The Enguri Dam, located in western Georgia, is one of the world’s tallest arch dams, standing at 271.5 meters. Built between 1961 and 1987 during the Soviet era, it was designed to harness the power of the Enguri River and supply hydroelectric energy to the region. The dam plays a vital role in Georgia's energy sector, generating electricity for both Georgia and the breakaway region of Abkhazia.
The Enguri Reservoir, created by the dam, is known for its stunning turquoise waters and is surrounded by the breathtaking peaks of the Caucasus Mountains. Today, it serves as both a functional infrastructure and a popular tourist attraction, drawing visitors with its scenic beauty and engineering marvel.
Mestia is the cultural and administrative center of the Svaneti region in northwestern Georgia, located at an altitude of 1,500 meters in the Caucasus Mountains. It is famous for its unique medieval Svan towers (koshki), which served as family fortresses and are a symbol of the region’s history and resilience.
Mestia has been a hub of Georgian culture for centuries, preserving ancient traditions, language, and architecture. The town is home to the Svaneti Museum of History and Ethnography, showcasing rare artifacts, manuscripts, and icons.
Today, Mestia is a popular destination for adventure tourism, offering activities like skiing, hiking, and mountaineering, as well as serving as a gateway to Ushguli, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Hatsvali Ski Resort, located near Mestia in the Svaneti region of Georgia, is a modern ski destination nestled in the Caucasus Mountains. Opened in 2011, it quickly became popular for its well-maintained slopes, stunning alpine views, and accessibility.
The resort features several ski runs suitable for beginners and advanced skiers, as well as a cable car that takes visitors to Zuruldi Ridge, offering panoramic views of iconic peaks like Mount Ushba. Hatsvali is not only a winter destination but also attracts visitors year-round for hiking, mountain biking, and enjoying the natural beauty of Svaneti.