2nd day Shavi Klde Mountain Peak - Ota village

Shavi Klde mountain

Shavi Klde in the Trialeti Range is the highest peak of that mountain chain, rising to 2,850 meters above sea level. Its Georgian name, შავი კლდე (Shavi Klde), means “black cliff” or “black rock,” which fits its rugged appearance.

It lies in Samtskhe-Javakheti, on the border of the Borjomi, Aspindza, and Akhalkalaki municipalities, south of Tsikhisjvari and near the upper course of the Ota River, a tributary of the Mtkvari/Kura. The mountain is part of the Lesser Caucasus and is described as being built of Eocene volcanic rocks, with subalpine and alpine meadow vegetation on its slopes.

For hikers, Shavi Klde is attractive more for its alpine setting, ridges, and views than for a technically difficult climb. It is especially appealing if you are based in Borjomi or Bakuriani, since the Trialeti Range has several nearby hiking options and mountain routes.