Georgian Military Road: steeped in trade, wars, and legends

The Georgian Military Road – part of the E117 – is THE way to experience the soul of Georgia, a legendary route winding through the heart of the South Caucasus! Forget just getting from Tbilisi to Vladikavkaz (Russia) – this 212km (131 miles) adventure plunges you into a world of ancient trade routes, epic battles, and views that'll leave you breathless.

Imagine following in the footsteps of armies and merchants, a path carved out centuries ago, eventually transformed into a marvel of engineering. Be warned though, the pavement isn't always perfect! Expect some gravel sections, especially after snow or rough weather. And it's a busy road, so share the road with those huge lorries.

The real highlight? Conquering the Jvari Pass, soaring to 2,395m (7,857ft)! This "Cross Pass" can be avalanche-prone, but thankfully, there are clever galleries to keep things moving in winter. Most of the year, you're good to go. Keep an eye on the forecast though, as crazy weather is normal. Altitude sickness isn't usually a big deal unless you plan on hiking into the mountains.

Trust me, the scenery is worth it all. Gaze up at the majestic Mt. Kazbek, navigate the thrilling Kazbegi Tunnel, and prepare for views of the mighty Caucasus Mountains that are simply out of this world. Keep your eyes peeled for viewpoints along the way, including a spot where you can sample natural mineral water straight from the source. This landscape, with its towering mountains, deep gorges, and hidden valleys, has inspired writers like Tolstoy, Dumas, and Gorky!