Exploring Georgia’s Hidden Past: The Urbex Tour of Abandoned Sanatoriums and Aircraft
If you’re someone who loves exploring the worlds hidden in plain sight—forgotten buildings, abandoned aircraft, and stories frozen in time—then this Urbex tour in Georgia’s Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti region might just be your next adventure. While I haven’t personally been on this exact tour, the detailed reviews and descriptions paint a picture of a compelling day that combines history, architecture, and a touch of eeriness.
What immediately catches the eye are three things travelers seem to love about this experience: first, the chance to wander through grand Soviet-era sanatoriums that echo with stories of a bygone era; second, the opportunity to see abandoned aircraft, adding an unexpected twist to the exploration; and third, the guided aspect that ensures you understand the significance of each site, all while keeping safety and logistics smooth.
One potential consideration is the physical demand—there’s a fair amount of walking on uneven surfaces, so comfortable shoes and warm clothing are recommended. This tour is best suited for those with a sense of adventure who are comfortable navigating rough terrain and are interested in history or industrial decay. It’s perfect for explorers, photographers, history buffs, and anyone curious about Georgia’s Soviet past, but not ideal for young children or those with mobility issues.
You can check if your dates are available here:Good To Know
- Authentic urbex experience in abandoned sanatoriums and aircraft.
- Guided tour with insights from a professional urban explorer.
- Transportation included from Tbilisi, making logistics easier.
- Photographer-friendly environment with tips for capturing the eerie beauty.
- Limited group size for a more personalized experience.
- Flexible booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
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Discovering the Ghosts of Soviet Georgia
This tour offers a window into Georgia’s past, specifically its Soviet-era sanatoriums in Tskaltubo, which once drew high-ranking officials and visitors from across the USSR. Today, these grand buildings are abandoned, left to decay but still standing as a testament to a different time. Walking through these halls feels like stepping into a forgotten world—ornate architecture, peeling paint, and empty corridors where history lingers.
The allure isn’t just the buildings themselves but what they represent: a once-bustling health resort known for mineral springs, visited by Soviet elites including Stalin himself. Now, they’re quiet, eerie, and undeniably photogenic, especially from a photographer’s standpoint. Expect to see the Central Bathhouse, which still shows signs of its former grandeur, and Stalin’s personal bathhouse, where history echoes in every corner.
The Unique Appeal of Abandoned Aircraft
Adding a surprising twist, the tour includes exploration of abandoned aircraft. While details about the aircraft are limited, they stand out as a stark contrast to the sanatoriums, bringing an industrial, almost sci-fi vibe to the exploration. The contrast between the decaying buildings and these relics of aviation history enriches the experience, allowing you to appreciate not just architectural decay but also the remnants of transportation and technology from a different era.
This part of the tour is particularly appealing for aviation enthusiasts or anyone who loves seeing abandoned machinery and vehicles. The visual impact of rusted metal against the backdrop of deserted buildings makes for compelling photos that will stand out in your travel album.
What to Expect: A Day of Exploration
The tour begins with a pickup in Tbilisi, where you’ll meet your guide, an experienced and engaging host—likely Tinatin Goguadze—who is well-versed in Georgia’s urbex sites. The transfer to Tskaltubo takes roughly a couple of hours, giving you a scenic ride through the Georgian countryside. Once there, you’re given about three hours for sightseeing, walking, and photography.
Your itinerary includes stops at the main sanatoriums, where your guide will share stories about their heyday and the Soviet elite who once visited. Expect to wander through halls with peeling wallpaper, empty swimming pools, and grand staircases—each whispering stories of opulence and decline. The guided tour offers photography tips, helping you capture the haunting beauty of these sites.
You’ll also have free time to explore independently, take photos, or simply soak in the atmosphere. Rest assured, the tour is designed to balance sightseeing with enough free moments to enjoy the sites at your own pace.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyThe Architectural and Historical Highlights
The Central Bathhouse is a star attraction, with its massive structure and once-luxurious interiors now shrouded in decay. It offers a palpable sense of history, especially when you learn that it catered to the Soviet elite, including Stalin’s own bathhouse—still visible today. These buildings serve as poignant reminders of Georgia’s rich, complex history and its Soviet past.
Walking through these spaces, you’ll notice the grandeur of the original architecture—arched ceilings, mosaic tiles, and ornate facades—yet all now faded and crumbling. It’s like walking through a monument to a different era, one that’s both fascinating and unsettling.
The Atmosphere and Photography Opportunities
What makes this tour particularly memorable is the haunting atmosphere of decay. The abandoned buildings, combined with the overgrown flora and peeling paint, create a perfect setting for atmospheric photography. We loved the way guided tips helped us frame shots of peeling walls, empty corridors, and rusted machinery, making every photo a story in itself.
The aircraft, with their rusted exteriors and broken windows, add a stark, industrial edge to the landscape. For those who enjoy capturing the contrast between nature and abandoned human creations, this part of the tour offers plenty of opportunities.
Practical Details and Value
The tour is priced for a full day’s experience, including transportation, a guided tour, professional photography tips, water, coffee, and snacks. Considering the transportation logistics and expert guidance, the cost offers good value, especially for those keen to explore Georgia’s offbeat sites without the hassle of planning.
Group size is kept private, typically with small groups that allow for personalized attention and flexibility. The tour operates in English, with the possibility to inquire beforehand about specific needs or questions. It’s suitable for most travelers over 12 years old, but isn’t recommended for those with mobility issues or respiratory problems due to uneven walking surfaces.
Timing is flexible—check with your guide for available start times. The tour is also cancellable for free up to 24 hours in advance, offering peace of mind in case your plans change.
Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?
This Urbex tour is a solid choice for travelers who crave an authentic, slightly edgy experience that combines history, architecture, and photography. If you’re fascinated by Soviet history or love exploring abandoned structures, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. The guided element ensures you won’t get lost or overlook important details, and the included transportation simplifies logistics.
However, it’s important to be comfortable with walking on uneven surfaces and to have a curious mindset about decay and history. The eerie, abandoned ambiance might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but for those who enjoy it, this tour delivers both visual and emotional impact.
In the end, this tour is about more than just exploring abandoned buildings; it’s about connecting with a layered past and capturing stories frozen in time.
FAQ
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately one day, with a pickup from Tbilisi, about three hours of sightseeing at Tskaltubo, and return transport.
What’s included in the price?
The cost covers guided exploration of sanatoriums and aircraft, transportation from and to Tbilisi, photography tips, water, coffee, and snacks.
Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 12 due to uneven terrain and the nature of the exploration.
What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes and warm clothing are advised, as there will be a lot of walking on uneven surfaces.
Can I take photographs?
Absolutely. Photography is encouraged, and the guide offers helpful tips for capturing the haunting beauty of the sites.
Is the tour private?
Yes, it’s a private group experience, allowing for a more personalized and flexible exploration.
What about cancellations?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which offers flexibility if your plans change unexpectedly.
This urbex tour offers a fascinating glimpse into Georgia’s Soviet past through the lens of abandoned architecture and machinery. It’s an excellent choice for history lovers, photography fans, and adventurous spirits eager to uncover stories etched into decay.
You can check if your dates are available here: