Kakheti (Kahetia)

Georgia's Kakheti region is sometimes referred to as Kahetia. It is a large, rich and fertile area in the southeast of the country, centered on the town of T'elavi.

Because of the fertile soil and the subtropical climate, Kakheti has become Georgia's major vine-growing region and if you drive on the Main Kakhetian Highway you can see vineyards stretching to the horizon on both sides of the road. According to locals, the winemaking tradition started around 6000 BC and nowadays some two dozen types of grape are cultivated there. Cheap wines can be purchased directly from the vine-growers.

The Kakheti region is about 60 km (36 miles) northeast of Tbilisi. Accommodation is available in several towns throughout the region and Kakheti is easily accessed by train or bus from the capital. The most popular destinations in the region are Tusheti, Gremi, Signagi, Kvetera, Bodbe, Lagodekhi Protected Areas and Alaverdi Monastery.