Hatsvali
Small ski area just above Mestia, with about 7 km of pistes and a chairlift to the Zuruldi ridge at about 2,350 m.
Hatsvali is Mestia's home ski area, on the slopes of the Zuruldi ridge about 8 km by road south of town. It is small and relaxed, with around 7 km of pistes, four lifts and a vertical drop of about 480 m, from roughly 1,870 m up to 2,348 m. The main chairlift climbs to the Zuruldi ridge, where skiers look out over Ushba, Tetnuldi and the peaks around Mestia. A lift also runs up from the edge of town, so you can stay in a Mestia guesthouse and ski without a car.
The season usually runs from late December to early April. Hatsvali suits beginners, families and intermediate skiers who want quiet slopes, while Tetnuldi, about 19 km from Mestia, has longer and higher runs. In summer the lift takes walkers up to the Zuruldi ridge, and an easy path of about 3 km follows the crest to the Mentashi viewpoint. It is one of the simplest ways to see the high peaks of Svaneti without a long climb.
What to see and do
- Beginner and intermediate pistes close to Mestia
- Chairlift to the Zuruldi ridge at about 2,350 m
- Summer ridge walk to the Mentashi viewpoint
- Views of Ushba and Tetnuldi
How to visit
Getting there
Hatsvali is about 8 km by road from central Mestia, and a lift runs up from the edge of town. Taxis wait in Mestia during the ski season.
When to go
Late December to early April for skiing; July to September for the ridge walk. Plan half a day to 1 day here.
- Lift times vary from day to day; ask in Mestia the evening before.
- Combine a day here with a day at Tetnuldi for more variety.
- Bring sunglasses and sun cream; the mountain sun is strong even in winter.
Hatsvali: FAQ
Is Hatsvali good for beginners?
Yes. It is small and relaxed, with gentle runs and a short drive from Mestia, which makes it a good place to learn.
Can you visit Hatsvali in summer?
Yes. The lift usually runs in summer, taking walkers up to the Zuruldi ridge for views and an easy ridge walk to the Mentashi viewpoint.
Tours that include Hatsvali
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Nearby places
Straight-line distance from Hatsvali.
