Have you ever felt a longing so intense that it seemed to come from deep within your soul? A desire to take on a challenge that might be daunting, yet your heart irresistibly draws you to it? That’s how I felt about Highlander Adventures, a three-day hiking event in the breathtaking Svaneti mountains of Georgia.

Day 1

We awoke at 5 am, enjoyed breakfast at the cozy Lanchvali Guesthouse, and made our way to the center of Mestia, where shuttles awaited us. These shuttles transported us to the starting point, where 150 fellow hikers were buzzing with anticipation for the adventure ahead. The air was filled with smiling faces and an infectious positivity. After collecting our meals—comprising snacks, nuts, fruits, and water—from the organizers, and breezing through the registration process, our adventure officially began.

We began our hike from the village of Kashveti, making our way toward the Heshkili huts for our first stop. As we advanced, groups of hikers stretched out along the trail, evoking the image of a string of caravans. Joined by our friends Ninutsa and Giorgi, as well as my brother Tornike, the positive energy from our companions made the journey all the more unforgettable. With each step, we ascended higher, and the views grew increasingly breathtaking. The peaks of Ushba mountain seemed to rise with us, a constant, inspiring presence.

Upon reaching Heshkili Huts, we were welcomed with warm hospitality. The hosts had prepared Lobiani, pancakes with honey and jam, and ice-cold water. Their kindness, coupled with the spectacular views, marked this place as an essential stop on the trail.

Rejuvenated, we set our sights on our next destination, Cafe Zuruldi, perched at 2400 meters above sea level. That ascent was quite challenging, but the towering presence of Ushba mountain seemed to guide us, offering motivation and strength with every glance. Its majestic beauty spurred us on, filling us with the resolve to continue our unforgettable adventure. Cafe Zuruldi is located on the top of the ski slope and it is open both in the winter and summer. You can go up to this café with cable car and enjoy its warm hospitality.

We left Cafe Zuruldi for the day’s highest point, located at 2450 meters, and took another break before beginning the descent, which proved to be more challenging than the ascent. The great thing about the whole trip was that at every stop, we encountered other participants. These beautiful, bright-minded people exchanged positive vibes with us, adding to the experience. Since we were only halfway through the first day’s route, we didn’t linger long and began our descent.

For me, the descent became increasingly difficult as a muscle in my right knee started to ache intensely. Giorgi moved on at a faster pace, so the three of us continued our way towards the village of Tsvirmi. After passing a very steep descent, the trail leveled out. We reached a point where both Ushba and Tetnurli mountains were visible. This authentic view, combined with Ninutsa’s positive energy, gave us the strength to press on. After a few more kilometers and more steep descents, we arrived at the village of Tsvirmi. Having run out of water, finding a spring in the village felt like a breath of fresh life.

We still had three more kilometers until the checkpoint — the toughest three kilometers of the first day. It took us more than an hour to reach it. After 10 hours and 21 kilometers of hiking, we arrived at Ughviri Lake, where other participants had already pitched their tents and were preparing a large campfire for the evening. The hot soup, fresh-baked local Kubdari, and the warmth of the campfire helped us regain all the energy we had expended throughout the day.

As night fell, it was time to sleep under a sky filled with stars and under the watchful guardianship of Ushba, reflecting on the unforgettable adventures of the day and anticipating the new challenges and joys that awaited us on the morrow.

Day 2

We awoke in a virtual town of tents, and the morning was spectacular. The organizers had prepared a wonderful breakfast, and we participated in a morning yoga session. A skilled yoga instructor guided us through the practice, helping us fully awaken and prepare our bodies and minds for another 15 kilometers.

Our new friend Nutsa, along with her Belgian Malinois and the incredibly friendly and intelligent dog Jolo, joined our group. Ninutsa, Nutsa, Jolo, Tornike and then began our ascent to the top cable car station of Tetnuldi mountain. Starting at 1870 meters, we had to hike up to 2750 meters, with almost 10 kilometers of ascent ahead of us.

From the very first step, my knee began to ache, forcing me to continue the journey at a much slower pace. Not wanting to hold my friends back, I encouraged them to continue hiking at their own pace, while I followed alone. Embarking on this journey by myself was an entirely different experience. I was left with my thoughts, feelings, and pain, allowing me time to think and even meditate. Reflecting on it, I’m grateful that I had to go slower. It gave me the opportunity to spend time with myself and have this unique, introspective experience. The solitude amid the grandeur of nature added a depth and richness to my adventure that I wouldn’t have otherwise discovered.

As I journeyed onward, I encountered small groups of participants taking breaks. Spotting my limp, a kind-hearted girl offered to wrap my knee with an elastic bandage. Her gesture alleviated my pain momentarily. Throughout the trek, I observed numerous acts of solidarity. These wonderful strangers, meeting for the first time, behaved like old friends — always ready to help in any way possible. Their camaraderie rejuvenated my spirits, and I pressed on with renewed energy.

