This is why you need to visit Georgia

It might not be the first place that comes to mind when you search 'Georgia' on Google, but this remarkable country – with a population of just under four million inhabitants – is undeniably one of the best under-the-radar travel destinations in Europe.

From exploring overgrown and abandoned sanatoriums to savouring juicy khinkali and wandering across endless hills with distant monasteries, there's no better time to embark on an adventure to the Caucasus than now.

Visit one of Georgia's oldest towns

Nestled in the hills, Kutaisi is one of Georgia's longest-standing cities, beckoning local and international tourists with its rich history and vibrant atmosphere. And coursing through it is the mighty Rioni River, whose presence can be heard from all parts of town.

The city's most alluring landmark is its ceramic mural on the side of Green Bazaar, known as the Kutaisi Market Relief. It portrays a blend of historical and mythological figures, as well as individuals who’ve contributed to the city's development over the years, and the facade is quite unlike anything you’ve ever seen.

The Green Bazaar Market is a culinary treasure trove, offering incredibly delicious food and plenty of sensory overload. Along its bustling lanes, you'll also find stores specialising in churchkhela, a sweet candy crafted from walnuts and concentrated grape juice, usually produced from the leftover annual wine harvest.

Beyond the market's offerings, we recommend visiting Bagrati Cathedral, a historical gem, and the scenic commute up to the Gelati Monastery, which offers sweeping views of the region from its elevated vantage point.

 As far as eating goes, we urge you to enter the saloon doors of Bikentia's Kebabery! This no-fuss traditional, standing-room-only eatery dishes out piping hot kebab meat with herbs and literally half a loaf of bread. You’ll want to rinse this spicy meal down with a pint of the local draft beer that's included in the combo meal.

Uncover old sanatoriums and bathhouses

Only twenty minutes by car from Kutaisi, you'll encounter one of Georgia’s quirkiest yet captivating experiences.

Tskaltubo, an old spa town, is home to a bounty of old sanatoriums and bathhouses that’ll transport you into what feels like a post-apocalyptic television set of The Walking Dead.

In its heyday, Tskaltubo was a popular destination for relaxation and therapeutic balneotherapy treatments, with patrons including none other than Stalin himself. Following Georgia's independence, the town fell into disrepair, and nature began to reclaim its territory.

Today, some of these buildings are inhabited by internally displaced people from Abkhazia, lending the place an slightly odd yet fascinating, off-the-beaten-path adventure. You won’t want to miss the No. 8 Bathhouse, hidden amidst the lush green foliage and revealing an enormous balneary that’s just waiting to be explored.