Ancient mountainous nation offers a trip to cloud wine

Seven things to know before visiting:

1. Give yourself plenty of time

Georgia appears small on a map, leading some first-time visitors to assume it can be seen in just a few days. But due to a combination of mountainous terrain and infrastructural shortcomings, that's not the case — travel times between regions are significant.

2. Pack clothes for all climates

The summer can be stiflingly hot in the lowlands, but as soon as you reach any altitude, let alone the High Caucasus themselves, the temperature plummets and you'll need a fleece and jacket, even in July.

3. Be prepared for some rough roads if you're driving

Georgia's roads have improved immeasurably in the past 20 years and the vast majority are now sealed, though they remain predominantly single-lane, frequently studded with potholes and lacking in markings or lighting at night.

4. Keep an eye out for sheepdogs

Sheepdogs in the Caucasus are bred to be fierce and can potentially be dangerous, so give them a wide berth when hiking in the mountains and carry a stick if possible.

5. Take it easy on the chacha

Georgia's far stronger version of grappa, chacha is the national drink and you'll almost certainly run into it during your visit.

6. Don't toast with beer

Georgians only toast their enemies with beer, so make sure you have a glass of wine or chacha to hand if you're lucky enough to attend a traditional Georgian feast or dinner party.

7. In big cities, a small tip will be appreciated

Hot on the heels of international tourism, tipping has now arrived in Georgia, though it's still limited to Tbilisi, Batumi and Kutaisi for the most part.