Skiing Gudauri: Everything You Need to Know Before You Go to Gudauri Ski Resort

Skiing Gudauri, Georgia, has been high on our bucket list for a long time. A country known for its towering Caucasus Mountains, cold winters, and warm hospitality, we were keen to add Georgia to our growing list of lesser-known winter destinations. Gudauri Ski Resort is the premiere winter sports destination in the transcontinental country of Georgia and the perfect place to kick off our tour of Georgia’s best skiing.

But even though we researched Gudauri thoroughly before we arrived, we were still surprised by Georgia’s skiing. We were impressed by the high level of infrastructure and amenities in the resort when compared to the incredibly affordable prices. We were also blown away by just how few people we had to share the mountain with. That being said, it wasn’t a perfect experience, and there are downsides to skiing here as well.

This is our complete guide to skiing Gudauri, including everything you need to know before you go to this winter wonderland in northern Georgia.

Our Gudauri Ski Resort Review

From our perspective, which is that of intermediate skier/snowboarders who spend time each season in “lesser known” ski resorts like Bulgaria, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan, Gudauri had a lot to offer.

We spent two weeks at the Gudauri ski resort, and that was probably enough time to get the most out of it before moving on to some of Georgia’s other skiing destinations.

The first drawcard is the price; with lift tickets less than $20 per day and modern, comfortable ski-in-ski-out accommodation mid-mountain for around $50 per night, it’s hard to find skiing much cheaper than this, especially when compared to the level of infrastructure and amenities.

With modern gondolas and chair lifts, we were pretty surprised with the level of the facilities on the mountain, given the price. The resort seems to have had some recent improvements.

Despite the low prices (at least compared to ski resorts in popular areas like Western Europe, North America, and Japan), there were very few people at the resort. Our brand-new accommodation felt empty. There were virtually no queues for lifts, and the trails were uncrowded.

Another attractive aspect of Gudauri’s resort layout is the easy access to large freeride areas. Although only really useable for a few days after a fresh snowfall, the large swathes of fresh, untracked mountains that can be accessed via relatively short hikes from gondolas are a great feature. There is also ample opportunity for true back country skiing further from the resort and plenty of local guides ready to take ski touring expeditions into the nearby mountains.

The quality of restaurants on the mountain was another pleasant surprise, offering a wide variety of Georgian and international cuisine. Additionally, While it might not have the ski apres culture of some European resorts, there are heaps of great bars right on the mountain in Gudauri, perfect for a post-ski beer.

The level of accommodation in New Gudauri, where we stayed, was perhaps the highlight of the trip. For just over $50 USD per night, we had a brand new apartment with awesome views over the slopes, just a 10-minute walk from the lift.

One of the negative aspects of skiing in Gudauri is the size of the resort. For those skiers and borders who prefer groomed trails, the 35 kilometers of marked trails may get a bit old if you are staying more than a few days.

The gondolas and chairlifts, while modern and comfortable, are very slow and are often made slower by the passenger loading of hikers and sightseers. We also experienced one day of technical difficulties where all lifts came to a halt for half an hour before closing for the day; however, that just could be bad luck!

The resort is high, which is good because it is snowy but above the tree line, which means there are not so many exciting features, forest trails, or freeriding through trees.

The region routinely gets a solid base of snow in time for the season each year; however, receiving loads of fresh powder every day, especially in the early season, is far from assured.

Finally, besides the bars and restaurants in town and a couple of spas, there isn’t much else to do outside of skiing here. If you are traveling with non-skiers, they may get bored quickly.

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Getting to Gudauri

Gudauri Ski Resort promises a unique skiing experience in the breathtaking Caucasus Mountains of Georgia. But reaching Gudauri is an adventure in itself. Here are the basics to help you reach the resort in one piece.

