Sometimes trips to incredibly snowy locations don’t quite as planned, and our time in Bakhmaro during a few days in February 2023 with Ingo & his superb crew went a little like that. But regardless, what we saw at Bakhmaro is everything we expected and more. Huge volumes of snow (more on that later), gorgeous terrain including incredible tree skiing, the most wonderful food, and professional guiding, snowcat driving and service.
Staying in the 'Base' guesthouse accommodation was fun, with exceptional food & hospitality shown to all the guests. Putting your soiled toilet paper into a bin (to avoid plumbing blockages) and some water interruption issues let it down slightly, but such is life in the backcountry deep in winter. The alternative accommodation, the Pioneers Lodge, looks like a magnificent oasis in winter, and is the pick for anyone wanting a 4-star hotel experience.
Whilst at Bakhmaro (for only 4 nights in the end ...... long story!), the incredible weather dropped over a metre of snow each night for 3 nights in a row, producing bottomless snow conditions and high avalanche danger during our very short stay, so skiing was limited for us to low angle, but perfectly spaced trees. The guides were highly motivated and cognisant of the groups safety. All we heard about on our arrival was how amazing the day's skiing had been, just before the worst of the storm arrived that night. Oh well, it’s not often we miss the best of it, and clearly the entire group (from all over the world too) was well satisfied with the outcome.
For a group of Powderhounds, it is no surprise that we adored the local dogs. They are such characters and add another beautiful dimension to an already magical experience. They love going on ski-tours out from the village too and will follow as best they can.
Having the kitchen crew do some traditional dance with us after some shots of cha-cha (local strong spirit) around the fireplace was another great experience.
We spent too short a time at Bakhmaro during that most hectic of snowstorms. Conditions cleared only briefly during our time there, but of course it was clearing the day we needed to leave! But what our time showed us was that despite all the challenges of operating in Georgia, in a remote, high snowfall zone, Ingo and team of drivers, guides, & hospitality workers are a super professional organisation that can provide whatever 'goods' you are seeking.
Bring your fattest skis and get here this season, otherwise you'll only be a year older when you do!
