Shovi
Historic forest resort in Upper Racha, known for its mineral springs, largely destroyed by a deadly mudflow in August 2023.
ShoviPhoto: George Kvizhinadze, CC BY-SA 2.0Shovi lies at about 1,500 m in Upper Racha, where the Buba and Chanchakhi rivers meet below the main ridge of the Greater Caucasus, roughly 30 km beyond Oni. Surrounded by pine, spruce and fir forest, it was one of Georgia's best-known mountain resorts for nearly a century, valued for its cool summers, clean air and carbonated mineral springs. Georgian families came for weeks at a time, staying in cottages and guesthouses scattered through the woods, and walked up towards the glaciers of the main ridge.
On 3 August 2023 a mudflow swept down the Buba valley, destroying much of the resort and killing 33 people. Most of Shovi has been closed to holidaymakers since, and its future is still uncertain. If you travel into Upper Racha, check the current situation locally before planning to visit, respect closed areas, and remember that this is a place of mourning for many Georgian families.
History
Shovi's springs attracted scientists in the early 20th century, and the physician Simon Lezhava is credited with founding the resort. The first sanatorium opened in 1928 and the resort officially in 1929, and it was popular throughout the Soviet era. On 3 August 2023 a glacier collapse above the Buba valley triggered a fast mudflow that tore through the resort, killing 33 people. In 2024 the government announced a memorial and church for the victims.
What to see and do
- Forest and mountain scenery below the main Caucasus ridge
- The meeting of the Buba and Chanchakhi rivers
- Carbonated mineral springs
- A place to remember the victims of 2023
How to visit
Getting there
About 30 km beyond Oni up the Rioni and Chanchakhi valleys, roughly an hour by car. Bridges on the access road were damaged in 2023, so check road conditions before you go.
When to go
June–September. Plan 1–2 hours here.
- Check the current status locally; much of the resort remains closed
- Be respectful: many Georgian families lost relatives here
- Do not enter damaged buildings or closed areas
- Stay in Oni or elsewhere in Racha rather than relying on Shovi
Shovi: FAQ
What happened at Shovi in 2023?
On 3 August 2023 a glacier collapse above the Buba valley set off a fast mudflow that destroyed much of the Shovi resort. Thirty-three people died.
Can you stay in Shovi now?
Most of the resort has been closed since the 2023 disaster, and its future has not been decided. Check the latest situation locally and plan to stay in Oni or elsewhere in Racha.
Nearby places
Straight-line distance from Shovi.
