Ski Tour in Ushguli: Gorvashi

Location

Ushguli, one of the oldest villages in Svaneti, is in Mestia Municipality, at the sources of the Enguri, at the base of Shkhara Peak, 2,200 meters above sea level, and is one of the highest inhabited places in Europe.

You will find numerous Svan towers in Ushguli Community. For that reason, the village of Chazhashi has been added to UNESCO’s list of World Heritage Monuments.

Ushguli is 42 kilometers away from Mestia. The winters there are rather long and severe.

The Gorvashi Route

Gorvashi Pass is located southwest of the village of Murkmeli, 3,050 meters above sea level. The route starts from 2,060 meters above sea level, directly from Murkmeli. 

The rise in elevation is 990 meters. First you will pass through a forest, then into the alpine zone, after which you will find yourself on Gorvashi Peak. 

The way down is defined after checking the accompanying snow conditions. You will be done descending once you reach Murkmeli Village.

What to Keep in Mind

In addition to hiring an experienced guide, it is also important to have a full set of equipment: special skis, an avalanche kit, a transmitter, a spade, a probe, and any other necessary items.

If you are not in good enough shape for the ski tour, the local certified specialists will help you with that as well.