Kutaisi: Tskaltubo Abandoned Soviet-Era Spas Tour

Discovering the Abandoned Soviet-Era Spas of Tskaltubo: A Guide to an Unforgettable Tour

If you’re curious about Soviet history, architecture, or simply love exploring places that tell a story of grandeur and decay, the Tskaltubo Abandoned Soviet-Era Spas Tour from Kutaisi offers a fascinating glimpse into Georgia’s past. This four-hour guided experience takes you through once-glamorous sanatoriums and bathhouses that are now slowly succumbing to nature, creating a surreal landscape that’s both eerie and beautiful.

One thing we really appreciate about this tour is how it balances historical insights with the raw, authentic atmosphere of these abandoned structures. The guides seem passionate and knowledgeable, sharing stories about the rise and fall of Tskaltubo as a health tourism hub during the Soviet era. That said, it’s worth noting that exploring abandoned buildings involves uneven surfaces and potential hazards — so good footwear and caution are a must.

This tour is ideal for urban explorers, architecture buffs, and anyone with a penchant for history and decay — or even just travelers seeking a unique experience outside the usual sights of Georgia. If you’re after a peek into a place where time has stood still (or is slowly slipping away), this might be just the adventure you’re looking for.

Key Points

• Authentic Ruins: Walk through original buildings that showcase Soviet architectural style and grandeur.
• Historical Context: Learn about Tskaltubo’s heyday as a health resort and its decline.
• Photogenic Locations: Perfect for photography lovers craving hauntingly beautiful abandoned sites.
• Expert Guidance: Knowledgeable guides like Eva and Ana enhance your understanding and safety.
• Limited Group Size: Small groups (up to 7 people) ensure a personalized experience.
• Safety and Preparation: The buildings are decaying, so wear sturdy shoes and be cautious.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Meeting Point and Starting Out

The tour kicks off at Kutaisi Central Park columns, near the Colchis Fountain, a spot that’s currently under some construction but still easy to find. From here, you’ll hop into a vehicle that whisks you to Tskaltubo, a town about 4 km away that once buzzed with visitors seeking medicinal waters. The transport is included, making the journey hassle-free and comfortable.

The Sanatorium Medea: A Majestic Landmark

Your first stop is the Sanatorium Medea, built between 1954 and 1962. This site is arguably the most iconic, with its grand colonnade still standing and offering excellent photo opportunities. The building’s style screams Soviet-era opulence, with a stately facade and elegant fountains in the courtyard. Inside, some rooms retain their original 1960s interiors, giving you a real sense of what it was like for visitors during its peak.

Reviews mention that the tour guide, Eva, makes extra efforts to tell stories that bring these spaces to life. She explains how the sanatorium was once a bustling place, hosting hundreds of thousands of visitors annually, which helps you appreciate the scale and importance of Tskaltubo’s heyday.

Exploring the Metallurgist Sanatorium

Next, you’ll visit Sanatorium Metallurgist, notable for its dramatic entrance featuring a huge chandelier — a symbol of its former luxury. Walking through its corridors, you’ll see the old theater hall and a magnificent restaurant hall, both frozen in time. The metalworks and architectural details are impressive, reflecting the design sensibilities of the Soviet era. The guide points out these details, enriching your understanding of how these buildings functioned and were decorated.

Spring N6 and Stalin’s Bathhouse

A highlight for many is the visit to Spring N6, which is still operational and boasts one of the few remaining bathhouses in Tskaltubo. Interestingly, this bathhouse was built specifically for Stalin’s visit, adding a layer of intrigue and historical significance. You’ll learn about the waters of Tskaltubo, often called the “waters of immortality,” and how they attracted visitors from across the Soviet Union in search of health and vitality.

A short stop at another abandoned bathhouse nearby offers a stark contrast — a reminder of how quickly the town’s fortunes waned. The guide shares stories about how these places are now slated for sale to investors, likely making this your last chance to see them in their authentic, unrestored state.

