Imereti is often called the heart of western Georgia. The region is known for its gentle climate, ancient towns, caves carved by underground rivers, and quiet villages where grapes are still grown the traditional way. It may live in the shadow of trend-driven Kakheti, but this is where you experience a softer, slower, and more intimate side of Georgia.
For Locals Insider, Lizi Natsvlishvili, owner of a boutique winery in Imereti, shares her personal route through the region, along with her favorite places and insider tips on where to go for memorable wines and authentic local cuisine. A few years ago, Lizi left Tbilisi for village life to focus on winemaking and host gastronomic tours, and she now knows exactly where Imereti reveals itself at its most beautiful.
1. Kutaisi, the Quiet Capital of Western Georgia
Kutaisi is the oldest city in the country, calm and welcoming by nature. There is no capital-city rush here, but there is history, unhurried walks along the river, and food that feels deeply comforting and unexpectedly refined.
What not to miss:
- Kutaisi Market — the best way to experience local color and buy cheese and spices at non-touristic prices.
- Bagrati Cathedral — the symbol of the city and one of Georgia’s most important churches.
- Colchis Fountain — a vivid central square that is especially pleasant to circle in the evening.
- White Bridge — a walking area with views over the rushing Rioni River.
Where to Eat in Kutaisi
- Magnolia — a riverside restaurant with beautiful views. Try the lobiani filled with buffalo cheese, shaped like a crescent.
Instagram: @georgian_cuisine_magnolia - Debi (Sisters) — an atmospheric bar offering a contemporary take on traditional Georgian cuisine.
Instagram: @sisters.bar2018 - Palaty — a restaurant in the old town that has repeatedly appeared in the Gault & Millau guide.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/palaty.restaurant/ - Wine Vibes — a wine bar focused on small local producers, where a sommelier helps guide your choices.
Instagram: @winevibes_kutaisi
2. The Karst Caves of Imereti
The region is famous for its natural wonders: vast karst cave systems located just a five-minute drive from Kutaisi.
• Prometheus Cave — spacious illuminated halls, an underground river, and an easy route suitable for all visitors.
• Sataplia Cave — underground galleries, dinosaur footprints, and a glass bridge overlooking Kutaisi.
• Tetra Cave — a unique microclimate and the opportunity to taste wines aged inside the cave.
3. Lokokina Winery
IG: @lokokina.ge
Winemaking in Imereti dates back to deep antiquity. Local wines are known for being light, aromatic, soft, and mineral-driven, thanks to the region’s limestone-rich soils. Lokokina Winery is located about thirty minutes from Kutaisi, in the village of Meore Sviri, home to some of the best terroirs in the region.
The name translates as “snail,” a reference to the limestone formed by ancient mollusks found in the soil. The wines are fresh, mineral, and highly food-friendly. Tastings are held at the winery, where guests are introduced to clay amphorae known as qvevri, traditional winemaking techniques, and generous homemade snacks.
It is an ideal place to experience Georgian hospitality and enjoy a quiet pause among the vineyards.
4. Katskhi Pillar
A unique forty-meter limestone monolith topped by a small chapel. Visitors come here for silence, contemplation, sweeping views, and a sense of stepping into another time.
Katskhi Pillar: What to Know
• Climbing the pillar itself is not allowed, as the chapel is closed to visitors.
• The views from below are just as striking.
• Along the way, you may encounter monks and hear the story of this remarkable place.
If your journey through Georgia continues, Tbilisi is well worth a stop. We have prepared a detailed guide to the city’s best cafés, bars, and restaurants, highlighting where to eat well and linger with friends in the capital.
