Mtirala National Park in Georgia: review, interesting facts and reviews. What to see for tourists in Batumi Argo cable car
The main attractions are compactly located in the city center, so almost all the most interesting things in Batumi can be seen in one evening.
But some of the beauties are located on the outskirts of the city or beyond. so buy excursions or rent a car and go ahead to conquer the pearl of the Black Sea coast of Georgia with the help of ours!
Primorsky Boulevard
In Batumi, a well-maintained boulevard stretches along the sea through the entire city. Its length is 7 km and includes old and new parts.
Walking along the boulevard, along the way you will come across benches and fountains, sculptures made by new architects, and unusual sun loungers.
The boulevard starts from the city center and diverges in both directions near the sea.
Near the boulevard there is a park, the construction of which was carried out by the governor back in 1881. You can walk along the magnolia alley.
Along the boulevard you can visit:
- street attractions with trampolines and carousels,
- playgrounds,
- aquapark.
And from the ancient colonnade you can clearly see the sunset right into the sea.
If you wish, you can eat in boulevard cafes, restaurants, and pubs. There are also nightclubs.
Park of Wonders
The Batumi embankment smoothly turns into the “Park of Wonders” - this is a large square with modern buildings, unusual sculptures, many benches and places to relax.
The most interesting sights in Batumi:
- lighthouse;
- Ferris wheel;
- tower of the Georgian alphabet;
- sculpture “Ali and Nino”;
- sculpture “Me, You and Batumi”;
- shoe sculpture;
- marina;
- chacha tower;
Boat trips on the sea on yachts and boats are organized at the pier. There is no exact departure schedule; they go for a walk after the ship is full, although local residents lure tourists with announcements that “we will set sail in 3 minutes.”
Sculpture "Ali and Nino"
One of the main attractions of the park of wonders is rightfully considered to be the steel figures of literary heroes in love - Ali and Nino.
Their height is 7 m, they periodically approach, unite into one sculpture and disperse. This performance occurs once every 10 minutes, so visitors will definitely have time to look at this famous work of art.
Ferris wheel
- Cost: 3 lari ($1.3)
40 capsules rise one by one to a height of 55 m to show those who wish to see the mesmerizing beauty of the city. The entertainment only takes 10 minutes, but leaves vivid memories.
Georgian Alphabet Tower
The height of this metal structure is 130 m and is an observation tower. In 2011, the architect depicted it in the form of DNA, and the Georgian alphabet is written on intertwined threads. The idea is to clearly show the nature of the nation at the genetic level.
You can go up in a glass elevator, from which you can see a beautiful landscape. There is a restaurant on the top platform. It turns around its axis so that visitors can see everything around it. One full revolution in one hour. The building also houses a small souvenir shop.
In the evening, the tower is illuminated, which you can admire without going inside.
Central Pier
The central pier of Batumi is a place not only for walks, but also for relaxation. On both sides of the pier there are cafes and souvenir shops, and at the very end there is a bar where discos are held in the evening.
Singing Fountains
Singing and dancing fountains provide free evening entertainment for both adults and children. There are two of them in Batumi, both along the embankment.
The first is located on Lake Ardagan. The performance usually starts at 9 pm.
Jets of water of different colors intersect to the rhythm of classical, pop and rock music. After this, the fountain forms a continuous canvas of water, on which various sketches, stories, and “Swan Lake” are depicted using a projector. If you look from the sea, you will see beautiful mountains in the background.
The second one is located on Batumi Boulevard near the registry office. The jets also dance to the tune. It brings laughter and joy to children as they try to slip between the fountains without getting wet.
During the day, the place where the boulevard begins with fountains and an abundance of flowers is no less beautiful.
Argo cable car
Paying tribute to ancient Greek myths, the cable car was named “Argo”.
- It was opened in 2013.
- Length – 2600 m.
- Extends at an altitude of 250 m.
- Gains speed of 5 m/s.
- The trip lasts about 10 minutes.
- There are 9 booths, 6 people in each.
While riding the cable car you can see many red roofs of residential buildings, a seaport, railway tracks for trains, mountains.
Children are delighted when they see an almost toy model of the city under their feet. They also get discounts on admission tickets.
The end point is Mount Periya, on which the observation deck is located. Closer to midnight, Georgian folk dances and concerts are held here in a cozy cafe.
