If you’re curious about the Soviet past or love exploring architectural relics, the Tskaltubo abandoned sanatorium tour offers a fascinating glimpse into Georgia’s history. This four-hour journey from Kutaisi takes you through once-glamorous bathhouses and hotels, now slowly overtaken by time and nature. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, you’ll wander through decaying corridors, marvel at iconic structures, and learn about the town’s rise and fall as a health resort.
What makes this tour special? First, the chance to see the crumbling grandeur of buildings like Sanatorium Medea and Sanatorium Metallurgist offers an authentic urban exploration vibe. Second, you’ll learn about the history of Tskaltubo’s waters, often called the waters of immortality, and how they contributed to the town’s fame. Third, the tour includes visits to a stunning bathhouse built for Stalin’s visit, adding a rare historical layer. The main drawback? Since some buildings are in unstable condition, safety requires careful walking, and some sites may be inaccessible if they become unsafe or private.
This tour is best suited for urban explorers, history buffs, and photographers eager to see the haunting beauty of abandoned architecture. It’s also ideal if you’re interested in Soviet-era history or simply want a different perspective on Georgia beyond the usual landmarks.
Good To Know
- Authentic ruins: Experience the atmospheric decay of once-luxurious sanatoriums.
- Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides like Eva and Ana share detailed histories and personal insights.
- Photographic opportunities: Beautiful architectural details, fountains, sculptures, and nature reclaiming buildings.
- Historical context: Learn about Tskaltubo’s rise as a health resort and its decline.
- Safety considerations: Be aware of uneven surfaces, broken glass, and crumbling structures.
- Limited group size: Small groups (up to 7 people) ensure a personalized experience.
The Itinerary: An In-Depth Look
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Starting Point and Transportation
The tour begins with a pickup at the Kutaisi Central Park columns, near the Colchis Fountain, a location currently under construction but easy enough to find. Transport is included, making the logistics straightforward and stress-free, especially for those not wanting to navigate public transport or rent a vehicle. The drive to Tskaltubo from Kutaisi takes approximately 30 minutes, giving you a chance to settle in and get some background from your guide.
Sanatorium Medea
Your first stop is the imposing Sanatorium Medea, built between 1954 and 1962. This building’s architecture exudes Soviet-era elegance and grandeur. The iconic colonnade makes for memorable photos, and exploring the hotel rooms with original 1960s interiors gives a rare glimpse into the luxurious past of Tskaltubo. The fountains and sculptures in the patios add a touch of artistic flair, despite the building’s current state of decay.
A reviewer specifically appreciated the opportunity to take photos here, mentioning the “beautiful photos at the iconic colonnade” and exploring the rooms with original interiors. It’s easy to get lost in the atmosphere, imagining the hundreds of visitors who once flocked here for wellness.
Sanatorium Metallurgist
Next, you’ll visit Sanatorium Metallurgist, renowned for its dramatic entrance featuring a gigantic chandelier and intricate metal works. The guide, like Eva and Ana, highlights the building’s architectural details, providing insights into Soviet design. Walking through the corridors, you’ll pass an old theater hall and a restaurant hall that hints at the social life once thriving within these walls.
Many reviews note the expert guidance, with one mentioning how helpful and friendly Eva was, answering questions about each building’s history and architecture. The sense of stepping back in time is palpable as you explore the vast, empty halls.
More Great Thing To Do NearbySpring N6 and Stalin’s Bathhouse
A special highlight is the visit to Spring N6, one of the few remaining functioning bathhouses. This site is particularly significant because it was built specifically for Stalin’s visit, making it a unique historical artifact. Visitors can admire the building’s preserved features and imagine the grandeur of the past.
Before concluding, you’ll see an abandoned bathhouse nearby, which adds to the sense of exploring a town frozen in time. You might find yourself marveling at the contrast between the old and the new, the decay and the residual grandeur.
Final Notes and Safety Tips
While exploring these buildings, the guide emphasizes safety. As one reviewer pointed out, “There is always a risk when visiting abandoned buildings,” with trash, broken glass, and crumbling concrete. The key is to walk carefully, keep an eye on footing, and follow your guide’s instructions.
The Value and Practicalities
Price and Duration
The tour lasts around four hours, with transportation included. For the price, you get a well-planned route with visits to multiple significant sites, guided by knowledgeable locals. Since the group is limited to seven, it ensures personalized attention and the opportunity to ask questions freely.
What’s Included and What’s Not
Included are the transportation from Kutaisi, guided exploration of the sanatoriums, visits to Medea and Metallurgist, and the Stalin-era bathhouse. Excluding are meals and drinks, so plan to bring some snacks and water, especially in summer.
Ideal for Specific Travelers
This experience is best for those with an interest in architecture, history, or urban exploration. It’s not suitable for children under 12, pregnant women, or individuals with mobility issues due to uneven surfaces and potential safety hazards. The small group size enhances safety and intimacy, making it a personal journey into Georgia’s Soviet past.
Why You Should Consider This Tour
This tour offers more than just a walk through abandoned buildings; it provides a tangible connection to Georgia’s history, Soviet architecture, and the ravages of time. The guides’ extensive knowledge and friendly attitude, like Eva and Ana’s, ensure you gain insights that bring the buildings to life.
Photographers will love the chance to capture hauntingly beautiful ruins, while history enthusiasts will appreciate the stories behind each site, especially the Stalin-built bathhouse. The chance to see the buildings in their current state before private investors potentially purchase them adds a layer of urgency and exclusivity to the experience.
If you’re seeking an adventurous, insightful, and visually striking tour that combines history, architecture, and a touch of mystery, this trip is a smart choice.
Final Thoughts
The Tskaltubo abandoned sanatorium tour is a rare peek into Georgia’s Soviet-era health tourism, showcasing buildings that have quietly fallen into decay yet still whisper stories of their former glory. The guided aspect makes this accessible and safe, while the small group size ensures an intimate experience.
It’s particularly valuable for those who love photography, history, or urban exploration. You’ll walk away with a deeper understanding of how this once-bustling spa town thrived and then faded, all set against the backdrop of striking architecture and natural beauty.
In terms of value, the tour offers a well-rounded package: transportation, expert guiding, access to key sites, and enough time to absorb the atmosphere without feeling rushed. It’s an excellent option for anyone eager to see a different side of Georgia, one filled with stories, ruins, and the quiet beauty of decay.
FAQ
Is transportation included? Yes, the tour includes transportation from and back to Kutaisi, making logistics simple.
Where do I meet the guide? You meet your guide at the Kutaisi Central Park columns, near the Colchis Fountain, which is easy to find despite ongoing construction.
How long does the tour last? The entire experience lasts approximately four hours, depending on group pace and site accessibility.
What should I wear? Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for uneven surfaces and bring water for hydration.
Can I take photos? Absolutely. The sites offer plenty of photographic opportunities, from grand facades to crumbling details.
Is the tour suitable for children? No, it’s not recommended for children under 12, pregnant women, or those with mobility challenges.
What sites will I visit? The main stops are Sanatorium Medea, Sanatorium Metallurgist, Spring N6, and a nearby abandoned bathhouse.
Are there any safety concerns? Yes, as with all abandoned sites, be cautious of broken glass, crumbling concrete, and trash. Follow your guide’s instructions.
What’s not included? Meals and drinks are not included, so plan accordingly.
Can I cancel if I change my mind? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.
This tour offers a chance to step back in time and see how Georgia’s Soviet-era spa town is slowly succumbing to nature. Whether you’re a history buff, an architecture lover, or an urban explorer at heart, it’s an experience that’s hard to forget.
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