing, paragliding, and snowmobile excursions into the mountains. Visitors can also unwind in outdoor heated pools and jacuzzis, open even during the winter months. For evening entertainment, guests can enjoy the resort’s lounges, bars, and nightclubs.
In summer, Gudauri offers mountain biking trails, quad bike tours, white-water rafting on the Aragvi River, horseback riding, paragliding, guided ascents of Mount Kazbek (5,054 m), hiking, ziplining, canyoning, and other outdoor activities.
Safety
All ski areas in Gudauri are patrolled by experienced ski patrol and first-aid teams, with emergency helicopter evacuation to Tbilisi available when needed.
Accommodation
Gudauri offers a range of accommodation options to suit different preferences, including full-service hotels, apart-hotels, and guesthouses.