Europe Square
Located in the very center of Batumi, surrounded by interesting buildings, beautiful buildings and fountains. It is here that concerts of visiting musicians take place: Andrea Bocelli, Jose Careras, Enrique Iglesias, etc.
The tall statue of Medea (130 m), which holds the Golden Fleece, attracts all tourists to Europe Square. Symbolizes the power and wealth of Georgia.
You cannot pass by another rare attraction - the astronomical clock. They show ordinary time, the location of the sun and the moon, and the location of the zodiac stars and planets. You can see the time of sunrise and sunset, the meridian and the horizon.
Piazza
The square is a crossroads of 3 streets. Named the Italian word “Piazza” and made in the Venetian style. This location is dotted with artistic stained glass and mosaics.
There are many restaurants, hotels and a clock tower. In the evening, live music plays on the square.
Church of St. Nicholas
Near the square there is also the Church of St. Nicholas, which is more than 150 years old and was previously considered a cathedral. And during the Soviet Union, the temple was closed for almost 20 years and the premises were used for the needs of the state until 1946.
theatre square
A small square next to the Chavchavadze Drama Theater, hence the corresponding name. The area is surrounded by buildings of different styles and periods.
In the middle of the square in 2010, a fountain with Poseidon was built, which is a copy of the Italian fountain of the 16th century, located in Brussels. Many, by the way, call this square Poseidon Square.
Park 6 May
One of the most beautiful places in the city, founded by a gardener in 1881. The entrance to the park is framed by a colonnade. Built around Lake Nurigel, which is connected by a channel to the Black Sea. There are lawns, benches and bike paths around.
On the territory of the park there are:
- dolphinarium,
- aquapark,
- mini zoo,
- playgrounds.
While relaxing, you can buy cotton candy, boiled corn and various drinks. If desired, go on a boat or catamaran.
Interesting sights include a sundial, a large Cypress sculpture and a fountain that lifts a boulder with its stream.
A walk at night will also bring you pleasure from the colorful lights and sounds of crickets.
Cathedral
The construction of the Cathedral of the Blessed Virgin Mary began back in 1898, when Adjara was filled with foreigners of different religions and they had nowhere to pray. At first, construction was carried out with the money of parishioners, until an oil industrialist helped. This greatly accelerated the process and in 1903 the cathedral was illuminated as a Roman Catholic church.
But not all the years since then the building served only for religious masses. During Soviet times, the building was given over to industrial and administrative premises. And only by 1989 the building was restored and returned to the Orthodox church.
Monastery of the Holy Trinity on Mount Sameba
It is the main cathedral of the Orthodox Church in Georgia and is located on a hill.
Includes: a cathedral, a monastery, a chapel, a theological seminary and academy, and the residence of the patriarch.
The cathedral is also decorated with 13 altars, frescoes and paintings on the walls. When you go inside, you can see the Bible, written by hand. She lies near the altar. The exterior of the cathedral is formed by arches and elaborate carvings.
9 bells, including electronic and mechanical ones, were made in Germany.
Climbing Mount Sameba, you can contemplate both a beautiful view of the city and the beauty of the monastery.
Botanical Garden
This piece of paradise covers an area of 120 hectares. Built in tiers, as the architect was inspired by the hanging gardens of Babylon.
The garden is divided into 21 sectors. Each of them is a collection of plants from a certain corner of the world. There is a bamboo grove, sakura from Japan itself, tall palm trees, cactus plantations, and tea trees. There is a nature reserve, a nursery, and an area with collection plants.
At the entrance there is a tree donated by Alexander III. And in the center of it all is a lake with turtles and goldfish.
Nearby is Cape Verde, a famous beach where you can swim after a long walk.
Dolphinarium
- Performance times: 16.00, 19.00, 21.00
- Cost: 15 GEL (at 21.00 - 20 GEL)
- Visit to the aquarium – 2 GEL
- Swimming with dolphins: adults - 150 GEL, children 3-16 years old - 100 GEL
In half an hour you can get a huge amount of positive emotions from a performance with 8 dolphins. Among them are 2 cute cubs. There are about 30 rooms that will delight both children and adults. This includes tail balancing, dancing, and synchronized swimming.