By Air:

• Nearest Airport: The closest major airport to Gudauri is Tbilisi International Airport. Located approximately 120 kilometers away, it offers a range of international and domestic flights. Tbilisi, Georgia’s modern and historic capital, is well worth a visit in its own right.
• Direct Flights: Direct flights are available from major cities throughout Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Russia.
• Airport Transfers: Upon arrival in Tbilisi, various options are available for the transfer to Gudauri. You can choose from private taxis, shuttle services, or car rentals. The drive takes between 2-3 hours, winding through scenic landscapes and offering glimpses of Georgian rural life.

By Road:

• Driving to Gudauri: Renting a car from Tbilisi is a viable option if you are up for a road trip. The Georgian Military Highway, which connects Tbilisi to Vladikavkaz in Russia, is the main route to Gudauri. This historic road is reasonably well-maintained and offers stunning views, especially during winter. The road is also an essential route for goods transport between Russia and Georgia, so be aware that it is busy with trucks. Always make sure your car has winter tires or snow chains and, ideally, use a four-wheel drive when driving in winter.
• Public Transport: Marshrutkas (minibusses) run regularly from Didube Bus Station Tbilisi to Gudauri for those seeking a budget-friendly option. Although it might seem daunting for first-time visitors, at 10 GEL they are an economical and authentic way to travel, providing an opportunity to mingle with locals. Marshrutkas have a reputation for being a little unreliable and a bit dangerous. For more information on taking this local transport option, check out this detailed post about getting from Tbilisi to Guduari.
• Shared Transfer: Shared taxis can also be taken from the Didube Bus Station in Tbilisi. They will be slightly more expensive than a minibus, but you’ll have a little more room to yourself. The shared taxi leaves once it is full. It should cost around 20 GEL per person but make sure you confirm with the driver in advance to avoid any nasty surprises.
• Private Transfer: The simplest but not necessarily the cheapest transport option for reaching Gudauri is a private transfer. A one-way transfer should cost around 200 GEL or $75 USD. You can compare drivers and book a ride with GoTrip.

Essential Tips:

• Weather Check: Check the weather conditions and road closures before departing, especially in winter.
• Currency Exchange: It’s advisable to have some Georgian Lari (GEL) for small expenses on the way.
• Language: Knowing a few phrases in Georgian can be helpful, although many people in the tourism sector speak at least a bit of English.
• Travel Insurance: Ensure you have travel insurance that covers winter sports, particularly if you plan to ski.

Gudauri Ski Resort at a Glance

History and Development of Gudauri Ski Resort

The area surrounding Gudauri was historically known for its rugged beauty and harsh winters, often traversed by adventurers and traders. However, it wasn’t until the 1970s and 1980s that Gudauri began its transformation into a ski resort. This development was part of a broader push by the Soviet government to establish premier winter sports facilities throughout the USSR (see also Kazakstan and Kyrgyzstan). The aim was to nurture winter athletes and also to provide leisure destinations for its citizens.

In the 1980s, the first ski lifts and basic infrastructures were installed, turning the virgin slopes of Gudauri into accessible ski runs. Its location, with elevations ranging from 1,990 to 3,306 meters, and its abundance of natural snow made it an ideal spot for skiing. The resort quickly gained a reputation for its challenging terrain and powder snow, attracting both local and international skiers.

After the dissolution of the Soviet Union, Gudauri experienced a period of decline due to economic and political turmoil in the region. However, in the early 2000s, the Georgian government, recognizing the potential of Gudauri as a major tourist attraction, invested in its redevelopment. Modern lifts were installed, accommodations were upgraded, and new facilities were added to cater to a growing number of winter sports enthusiasts.

