Ushguli, the highest altitude inhabited point in Europe, is 45 km away from Mestia via winy and bumpy roads which felt worse than crossing major ocean. It took more than 2.5 hrs one way on a jeep. I could not believe how nice and warm the weather was, perfect for hiking. The fall foliage is just about ready which makes it looks like a Swiss-land.
Another option thst we did not take is a 4-day hike from Mestia to Ushguli. There is a red and white flagged trail from Mestia to Ushguli. Guesthouses are available in each of the villages along the route. Right behind the mountisns is Russia which I have never imaged to be so close.
Once in the villages, we walked between them and explored around. It reminds me the foliage of New England, Canada, Bariloche Argentina, etc. I did not plan for such a pleasant surprise.
In addition to the breathtaking ancient villages of Svaneti filled with imposing stone watchtowers, there are some spectacular mountain vistas of Europe's highest mountains. Look especially for Mount Ushba and Mount Shkhara. There is small Ethnographic Museum containing 12th century religious artwork.
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