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Off-roading through Udabno: a journey into Georgia’s semi-desert by B℮n

© B℮n, all rights reserved.

Off-roading through Udabno: a journey into Georgia’s semi-desert

photo rights reserved by Ben

Udabno is a small, remote village in the Kakheti region of eastern Georgia, close to the border with Azerbaijan. It is set in a semi-desert landscape that contrasts sharply with the fertile wine regions for which Kakheti is known. The village is located approximately 80 kilometres southeast of Tbilisi and is best known for its proximity to the David Gareja Monastery Complex, one of the country’s most important religious and historical sites. This impressive complex, partly carved into the rock, consists of several monasteries and chapels dating back to the 6th century. It is an important centre of the Georgian Orthodox Church and is on the tentative list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Udabno Monastery is part of the David Gareja complex and is known for its cave chapels and beautiful frescoes, located along a steep cliff face overlooking the plains of Azerbaijan. The area surrounding Udabno is characterized by colorful, rolling hills and semi-desert terrain, making it a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers. The monastery is located in a remote area with unpaved roads. The last part of the route – from Udabno to the monastery grounds – is especially rough, dusty and sometimes muddy. The road can be steep, bumpy and full of deep potholes. We drove to the David Gareja Monastery complex in a 4x4 Toyota RAV4. Although the car managed most of the route quite well, we found the last part to be much more difficult. The road became increasingly rough, with deep potholes and large boulders. In some places, the ground clearance of the RAV4 was not sufficient; the holes were simply too deep and the risk of damage became considerable. This route actually requires a special off-road vehicle, with high ground clearance and sturdy suspension. Even in the dry months, this road remains a serious off-road challenge. However, a bit of walking is not at all bad in this beautiful environment. Along the way, you can fully enjoy the impressive view, the vast emptiness and the absolute silence of the landscape. It only makes the experience more special.

From the high mountains of Gergeti, via Mtskheta, we ended up in the semi-desert landscape of Udabno — a world of vast emptiness and rolling hills. Udabno is located in the east of Georgia, in a vast semi-desert landscape near the border with Azerbaijan. The colorful, rolling hills and the endless emptiness make the area ideal for hikers. We drove to the David Gareja monastery complex with a 4x4 Toyota RAV4. Although the car managed most of the route well, the last part was tough: deep holes, loose stones and steep paths made a car with high ground clearance and sturdy suspension virtually necessary. Even in dry conditions it remains a real off-road experience. A walk through this impressive landscape is by no means a punishment: the view and the silence are unforgettable.

Vanuit de hoge bergen van Gergeti, via Mtscheta, kwamen we terecht in het halfwoestijnlandschap van Udabno – een wereld van uitgestrekte leegte en glooiende heuvels. Udabno is een klein, afgelegen dorp in de regio Kakheti in het oosten van Georgië, vlak bij de grens met Azerbeidzjan. Het ligt in een halfwoestijnachtig landschap dat sterk contrasteert met de vruchtbare wijngebieden waarvoor Kakheti bekendstaat. Het dorp bevindt zich ongeveer 80 kilometer ten zuidoosten van Tbilisi en is vooral bekend vanwege zijn nabijheid tot het David Gareja-kloostercomplex, één van de belangrijkste religieuze en historische bezienswaardigheden van het land. Dit indrukwekkende complex, deels uitgehouwen in de rotsen, bestaat uit meerdere kloosters en kapellen die dateren uit de 6e eeuw. Het is een belangrijk centrum van de Georgisch-orthodoxe kerk en staat op de voorlopige lijst van UNESCO-werelderfgoed. Udabno Monastery is een onderdeel van het David Gareja-complex en staat bekend om zijn grotkapellen en prachtige fresco's, gelegen langs een steile rotswand met uitzicht op de vlaktes van Azerbeidzjan. De omgeving van Udabno wordt gekenmerkt door kleurrijke, golvende heuvels en een semi-woestijnachtig terrein, wat het een populaire bestemming maakt voor wandelaars en natuurliefhebbers. Het klooster ligt in een afgelegen gebied met onverharde wegen. Vooral het laatste stuk van de route – vanaf Udabno tot aan het kloosterterrein – is ruw, stoffig en soms modderig. De weg kan steil, hobbelig en vol diepe kuilen zijn. Wij reden naar het David Gareja-kloostercomplex met een 4x4 Toyota RAV4. Hoewel deze auto het grootste deel van de route redelijk goed aankon, merkten we dat het laatste gedeelte echt veel zwaarder was. De weg werd steeds ruiger, met diepe kuilen en grote rotsblokken. Op sommige stukken was de bodemvrijheid van de RAV4 niet voldoende; de kuilen waren simpelweg te diep en het risico op schade werd aanzienlijk. Voor deze route is eigenlijk een speciale terreinwagen nodig, met hoge bodemvrijheid en stevige vering. Zelfs in de droge maanden blijft deze weg een serieuze offroad-uitdaging. Een stukje lopen is echter helemaal niet erg in deze prachtige omgeving. Onderweg kun je volop genieten van het indrukwekkende uitzicht, de uitgestrekte leegte en de absolute stilte van het landschap. Het maakt de ervaring alleen maar bijzonderder.

