Development company Pontus, in partnership with international hotel operator Rotana and the Italian architectural bureau NOA (Network of Architecture), is bringing a major new project to Gudauri. The upcoming “Caucasus Mandili” will become the first mountain-ski hotel under the Rotana brand, designed to transform the resort’s visual identity and elevate its global appeal.
Speaking on TV-program Business Weekly, Irakli Varshalomidze, founder of Pontus Capital, detailed the project, the choice of partners, and long-term development plans.
According to Varshalomidze, Gudauri was selected due to its exceptional natural advantages. He notes that the resort stands out not only within Georgia but in the broader region, including neighboring countries:
“The development of Gudauri began in the early 80s. It is relatively young compared to other mountain and ski resorts in the region, but in terms of potential, it has the greatest prospects. Its uniqueness lies in its high altitude and long ski season. Because we recognized these opportunities, we chose this location to create something truly distinctive together with our partners.”
Varshalomidze explained that the idea for the project formed during a visit to the resort last year with representatives from Rotana. Observing the lack of international-standard service and infrastructure, the partners identified a clear opportunity for development.
Pontus has been working with Rotana for over three years, a collaboration rooted in long-term strategic plans. As for the architectural vision, choosing the right design partner was a meticulous process. Around 10 architectural firms were evaluated before selecting NOA.
“NOA’s founder, Lukas, was born and still lives in a ski resort. His personal experience, his company’s location in the famous Bolzano region, and the ski-focused projects they’ve delivered made them the ideal match for our vision,” Varshalomidze said.
The project will include approximately 400 rooms, but the emphasis, Varshalomidze stresses, goes far beyond accommodation capacity. Nearly half of the complex will consist of diverse infrastructure, ensuring the resort’s functionality year-round.
“Our goal is to create a complex and a location that will make Gudauri a four-season destination. We will not compromise on infrastructure. Almost half of the project is dedicated to facilities that will transform Gudauri into a year-round hub,” he emphasized.
A distinctive element of the project is its Georgian concept and visual identity, “Caucasus Mandili”, inspired by local culture and designed to create an emotional connection with visitors.
“We wanted to build a mountain destination that stays in people’s memories. When tourists leave Gudauri, whether to Europe, the Middle East, Asia, or elsewhere, we want them to remember this place and want to come back. We are offering not just real estate, but emotions,” Varshalomidze said.
Alongside the Gudauri development, Pontus Capital is expanding its investment portfolio. The company is currently working on two additional projects, which Varshalomidze expects to announce publicly soon.
“We are not stopping - we continue to grow and deliver new ideas and projects step by step to our investors and the country.”
For reference, construction of another major joint project between Pontus and Rotana, a 5-star hotel in Gonio, is already underway.