In the summer there are 3 sessions at different times, so you can choose a convenient visiting hour to suit your plans for the day.
The amphitheater consists of 4 sectors, so it can accommodate a large number of spectators.
The performance is commented on in 3 languages: Russian, English, Georgian.
For an additional fee you can swim with dolphins in the pool. Needless to say, these sensations are unforgettable and can serve as an excellent gift for children.
Aquapark
- Opening hours: daily from 10.00 to 20.00
- Cost: 40 GEL for the whole day
Where should the whole family go if not for water activities? The water park in Batumi is not large, there are only 6 slides and 5 pools on the territory (this includes waves and for group aerobics classes in water).
For a comfortable stay there are a large number of storage lockers, changing rooms and sun loungers. In addition, there is a hotel and cafe nearby.
There are separate pools for children with slides and fountains, so that parents can safely let them go swimming.
Driving close to the central part of Batumi, you can see untouchable nature and breathtaking landscapes. A large number of waterfalls, rivers, lakes that surprise with their transparency and healing properties.
Andrew the First-Called Waterfall
The waterfall is located 1 km from the border between Georgia and Turkey. If you drive from Batumi, it is within a radius of 12 km.
On the way to the waterfall there are very beautiful landscapes:
Near the waterfall there is a statue of Andrew the First-Called, the first apostle of Jesus Christ. They say that it was he who preached in Georgia after long travels around the world and built the first Christian church.
Fortress of Gonio-Apsaros
The fortress of Gonio-Apsaros is considered the oldest in the region. Its age goes back several thousand years.
The total length of all the walls reaches almost 1 km, and the height is 5 m. 18 towers have survived to this day; previously there were 5 more.
They say that this is where the grave of one of the apostles, Matthew, is located. This is just one of the legends that shroud this fortress in mysterious ignorance.
But the serious mission was to guard the entrances to the river gorges that flowed into the Black Sea. The inner district was built on this territory. Later, the fortress turned into a supporting citadel of the Roman Empire. The culture of this state made a significant contribution to the construction: sewer pipes and barracks.
Over the past 20 years, the fortress has received the status of a museum-reserve. Since a treasure of the 3rd century AD was found on the territory. At the moment, archaeological excavations are ongoing, but tourists are allowed to enjoy this historical monument.
Confluence of Acharistskali and Chorokhi
Heading to the Adjara gorge - Machakhela, you can contemplate waterfalls and high mountains. And also, the confluence of two rivers - Acharistskali and Chorokhi. Two stormy streams merge into one and continue to flow in the same direction. The first is darker, and the other is crystal clear. And the naked eye can see their difference and contrast. Tourists often say that this is one of the most romantic and breathtaking wildlife spots in Batumi.
Interestingly, Acharistskali begins on the Arsian ridge and has a hydroelectric power station. It is a tributary of the Chorokhi River.
Adjarian wine house
There is a winery located in the mountainous part of Adjara, founded in 2010. It was created on the ruins of an old factory, also for the production of wine.
Here you can observe old production traditions and taste different grape varieties. Among them is the famous “Chkhaveri”. You can also buy exclusive bottles. They are not sold in any store outside the Adjara Wine House.
In addition to enjoying excellent Georgian wine, it is worth considering old containers and vessels, barrels, going down into the cellars. Pleasant staff will provide all the information you are interested in about the wine business and will give you a tour.
Makhuntseti Waterfall
The height of the Makhuntseti waterfall is 30 m and is considered one of the largest in the region.
Swimming is allowed in the bowl of the waterfall, so it is worth bringing a swimsuit with you. You can also go to the cafe located nearby.
Arch Bridge of Queen Tamara
The bridge was built across the Adzharistskhali River, about 30 m high, and is very ancient - approximately 900 years old. It was built in the form of an arch made of rocks, which were chipped off near the place of erection in honor of Queen Tamara.
Previously, trade was carried out near the bridge. Now, it’s just a beautiful place with a landmark.
Sometimes they jump into the water from the bridge or just swim near it. Clean water allows you to enjoy swimming.
Green Lake
If you need a quiet place with mirror water, you should go to Green Lake. The reservoir lives up to its name: it shimmers in all shades from green to blue.