Ilulissat - Greenland by iesphotography

© iesphotography, all rights reserved.

Ilulissat - Greenland

Icefjord

Ilulissat - Greenland by iesphotography

© iesphotography, all rights reserved.

Ilulissat - Greenland

Icefjord

Ilulissat - Greenland by iesphotography

© iesphotography, all rights reserved.

Ilulissat - Greenland

Arctic Landscape

Mother Earth Day by -Brad-

© -Brad-, all rights reserved.

Mother Earth Day

Want to join me on a walk to Lockleys Pylon in the Blue Mountains?

It’s tucked away in one of the quieter corners of the national park — a place that feels more like a local secret than tourist track. Chances are we’ll have the whole trail to ourselves or see very few people on the there & back hike..

The walk is around 8km return and should take about 2–3 hours depending, of course, on how often we stop to take photos (which is likely to be often).

It begins with a narrow, rocky uphill section, flanked by classic bushland - gum trees, scrub, and that unmistakable scent of the mountains. Once we reach the ridge, the landscape opens up and the real show begins: distant peaks and sweeping valleys in every direction.

The wind is picking up now - enough to make you lean into it. If you look close you can see the track stretching ahead in this photo, toward Lockleys Pylon in the far distance, cutting across open heath. The bushland fades, the wind howls, and the views become spectacular. It's one of those moments that makes you stop and simply stare. You feel so alive. I like to pretend I'm part of the fellowship of the ring and state to whoever I'm walking with, "we aren't in the shire anymore"

After reaching the Pilon, we settle onto a few sun-warmed rocks, taking in panoramic views over the Grose Valley, with the golden sandstone cliffs of Mount Hay and Mount Banks glowing in the light. We rehydrate, snack on a apple and protein bars, and marvel at the fact we haven’t seen another person all day. It truly feels like we’ve found the top of the world.

We’re not here in unfortunately spring, so the wildflowers aren’t in bloom — but the thought of returning to see that colourful display is already in our minds. Eventually, we head back, spirits high and legs just the right kind of tired. Time now to decide which cosy mountain café or restaurant we’ll reward ourselves with and relive the walk over dinner.


Thanks kindly for any likes/comments, they are always appreciated.

Monuments of Time – The Majestic Rock Towers by EarthSeeker

© EarthSeeker, all rights reserved.

Monuments of Time – The Majestic Rock Towers

Towering volcanic rock formations rise against a flawless blue sky, standing as silent witnesses to the forces of nature. These rugged structures, shaped by time and erosion, embody the raw beauty and power of Earth's geological history.

Kanitha lost in the majesty of Devil's Valley by B℮n

© B℮n, all rights reserved.

Kanitha lost in the majesty of Devil's Valley

photo rights reserved by Ben

Devil's Valley lies high in the Caucasus Mountains, near the Jvari Pass. The valley is known for its raw beauty: steep mountains, deep gorges, fast-flowing rivers, and ancient watchtowers. In the past, it was a strategically important area, but also dangerous and difficult to traverse. It earned the nickname “Valley of the Devils” because invaders would often get lost, be ambushed, or simply never return—partly due to the fierce defense by the local population. Few tourists venture here; it feels like a hidden world. Especially outside the summer season, the valley is hard to access. Hikers and off-road adventurers love this kind of terrain, but it’s far from a typical day trip. One of the natural highlights of the area is the Eretos Waterfall. Cascading down a rocky cliff into a narrow gorge, the waterfall is tucked away between forested slopes. The sound of the falling water echoes through the valley, adding to the mysterious atmosphere of the region. It’s a place where nature takes center stage: wild, untouched, and barely marked by human presence. Visiting the waterfall feels like a reward for those willing to explore this rugged landscape.

