Is this hike in a former Soviet state a good idea? Don't ask the locals
This is Borjomi, a town famous for mountain vistas and salty mineral water. Favoured by Stalin, a bottle of that water was the first request from Yuri Gargarin after completing mankind's first trip into space.
Most hikers to Georgia head straight to the Caucasus mountains, but Borjomi has its own charm. Cradled in a steep valley, the town is a mix of Russian Imperial architecture and Soviet tower blocks, continuing to attract those seeking restoration… and adventure.
'So are there any bears?' I ask half-jokingly, looking at a wall-sized mural of one.
It's four days earlier and we are in the visitor's centre.
'They are very rare,' responds the unreadable ranger, from behind the front desk.
My partner and I exchange a glance while he traces the three-day trail on the map.
'But is it difficult?' I ask.
'The second day is a bit slippery,' he says.
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