Key Statistics

• Location: Gudauri is situated in the Greater Caucasus Mountain Range in Georgia, with coordinates at 42.50° N 44.49° E.
• Elevation: The resort spans elevations from 1,993 meters to 3,276 meters, providing a vertical range of 1,283 meters.
• Skiing Area: The total area covered by the ski resort is approximately 2,994 hectares, accommodating a wide range of skiing levels, including a terrain park.
• Trails and Slopes: There are around 35 km of slopes available, with a distribution of 13% easy, 56% intermediate, and 31% difficult trails. Gudauri has a total of 20 trails.
• Lifts: The resort operates 15 lifts, which include gondolas, drag lifts, and chairlifts.
• Season and Operating Times: The skiing season typically runs from mid-December to mid-April, with operating hours from 10:00 to 17:00. Night skiing is also available on some weekends.
• Snow Conditions: The resort enjoys significant natural snowfall, with the average snow depth reaching around 2.5 meters. Thanks to its elevation, Gudauri remains reasonably snowsure.
• Additional Features: Gudauri offers one terrain park and one halfpipe. However, cross-country skiing trails are not available.
• Accommodation and Facilities: The resort area includes various accommodations, restaurants, and bars. It is also equipped for hosting conferences and workshops.
• Accessibility: The nearest major airport is Tbilisi International Airport. The resort is located about 120 km north of Tbilisi.

Snow Fall and Weather in Gudauri

At Gudauri Ski Resort, you can expect the heaviest snowfall in late March, with an average of 29 cm. Throughout the winter months, December typically sees a weekly snowfall of 12 cm, January 15 cm, February 13 cm, and April 15 cm.

Snow days per week increase as the season progresses, from 2.5 days in December to 4.1 days in March, ensuring a high chance of snow on the mountain for visitors.

While it may not be the snowiest resort in the world, the mountain is relatively snow sure following snowfall thanks to its high altitude and low temperature, it is also partially equipped with artificial snow machines, making it a reliable destination for skiing and snowboarding once the resort opens in December until it closes in April.

Resort Description and Gudauri Ski Map

The ski resort begins at the Pirveli Chairlift just above “old” Gudauri town. There is one ski-in ski-out hotel here, as well as bars, restaurants, and ski rentals. More accommodation, restaurants, and supermarkets can be found a short walk away in the town.

The Pirveli chairlift services an easy run with snowmakers and lights for weekend night skiing. It also links Gudauri with the rest of the resort.

From the top of the Pirveli Chairlift, skiers can continue up the mountain to the top station on the Soliko Chairlift, traverse right along the mountain on foot, or use the Zumo pull lift to reach the New Gudauri station, which is the main station in the resort. Here, there is an abundance of hotels, private apartments, restaurants, cafes, bars, supermarkets, and ski rental stores. We stayed here and would do so again if we returned. We found it affordable and convenient, and our apartment had beautiful views back down the valley.

From New Gudauri, the Gudaura (Good Aura) Gondola takes skiers up to the top station. Here, there are more restaurants and bars, a bunny slope with magic carpet, a snow park, and access to further up the mountain.

The Kobi-Gudauri 1 Gondola continues up to the Kobi pass, which provides skiers access to groomed trails on the other side of the mountain and the Kobi-Gudauri 2 Gondola to return. The Kobi-Gudauri 1 Gondola also offers skiers access to free ride sections on the face of Mount Bidara.

The Sadzele Chairlift connects the top station to the peak of Mount Sadzele, which has some more difficult free-ride terrain and steep trails. For reasons unknown, but probably due to lack of snow, this chairlift is often not running.

Kudebi Lift 1 and Kudebi Lift 2 transport skiers from the top station up Mount Kudebi, which has more access to intermediate trails and a couple more freeride zones.

Skiiers can choose to return down the mountain via a number of groomed trails or through the ungroomed snow between the trails. The right-hand trails lead back to the New Gudauri station, the middle trails back to the Soliko Chair, and the left-hand routes back to another chairlift called Shino, which returns to the top station.

Skiing and Snowboarding in Gudauri

There is enough variety in terrain to keep skiers and borders entertained in the resort for a few days, especially after a snowfall when the freeride areas are working. After that, experienced and adventurous skiers may need to venture off-piste to get their thrills. Luckily, the surrounding backcountry is renowned for touring, snowmobiling, and even heliskiing.

On weekends, the bottom Pirveli run is lit up for night skiing.

There is a small snow park at the top station where freestyle skiers and snowboarders can practice their tricks.

Ski and snowboard schools operate in the resort, offering affordable private and group lessons for those looking to level up their skills.

