Gudauri Inn

The mountain view from our room was breathtaking, and it was well heated, which made things comfortable despite the cold outside. The food was tasty and satisfying. I had a pleasant stay at Gudauri Inn in Georgia. The hotel was good, though the service could be better.

The room was decent and comfortably warm, which mattered in the extreme cold. We were there for only two days and didn’t explore the other amenities, but the room was fine for a short stay. The service, though, ruined the experience. At reception there was no greeting or basic courtesy. When I asked about check-in, I was told bluntly it could only happen after 3 PM, without a smile, explanation, or polite response. The staff were rude and very unhelpful. There were only two small 500 ml bottles of water for two adults. When we asked for more, we were told it would cost extra. We didn’t mind paying, but charging for basic drinking water felt unreasonable. We tried calling reception, room service, and the spa repeatedly for nearly two hours, and nobody answered. I finally went down myself to explain that we’d been calling and needed water. There was no apology or acknowledgment. I was just told to buy it at the restaurant, with no offer to send bottles up. It wasn’t about the price of the water, it was the attitude. The whole evening was spoiled. If guests have to go and arrange everything themselves, you have to wonder what hospitality is for. The staff need training in dealing with guests and basic customer service.

The spa is a pleasant place to wind down after skiing, with a pool, sauna, two jacuzzis, and a billiards table. The newer section has spacious, clean, well-kept rooms. Guests looking for kosher facilities will appreciate the synagogue and kosher dining room. The hotel is a decent choice for a quiet, comfortable ski holiday. It’s set away from New Gudauri and the nightlife, so the location is peaceful but not ideal for nearby après-ski. Morning and evening shuttles go to the ski area, stopping near the Marco Polo shopping center. You can rent equipment at the hotel, too. The selection is limited, but you can usually find suitable gear, often for less than at shops in the main ski area. If you want bars and parties, a 15-20 minute taxi or Bolt ride takes you to the main nightlife areas. A good fit for skiers who value comfort, kosher facilities, and a relaxed atmosphere over being right by the nightlife.

The kosher restaurant was very good. Breakfast is a buffet with lots of choices, there’s a different tasty soup each afternoon, and dinner comes with bread, plenty of salads and fish, plus a changing chicken or beef main with sides. The inn itself is modern, welcoming, and kept very clean. The staff were all great and happy to help, and having ski rental in the hotel was convenient. There’s also a spa with a pool, jacuzzi, dry sauna, massage services, and a balcony overlooking the snowy mountains. The room was comfortable. A couple of small things, no hair conditioner, and the pillows are too thick.