Skiing in Gudauri is expansive and typically feels uncrowded. You'll find wide-open bowls, consistent snow cover (thanks to the high altitude), and a lack of crowds that lets you find your rhythm and keep it. Whether you're building confidence on gentle blues or hunting fresh tracks off-piste, there's a sense of space and variety.

The high altitude means reliable snow, and the terrain caters well to visitors of all levels. Beginners have gentle slopes to learn on, intermediates can progress, and advanced skiers stay engaged with steeper sections and extensive off-piste options.

Skiing for beginners in Gudauri

Gudauri offers a welcoming environment for first-timers, with wide, gentle slopes at the top of the gondola. The dedicated beginner area near the base provides space to learn, and the terrain around Sadzele has open runs where you can practise turns without faster skiers whizzing past. Eight beginner runs give plenty of variety to progress at your own pace.

English-speaking instructors are available at several ski schools. The modern lift system, including a gondola from the base, makes getting around straightforward even when you're still building confidence. The altitude ensures good snow, so you won't be scraping along on ice while finding your feet.

WeSki insider tip: Start your day at the Sadzele sector where the morning sun softens the snow - it's quieter and the slopes face east, so conditions are often at their best before lunch.

Intermediate skiing in Gudauri

Intermediates will find plenty of rewarding territory at Gudauri. The resort's 12 intermediate runs wind down from the upper slopes, offering everything from long, cruisy blues for building speed to more challenging reds that sharpen technique. Uncrowded pistes mean you can enjoy more skiing rather than queueing.

The terrain from Sadzele peak through the main ski area provides excellent cruising - runs that feel genuinely rewarding without being overwhelming. The longest stretches 9km from summit to base, a proper leg-burner that lets you link turns and find a rhythm. The Kudebi area has excellent reds that hold snow well, with stunning views across the Greater Caucasus.

WeSki insider tip: The red runs from Kudebi back toward the main base offer the best combination of length and variety. Take the Sadzele-Kudebi chairlift and work your way across the mountain for a full morning of varied skiing.

Advanced and expert skiing in Gudauri

Gudauri punches above its weight for advanced skiers. Four designated advanced runs and two expert-level slopes are just the start - the real draw is the accessible backcountry, which has made this a cult destination among freeriders. The 3,278m summit opens up steep couloirs and powder bowls that remain untracked long after a storm, and the 1,278m vertical drop means long descents when conditions align.

Local guides know the mountain intimately and can take you to north-facing aspects where snow stays light and dry. For experts seeking genuine challenge, heli-skiing operations access remote peaks in the surrounding Caucasus.

WeSki insider tip: Hiring a local guide is more affordable compared to the Alps and completely transforms the experience. They'll show you lines that aren't on any piste map and know exactly where the snow collects after a dump.

Snowboarding in Gudauri

Boarders will appreciate Gudauri's wide-open terrain and natural features that help avoid flat traverses. Rolling bowls, natural hits, and easy backcountry access make this a favourite among freeriders. Uncrowded slopes mean plenty of space to carve, and the altitude keeps conditions fresh. The snow park offers features for all levels, including rails, boxes, and jumps for progression.

Off-piste skiing in Gudauri

Gudauri has earned a serious reputation in freeride circles. The accessible backcountry from the lift system is extensive, with north-facing slopes holding powder for days after snowfall. Guided tours explore terrain beyond the markers, while heli-skiing operations access peaks throughout the Caucasus range. For those with experience and proper safety equipment, this is one of Europe's most underrated freeride destinations.

Gudauri snow school and lessons

Several ski schools operate in Gudauri, with English-speaking instructors available throughout the season. Group and private lessons cater to all ages and abilities, from complete beginners to those wanting to improve off-piste technique and freeride skills (freeride guiding is a particular specialty here!).

Gudauri snow parks

Gudauri has one terrain park near the Sadzele area, with jumps, rails, and boxes suitable for various skill levels. It's not the biggest park you'll find, but works well for freestyle-minded skiers and boarders looking to develop their skills. Features are well-maintained, and it's usually quiet enough to session without long waits.

Gudauri piste map

1. Gudauri Family ski holiday
2. Things to do in Gudauri
3. Planning your trip in Gudauri
4. How to get to Gudauri
5. Gudauri FAQs

Gudauri family ski holiday

Gudauri works well for families who want a unique ski holiday, especially thanks to its informal and welcoming atmosphere. Wide, gentle slopes around Sadzele create a natural learning zone where young skiers can build confidence, and the uncrowded pistes mean less stress for parents keeping track of little ones. The tubing areas and sledging spots keep non-skiing hours entertaining, and there's enough snow to build the kind of fortresses and snowmen that children remember for years.

