International Research Expedition Conducted in Racha to Study Climate and Wellbeing at Mountain Resorts
Racha, Georgia – June 2025
A scientific expedition was recently carried out in the mountainous region of Mravaldzali, Racha, as part of the international research project “Mountain Destinations/Resorts: A Scientific Study on Climate, Bioclimate, and Wellbeing Benefits“.
This 12-month initiative, launched in January 2025, was initiated by a strategic alliance between the Resorts Development Agency of Georgia, East-West University Medical School (Georgia), and the Center of Applied Research and Education (CARE), Czech Republic. The project brings together a multidisciplinary team of international experts in climate science, public health, physiology, and wellness.
Among the participating experts is Prof. Andreas Matzarakis, a renowned climatologist from the Faculty of Environment and Natural Resources at the University of Freiburg, Germany, whose involvement adds scientific depth and international credibility to the project.
The study aims to assess the unique climate and bioclimatic characteristics of Georgia’s mountain resorts and their impact on human health, wellbeing, and physical performance. Areas of investigation include air quality, altitude, humidity, temperature variations, and the presence of therapeutic environmental factors. The project also focuses on the potential of these destinations for hypoxia-based training, respiratory health, and recovery.
During the expedition to Mravaldzali, researchers carried out on-site data collection, including environmental monitoring and biodiversity assessments. Interviews with local residents and visitors were conducted to gather perceptions of health and wellness benefits associated with the region.
Alongside Prof. Khatuna Saganelidze and Prof. Andreas Matzarakis, Prof. Valishvili forms part of the project’s core research leadership team, guiding a multidisciplinary approach to evaluating how mountain climates impact physical performance, respiratory health, and overall wellbeing.
“This collaborative research will help position Georgia’s mountain resorts as premier destinations for wellness, rehabilitation, and climate-based health tourism,” said Prof. Khatuna Saganelidze, project lead from East-West University.
The research findings will be presented in a comprehensive scientific report, offering evidence-based recommendations for healthcare professionals, resort operators, and tourism stakeholders. The project also aims to support the long-term development of wellness, rehabilitation, and climate-health tourism in Georgia.
Updates on further stages of the project and final results will be shared through the official platforms of the partner institutions.