Svaneti is a historic mountainous region in northwestern Georgia. The Upper Svaneti is bordered to the north and east by the Greater Caucasus Range,
with peaks such as Shkhara, Ushba, Tetnuldi, and others marking Georgia's border with Russia.
Upper Svaneti is known for its architectural treasures and picturesque landscapes.
Prominent among them are residential towers built mainly in the 9th–12th centuries.
Ancient stone Orthodox churches have also been preserved. Ushguli and Mestia are popular towns among tourists.
Ushguli is located at an elevation of 2200 meters above sea level; Mestia at 1500 meters above sea level.