Ski Passes and Equipment Rental

Ski Passes

Ski passes are generally affordable and flexible, with lift passes ranging from single-use to seasonal.

GUDAURI – 2023/2024 SKI PASS PRICE LIST

The age of children is defined as 6-12 years. The age limit does not apply to ski school students.

While daily and multi passes are pretty affordable, ranging between 45 – 70 GEL / $17 – $27 USD) per day. If you are staying for a couple of weeks or more, the seasonal passes that work across Georgia’s four main resorts offer fantastic value at just 650 GEL / $240 USD.

Ski and Snowboard Rental

There are plenty of ski and snowboard rental shops throughout Gudauri, with a number being concentrated in New Gudauri. We recommend taking a walk to check out gear and prices before renting because different stores have varying quality and prices.

I went for cheap and cheerful and picked up a pretty beat-up K2 board, brand new K2 boots, and a helmet for 60 GEL with a 15% for a 12-day hire; they came down to 51 GEL / $19 USD per day. We rented through Adrenaline in New Gudauri.

If you are coming for a longer period but not bringing your own gear, there is also a classifieds section on the Gudauri Resort page where you might be able to pick up gear cheaper than renting.

Dining and Après-Ski in Gudauri

We were pleasantly surprised by the wide variety and high quality of the dining options and ski apres in Gudauri.

Restaurants in Gudauri

While the food is undoubtedly more expensive than elsewhere in Georgia, it is still affordable compared to restaurants at ski resorts in Europe, the US, and Asia.

There was a good balance of Georgian and international options; restaurants had a great atmosphere, often with entertainment, and the staff were friendly and helpful.

Our favorite restaurants during our stay were

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This simple and cozy cafe offers local dishes in a family-run cafe. Delicious soups are a perfect way to warm up after a morning of skiing.

The Drunk Cherry

Although it’s a little on the expensive side by Georgian standards, the Drunk Cherry has a good atmosphere and high-quality food, offering both Georgian and international fare. It also has a great location next to the lift in New Gudauri and is often busy with skiers coming in for a drink or a meal.

Restaurant Skio

A short drive from New Gudauri, Restaurant Skio is part of the Skio Hotel and offers elevated Georgian fare in a cozy setting. This was some of the nicest Georgian food we had on our trip.

Ati Ambavi

For fine dining in the mountains, be sure to check out Ati Ambavi. With a short menu based on local flavors with contemporary twists, a cozy ambiance, and fantastic service, it is one of the most well-regarded restaurants in the region for a good reason.

Ski Apres in Gudauri

While the ski apres scene is not as well developed as, say, the European Alps, there are enough people to fill the small bars that surround the lifts at New Gudauri, and you will undoubtedly have the opportunity to let your hair down after a day in the mountains.

Most of the best bars are found around the New Gudauri station, though you can start your party on the top of the mountain and make your way down passing several different bars.

Some of the best bars to start or end your night are

Black Dog Bar and Grill

One of the best places to grab a post-ski beverage, the Black Dog, is a small but busy pub. Beyond a great atmosphere and loud jukebox, they have awesome burgers, pretty good wings, and tasty local beer. The Black Dog fills up quickly, so you might need to sit at the bar if you arrive later.

Eskimo Bar

A cozy little bar just behind the New Gudauri ski station has great cocktails, board games, and a decent little bar menu.

Travellers Bar

Another tiny bar that’s big on atmosphere and friendly service, it’s become a staple of the ski apres scene in Gudauri.

Non-Skiing Activities

Overall, the activities available outside skiing are pretty limited in Gudauri during winter, but there are a couple of options for those not skiing or those taking a day off.

• Take the Gondola to the top for awesome views over the Caucasus Mountains. There are a number of nice (albeit expensive) cafes, bars, and restaurants on top of the mountain.
• Snowmobiling is popular here; there are many opportunities to rent snowmobiles around the resort, including the New Gudauri ski station.
• Paragliding is another popular activity here, and it’s common to see para-gliders soaring over the slopes. If you are interested in a bit of a thrill and getting a bird’s view of the mountains, it is well worth it.
• Many hotels in Gudauri offer spa services, including saunas, hot tubs, and massage therapies, perfect for relaxing on a day off or after a cold day outside.
• Cultural tours are available to explore some of the surrounding area.
• Snowshoeing is a popular way to hike the area in winter. Guided tours are available.
• A small ice skating rink can be found in New Gudauri.