For the young ones in your group, ski schools offer children's lessons with patient, English-speaking instructors. Older children and teenagers won't be bored here. The snow park gives them something to work towards, and confident teens can try their first taste of off-piste with a guide - Gudauri's freeride terrain is excellent and far more accessible than at busier resorts.

What sets Gudauri apart is the experience beyond the slopes. Day trips to ancient monasteries, cooking classes, and traditional supra feasts give the holiday a cultural dimension. There are several family-friendly restaurants, where portions are generous and prices are reasonable. Accommodation is largely apartment-style, suiting families who want space and kitchen facilities, while several hotels offer pools and family rooms if you prefer more services on hand.

WeSki insider tip: Book a supra (traditional Georgian feast) one evening - the endless sharing plates, toasts, and warm hospitality make for a memorable family experience that kids will talk about long after the skiing is forgotten.

Things to do in Gudauri

Gudauri offers more than just big-mountain skiing. Set high in the Greater Caucasus, the resort's wide-open landscapes, dramatic ridgelines, and sense of space make it rewarding even on rest days. Whether you're travelling with non-skiers or simply want to experience the mountains differently, Gudauri's adventure-focused atmosphere delivers memorable alternatives.

Snow activities

Gudauri's terrain and high-altitude location make it one of the Caucasus' best destinations for off-piste and adventure snow activities. The emphasis here is on freedom, scale, and access to untouched terrain rather than polished resort gimmicks.

• Heli-skiing: Access remote peaks and vast, untracked powder fields deep in the Caucasus with experienced local operators.
• Freeride guiding: Explore Gudauri's legendary off-piste terrain safely with qualified guides who know the snowpack and routes intimately.
• Paragliding tandem flights: Launch from the upper slopes for long, scenic flights with jaw-dropping views of the surrounding mountain range.
• Snowmobiling tours: Guided excursions beyond the lift system, ideal for exploring ridgelines and open valleys.
• Snowshoeing: Quiet routes away from the pistes, offering a peaceful way to experience the winter landscape.
• Tubing and sledging: Dedicated areas near the village provide easy fun for families and groups.
• Ice climbing: Frozen waterfalls and ice walls nearby offer guided climbs for adventurous visitors.
• Snowcat skiing: A more affordable alternative to heli-skiing, using snowcats to access powder terrain beyond the lifts.

Non-snow activities

Gudauri's appeal goes beyond the slopes. The surrounding Kazbegi region is rich in history, dramatic scenery, and deep-rooted traditions, offering memorable experiences on rest days or for non-skiers. From iconic viewpoints to ancient churches and food culture, these activities showcase a different side of the Caucasus.

• Spa and wellness facilities: Many Gudauri hotels feature saunas, steam rooms, and massage treatments - ideal for post-ski recovery or rest days.
• Russia-Georgia Friendship Monument: A striking Soviet-era viewpoint near the Cross Pass, offering sweeping panoramas across the Caucasus mountains.
• Traditional Georgian cooking classes: Learn to prepare classic dishes such as khinkali and khachapuri while discovering Georgia's rich culinary culture.
• Gergeti Trinity Church day trip: Visit the iconic hilltop church beneath Mount Kazbegi, one of Georgia's most recognisable landmarks (weather permitting).
• Wine tasting experiences: Explore Georgia's ancient winemaking tradition, with tastings of qvevri wines in nearby regions or organised excursions.
• Tbilisi day trip: Around two hours away, the capital offers a vibrant mix of old town streets, sulphur baths, museums, and outstanding food.
• Photography tours: Guided excursions focused on capturing Gudauri's dramatic mountain scenery and changing light conditions.
• Ananuri Fortress: Well-preserved medieval castle complex overlooking the Zhinvali Reservoir, combining history with scenic views.

Gudauri restaurants

Georgian cuisine is one of Gudauri's standout attractions. Meals here are rooted in centuries-old culinary traditions, with generous portions, bold seasoning, and excellent local wine. Alongside authentic Georgian cooking, you'll also find Italian and international options to keep things varied over a longer stay.

