A spa town deep in the mountain forest
Borjomi sits in a green valley among the Caucasus mountains, surrounded by pine and fir forests. As early as the 19th century unique mineral waters were discovered here — and ever since, the town became a well-known spa destination across the former Russian empire. Today it’s a quiet, green town, with wooden mansions and the air of an alpine retreat.
The mineral water — the reason everyone knows the name. You can drink it straight from the springs in the town park, for free. The taste is salty-mineral, not for everyone — but the fame is enormous. Borjomi bottles are sold all over Georgia.
What to see in Borjomi
1. The Borjomi town park
What it is: the heart of the town — shaded paths among the trees, bridges over the Borjomi River and mineral-water springs you drink from directly.
Don’t miss: drinking from the main spring and then walking along the river among the trees.
Tip: arrive in the morning, before the groups come. A walk of one or two hours is enough to see the main part.
2. Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park
What it is: one of the largest parks in the Caucasus — some 85,000 hectares of forest, streams, lakes and trails. You start in the town park and climb gradually into the forests.
Tip: a whole day, or at least half a day. Bring a jacket — at altitude the wind is cool even in summer.
3. The Borjomi cable car
What it is: a short cable car above the town — views of the valley and the forests.
Getting there: from the town center, about 10 minutes on foot.
Tip: best early in the morning — less fog, a clearer view.
4. Vardzia — the city carved into the rock
What it is: about 80 km to the south — a cave city carved into the cliff at the end of the 12th century. Hundreds of halls, painted churches and the story of a Georgian queen who built an entire city inside the rock.
Getting there: about two hours each way from Borjomi. A separate day — worth every minute.
Nearby: Tskaltubo
What it is: a spa town with mineral pools, 20 minutes from Borjomi.
Tip: one more day after Borjomi — a recommended combination for a full spa holiday.
Getting around
On foot: the town is small — most of the attractions are a short distance apart.
Taxis: Bolt is available. For Vardzia and Tskaltubo — a ride with a private driver or minibus.
Getting there from Tbilisi: by train — about 4–5 hours. By car — about 3 hours, through pretty scenery. Hotels in Borjomi
How many days?
One day: Borjomi only — park, mineral waters, a walk.
Two days: add Vardzia on the second day.
Three days: combine with Tskaltubo and mountain excursions.