Devil's Valley lies high in the Caucasus Mountains. The region is dramatic and mountainous, with panoramic views and an untamed character. It lies along the famous Georgian Military Highway, an ancient route that connects Tbilisi with Russia via the Jvari Pass. The landscape displays a mesmerizing contrast between snow-capped peaks and the golden autumn slopes, a characteristic feature of the region in late autumn. The deep blue sky emphasize the grandeur of the Caucasus, making this a truly awe-inspiring sight. Kanitha enjoying a view on the valley, with the impressive Caucasus mountains in the background.

De Devil's Valley ligt in de bergen van de Kaukasus, aan de Jvari-pas. De vallei staat bekend om haar ruige schoonheid: steile bergen, diepe kloven, snelstromende rivieren en eeuwenoude wachttorens. Ooit was dit een strategisch belangrijk gebied, maar ook gevaarlijk en moeilijk begaanbaar. De vallei kreeg de bijnaam “Valley of the Devils”, omdat indringers er vaak verdwaalden, werden aangevallen of simpelweg nooit meer terugkeerden — deels vanwege de lokale bevolking die haar land fel verdedigde.
Toeristen komen hier zelden; het voelt als een verborgen wereld. Vooral buiten het zomerseizoen is de vallei lastig toegankelijk. Wandelaars en offroad-liefhebbers zijn dol op dit soort plekken, maar het is geen standaard dagtrip. Eén van de natuurlijke parels in deze regio is de Eretos-waterval. Deze waterval stort zich tussen de rotsen naar beneden in een smalle kloof, verscholen tussen de beboste hellingen. Het geluid van het vallende water echoot door de vallei en draagt bij aan de mysterieuze sfeer van het gebied. Het is een plek waar de natuur de hoofdrol speelt: wild, ongerept en nauwelijks aangetast door de mens. Een bezoek aan de waterval voelt als een beloning voor wie de moeite neemt om dit ruige landschap te verkennen. De regio is dramatisch en bergachtig, met panoramische uitzichten en een rauw, onaangetast karakter. Ze ligt langs de beroemde Georgian Military Highway, een eeuwenoude route die Tbilisi met Rusland verbindt via de Jvari-pas. Kanitha geniet van het uitzicht op de vallei, met de indrukwekkende Kaukasusbergen op de achtergrond.

Kanitha embracing the view at Devil's Valley by B℮n

© B℮n, all rights reserved.

Kanitha embracing the view at Devil's Valley

photo rights reserved by Ben

Devil's Valley lies high in the Caucasus Mountains, near the Jvari Pass. The valley is known for its raw beauty: steep mountains, deep gorges, fast-flowing rivers, and ancient watchtowers. In the past, it was a strategically important area, but also dangerous and difficult to traverse. It earned the nickname “Valley of the Devils” because invaders would often get lost, be ambushed, or simply never return—partly due to the fierce defense by the local population. Few tourists venture here; it feels like a hidden world. Especially outside the summer season, the valley is hard to access. Hikers and off-road adventurers love this kind of terrain, but it’s far from a typical day trip. One of the natural highlights of the area is the Eretos Waterfall. Cascading down a rocky cliff into a narrow gorge, the waterfall is tucked away between forested slopes. The sound of the falling water echoes through the valley, adding to the mysterious atmosphere of the region. It’s a place where nature takes center stage: wild, untouched, and barely marked by human presence. Visiting the waterfall feels like a reward for those willing to explore this rugged landscape.

Devil's Valley lies high in the Caucasus Mountains. The region is dramatic and mountainous, with panoramic views and an untamed character. It lies along the famous Georgian Military Highway, an ancient route that connects Tbilisi with Russia via the Jvari Pass. The landscape displays a mesmerizing contrast between snow-capped peaks and the golden autumn slopes, a characteristic feature of the region in late autumn. The deep blue sky emphasize the grandeur of the Caucasus, making this a truly awe-inspiring sight. Kanitha enjoying a view on the valley, with the impressive Caucasus mountains in the background.

