Located in the highlands of Adjara at an altitude of 2,027 meters above sea level, Goderdzi Resort is entering a new, large-scale phase of development. While it was previously viewed primarily as a local destination for off-piste skiing enthusiasts, the resort is now attracting more than GEL 200 million in private investment, alongside major road and other infrastructure projects.
BM.GE sought to assess the current stage of the resort’s infrastructure modernization, the extent to which the master plan protects investors, and Goderdzi’s potential to become a four-season regional hub. To this end, the outlet addressed relevant questions to Khulo Municipality and industry experts.
Snow, altitude and unique nature - Goderdzi’s key advantages
Goderdzi’s greatest assets are its geographical location and unique microclimate. Its proximity to the Black Sea, just 109 kilometers from Batumi, creating a special quality of snow in winter known as “fluffy” or “powder” snow. This factor extends the ski season from November or December through April.
The resort’s highest point reaches 2,364 meters above sea level. Its infrastructure includes intermediate and advanced slopes, as well as a dedicated area for beginners. An additional advantage for visitors is that the resort’s main base is located below the tree line, at an elevation of approximately 1,700 meters, allowing for skiing both in the alpine zone and through dense coniferous forests.
Plans to expand the ski area are also currently being actively developed. According to information provided to BM.GE by Khulo Municipality, plans are in place, in cooperation with the Mountain Trails Agency (MTA), to construct a new cable car line and ski run extending from Chanchakhi Mountain to Goderdzi Pass and from the pass directly to the resort. This would significantly strengthen the two existing cable car lines.
Why the four-season model is important for Goderdzi
One of Goderdzi’s greatest competitive advantages is its multi-seasonal potential, which offers the resort a rare opportunity for stable economic activity throughout the year. Speaking to BM.GE, tourism expert Vano Vashakmadze notes that, unlike resorts focused on a single season, Goderdzi’s unique geography, proximity to the sea and rich landscape create ideal conditions for it to remain an equally attractive and vibrant destination throughout all four seasons.
“Goderdzi has a unique positioning. It is a place that can truly aspire to be a four-season resort, with economic resilience that relies not only on the winter season, but also on its proximity to the sea and its integration into the broader travel network. It needs to capitalize on the long spring and autumn periods; otherwise, it will remain a constant financial burden. That is precisely why we must view it within a regional context - linking it to the Adjara highlands, the coast and the Samtskhe region. Then, it will truly become ‘the place where you must stop’ - a destination you simply have to visit,” - Vano Vashakmadze told BM.GE.
The resort’s master plan, developed with the participation of international experts, aligns with this vision. Once the snow melts, Goderdzi offers vacationers eco-tourism routes leading to Green Lake, Khikhani Fortress and a unique fossilized forest. During spring and summer, the focus shifts to sports infrastructure, cycling paths, therapeutic mineral waters, Green Lake and the nearby resort of Beshumi. Autumn highlights include traditional festivals, artist residency spaces and agritourism sites, creating an attractive alternative destination for visitors staying in Batumi.
The Khulo-Zarzma Road and New Infrastructure: Project Status
Until now, transport accessibility has been a major factor hindering the resort’s development. A pivotal project in this regard is the rehabilitation of the 47-kilometer Khulo-Zarzma road section. According to the Government of Adjara, the road will reduce travel time between Batumi and Akhaltsikhe by approximately one and a half hours. An asphalt-concrete surface has already been laid along a 41-kilometer stretch.
In response to a BM.GE query regarding the road’s passability during winter, Khulo Municipality explained that rehabilitation works are nearing completion. However, slope stabilization efforts are still actively underway in sections affected by landslides caused by heavy precipitation.
At the same time, construction of public service facilities is progressing at the resort. Municipal officials confirmed to BM.GE that construction of a “Park & Ride” system, parking lots, a thematic market and exhibition complex, and a hangar for specialized machinery, including snow groomers, is nearing completion and proceeding on schedule. Construction of the road from the resort entrance to the central area is also set to begin in the coming days.
GEL 200 MLN in Investment and a Master Plan: What Investors Expect
Currently, 17 completed hotel complexes, 29 cottages and 16 family-run guesthouses are operating at the resort. Another 11 hotel-style facilities are also under active construction. Avtandil Aroshidze, a representative of development company BeOne Development, said on BMGTV that the total volume of private investment in projects implemented at the resort has already reached GEL 200 million and continues to grow.
According to Aroshidze, the stability of the master plan, prepared by international specialists, is crucial for investors. The plan covers more than 63 hectares and is designed to accommodate 7,000 visitors simultaneously.
“If the master plan is strictly enforced and restrictions regarding building height and density are maintained, Goderdzi will become one of the most attractive ski resort destinations. The resort spans a total of 63 hectares; therefore, if development is not overly dense and each hectare is utilized effectively, property values will only increase,” Avtandil Aroshidze told BM.GE.
Under the master plan, 6- to 7-story buildings are permitted only in the central valley, while building heights are limited to 2–3 stories on the slopes and at the forest edge. This helps prevent visual clutter in the alpine landscape and preserve the resort’s unique views.
Badri Bolkvadze, founder of Goderdzi Twins Hotel, also emphasizes the importance of keeping the master plan unchanged. He told BMG that the GEL 5 million investment they made was based precisely on clear terms agreed upon with the state.
“The decision was largely driven by the fact that when we signed the contract with the Ministry of Economy, we received a definitive assurance that there would be no deviation from the master plan. That is our safeguard,” Badri Bolkvadze told BMG.
The hotel’s founder also points out that the resort currently utilizes only 20–25% of its potential. However, once the second cable car line and the road connecting the resort to the capital are completed, he expects the facility to quickly become fully profitable.
What Is Needed to Boost Goderdzi’s Visibility?
Goderdzi’s developing infrastructure provides a solid foundation for positioning the resort on the international tourism map. Industry experts say the resort has the potential to evolve into a year-round destination of international significance, a process that could be further supported by increased promotion and brand awareness.
Speaking to BM.GE, Maia Makhatadze, head of hotel management company Radar, notes that a unified and clear branding strategy will be crucial for Goderdzi’s future development. This would help showcase the resort’s competitive advantages to an international audience and attract investment.
Goderdzi offers many of the features associated with a high-end mountain resort: pristine alpine scenery, high-quality snow, a uniquely cozy atmosphere and dozens of modern accommodation facilities. A strictly enforced master plan protects the resort from chaotic development while preserving its original character. These factors position Goderdzi as a promising destination for visitors seeking a mountain getaway and for private businesses considering investment opportunities in mountainous Adjara.
