The Astrophysical Observatory is one of Abastumani's main attractions, along with its Russian-Empire-era sulfur baths. The Observatory is located on a wooded hill, at the end of a narrow, winding road. You can enjoy the area outside the Observatory, peaceful and usually empty, with cool, clean air and beautiful views of the surrounding forests. 

On the surface, the Observatory looks its age - built in the early 1930s. There is a relatively new, good quality museum, though, and you can take a tour of the facility. Tours can be requested in Georgian, Russian, or English, but English speaking guides are rarely available. If you come after dark, you can look through one of the Observatory's telescopes out into the cosmos.

The entrance fee is 9 GEL for adults, and kids are free.The last visitors are allowed in at 9 pm.

For more about Abastumani click here.

Photo: Levan Verdzeuli