Safety and Practicalities

While exploring these buildings, you’ll notice trash, broken glass, splintered wood, and crumbling concrete. The guide emphasizes the “Take Nothing but Photos and Leave Nothing but Footprints” principle, encouraging respectful and cautious exploration. Wear sturdy shoes and keep a close eye on your surroundings to avoid injury.

Tour Duration and Logistics

The entire experience lasts around four hours, including transportation and sightseeing. It’s a small group setting (limited to seven participants), which allows for a more intimate experience and plenty of opportunity to ask questions. The tour starts in the morning or afternoon — check availability for specific times — and concludes back at the meeting point in Kutaisi.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Beyond the obvious appeal of exploring abandoned buildings, this tour offers deep insights into Georgia’s Soviet history, brought to life by passionate guides. As reviewers note, guides like Eva and Ana are knowledgeable and friendly, making the experience both educational and enjoyable.

The photography opportunities are plentiful, with crumbling facades, grand staircases, and lush overgrowth creating scenes right out of a movie. Several reviews mention how the tour provided “beautiful photos” and a “sense of mystery”, which adds to the allure.

Many visitors also appreciate the personalized attention in small groups, making it easier to ask questions and get detailed stories about each site. The guides’ enthusiasm for the buildings and their history shines through, giving visitors a richer understanding of Tskaltubo’s past.

The Value of This Experience

At a reasonable cost, considering transportation, guided commentary, and exclusive access to buildings not open to the public alone, this tour offers excellent value. It’s perfect for travelers who want more than just a sightseeing moment — it’s about engaging with history, architecture, and the eerie beauty of decay.

However, it’s crucial to be aware of the physical nature of the tour. The buildings are in ruins, so comfortable shoes and caution are essential. If you’re not comfortable walking on uneven surfaces or exploring potentially hazardous areas, this might not be ideal.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for adventure seekers, history buffs, and architecture lovers. It appeals to those interested in Soviet-era history or urban exploration, as well as anyone who appreciates photography and the beauty of decay.

The tour isn’t designed for small children, pregnant women, or people with mobility issues — the uneven terrain and potentially hazardous conditions make it less suitable for these groups. Also, as the buildings are slated for sale, some locations could change or become inaccessible, so flexibility is advisable.

Final Thoughts

The Kutaisi Tskaltubo Abandoned Soviet-Era Spas Tour offers a rare opportunity to step back into a different time, surrounded by the remnants of a once-thriving health resort. With expert guides, manageable group sizes, and a focus on authentic, unrestored sites, it’s a memorable experience for anyone curious about history, architecture, or just looking for a bit of adventure.

The eerie beauty of these decaying sanatoriums, combined with stories of their past glory, makes this tour a highlight for many travelers exploring Georgia beyond the usual routes. Just remember to bring sturdy shoes, a camera, and an adventurous spirit.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, transportation from Kutaisi to Tskaltubo and back is included, making the trip easy and convenient.

What should I wear during the tour?
Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes suitable for walking on uneven surfaces. Bring water to stay hydrated.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately four hours, including travel time and sightseeing.

Are the buildings safe to explore?
While guides accompany you, the buildings are in a state of decay with broken glass and crumbling structures. Caution is advised at all times.

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s not recommended for children under 12, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues due to the uneven terrain.

Can I take photos during the tour?
Absolutely. The sites are highly photogenic, and many reviews highlight the stunning photos they captured.

To sum it up, this tour is a compelling choice for travelers who want to experience a slice of Georgia’s Soviet past in a captivating, atmospheric setting. It’s perfect for those who love history, architecture, photography, or simply enjoy exploring off-the-beaten-path locations that tell stories of a bygone era. Whether you’re a seasoned urbex enthusiast or a curious traveler, you’ll find plenty to marvel at and remember in Tskaltubo’s haunting, abandoned spas.