De Devil's Valley ligt in de bergen van de Kaukasus, aan de Jvari-pas. De vallei staat bekend om haar ruige schoonheid: steile bergen, diepe kloven, snelstromende rivieren en eeuwenoude wachttorens. Ooit was dit een strategisch belangrijk gebied, maar ook gevaarlijk en moeilijk begaanbaar. De vallei kreeg de bijnaam “Valley of the Devils”, omdat indringers er vaak verdwaalden, werden aangevallen of simpelweg nooit meer terugkeerden — deels vanwege de lokale bevolking die haar land fel verdedigde.
Toeristen komen hier zelden; het voelt als een verborgen wereld. Vooral buiten het zomerseizoen is de vallei lastig toegankelijk. Wandelaars en offroad-liefhebbers zijn dol op dit soort plekken, maar het is geen standaard dagtrip. Eén van de natuurlijke parels in deze regio is de Eretos-waterval. Deze waterval stort zich tussen de rotsen naar beneden in een smalle kloof, verscholen tussen de beboste hellingen. Het geluid van het vallende water echoot door de vallei en draagt bij aan de mysterieuze sfeer van het gebied. Het is een plek waar de natuur de hoofdrol speelt: wild, ongerept en nauwelijks aangetast door de mens. Een bezoek aan de waterval voelt als een beloning voor wie de moeite neemt om dit ruige landschap te verkennen. De regio is dramatisch en bergachtig, met panoramische uitzichten en een rauw, onaangetast karakter. Ze ligt langs de beroemde Georgian Military Highway, een eeuwenoude route die Tbilisi met Rusland verbindt via de Jvari-pas. Kanitha geniet van het uitzicht op de vallei, met de indrukwekkende Kaukasusbergen op de achtergrond.

A coin for a vision, a glimpse of the Caucasus by B℮n

© B℮n, all rights reserved.

A coin for a vision, a glimpse of the Caucasus

photo rights reserved by Ben

The Peace Monument also known as the Friendship Monument or the Russia-Georgia Friendship Monument at the Jvari Pass in Georgia is a striking structure erected in 1983 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the Georgian-Russian Treaty of Georgievsk 1783. This treaty marked the beginning of a closer political and military alliance between the Kingdom of Kartli-Kakheti (in present-day Georgia) and the Russian Empire. Its purpose was to protect Georgia from invasions by hostile powers. The monument is built in the form of a semicircular stone structure and is located at a panoramic point along the Jvari Pass, a mountain pass on the Georgian Military Road. This area is located in the Caucasus Mountains and offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The monument consists of colorful mosaics depicting scenes from Georgian history and culture, as well as the theme of peace and unity. Although the monument was intended as a symbol of friendship between Georgia and Russia, it has attracted controversy in later years due to the complex historical and political relations between the two countries, particularly after Georgia's independence in 1991 and subsequent conflicts. Today, it is seen more as a tourist attraction than a political symbol. The monument is a popular stop for travelers exploring the Georgian Military Road due to its impressive views and historical significance.

The journey from Stepantsminda back through the Jvari Pass on a clear, sunny day offers a completely different yet equally breathtaking experience. With the sky a brilliant blue and the sun illuminating the snow-capped peaks, the landscape reveals its full splendor. Leaving Stepantsminda, the majestic Mount Kazbek lingers in the rearview mirror, while the golden autumn hues blend harmoniously with the white summits of the Greater Caucasus. The winding Georgian Military Road stretches before us, flanked by deep valleys and rugged cliffs, each turn unveiling a new postcard-worthy view. Approaching the Jvari Pass, the air is crisp and refreshing, yet the sunshine casts a warm glow over the vast, open scenery. The Russia-Georgia Friendship Monument, usually shrouded in mist, now stands boldly against the vibrant backdrop of endless mountains. The panoramic view is nothing short of spectacular—deep gorges, glistening rivers, and untouched wilderness as far as the eye can see. Unlike the mysterious, mist-covered ascent, this return journey feels open, vast, and full of life. Every ridge and valley stands in sharp relief, offering a sense of freedom and awe that only the Caucasus can provide.

