The term "European Cultural Route" refers to a road that crosses one or more countries or regions organized around a community whose historical, artistic or social interests are clearly European.
Our cultural tea route "Georgia painted with Tea" covers Guria, Samegrelo, Imereti regions, the Autonomous Republic of Adjara and Tbilisi. The route tells the history of the development of tea culture in Georgia and its importance in both local and international markets.
The participants of the route are: Georgian bio tea companies, associations, tea houses and museums, which will tell their stories and offer a variety of services to the visitors: tasting of several types of tea, historical excursion, getting acquainted with the picking and processing process, etc.
Requirements for beneficiaries: First of all, they must have a story that sets them apart from others (Make your story, sell your story), "Farm to table" concept, interested persons will be able to visit tea companies and taste on the spot, with the help of various applications and sites (Cultural routes, Biliki, etc.). They also need to introduce international production standards, take on social responsibility, have a bio-certificate and adequate infrastructure for visitors.
Renegade Tea Estate is a tea farm managed by a group of ex-colleagues and friends from Estonia and Lithuania. There are 3 plantations (in Gumati, Mandikor and Ofurchkheti) with 50 hectares of tea fields that are grown without the use of any chemicals. All the teas they make are hand-picked, made from high-quality soft delicate leaves: white, black and green tea.
Services typically offered in a 1.5-hour Tea Cultural Tour:
· Welcome and Introduction
o Warm greeting by host or guide
o Brief overview of tea culture and tour agenda
· Tea Garden Walkthrough (if applicable)
o Short guided walk through tea plants or garden area
o Introduction to different types of tea plants
o Explanation of cultivation and harvesting methods
· Traditional Tea Ceremony Demonstration
o Presentation of local or traditional tea brewing techniques
o Cultural significance of the ceremony
o Participation opportunity for guests
· Tea Tasting Session
o Sampling of various types of teas (e.g., green, black, oolong, herbal)
o Guidance on tasting notes and differences
o Discussion on health benefits and preparation tips
· Cultural Storytelling
o Narratives on the history of tea in the region
o Folklore, rituals, and customs related to tea
· Hands-On Activity (Optional)
o Guests try brewing or serving tea themselves
o Creating their own tea blend (if offered)
· Q&A with Tea Expert
o Interactive session with a tea master or guide
· Souvenir or Gift Option
o Small pack of local tea or cultural token
o Photo opportunity in traditional attire (if provided)
Very close to the tea farm, you can visit Sataplia Nature Reserve, where you’ll find a fascinating cave filled with stalactites and stalagmites as well as preserved dinosaur footprints. Another nearby cave, Prometheus Cave, is equally spectacular. It features a well-lit underground river and stunning natural formations, with a short boat ride through one of its passages.
Kutaisi itself is also worth some time. Here you will find tea houses and cafes to drink tea. Also its Bagrati Cathedral sits on a hill with great views over the city and is an impressive 11th‑century monument. Nearby, the Gelati Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, contains beautiful frescoes and is surrounded by green hills. Another peaceful stop is Motsameta Monastery perched on a cliff above the Tskaltsitela River.
