10 min
The key here is not to rush. The Alazani Valley reveals itself in layers: morning mists in Sighnaghi, a warm midday in the parks of Tsinandali, golden sunsets near Telavi. This route highlights seven spots where food and wine pair perfectly with the view—so much so that your hand naturally reaches for the camera. The approach is simple: “drive, stop at beautiful places,” without stress or long transfers.
How to plan your day
From Tbilisi, it makes sense to explore in two arcs. The first is Sighnaghi and the ridge above the valley: morning mists, long eastward vistas, walks along the fortress walls. The second is Tsinandali—Telavi—Kisiskhevi: parks, estate complexes, terraces where the evening light falls directly on the hills. In one day, you can comfortably visit 2–3 stops with enough time for lunch and a stroll; over two days, all seven locations can be enjoyed without hurry. Reserve terrace tables in advance, especially during harvest weeks.
Car for This Route
The roads are in good condition, and the driveways to the châteaux are short and straightforward. The LEXUS RX350 is comfortable on highways and city parking, while the MERCEDES-BENZ GL 350 CDI BLUETEC provides extra ground clearance for rural roads and gravel access to vineyards, especially during rainy months. A child seat and trunk space for a couple of wine boxes can easily be arranged when booking.
1) Okro’s Wine Restaurant, Sighnaghi
The terrace overlooking the entire valley is the best reason to visit at sunset. In your glass—natural wines; on your plate—simple dishes that enhance the view. Outdoor seating is intimate, and a reservation helps. Parking is convenient around the Old Town: leave your car by the fortress wall and walk a few minutes uphill—you’ll be there in no time.
Best time to visit: late afternoon for soft light and long shadows.
Okro’s Wine Restaurant, Sighnaghi
https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Okro%27s+Wine+Restaurant+Sighnaghi
2) The Terrace Signagi, Sighnaghi
If you want a direct, panoramic view of the Alazani Valley—this is the place. A bright dining room opens onto a terrace, the menu features straightforward Georgian dishes, and the quiet lets you hear the mountain breeze. Perfect for lunch after a walk along the fortress walls. Parking is available along the streets near the terrace, with calm traffic.
Best time to visit: lunch or early dinner; during hot days, it’s nice to catch the breeze at this elevation.
The Terrace Signagi
https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=The+Terrace+Signagi
3) Terrace Kisi, Sighnaghi
A small terrace with a full-width horizon, focusing on homestyle dishes and wines. A great spot for a relaxed break between the fortress and the viewpoints. Parking is similar to the previous locations, in street pockets around the Old Town.
Best time to visit: late lunch, to rest before heading toward Telavi.
Terrace Kisi, Sighnaghi
https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Terrace+Kisi+Sighnaghi
4) Tsinandali Estate (Prince Alexander), Tsinandali
A historic estate with a park and a modern restaurant, where through the glass you can see trees, rooftops, and the distant lines of the valley. It’s a place where you want to linger: stroll along the alleys, explore the wine spaces, and have lunch by the window. There is ample parking on the grounds, and access is straightforward.
Best time to visit: midday; lunch is especially enjoyable after a walk in the park. Tsinandali Estate (Radisson Collection)
https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Tsinandali+Estate+Radisson+Collection+Hotel
5) Shumi Winery, Tsinandali
A large wine complex with a museum, gardens, and terraces. It’s convenient to combine a tasting, a short tour, and a late lunch here. The view opens up from several vantage points, and the calm pace of the place sets the tone for a “long” day. Parking is available on-site, with the space logically organized.
Best time to visit: during the day or early afternoon; pairs well with a visit to the Tsinandali Estate.
Shumi Winery, Tsinandali
https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Shumi+Winery+Tsinandali
6) Schuchmann Wines Chateau, Kisikhevi (near Telavi)
The restaurant terrace faces the ridge and vineyards — perfect for an evening visit. They serve wine from their own selection, and the cuisine is straightforward and honest. Parking is available on-site, access roads are smooth, and navigating the area is simple.
Best time to visit: the golden hour before sunset; an excellent way to end the day.
Schuchmann Wines Chateau, Kisiskhevi
https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Schuchmann+Wines+Chateau+Kisiskhevi
7) Vazisubani Estate, Vazisubani
A restaurant with glass walls offering panoramic views — it feels like you’re sitting inside the landscape. The morning light is especially soft, making breakfasts and early lunches particularly enjoyable. Parking is available at the entrance, with easy asphalt access.
Best time to visit: morning/early day; a perfect start for the second day of the route.
Vazisubani Estate, Kakheti
https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Vazisubani+Estate+Kakheti
How to summarize the route
In the “short” version: a day in Sighnaghi (Okro’s → The Terrace → Terrace Kisi), then a drive to Tsinandali for the park and a late lunch, finishing with dinner in Telavi. In the “long” version: add an overnight stay at one of the wine estates and a morning stop in Vazisubani. The complete itinerary covers 180–220 km over two days, at a relaxed pace and with plenty of time for photographs.
Useful details
- The grape harvest season (Rtveli) falls between late August and November; during these weeks, venues are popular, so book in advance.
- On mountain roads, maintain a calm pace, especially after wine tastings: plan for a sober driver.
- If traveling with children, check the availability of child seats and the kitchen opening hours during the off-season.
For this route, travelers usually choose
LEXUS RX350 — Agility in city driving and ease on highways.
MERCEDES-BENZ GL 350 CDI BLUETEC — Extra ground clearance for rural access roads and gravel after rain.
We can deliver the car to your hotel or airport at the requested time. Provide your dates and group details — we’ll select the optimal vehicle and include child seats if needed.
Final touch
Kakheti is all about the “view in your glass.” With a well-planned route, the road naturally leads you to terrace tables, and the car becomes part of the experience: arriving at the right moment, stopping at the perfect spot, providing quiet between tastings and encounters. Book your car for the travel dates — everything else falls into place.
