Gudauri is Georgia's premier ski resort, offering a modern skiing sanctuary in the heart of the Caucasus. It provides a retreat away from the bustle of mainstream tourism while being one of Europe's most cost-effective destinations.
Here's a practical guide we've put together just for you, filled with insider tips and essential info to help you plan the perfect Gudauri ski holiday. You're going to learn everything you need to know, from its location to its ski areas, snow history, and even the best spots to grab a bite or chill out after skiing. But that's not all! At the end, we've also included the resort map, plus some really handy contact numbers and links.
Let's get started!
Gudauri is located in the Caucasus mountains, specifically in the Mtskheta-Mtianeti region along the Georgian Military Road.
Nearest airport
Transfer time
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Excellent ski lift network | Hard to find untouched powder |
| Easy to reach from Tbilisi | Limited non-skiing activities |
| High elevation ski area | No ski buses |
| Epic backcountry terrain | Poor piste grooming |
(Ref: Ski Resorts Video)
For beginners, the ideal location is around the Snow Park chairlift. The bunny hill in New Gudauri at the base of the gondola and the one at the top of the Gudaura gondola/Shino lift are perfect starting points. As they gain confidence and skills, beginners can transition to the Snow Park, which is preferable over the Pirveli chairlift, known to be more crowded. These areas are designed to help novices hone their technique, preparing them for intermediate runs.
Intermediate skiers will benefit from the blue runs accessed by the Gudaura gondola, Shino, and Soliko. These terrains provide a mix of groomed and ungroomed areas suitable for those looking to try freeriding. There are several intermediate slopes on the mid-mountain level and even some tucked between the more advanced slopes higher up.
Advanced skiers will find the challenging terrains they seek around Kudebi, Sadzele, and the new lifts in Kobi Canyon. These areas offer access to the highest elevations and steepest slopes, featuring rocky chutes, drops, and areas of deep, steep powder. There's also a limited array of less intense terrain for those seeking variety.
Gudauri's off-piste sectors are where thrill-seekers truly get their money's worth. The area between established runs can offer delightful skiing experiences, especially when the snow quality is optimal. The more ambitious can venture to freeride sectors on Bidara and Mt Chrdili, but be prepared for a bit of effort to return to the ski lifts.
For those yearning for untouched terrains and unparalleled descents, heli-skiing in Gudauri is a dream come true. With almost unrestricted access to the mountains, the resort offers some of the best heli-skiing opportunities globally.
Snowboarders are well catered for with access to several off-piste sectors within the resort, as well as the relatively new White Rabbit Snow Park. This park is serviced by a three-person chairlift and features a series of medium-sized jumps, rails, and a beginner-friendly box line.
The ski season in Gudauri for 2024/25 is expected to start on December 14th and run until April 20th. Obviously, opening and closing dates may vary slightly depending on snow conditions. If you're planning a ski holiday to Gudauri this season, be sure to explore our Gudauri ski deals for the best ski offers available.
Gudauri offers optimal snow conditions from December through April, each month presenting unique opportunities for skiers. December and January consistently bring about 12 cm and 14 cm of snow respectively, dispersed across roughly 2.8 days each week, ensuring regular fresh snow. February's snowfall stays unchanged with 14 cm of snowfall but it occurs more frequently, averaging 3.5 days per week. The pinnacle of snowfall arrives in the third week of March, traditionally the snowiest week in Gudauri, with an impressive 28 cm of snow over 4.7 days, making it a paradise for those who cherish Bluebird Powder Days—when sunshine and light winds follow fresh snowfall. The season stretches into April with enjoyable conditions, accumulating 16 cm of snow over 3.4 days.
| Month | Snow amount (week) | Snow days (week) |
|---|---|---|
| December | 12 cm | 2.5 days |
| January | 14 cm | 3.1 days |
| February | 14 cm | 3.5 days |
| March | 22 cm | 4.1 days |
| April | 16 cm | 3.4 days |
(Ref: snow-forecast.com)
Download Gudauri resort map here
Copyright © 2024. All rights reserved to WeTrip Ltd.
