Alaverdi

Rising over the vineyards of Kakheti, Alaverdi has stood since the 11th century, when King Kvirike raised it as a theological center that would weather centuries of invasions. Its cathedral remains one of the tallest churches in Georgia, and the monks here still keep a living wine tradition in their own cellar. Visit in autumn for the Alaverdoba harvest festival, climb the bell tower for views across the plain, then continue to the nearby wine towns of Telavi and Tsinandali.

A pilgrimage site, Alaverdi hosts Alaverdoba, a harvest festival. Vineyards and monastic wine traditions thrive.

Currency: GEL; cash for donations. Language: Georgian; some English at monastery. Safety: Safe, peaceful. Transport: Car/minibus from Telavi; short walk.