Why you should come to Abastumani?
Abastumani is more than just a small urban settlement—it is a cherished retreat for both locals and visitors to Georgia. Nestled in the stunning gorge of the Otskhe River, at an altitude of about 1,300 meters, Abastumani is surrounded by lush, dense forests. Located 28 km from Akhaltsikhe, 75 km from Borjomi, and 285 km from Tbilisi, this tranquil resort offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and historical significance.
Centuries ago, the Odzrkhe Fortress stood proudly in this valley, guarding the routes of medieval caravans that passed through the Otskhe Gorge. In 1829, the settlement—then known as Abbas-Tuman—transitioned from Ottoman rule to the Russian Empire. From that point on, it began to gain fame as a therapeutic balneological resort, drawing visitors seeking healing and relaxation.
History and Development
Abastumani’s reputation as a health retreat dates back to 1864, when a military hospital with 240 beds was established here for seasonal treatment. The resort’s allure extended beyond ordinary travelers—it also captivated the Romanov royal family. Grand Duke George, the younger brother of Nicholas II, suffered from tuberculosis and spent seven years in Abastumani until his passing in 1899. In his memory, a chapel made from exquisite Carrara marble was built on the very site of his death. Even before that, during his lifetime, construction of the Church of St. Alexander Nevsky was initiated at his expense—a landmark that remains an active place of worship today.
In 1892, Abastumani became home to the first Russian mountain astronomical observatory—a temporary research station under St. Petersburg University. Under the direction of Professor S. Glazenap, astronomers used the region’s exceptional atmospheric clarity to observe celestial bodies, including close double-star systems. Abastumani’s ideal conditions for astronomy were recognized internationally, with American astronomer Sherburne Wesley Burnham praising the observatory’s groundbreaking findings.
Healing Climate and Therapeutic Springs
What makes Abastumani truly unique is its exceptional climate, known for its healing properties. The crisp mountain air, enriched with the fresh aromas of pine, spruce, and fir, has long been regarded as a natural remedy for tuberculosis and respiratory ailments. In addition, Abastumani’s thermal springs are highly valued for their therapeutic benefits, offering relief for conditions related to the nervous system, joints, bones, and gynecological health.
At the start of the 20th century, Abastumani was home to just three renowned mineral springs—Snake, Bogatyrsky, and Protivotozolotushny. However, from 1925 onward, the resort saw the development of specialized institutions for patient care, including a sanatorium, thermal bathhouses, a tuberculosis hospital, and a medical clinic. Unlike many seasonal resorts, Abastumani’s healthcare facilities operate year-round, ensuring visitors can benefit from its climate and mineral waters in every season.
Abastumani enjoys a mild, temperate mountain climate. The summer months remain pleasantly cool, with an average August temperature of 16°C, while winters are relatively mild and sunny, with moderate snowfall (lasting from mid-December to mid-March) and an average January temperature of -6°C. The region experiences around 167 sunny days per year, with most precipitation occurring from April to October.
Must-See Attractions in Abastumani
Abastumani is not just a health resort; it also boasts fascinating historical and scientific landmarks. One of the most significant is the Georgian National Astrophysical Observatory, founded in 1932. As the first high-altitude observatory in the former Soviet Union, it played a vital role in astronomical research, leading to the discovery of small planets, stars, comets, and nebulae. Even today, it remains an important center for astrophysical studies.
Another key landmark is the Church of St. Alexander Nevsky, an architectural gem that has stood the test of time and remains a spiritual center for visitors and locals alike.
For history enthusiasts, a visit to the ruins of the Grand Duke George’s Palace in the upper part of Abastumani is a must. Once a grand residence where Nicholas II, his siblings, and their mother, Maria Feodorovna, frequently stayed, the palace reflected the town’s elite status. The royal family’s presence attracted Russian aristocrats, who built elegant summer homes here, transforming the village into a fashionable retreat for the wealthy. However, following Grand Duke George’s death, the aristocratic visitors gradually dwindled, giving way to a broader and more diverse group of vacationers.
How to Get to Abastumani
Traveling to Abastumani is relatively easy. From Tbilisi, visitors can take a train to Akhaltsikhe, where regular shuttle buses connect to Abastumani. For international travelers, the best way to reach Tbilisi is by airplane, followed by ground transport to the resort.