Mount Kazbeg 5.047m // July 2022
Georgia—a country I had always associated with pristine powder slopes. However, when the Steller Agency invited me for a summer trip to Georgia, a whole new perspective unfolded.
Preparation and Arrival in Georgia
In mid-July, I pack my suitcases for two weeks in Georgia. The highlight of the trip will be the ascent of Mount Kazbeg, towering over 5,000 meters. And of course I have my paraglider with me, the thought of flying down from my highest mountain so far is too tempting ;)
We spend the first two days in Tbilisi, the charming capital of Georgia. The Old Town captivates me with its beauty, numerous landmarks, and the exceptional warmth of the people. Wandering through colorful alleys, I discover small shops with handmade souvenirs, perfect gifts to bring home.
From Tbilisi, we drive over the Cross Pass (2,380m), marking the geographical boundary between Europe and Asia, to Stepantsminda, also known as Kazbegi, the starting point for an ascent of Mount Kazbeg.
With me are two other photographers, who were also invited by Steller and Vazul from Steller, always highly motivated when it comes to adventures in the mountains. We don't lose much time, because our guides think the weather looks good for the next days, and make our way to the hut. The Altihut is located at 3014m and there we spend our first night.
Ascending Mount Kazbeg
The next morning, after a good hut breakfast, we make our way up to the second hut, an easy day with only 600 meters uphill. The Betlemi hut is located at 3,670m and is a former meteorological station, which was built in 1933. You have to bring your own sleeping bag, the rooms are very sparsely furnished and also not heated. But there is a restaurant, where you can get good food. We acclimatize one day here to be better prepared for the altitude on the summit day.
Summit day
The alarm clock rings early, 1:00 in the morning says my watch. Out we go into the darkness, a last weather check blows away even the last hope that it could be flyable: at the summit it is supposed to be very stormy today. So the paraglider stays at the hut. To reach the summit we will cover 1400 meters uphill, it is stormy and cold, and most of the time we are in dense fog. My best companions today are my heated gloves, which keep me warm even in stormy conditions (I highly recommend them for anyone who suffers from cold hands and feet like me). With the altitude I have no problems, technically the normal route also offers no difficulties. Upon reaching the summit, we were greeted by the storm, visibility was zero, but the moment was magical. My first 5,000 meter peak—check! I am especially happy for my colleagues, who had to fight a bit more on the ascent, but have bravely persevered. Great team work!
We descend quickly via the same route and after a few hours rest at Betlemi Hut we hike all the way down to the valley, a warm shower and a cozy bed are too tempting to spend another night at the cold Betlemi Hut.
The Beauty Around Kazbegi
After the summit success, we spent a few more days around Kazbegi. My personal highlight was the Five Season Hut. A short hike led to this small hut with a breathtaking view. Here, one could enjoy delicious meals, stay overnight, undertake further hikes, or simply unwind.
I take advantage of the beautiful green slopes around the valley to finally fly my paraglider! From above everything just looks even more beautiful.
Conclusion
Georgia impressed me in many ways. The stunning landscape offers endless opportunities for hikers and mountaineers. The local cuisine is hearty, you can eat and drink well (wine is grown in Georgia) and have a great time here. Definitely make contact with the friendly locals to get to know the country and its culture. I will be back, maybe this time with my skis in my luggage :-)
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