When do the leaves change in Georgia — Greater Caucasus?

Typically September 20–October 15

Four hamlets at 2,100m near the foot of Shkhara, among the highest continuously inhabited settlements in Europe, their stone defensive towers dating to the 9th to 12th centuries. Birch and beech on the surrounding slopes turn brass and amber by late September, usually holding into mid-October before the Zagari Pass road closes for winter.

Don’t miss: 9th to 12th century defensive towers · 2,100m elevation near Shkhara · UNESCO World Heritage village

A U-shaped glacial valley 22km from Stepantsminda, threading between the Caucasus and Khokh ranges past travertine mineral springs and abandoned Ossetian hamlets. Scattered birch and willow through the valley turn yellow in autumn, a quieter alternative to the crowds at nearby Gergeti Trinity Church.

Don’t miss: U-shaped glacial valley · travertine mineral springs · abandoned Ossetian hamlets

Typically October 5–October 20

A walled hill town above the Alazani Valley, its 18th-century defensive rampart running 4.5km around cobblestone streets and balconied houses. Kakheti's vineyards below turn gold through the rtveli grape harvest and the Gombori Pass road nearby peaks around mid-October, seen in full sweep from the town walls.

Don’t miss: 4.5km 18th-century town wall · Alazani Valley vineyard panorama · rtveli grape-harvest season