Georgia

Located between Europe and Asia, bordered by the Black Sea to the west and the Caspian Sea to the east, Georgia's natural borders are the Greater Caucasus to the north and the Lesser Caucasus to the south. Its location gave the country the name "Balcony of Europe".

Georgia's multi-ethnic society is characterised by European and Asian culture as well as Christian and Muslim religion. After the collapse of the Soviet Union, the country has focussed its economy on tourism in the Caucasus and on the Black Sea.

Surrounded by huge mountain ranges in the north and south of the country, Georgia has everything to fascinate outdoor enthusiasts. Climbing Mount Kazbek in the Greater Caucasus is a special challenge, but one that is rewarded with an impressive panorama.

The ski resorts in the heart of the Greater Caucasus are also becoming increasingly popular, especially the ski area around the holiday resort of Gudauri. National parks, such as Borjomi-Kharagauli in the Lesser Caucasus, on the other hand, delight wilderness fans.

Covering an area the size of Bavaria, Georgia's territory stretches from glaciers at over 5000 metres to river plains at sea level. This results in seven different levels of precipitation, which create the different climate zones.

From the Mediterranean and continental climate with lush deciduous and mixed trees, to the semi-desert with steppe land, the subtropical conditions on the Black Sea, to the (high) alpine and glacier-rich region in the Caucasus - Georgia's climatic diversity in a small area is unique!

Georgia is home to numerous endemic animal and plant species due to its high forest cover, many mountains and different climate zones. The enclosed valleys and pristine forests favour the cultivation of plants.

The Asiatic lion and the Caspian tiger, once native to the Caucasus, have either disappeared from the region or are now extinct. National and nature parks now protect rare inhabitants. Europe's only big cat, the Persian leopard, is now living in the Greater Caucasus again.

The Georgian beaches on the Black Sea - that means a beach holiday with the Caucasus mountains in the immediate vicinity. In fact, the steep slopes of the Greater Caucasus almost reach the shores of the Black Sea. This magnificent picture gave the region the name "Russian Riviera" in the Soviet Union.

Low salinity, no tides, no dangerous predators or stinging jellyfish - the Black Sea is the ideal place to relax after a long hike. The dark magnetic beach is even said to have a healing effect against rheumatic complaints.