The founder of Villa Chelo in Mestia says the summer tourist season has started strongly, with high occupancy and bookings for the coming weeks nearly full. Speaking to BMG, Tatia Tetrashvili said Svaneti benefits from a diversified mix of international and domestic visitors, making summer its most stable tourism season.
According to Tetrashvili, Asian markets have been particularly active this year alongside visitors from neighboring and European countries. However, she noted that tourism has not yet fully recovered to pre-pandemic levels, adding that Ryanair’s exit from Georgia and the reduction of affordable direct flights from Europe have negatively affected visitor numbers.
She also identified transportation as one of Mestia’s biggest challenges. Tourists arriving in Kutaisi later in the day have limited options for reaching Mestia, often relying on private taxis or traveling via Zugdidi.
Villa Chelo opened in December 2024 and offers two luxury villas and apartments. Overnight rates range from GEL 120–150 for apartments and GEL 350–400 for villas, depending on the season and occupancy.
