In the northeast of Georgia, in the Mtskheta-Mtianeti region, at an altitude of 1700 m, on the bank of the Terek River is located an amazing mountain village Kazbegi. Today it is called Stapanzminda. The old name is in honor of the writer Alexander Kazbegi, and the new name is in honor of the monk Stephen, who was revealed from above about the impending landslide. Warning the residents of the impending disaster, he saved their lives.
The village is located at the foot of the mountain Kazbeg whose height reaches 5054 meters. It is the second highest mountain in Georgia. Here is the cleanest air, beautiful landscapes in both winter and summer. Not without reason there are many ski centers with modern ski elevators (Gudauri) and comfortable hotels for every taste.
In 2 km from Kazbegi, on the left bank of the Terek River in the town Pansheti there is a spring of mineral water. The chemical composition of the water is carbonate chloride-hydrocarbonate calcium-sodium, with a mineralization of 1.5-2.5 g/l and a temperature of 15 ° C.
One of the main attractions of the region is the Church of the Trinity of Gergeth, located at an altitude of 2170 m. It was built in the 14th century. Many pilgrims come here to not only to admire the beauty of the area, but mainly to pray. During the invasion of Persians in XVIII century in the Trinity church hid the cross of St. Nina and other relics of Georgia. Today there is an ancient miracle-working image of the Blessed Virgin Mary in the church.
Near Stepantsminda is an architectural monument of the XIV century - the church Tsminda-Sameba.
And in Daryal Gorge is situated medieval fortress Darialistsikhe.
In the gorge you can admire the power and beauty of Gvelet waterfall, falling from a height of 25 meters, and has a width of 4 m.
In 2012, Kazbegi was chosen by paragliders for their flights. Flights are made in the Tergi and Sno valleys, in Jutu, Gudauri and Pasanauri.