Trail Running in the Caucasus Mountains

Searching for real adventure? Head to the Caucasus.

Georgia's Caucasus boast some of the world's most majestic mountains and untouched wilderness. Wild and raw, sometimes forty kilometres up and over passes of 3000m+ to reach the next village. Run here and you'll feel completely separated from the civilised world, but when you do reach that tiny mountain village by the end of the day, you'll be greeted no doubt with that incredibly warm Georgian hospitality.

Running through the Caucasus is as much an immersion into the culture of the people as it is a real adventure in the mountains, which are in themselves unmistakably beautiful and unique. Comprising two of the most spectacular regions of the Caucasus, you'll need to travel up to ten hours in a Marshrukta (Georgian minivan) just to reach the starting points, but it's well worth the ride. Then it's a multi-day mission to reach a place where you can easily catch a ride back to the capital, Tbilisi.

The trails vary from flowy to quite technical, and some of the passes can be exposed, but boast unreal views. Hillsides are dotted with ancient medieval towers that leave you feeling like you've just entered a fairytale. The lording presence of Mt. Kazbek, standing at 5054m, will leave you breathless. If you are seeking a real adventure in a place well off the beaten path, look no further (although the secret won't stay safe for much longer).

By Kirra Balmanno https://typetworun.com