Accommodation in Gudauri

There is a wide variety of accommodation within Gudauri to suit any budget, from hostels to luxury chalets.

During our trip, it appeared that there is currently more accommodation than demand.

We were blown away by the view from our modern and comfortable room on the fourth floor of the Twins Gudauri. Although we were 5 – 10 minute walk to the lift (sigh), at $57 a night the value for money was unbeatable. Our apartment had a kitchenette and a washing machine, so we could be self-sufficient during the week and splurge on the weekend. Having said that, now that we are here, we see we could have stayed even closer to the lifts for not much more in price.

For a more upmarket stay, consider one of the suites or chalets at the Marco Polo Hotel, conveniently located next to the Pirveli Lift at the bottom of the resort.

For travelers on a budget, you won’t need to sacrifice location if you stay at the Riders House Hostel, which is right in the heart of the action, next to the lifts, bars, and restaurants of the New Gudauri Ski station.

One thing to note is that a lot of the accommodation is privately owned and rented apartments rather than hotels; never the less, there is a wide variety of options available on popular booking platforms. You can search using the map below (we recommend the New Gudauri area).

Safety and Medical Facilities

The resort is quite safe if you ski within your ability, stay within the resort’s boundaries, and don’t attempt trails, runs, or free-ride areas beyond your skills. Ski with a buddy if you are just starting out.

Ensure you have appropriate clothing and gear, including a helmet, goggles, gloves, and appropriate ski clothing. Ensure your ski boots fit correctly and that your skis are appropriately adjusted to your skill level.

There are professional emergency and medical services on the mountain. The medical and ski patrols are at the top station near Kudebi Lift 2.

The emergency phone number in Georgia is 112.

Be aware of avalanche risk if free riding off-piste. Take appropriate gear, backpack, transceiver, probe, and shovel. Always check the local avalanche and weather forecasts before heading off-piste or into the backcountry.

Tips and Tricks for the Best Experience Skiing Gudauri, Georgia

• Come later in the season to get the best snowfall or earlier in the season to maximize sunny days.
• The lifts are never crowded, but if you aren’t looking to make the first tracks, arrive just after opening, and the small morning queue will be cleared.
• Stay in New Gudauri to be close to the ski slopes and some of the better restaurants and bars.
• Groceries are limited and expensive on the mountain. If you can do a shop beforehand, do so.
• If renting gear, have a wander around to the different rental shops around town (even just within New Gudauri); shops have different quality equipment and substantially different prices. Find one with the quality/price you like. If staying for a few days, ask for a discount (and ask if they can do any better). There is also a classifieds section on the resort website where you may be able to purchase gear cheaply.
• See if a multi-day pass can save you money, as deep discounts are available for longer-term lift tickets.
• Use GoTrip to book a private transfer to Gudauri.
• Most accommodation is individually owned apartments, and prices can vary substantially, even for similar apartments in the same building. Use Booking.com to compare options and book the cheapest option

Final Thoughts on Skiing Gudauri

Overall, we thoroughly enjoyed our skiing adventure in Gudauri. Although it wasn’t the largest or most cutting-edge resort we have ever been to, it had enough snow, terrain, infrastructure, and apres ski to make for an exciting couple of weeks.

We can recommend this mountain resort, although if you’ve only ever skied large resorts in Western Europe, North America, or Asia, you might find it smaller by comparison.

Further Resources

For more information, check out the local resources below.

• Resort Webpage
• Ski Info Guide
• Snow Forecast

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Hopefully, we’ve been able to answer some of your questions about skiing in Gudauri, Georgia, but if you have any others or want to share your own experience, please leave us a comment below!