Leave the City to Explore Rural Georgian Monasteries

Katskhi Column also known as Katskhi Pillar is a small monastery situated on top of a giant rock pillar. This natural limestone monolith stands 40 metres (130 ft) tall and stands out in the area. It is known to the locals as the 'Pillar of Life' and is a place mentioned in many legends. It was until the mid-1900s that someone climbed up to investigate the church on top. It, for a while, was uninhabited, but in the late 1900s funding was received to renovate the church on top so that it could be inhabited by monks.
There is a car park on the entrance road, and it is just a short walk to the pillar's base. At the base, there are small shrines and churches where you can go inside to pray. You are not allowed to go to the monastery, as only monks residing there can make the 20-minute climb.

Giorgi Pantsulaia Ropeway is a Soviet structure that was once an important part of the town of Chiatura. Chiatura was a significant mining town in the Soviet Union, so you will see the remains of all the industrial infrastructure, including the rope way. It is possible to follow the winding roads to the top of where the carriages would have taken the miners, and there are some incredible views from up there.
This is not a typical tourist destination, but it holds so much history. If you would like to read more, then you can check out this article.

After an adventurous afternoon, it is time to get some lunch. Chiatura is not much of a touristic city, so you will find a few humble local restaurants, and Gazapkhuli is one of my favorites. The owner takes excellent care of customers and is very welcoming. The food was very generous in portion sizing and delicious.
Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday: 10:00 – 22:00

Following lunch, you will visit the Mgvimevi monastery and convent. The Georgian Orthodox monastery is of historical significance and is worth a stop.
The convent, located in the region of Imereti, close to the town of Chiatura, is partly carved into the rock. Some of the rooms in the convent are completely made from natural rock, almost like caves. One of the main features was built in the 13th century, and it is an incredible piece of architecture.
You can park at the bottom on the roadside, and there is a steep climb up the stairs to reach the convent, but once you are up there, the views are incredible. This is not a major tourist attraction, and it is still in use today, so please be respectful as there may be services when you visit.
Opening Hours: Monday – Saturday: 11:00 – 16:00 Sunday: 08:30 – 16:00
More information can be found here.

You will now be heading towards Gori, the town famous as the birthplace of Stalin. You will be spending a night in this historical hotspot, so why not check in to your bed and breakfast before hitting the town for the evening.
Although Stalin was not always regarded as a great leader, this town preserved his contribution to history, whether for good or bad, and attracts many curious tourists from around the world.

Once you have freshened up, it is time to head out for dinner.
Regarded as one of the top 10 restaurants in Gori, this is where you can have a relaxed evening and enjoy some tremendous Georgian food. The atmosphere is laid back, and although it may be a little casual, you will have a chilled time. As it is just a short walk from your B&B, you can enjoy a glass of wine or two.
Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday: 09:00 – 22:00

Gori Fortress is a medieval citadel situated looking over the town of Gori. It is free and open to the public to wander around, but at night it is best seen in the city of Gori below.
You can see the walls and fortresses lit up at night. So, why not take a glance up on your walk home and if you are feeling like you want to walk off some dinner then you can follow the walls up to get a good view of the city.

Head back to your B&B for some well earned rest and get ready for the last day of your adventure.