• Trattoria Gudauri: Conveniently located near the gondola base, serving a mix of Italian and Georgian dishes in a warm, welcoming setting.
• Shumi: Traditional Georgian restaurant known for excellent khinkali dumplings, grilled meats, and sweeping mountain views.
• Monte: Italian–Georgian fusion spot offering wood-fired pizzas, fresh pasta, and local specialities - popular with families and groups.
• Truso: Local favourite for authentic supra-style feasts, natural wines, and a lively, convivial atmosphere.
• Kazbegi Restaurant: Upscale option serving refined Georgian and European cuisine in a stylish, relaxed setting.
• Café Mta: Mountain-side restaurant offering traditional Georgian dishes, warming soups, and excellent views over the valley.
• Gudauri Hut: Cosy, rustic restaurant specialising in local comfort food and Georgian wines - ideal for a relaxed evening.
• Khinkali House: Dedicated to Georgia's famous soup dumplings - order by the dozen and don't forget to drink the broth first.
• Marco Polo Restaurant: Reliable choice in the heart of the resort, serving European classics alongside Georgian favourites.

WeSki insider tip: Try khachapuri (cheese-filled bread), khinkali (soup dumplings), and mtsvadi (grilled meat skewers), paired with a bottle of local Saperavi red for the full experience.

Gudauri après-ski

Après-ski in Gudauri is relaxed, social, and full of character. This isn't a resort of glossy nightclubs, instead, evenings revolve around good food, shared tables, and long conversations over wine and chacha. The atmosphere is friendly and unpretentious, with locals and visitors mixing easily and Georgian hospitality very much on display.

Things usually start quietly after skiing, often with drinks in hotel lounges or bars near the lifts. At weekends, especially when visitors arrive from Tbilisi, the mood lifts noticeably - music gets louder, bars stay open later, and a handful of venues turn lively. Don't be surprised if a casual drink turns into a spontaneous supra (traditional Georgian feast), complete with toasts, singing, and generous refills.

• Snow Friends Bar: One of the most popular après spots, with music, dancing, and a sociable crowd most evenings.
• Riders Lodge Bar: Relaxed, freeride-friendly venue with a laid-back vibe, craft beers, and regular DJ nights.
• Chemi Bar: Lively bar with live music and a younger crowd, especially busy at weekends.
• Rooms Hotel Bar: The most sophisticated option in resort — stylish cocktails, fireplaces, and panoramic mountain views.
• Truso Bar: Traditional atmosphere focusing on Georgian wine, chacha, and a convivial, local feel.
• Marco Polo Lobby Bar: Comfortable hotel bar popular for early evening drinks and post-dinner conversations.
• Gudauri Hut Bar: Cosy, informal spot where dinner often blends seamlessly into drinks and late-night socialising.
• New Gudauri Hotel Lounge Bar: Modern lounge with cocktails and mountain views, good for a quieter start to the evening.

Gudauri map

Planning your trip to Gudauri

Gudauri accommodation

Accommodation in Gudauri spreads along the valley, with most options within walking distance of the lifts. The resort developed in phases, so you'll find a mix of older Soviet-era buildings, contemporary apartment complexes, and a few upmarket hotels. Since everything stretches along the road, location matters - being close to a lift station makes mornings considerably easier.

The New Gudauri development offers modern apartments and hotels near the gondola base, with ski-in/ski-out access for some properties. Further along, the traditional village has more established hotels and guesthouses, often at better prices but requiring a short walk or shuttle to the slopes. Self-catering apartments represent excellent value, and Georgian supermarkets are well-stocked if you want to cook some meals and stretch the budget.

Gudauri ski pass

Gudauri ski passes cover all ski lifts across the resort, including the two gondolas that access the upper mountain. The lift system has been significantly modernised in recent years, with high-speed chairlifts and gondolas replacing older infrastructure.

You can select your ski pass options when booking your Gudauri ski holiday through WeSki.

Equipment hire

Ski and snowboard rental shops operate throughout Gudauri, with equipment available for all abilities. Most shops are located near the main lift stations, making it easy to collect and return gear. Booking in advance during peak periods ensures you get the right equipment in your size.

WeSki insider tip: Consider renting freeride-specific equipment if you're planning any off-piste days. Wider skis make a real difference in the powder, and local shops stock appropriate gear.

Getting around Gudauri

Gudauri stretches along the Georgian Military Highway, so getting between different areas of the resort requires either walking, driving, or catching a shuttle. Many hotels offer free shuttle services to the main lift stations, and this is worth checking when you book. The New Gudauri development is the most ski-convenient, with direct lift access for many properties.