De reis van Stepantsminda terug door de Jvari-pas op een heldere, zonnige dag biedt een compleet andere, maar even adembenemende ervaring. Met een stralend blauwe lucht en de zon die de met sneeuw bedekte toppen verlicht, onthult het landschap zijn volle pracht. Bij het verlaten van Stepantsminda blijft de majestueuze berg Kazbek in de achteruitkijkspiegel hangen, terwijl de gouden herfsttinten harmonieus samensmelten met de witte toppen van de Grote Kaukasus. De kronkelende Georgische Militaire Weg strekt zich voor ons uit, geflankeerd door diepe valleien en ruige kliffen, waarbij elke bocht een nieuw ansichtkaartwaardig uitzicht onthult. Halverwege de pas doemt het Peace Monument op, ook bekend als het Friendship Monument of het Russia-Georgia Friendship Monument. Dit opvallende bouwwerk werd in 1983 opgericht ter herdenking van het 200-jarige jubileum, waarin het Georgië een nauwere alliantie sloot met het Russische Rijk. Destijds bedoeld als symbool van vriendschap, heeft het monument in latere jaren controverse opgeroepen door de complexe geopolitieke geschiedenis tussen de twee landen. Tegenwoordig wordt het vooral gewaardeerd als een toeristische trekpleister vanwege de adembenemende ligging. Bij het naderen van de Jvari-pas voelt de lucht fris en zuiver, terwijl de zon een warme gloed werpt over het uitgestrekte berglandschap. Waar het monument normaal gesproken in mist gehuld kan zijn, staat het nu fier tegen een decor van oneindige bergketens. Het panoramische uitzicht is ronduit spectaculair: diepe kloven, glinsterende rivieren en ongerepte wildernis zover het oog reikt.

Peace in remembrance: the Peace Monument 1783-1983 by B℮n

© B℮n, all rights reserved.

Peace in remembrance: the Peace Monument 1783-1983

photo rights reserved by Ben

The Peace Monument also known as the Friendship Monument or the Russia-Georgia Friendship Monument at the Jvari Pass in Georgia is a striking structure erected in 1983 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the Georgian-Russian Treaty of Georgievsk 1783. This treaty marked the beginning of a closer political and military alliance between the Kingdom of Kartli-Kakheti (in present-day Georgia) and the Russian Empire. Its purpose was to protect Georgia from invasions by hostile powers. The monument is built in the form of a semicircular stone structure and is located at a panoramic point along the Jvari Pass, a mountain pass on the Georgian Military Road. This area is located in the Caucasus Mountains and offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The monument consists of colorful mosaics depicting scenes from Georgian history and culture, as well as the theme of peace and unity. Although the monument was intended as a symbol of friendship between Georgia and Russia, it has attracted controversy in later years due to the complex historical and political relations between the two countries, particularly after Georgia's independence in 1991 and subsequent conflicts. Today, it is seen more as a tourist attraction than a political symbol. The monument is a popular stop for travelers exploring the Georgian Military Road due to its impressive views and historical significance.

This photograph shows a section of the Peace Monument at the Jvari Pass in Georgia. The colorful mosaic, which is prominently placed on the stone arch structure, illustrates themes such as history, culture, and the connection between Georgia and Russia. The artwork features figures, symbols, and scenes that reference both traditional Georgian and Russian elements. These dates refer to the 200th anniversary of the Treaty of Georgievsk (1783). This treaty established an alliance between Georgia and the Russian Empire, which at the time was intended to protect Georgia from foreign threats. In the center is a large central figure. This appears to be a woman holding a child, symbolizing peace, motherland, or protection. On either side are scenes of knights and horses. These images emphasize the fighting spirit and heroism, as well as the historical stories that connect both nations. The three arches below the artwork are part of the semi-circular construction of the monument. In the background is a snow-covered landscape, representing the rugged and scenic terrain of the Jvari Pass.

Het Peace Monument ook bekend als het Friendship Monument of het Russia-Georgia Friendship Monument bij de Jvari-pas in Georgië is een opvallend bouwwerk dat in 1983 werd opgericht om het 200-jarige jubileum van het Georgisch-Russische Verdrag van Georgievsk 1783 te herdenken. Dit verdrag markeerde het begin van een nauwere politieke en militaire alliantie tussen het Koninkrijk Kartli-Kachetië (in het huidige Georgië) en het Russische Rijk. Het doel was om Georgië te beschermen tegen invallen van vijandige mogendheden. Het monument is gebouwd in de vorm van een halfronde stenen structuur en bevindt zich op een panoramisch punt langs de Jvari-pas, een bergpas op de Georgische Militaire Weg. Dit gebied ligt in het Kaukasusgebergte en biedt spectaculaire uitzichten op de omliggende bergen en valleien. Het monument bestaat uit kleurrijke mozaïeken die scènes uit de Georgische geschiedenis en cultuur uitbeelden, evenals het thema van vrede en eenheid. Hoewel het monument bedoeld was als symbool van vriendschap tussen Georgië en Rusland, heeft het in latere jaren controverse opgeroepen vanwege de complexe historische en politieke relaties tussen de twee landen, met name na de onafhankelijkheid van Georgië in 1991 en de daaropvolgende conflicten. Tegenwoordig wordt het meer gezien als een toeristische trekpleister dan als een politiek symbool. Het monument is een populaire stop voor reizigers die de Georgische Militaire Weg verkennen vanwege het indrukwekkende uitzicht en de historische betekenis.

