The Caucasus: Europe's Highest Peaks Between the Black and Caspian Seas¶

The Caucasus contains Europe's highest peak (Mount Elbrus, 5,642m) and offers some of the most rugged, least-visited mountain terrain on the continent. This guide covers the Greater and Lesser Caucasus, climbing Elbrus, trekking in Georgia's Svaneti region, and the geopolitical complexities that make this range both challenging and rewarding.

Introduction¶

Where Europe Meets Asia¶

Geography¶

Greater Caucasus — The High Peaks¶

Lesser Caucasus¶

The Europe-Asia Boundary Debate¶

Mount Elbrus — Europe's Highest¶

Normal Route from the South¶

North Side — The Harder Route¶

Infrastructure and Huts¶

Georgia — The Trekking Jewel¶

Svaneti and the Towers of Mestia¶

Mount Kazbek¶

Tusheti — Georgia's Remote North¶

Cultural Heritage¶

Mountain Communities¶

Ancient Towers and Fortresses¶

Practical Planning¶

Permits and Visas¶

Geopolitical Considerations¶

Best Months — June to September¶

Key Statistics Table¶