Taxis are available and affordable for evening trips to restaurants in different parts of the resort. During the day, the lift system connects the skiing areas well, so once you're on the mountain you can move around easily. If you're staying further from the lifts, the morning shuttle becomes an important part of your routine.

How to get to Gudauri

Gudauri is approximately 120km from Tbilisi International Airport, with the drive taking around two hours along the scenic Georgian Military Highway. The road winds through mountain passes, including the Cross Pass at over 2,300m - which is an adventure in itself, with stunning views along the way.

Direct flights connect Tbilisi to several UK airports. From the airport, private transfers are the most convenient option, getting you directly to your accommodation without multiple stops. The transfer route passes through dramatic scenery - keep your camera ready for the Ananuri Fortress and the Russia-Georgia Friendship Monument viewpoint.

WeSki offers car rentals from the airport as well as private transfers to Gudauri. Add them to your package for seamless door-to-door travel. Check out Gudauri ski deals to build your trip.

Gudauri FAQs

Is Gudauri good for beginners?

Yes, Gudauri works well for beginners. The resort has eight dedicated beginner runs with wide, gentle slopes that give you plenty of room to practise. The Sadzele area at the top of the gondola provides an ideal learning environment - open terrain, good snow, and fewer crowds than you'd find at comparable Alpine resorts. Lesson prices are affordable, making it realistic to book more instructor time and accelerate your progress.

How reliable is the snow in Gudauri?

Gudauri has excellent snow reliability thanks to its high altitude. The resort base sits at 2,000m with skiing up to 3,278m, meaning the season runs reliably from late December through mid-April. The resort received 125 operational days last season. Cold temperatures preserve snow quality, and the north-facing aspects hold powder well after storms.

Is Gudauri suitable for families?

Gudauri works well for families, particularly those wanting value and adventure. The gentle beginner slopes suit children learning to ski, and affordable lessons mean you can book more instruction time. Accommodation is largely apartment-style with kitchen facilities, which helps with family logistics. The compact resort layout keeps everything manageable, and Georgian hospitality is genuinely warm toward families.

Is Gudauri suitable for intermediate skiers?

Absolutely. Intermediates will find Gudauri rewarding, with 12 intermediate runs offering variety from gentle blues to more challenging reds. The terrain allows you to build confidence and progress, with the 9km longest run providing an excellent test of stamina. The uncrowded slopes mean you can practise technique without dodging other skiers, and the accessible off-piste opens up new challenges when you're ready.

What makes Gudauri good for off-piste skiing?

Gudauri has earned a reputation among freeride enthusiasts for several reasons. The terrain offers natural bowls, couloirs, and powder fields accessible from the lift system. Local guides are experienced, affordable, and know the mountain intimately. Heli-skiing operations provide access to remote peaks without the premium pricing of Alpine destinations. Perhaps most importantly, the relatively low visitor numbers mean fresh tracks remain available longer after a snowfall.

How does Gudauri compare in value to Alpine resorts?

Gudauri offers exceptional value. Lift passes, accommodation, food, and drinks all cost significantly less than equivalent Alpine resorts. A week in Gudauri can cost less than a long weekend in some French or Swiss destinations. The quality of skiing - particularly for intermediates and freeriders - rivals more expensive European options. The trade-off is less extensive terrain and fewer on-mountain dining options, but for many skiers the value proposition makes that an easy compromise.

Is English widely spoken in Gudauri?

English is increasingly common in Gudauri, particularly in hotels, ski schools, and restaurants catering to international visitors. Younger Georgians often speak good English, and you'll rarely struggle to communicate in tourist-facing businesses. Ski instructors offering English lessons are readily available. Learning a few Georgian phrases is appreciated but not essential - menus often have English translations and smartphone translation apps fill any gaps.

What's the best way to get from Tbilisi airport to Gudauri?

Private transfer is the most convenient option, taking around two hours on a well-maintained mountain road. The journey follows the historic Georgian Military Highway through spectacular scenery - it's worth staying awake for. WeSki offers private transfers that can be added to your Gudauri ski holiday booking, providing door-to-door service from the airport to your accommodation. Car rental is also an option if you want flexibility during your stay, though the mountain roads require confident winter driving skills.

Explore other resorts in Georgia

Gudauri is the primary ski resort available in Georgia on WeSki. Check out all Georgia ski resorts for more options.