The temperature always remains cool, so in the summer heat it will feel like paradise while swimming in the lake. But you need to swim closer to the shore, since towards the middle of the reservoir the depth can reach up to 20 m. There may be large and sharp fragments of stones at the bottom, because the lake is of volcanic origin. A pleasant plus is that the water is safe for drinking and completely free of fish and other living creatures.
Mtirala National Park
There is a national park on Mount Mtirala. The microclimate is one of the most humid and foggy throughout Georgia.
One of the interesting points is the presence of Colchis forests and boxwood, which are found nowhere else on the entire planet. This is where you have a unique opportunity to enjoy these plants.
In addition to the rich flora with chestnut trees and beech groves, rare species of animals are found here: salamanders, lizards, wild cats, and snow dogs. Local residents who live on the territory call this place the Georgian jungle.
The park is also notable for its mineral springs and springs. They are said to have healing properties.
Fortresses and wooden houses built in the Middle Ages were found here.
There are several hiking trails in the park. If travelers do not have time to see everything, there is the opportunity to spend the night in hotel houses. Breathe clean air, wander among the trees, and in the morning go for a walk along a new path.
Picturesque views of the reserve:
Location of objects
| In the city | Around |
2017-10-10T16:29:32+00:00
My wife and I vacationed in Batumi in 2017 in mid-June. We weren't very lucky with the weather (2 days cloudy, one day sunny). It must be said that the weather has a very serious effect on the perception of the city and its surroundings. But overall, the resort seemed very attractive to me for a budget holiday. There are enough attractions to spend 2 days on field trips and another evening exploring the city's most interesting places. I really liked the presence of two singing fountains. Moreover, the one further away is more modern and interesting. When the area around is completed, I think it will be considered the main fountain. You should definitely visit the city center, where the alphabet tower and the Ferris wheel are located. Old town of course, but be careful. You can take a wrong turn and end up in the very heart of the city with local Turks and residents. They won't do anything bad, but the overall impression is not very good. The city generally produces a twofold impression. On the one hand, everything seems nice, but take a step to the right and you’re already in the 90s :) Of the outings, I only liked the trip to the waterfall. We also visited Mtirala National Park. It's beautiful in places, but overall nothing out of the ordinary. There are better places in Georgia. But here we had the most delicious meal during our entire vacation (on the farm
Mtirala National Park in Georgia appeared recently. It was founded after the country declared independence in 2007. The reserve is located on the rock mass of the same name, which rises 1761 meters above sea level. The name of the park translates as “crying mountain.” It is explained by the constant almost year-round thick fogs that envelop this area and fairly frequent rains.
Mount Mtirala rises in the Kobuleti and Chakvi region. In this article we will tell you what is remarkable about the Mtirala National Park and how to get to these wonderful places. You will learn about the flora and fauna of the park and what excursions are offered here.
Description of the reserve
The coastal gorges of Adjara are a unique area of humid subtropical forests in the territory of the former Soviet Union. This area is separated from the Colchis Plain and the Anatolian highlands by the spurs of the Meskheti Range, so the climate here is warm throughout the year.
Even at the beginning of the Ice Age, when glaciers descended from the peaks of the Caucasus and the climatic conditions of the entire Transcaucasus underwent significant changes (they became colder), the weather in these forests practically did not change. Many heat-loving plants have been preserved here. It is interesting that for a long time monkeys lived in this territory, leaving Transcaucasia when it became too cold for them.
Today, in the center of the Mtirala National Park is the village of Chakvistavi, located on the banks of the river of the same name. There is also a house where tourists are met by the management of the Mtirala National Park. The address of the reserve administration is Nizhneye Chakvi, st. Chavchavadze, 13. It is from here that a large two-day excursion route around the reserve begins. Groups going to the Tsablnari waterfall and lake also gather here. This is a fairly easy route that even older people and small children can do.
Park features
Mtirala National Park is subtropical, rather damp mountains with waterfalls and small lakes. High levels of humidity remain here due to frequent rains: experts say that this is the wettest place in Europe. The park has two main attractions: a waterfall and a mountain lake. You can add to the attractions that it was built by a local resident, school teacher Hasan.
The routes offered in Mtirala National Park cannot be called extreme: they do not require special equipment or skills, but comfortable shoes and sportswear must be taken care of in advance.
