Once the retreat of the wealthy Soviet elite, Georgia is now accessible to all. And, while it might be considered off the beaten track, its sheer wealth of attractions mean it won't stay secret for long.

The capital Tbilisi has a Mediterranean quality. Streets wind past stone houses with courtyards at their centre. Visit the frescoed churches and the castle, or climb Mount Mtatsminda for views of the city.

Mtskheta was the capital until the fifth century and is now a World Heritage site, whilst Gori was the birthplace of Stalin and the last place where you can see a statue of the man in public in the former USSR.

Georgia's natural attractions are manifold. There are more than 100km of pristine Black Sea coast, much of it backed by citrus and tea plantations; the waters around Batumi and Kobuleti are particularly popular. The rugged Caucasus Mountains provide walking and outdoor activity holidays as well as an extended ski season; Kazbegi and Savaneti are excellent, atmospheric bases whilst attractions include Uplistsikhe, the Fortress of God.

Elsewhere, around a quarter of Georgia is dedicated to national parks; head to Vashiovani National Park to try and spot the endangered Anatolian leopard and rare raptors.