Cat Ski Georgia

Goderdzi

The mountain village of Goderdzi is called the Japan of Georgia. The deciduous trees create stunning tree runs, and the idyllic village is dotted with numerous (abandoned) mountain huts. These huts, once bustling with shepherds and their families during the summer, provided shelter as they grazed their livestock on the vast grassy slopes. In the summer, the Goderdzi Pass opens up access to Goderdzi. However, in winter, the pass is closed due to the impressive snowfall, averaging over 4 meters at the peak. The mountain pass is our access road to numerous drops around Goderdzi. It serves as the gateway to even more remote and breathtaking mountains.

Terrain

Since 2017 we offer cat ski trips to Goderdzi. Together with the local population, we have invested in fostering the cat ski operation. All cats have a modern cabin and a safe entry and exit. An experienced guide will show you the best slopes. Nearly 8,000 hectares of land are available. This varies from mellow tree runs to faces of 35+ degrees. We are constantly monitoring the conditions, so we can access the best powder fields. Assume that you can do at least 6-8 runs with 3000-5000 altimeters in one day.

The cat ski terrain is divided into four exhilarating regions, each offering unique challenges and stunning vistas. We typically focus on one region per day. The highest peaks, soaring up to 2600 meters, are on the eastern flank, featuring expansive snow plains and the enchanting village of Beshumi, where you can ski among picturesque abandoned wooden huts. The southern region offers steeper slopes and some cliff drops, perfect for some more action. To the west, you'll mainly find tree runs through dense forests with occasional clearings, providing a beautiful and diverse skiing experience. Based on the weather conditions, we select the optimal region each day to ensure the best cat skiing adventure.

Snowcat / Pistenbully

Our fleet currently boasts four Pistenbullys, the ultimate German powerhouses for conquering the slopes. Since 2017, we have been using two Pistenbully 300 Polars to navigate the challenging terrain around Goderdzi. In 2021, we expanded our lineup with two Pistenbully 600, each equipped with a cozy cabin that accommodates 12-14 people. You'll board via a custom-made staircase, and your skis and snowboards will be securely stowed in side-mounted boxes. With vertical traverses sometimes exceeding 900 meters, we ensure your ride is as comfortable as possible. For the tech enthusiasts: our Pistenbullys boast a robust 461 HP and can reach speeds up to 25 km per hour.

Accommodation

We’re staying in a new 5-star hotel in the village, completed in 2019. You’ll be in twin rooms with views of the surrounding mountains. The hotel offers free access to a swimming pool, jacuzzi, and sauna—perfect for unwinding after a day in the powder.

Meals are prepared by a certified chef who serves up the most delicious local dishes. We usually dine out two or three times during the trip at local restaurants. The Georgian cuisine features plenty of bread, cheese, and meat, but don’t worry—you’ll still get your share of vegetables and fruit. How about eggplant with walnut sauce, vegetarian stews, dumplings, and bean dishes?

The lounge is a great place to relax or play a game of ping pong or billiards.

Staff

We have a fantastic group of freeriders on site. They will ensure that you make safe descents. All guides are GMGA (Georgian Mountain Guide Association) certified and have extensive knowledge of avalanche safety, mountaineering, first aid and snowpack. We predominantly work with local staff.  We believe it is important to use local knowledge and to support the local community.

Electricity / Internet

Electricity (220V) and internet are available in the hotel. The wifi signal is usually fine but you can also choose to purchase a e-SIM card. You only have coverage with the MAGTI network. Costs are 15-20 euros per month for unlimited data.

Food & Drink

Georgian cuisine is a unique mix of Mediterranean, Russian, Turkish and Arabic dishes. As said before, a lot of bread, cheese and meat, but the Georgian cuisine is so much more. The most famous dishes are Khatchapuri (cheese pizza), Lobiani (bean pizza), Khinkali (dumplings), Shashlik and salads. In addition, tasty dishes such as Ojakhuri (potatoes with meat), Shkmeruli (chicken in garlic sauce), Pkhali (spinach and walnut tapenade) and Kharcho (stew).

Add the fact that Georgia is the cradle of wine production. Wine had been drunk here 6,000 years before Jesus was born. You can find it in all kinds of flavors and colors. Even mulled wine is drunk there. If wine is not your thing then there is always local specialty beer or the stronger chacha (raki). Of course we also have tea, coffee or soft drinks.

Transport

A transfer from Tbilisi is included but we can organize a transport from any point in Georgia. From the international airport of Tbilisi or Kutaisi it takes about 5-6 hours to drive to Goderdzi. It is about a 2-hour drive from Bakuriani ski resort. There is no road to the mountain lodge so you will be picked up by snow cat or 4×4. From Batumi it is possible to drive to Goderdzi. This takes about 2 hours on a road where you also need four-wheel drive. The roads are being improved rapidly, but we will see changes in accessibility for next winter.

Private tours

Please contact us for customized tours. We apply a minimum of 3 cat skiing days and a minimum group size of 6.

Cat ski Georgia for you?

• advanced skiers/snowboarders with off-piste experience
• adventurers and lovers of deep powder
• skiers / boarders who want something different from the Alps

Included

• Transfers Tbilisi-Goderdzi-Tbilisi
• 5 days of cat skiing
• Beeper, probe and shovel
• 5 nights in 5* Hotel Ambassadori
• Meals during cat ski days (icnluding water/tea)
• Khinkali making workshop
• English speaking guide
• GMGA certified Cat ski guide
• Backpack with beacon, probe and shovel
• Use of swimming pool, sauna an jacuzzi

Not included

• Flights (from 150-200 return) both Tbilisi and Kutaisi are possible from Europe
• Food &  drinks on non-ski days
• (Alcoholic) drinks
• Souvenirs & tips
• Freeride ski or snowboard rental (€150)
• Avalanche Airbag rental (€125)
• Travel insurance