Things To Do Around Tvishi & Lechkhumi
Hiking Location 1 — Khvamli Mountain
Discover the hidden beauty of Khvamli Mountain. (2,001 m). Although located in Lechkhumi, Mt. Khvamli can easily be considered the “backyard mountain” of Kutaisi thanks to its striking rectangular shape and isolated position dominating the northern panorama of the city.
The mountain is surrounded by legends, including stories connected to Prometheus. Khvamli is ideal both for short hikes and for longer adventures toward the opposite Askhi Massif.
On clear days, the summit offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Greater Caucasus, stretching from Zემო Svaneti to Racha, and sometimes even views of the Black Sea coastline.
The trail starts from Tvishi and leads through beautiful forest paths. After approximately 900 meters of gradual ascent, hikers can visit the small St. George Church of Khvamli before continuing toward the peak.
The current church is a reconstruction of a larger 13th-century church and remains an important pilgrimage destination during the local celebration “Khvamloba” (Khvamli Day), celebrated annually on the 8th Saturday after Easter.
The surrounding area is also perfect for camping.
Hiking Location 2 — St. George Church on Goni Mountain
St. George Church in Goni Mountain is a perfect destination for a short and scenic hike.
Located near the villages of Orkhvi and Tvishi in Lechkhumi, this 10th-century church is a remarkable example of Georgian medieval architecture. The church is a hall-type structure with a semicircular eastern apse and vaulted interior.
Inside the church, visitors can still see fragments of ancient plastering and wall paintings. Particularly impressive is the richly decorated carved iconostasis featuring ornaments, archangels, figures of saints, and Asomtavruli inscriptions.
The facade is decorated with crosses and geometric ornaments, while distinctive architectural brackets beneath the southern cornice add unique character to the structure.
The church has two entrances — western and southern — and is built with precisely cut stone blocks.
Miranda’s Wine Cellar (1 km)
Visit Miranda's Wine Cellar to experience authentic Georgian hospitality.
Enjoy:
Lakhepa Waterfall & Hidden Lagoon (4 km)
Lakhepa waterfall (4 KM) is an ideal destination for hiking, camping, and nature lovers.
The trail passes through forests, a small lake, and scenic viewpoints before reaching the waterfall and hidden lagoon. Visitors can camp near the lagoon or continue toward the Rioni River and the Kutaisi–Ambrolauri road.
This route can be completed as:
Gvirishi Waterfall (12 km)
Explore Gvirishi waterfall (12 KM) by following the route toward Tvishi and turning north after approximately 3 km.
The road passes through the villages of Nakuraleshi and Tskhukusheri before reaching the waterfall deeper in the Rioni valley.
Traditional Georgian Restaurant
After a long tour, enjoy authentic local cuisine at:
Zanduri House (12 KM From Tvishi).
Located approximately 12 km from Tvishi.
Visit Sairme Pillar (16 KM) — one of the most impressive natural rock formations in the region.
Tchrebalo Wine Cellar (22 km)
Experience local wine culture at Tchrebalo Wine Cellar (22 KM From Tvishi).
Nearby, visitors can also find 24-hour supermarkets such as:
Alternative Route from Alpana
Relax at the scenic Lailashi Pool (20 KM). surrounded by mountains and forests.
Discover the peaceful natural landscapes of LashiTshala (32 KM) .
Rafting on the Rioni River
If you are visiting Imereti or Racha-Lechkhumi, rafting on the Rioni River is a must-try adventure.
Rafting tours are organized by Tvishi Cottages and include routes of varying difficulty levels.
The Tvishi–Alpana section is especially recommended for beginners and intermediate rafters.
All instructors are internationally certified by the International Rafting Federation (IRF) and trained in first aid and safety procedures.
We offer tailor-made horseback riding experiences suitable for all riding levels.
Routes include:
Tours visit locations such as:
Khvamli Mountain
Gomi Mountain
The horses are mixed breeds, well adapted to mountainous terrain.
Price: 50 EUR per person
Included:
Transfer from Tvishi to Khvamli Mountain and back
Horses and riding equipment
Professional guides (Georgian, Russian, English)
3-hour horseback trail ride
Tea, coffee, lunch
Photo shooting
Price: 30 EUR per person
Included:
Transfer to nearby mountains
Horses and riding equipment
Professional guides
30-minute beginner training
1.5-hour horseback ride
Tea and coffee
Photo shooting
Off-Road Tours
Wine Tasting Tours
Fishing Tours
