We’re all in love with skiing Gudauri this Valentine’s Day. The snow is deep, the sun is shining and the slopes are calling. I feel like I’m on top of the world.
After a hearty breakfast at The Loft, we set out all together as a family. Getting our gear on is always a mission but the ski in/ski out location means that it’s a lot easier than it could be. Booted and zipped, that first rush down the slopes to catch the chairlift makes the efforts with equipment all worthwhile!
Pirilli
From the top of the Pirilli chairlift we split up. Harley & I stay skiing the green run while Jason & Jasper seeking higher slopes and more thrills further up the mountain.
I’m still warming up for the morning. The slope has been groomed overnight and with warm days, lots of sunshine and no fresh snow, it’s a little icy to start with.
Nevertheless we have a couple of good runs and it’s not too busy yet. Lining up for our third chairlift ride of the morning, the initial crowds have thinned and there are no longer any queues.
On the way up, the views both back down the mountain and over to New Gudauri are spectacular.
Warm Up
Ready to warm up on the inside a bit, we meet up with Jason & Jasper at the Xada cafe. Here we order a round of hot chocolates and khinkali. The delicious Georgian dumplings making a great snack in the cold weather.
Sitting back on beanbags and at crate tables in the snow is also a bit of a novelty for us and I’m certainly happy to enjoy the moment, the warming sensations and the exquisite views a bit longer.
Soliko
Rested an reenergised it’s time to step things up a notch. We all jump on the Soliko Chairlift to head further up the mountain. My heart is all a flutter as I brave the Soliko and Sportuli runs for the afternoon.
These are great runs with lovely wide paths. Steep in parts, they’re challenging enough for us without being too dangerous. The steep bits seems to soften and slow at regular enough intervals to be able to enjoy the ride without too much worry.
I even manage to glance up from my concentration every now and then to enjoy the views of the mountains, town and sparkling snow. It really is a thrill just to be here.
By mid afternoon my knees are starting to feel the challenge and, in the name of safety, I head back down for another green run or two before conceding the day of skiing Gudauri.
Good To Know
Gudauri is a ski resort in Georgia located about 2.5 hours from the capital of Tbilisi and around 6 hours from Kutaisi.
We transferred to and from Gudauri with tourism professional Sergo Tabatadze (WhatsApp +995 555 635 960). We stayed in The Loft, a ski in/ski out hotel and apartments. It’s worth noting that there are many ski in/ski out accommodation options in Gudauri and new Gudauri.
Would I Return?
Yes. Absolutely.
