Known to locals as Stepantsminda, Kazbegi is an ideal base for exploring Georgia’s northern border. The village is the reward at the end of the stunning Georgian Military Highway, a route carved through the mountains by the czars, through some of Georgia's most scenic areas and past some of its most famous landmarks. Your drive pass through the region's most famous ski area, Gudauri, and include stops at scenic vistas, such as the Ananuri Castle, and the cliffside Russia–Georgia Friendship Monument, which shows Russian and Georgian history via colorful tiles covering its interior. Paragliding is available next to the monument.