Return journey through the Jvari Pass: nature and history in harmony by B℮n

© B℮n, all rights reserved.

Return journey through the Jvari Pass: nature and history in harmony

photo rights reserved by Ben

The Peace Monument also known as the Friendship Monument or the Russia-Georgia Friendship Monument at the Jvari Pass in Georgia is a striking structure erected in 1983 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the Georgian-Russian Treaty of Georgievsk 1783. This treaty marked the beginning of a closer political and military alliance between the Kingdom of Kartli-Kakheti (in present-day Georgia) and the Russian Empire. Its purpose was to protect Georgia from invasions by hostile powers. The monument is built in the form of a semicircular stone structure and is located at a panoramic point along the Jvari Pass, a mountain pass on the Georgian Military Road. This area is located in the Caucasus Mountains and offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The monument consists of colorful mosaics depicting scenes from Georgian history and culture, as well as the theme of peace and unity. Although the monument was intended as a symbol of friendship between Georgia and Russia, it has attracted controversy in later years due to the complex historical and political relations between the two countries, particularly after Georgia's independence in 1991 and subsequent conflicts. Today, it is seen more as a tourist attraction than a political symbol. The monument is a popular stop for travelers exploring the Georgian Military Road due to its impressive views and historical significance.

The journey from Stepantsminda back through the Jvari Pass on a clear, sunny day offers a completely different yet equally breathtaking experience. With the sky a brilliant blue and the sun illuminating the snow-capped peaks, the landscape reveals its full splendor. Leaving Stepantsminda, the majestic Mount Kazbek lingers in the rearview mirror, while the golden autumn hues blend harmoniously with the white summits of the Greater Caucasus. The winding Georgian Military Road stretches before us, flanked by deep valleys and rugged cliffs, each turn unveiling a new postcard-worthy view. Approaching the Jvari Pass, the air is crisp and refreshing, yet the sunshine casts a warm glow over the vast, open scenery. The Russia-Georgia Friendship Monument, usually shrouded in mist, now stands boldly against the vibrant backdrop of endless mountains. The panoramic view is nothing short of spectacular—deep gorges, glistening rivers, and untouched wilderness as far as the eye can see. Unlike the mysterious, mist-covered ascent, this return journey feels open, vast, and full of life. Every ridge and valley stands in sharp relief, offering a sense of freedom and awe that only the Caucasus can provide.

De reis van Stepantsminda terug door de Jvari-pas op een heldere, zonnige dag biedt een compleet andere, maar even adembenemende ervaring. Met een stralend blauwe lucht en de zon die de met sneeuw bedekte toppen verlicht, onthult het landschap zijn volle pracht. Bij het verlaten van Stepantsminda blijft de majestueuze berg Kazbek in de achteruitkijkspiegel hangen, terwijl de gouden herfsttinten harmonieus samensmelten met de witte toppen van de Grote Kaukasus. De kronkelende Georgische Militaire Weg strekt zich voor ons uit, geflankeerd door diepe valleien en ruige kliffen, waarbij elke bocht een nieuw ansichtkaartwaardig uitzicht onthult. Halverwege de pas doemt het Peace Monument op, ook bekend als het Friendship Monument of het Russia-Georgia Friendship Monument. Dit opvallende bouwwerk werd in 1983 opgericht ter herdenking van het 200-jarige jubileum, waarin het Georgië een nauwere alliantie sloot met het Russische Rijk. Destijds bedoeld als symbool van vriendschap, heeft het monument in latere jaren controverse opgeroepen door de complexe geopolitieke geschiedenis tussen de twee landen. Tegenwoordig wordt het vooral gewaardeerd als een toeristische trekpleister vanwege de adembenemende ligging. Bij het naderen van de Jvari-pas voelt de lucht fris en zuiver, terwijl de zon een warme gloed werpt over het uitgestrekte berglandschap. Waar het monument normaal gesproken in mist gehuld kan zijn, staat het nu fier tegen een decor van oneindige bergketens. Het panoramische uitzicht is ronduit spectaculair: diepe kloven, glinsterende rivieren en ongerepte wildernis zover het oog reikt.