My next pit stop was the lower station of the Tetnuldi cable car. At a small café, I bumped into participants from Croatia and Slovenia. Among them was Igor Mlinarevic, the visionary founder of Highlander Adventure. He’d transformed his brilliant idea into a global brand cherished by hiking enthusiasts and adventurers worldwide. We discussed a potential collaboration with Biliki before resuming our ascent.

Despite the slow pace due to my aching knee, I eventually reached the cable car’s top station. After refueling with some snacks and nuts, I set off once again, this time on the most scenic trail I’d ever traversed. Glaciers to the left and alpine flowers all around distracted me from the pain. Falcons soared so close it felt like I could reach out and touch them. The occasional spring provided ice-cold refreshment, while gentle breezes cooled the air. At 2750 meters above sea level, the view was simply breathtaking.

Exhaustion and pain faded away as I began my descent towards our next checkpoint near the village of Adishi. From a distance, the village seemed to stand defiantly, protected by ancient Svanetian towers. A camp had already sprung up in a nearby field.

Entering the village, fellow hikers greeted me with warm smiles and a bottle of ice-cold beer — a godsend after a long, sun-soaked hike.

At camp, I dropped off my backpack and headed straight for the river. Its cold embrace was the perfect balm after hours on the trail.

The evening was rich with cultural immersion. We observed locals panning gold from the river, baking the traditional Kubdari, and milling wheat. We sang and danced around a roaring fire. The soulful strains of a Georgian instrument, the Chuniri, filled the air, taking us back in time.

As the day drew to a close, we settled in for another night beneath a starry canopy. This time, our dreams were protected by the silhouettes of Svanetian towers. The promise of an even more beautiful day loomed on the horizon.

Day 3

In the morning I was full of energy but leg was on the different mood. The start was flat, but we had hardest ascent of the trip ahead. This time we were hiking with many other participants. Had lots of interesting conversations and exchanged different experiences. Lots of ice cold springs crossed our way. So we could have cold water despite heat.

After 5 km of hiking we reached the river Adishchala. Highlander team organized horses to cross the river. Clever and calm horses were taking us to the other side one by one. Wonderful experience.

We crossed the river and the ascent started. The trail was going through trees, high grass and bushes. Very soon we reached small glacier, which was creating a tunnel over small river. Lots fellow hikers stopped here and we had a nice conversation remembering our childhood, 90s and many more. After playing with Jolo Belgian Malinois, regaining energy with fruits and snack and filling our bottles from the spring we continue our way. I heard young people were discussing Biliki App and how it helps them during this hike. It is always interesting to listen to users especially in the process of using your app.

Suddenly I heard a happy scream from above. After 5 minutes I saw why they were screaming. Reached absolutely astonishing panorama. It was view of Adishi glacier. A place where river was born. Not words nor photos can express this the view and emotion it brings. The mountain was talking to us, the glacier was talking to us. I did not want to leave this place, but we had some more astonishing views ahead.

The ascent became even more steep and the sun was burning hard. So I had to make several stops. After 1 more kilometer and 200 meters of ascent I reached highest point of our day 3 hike. I was surrounded by mountains and happy people, but there was one more milestone for me. I had to veer from the trail and go up to see 360 panoramic view. I went up to 2811 meters. Tetnuldi, Adishi glacier and Ushba were surrounding me. I can not express this view and emotions with words. But I will share video on our TikTok. This was the moment I was hiking for. This was the moment I went all those 21 kilometers for. Grateful and happy I went back to the trail were most of the participants started their decent. Me and my brother followed the trail. The last 6.5 kilometers were ahead of us.

On the way we met wonderful Puma Georgia Team, brilliant young people who fell into our hearts and by the end of the trip we already became good friends.

By 6 pm, the village of Khalde appeared on the horizon, marking our final checkpoint. The Highlander team greeted us with enthusiastic applause, and I was handed a certificate. In that moment, I officially became a Highlander. The reward for our arduous journey? Cold beer and a steaming bowl of soup, lovingly prepared by a local family. Their hospitality, combined with the resounding applause from my brother, Ninuca, Nuca, and other fellow hikers, felt like the truest recognition of our feat.

After several hours filled with shared experiences, emotional recounts, and expressions of camaraderie, we made our return to Mestia.

Covering 50 kilometers with an ascent of 3300 meters in just three days is no easy feat. Such a journey demands not only physical strength and endurance but also mental fortitude and resilience. The sense of achievement and the memories forged from such an expedition are sure to last a lifetime. Whether it was the challenging uphill climbs, the panoramic views from the summits, or the camaraderie shared with fellow hikers, each moment adds to the richness of the experience.

I am getting ready for Highlander Adventures 2024…

P.S. You can explore the entire Highlander tour on the Biliki App. For a visual treat, follow our Instagram and TikTok pages to watch the videos.

📷 Highlander Georgia