A Journey Through the Desert: An Adventure with an SUV by rkruczkowski

© rkruczkowski, all rights reserved.

A Journey Through the Desert: An Adventure with an SUV

The image depicts an open, barren landscape under an overcast sky. Dominating the center of the frame is a large sign with an arrow pointing to the right, indicating that there is only one route ahead. This sign is situated on a dirt road that cuts across the scene, surrounded by a desolate terrain devoid of vegetation.

In the foreground, a lone vehicle, possibly a truck or van, is parked on the side of the road. It appears to be in good condition and is currently stationary. The vehicle's presence contrasts with the vast emptiness of the surroundings.

Towards the background, there are mountains visible under the gray sky. Their silhouettes rise in the distance, adding a sense of depth and scale to the scene. This setting suggests a remote or rural area, far from urban amenities.

Serene Scenery: Snow-Capped Mountain Range with Clear Sky and Distant Pastures by rkruczkowski

© rkruczkowski, all rights reserved.

Serene Scenery: Snow-Capped Mountain Range with Clear Sky and Distant Pastures

The image presents a vast desert landscape under a clear blue sky. Dominating the scene is a majestic mountain range in the background, with their peaks reaching up to meet the sky. These mountains are densely covered with snow and dotted with evergreen trees, contrasting sharply with the arid surroundings.

In the foreground, there's a dry, barren field where a few sparse shrubs struggle for life. The ground is mostly composed of sandy soil, typical of desert landscapes. A few scattered rocks are visible, further emphasizing the harshness of the environment.

On either side of the image, there are white fences that appear to be part of a boundary or enclosure. They add a touch of human presence amidst the natural wilderness. The overall scene is devoid of any significant human activity or structures, giving it a sense of isolation and tranquility.

Denali National Park by -Brad-

© -Brad-, all rights reserved.

Denali National Park

From the warm environs of southeast Asia to the briskness of Denali National Park. I think this may be Mount Kinley but happy to be corrected if not, it was back in 2017 and I'm lucky to remember what I did yesterday. Or what I came into the room for.

Happy thought for the day ... spiders can't fly. Imagine if they could !!


Thanks kindly for any likes/comments, they are always appreciated.

Waterscape 27/100 in 2025

Isolated Mountain Hut in Misty High Alps – Black and White Landscape by Midbits

© Midbits, all rights reserved.

Isolated Mountain Hut in Misty High Alps – Black and White Landscape

Dramatic Snow-Covered Mountain Peaks Emerging Through Clouds by Midbits

© Midbits, all rights reserved.

Dramatic Snow-Covered Mountain Peaks Emerging Through Clouds

Autmnal view northwest from Castle Head across Derwentwater to the fells beyond. by Iand49 (Instagram @iand.49)

© Iand49 (Instagram @iand.49), all rights reserved.

Autmnal view northwest from Castle Head across Derwentwater to the fells beyond.

Castle Head to the West 11-11-2016 IMG_1079

Causey Pike seen in monochrome across Derwentwater from Castle Head by Iand49 (Instagram @iand.49)

© Iand49 (Instagram @iand.49), all rights reserved.

Causey Pike seen in monochrome across Derwentwater from Castle Head

Castle Head to Causey Pike 11-11-2016 IMG_1064bw

November view west from Castle Head across Derwentwater to Catbells and Causey Pike by Iand49 (Instagram @iand.49)

© Iand49 (Instagram @iand.49), all rights reserved.

November view west from Castle Head across Derwentwater to Catbells and Causey Pike

Castle Head to Causey Pike 11-11-2016 IMG_1062

between two breaths by arnds.photos

© arnds.photos, all rights reserved.

between two breaths

i stood on the edge of zahara de la sierra, where the mountains crack open like time itself. the lake below, still as a breath held in silence, reflects the passing clouds like fleeting thoughts. between light and shadow, between motion and memory – this moment felt like a quiet exhale from the earth. i didn't take this photo, it happened to me.