Solo travel
If you decide to explore the Mtirala National Park on your own, then you can easily find your way around it. Go to the right - you will come out to the Tsablnari waterfall, to the left - to the lake. Local residents believe, and it is difficult to disagree with this, that this place is a reflection of everything and rich national traditions. Magnificent nature, incredibly beautiful waterfalls, crystal clear air - all this captivates you in the park.
Due to the unusual landscape and richness of vegetation, this place is often called the “Georgian jungle”. The area of the Mtirala National Park is almost six thousand hectares. This truly vast territory contains unique plants that have no analogues in the world: luxurious beech and chestnut groves, plants that have long been listed in the Red Books of many countries.
Colchis forest
This forest is known to many from the myths about the Argonauts. This is the pride of the Mtirala National Park in Batumi. The remoteness of these places allowed the preservation of the Colchis forests, which grew on this land even during the time of the tropical climate. Another wealth of the park can be considered a supply of fresh and mineral waters with medicinal properties. For this reason, the reserve is included among the most important in modern Europe.
The meaning of the park
This unique place is very significant not only because of the possibility of developing ecotourism. Mtirala National Park plays a vital role in preserving the customs and cultural traditions of the country. Here tourists not only feel unity with nature, but also get acquainted with the life of Georgia. On the territory of the reserve there is the tiny village of Chakvistavi, which attracts tourists with one striking fact: the houses here were built about two centuries ago.
Local residents know firsthand and carefully preserve the ancient Georgian culture and with great joy share their knowledge with everyone who is interested in it. Here you will definitely be fed amazing dishes of national cuisine, which are prepared from products that they grow in the Mtirala National Park.
Excursions
If you don’t dare to go on an independent trip to the park, the organizers have prepared interesting excursions around its territory. As a rule, they include a trip to the gorge near the Chakvistskali River, a visit to the waterfall, next to which tourists usually take a break and have a snack in a picturesque clearing. And very close to it you will be offered horseback riding. For hardy and experienced travelers, a visit to another reserve is offered - “Kintrishi”. This walk will require endurance and stamina from you.
Flora of the national park
The reserve is home to many subtropical plants: 284 species, 68 families. Among them are 18 tree, 21 shrub and 16 endemic species. Rare relict endemics are listed in the country's Red Book: Ungernian rhododendron, Pontine oak, epigea.
Almost the entire territory of the Mtirala National Park is covered with impenetrable bushes and forests. They are distributed as follows (depending on the altitude above sea level): mixed forests - at an altitude of up to 600 meters, broad-leaved mixed Colchis forests, chestnut belt - at an altitude of 600 to 1000 meters, above a thousand meters there is a larch belt.
Animal world
The park is currently home to 95 species of animals: ungulates and amphibians, mammals of various sizes. Snakes and lizards, newts and frogs, salamanders are just some of the amphibians living in the reserve. Among small mammals you can find squirrel and hare, wild cat and fox, badger. It is better to avoid encounters with large animals such as wolves and bears. Occasionally, wild boars are also found in the park. The reserve has a wide variety of birds, including predatory species.
Where to stay?
Tourists have the opportunity to stay overnight in the park. You can rent a room in the tourist center located here. In addition, a campsite has been built on the territory of the reserve, where you can rent everything you need and spend the night in the fresh air in a tent.
The very hospitable locals do not stand aside either, providing overnight accommodation for a reasonable fee. Moreover, they will invite you to try delicious honey collected in these territories, delicious homemade cheese and a traditional Georgian sweet - churchkhela. Those who want a more comfortable stay can consider staying in guest houses and hotels located next to the Mtirala National Park. Reviews from tourists indicate that living in them is comfortable and quite affordable.
Guest house "Mtirala"
According to traveler reviews, you won’t find a better place for ecotourism. The house has only five rooms, furnished with everything necessary for a short stay. They are designed for two or three residents. The owners of the house keep piglets and calves, chickens and dogs, which guard the entire farm. Therefore, this living creature will not allow you to bask in bed for a long time in the morning.
On the way to the river you can collect walnuts, pears, tangerines and other fruits depending on the season.
Villa "Tengiz"
This is a new guest house located in the park. It opened in 2016 and offers ten double rooms with all amenities for accommodation.
"Country house"
It is located in the village of Hala, but on the other side of the river, opposite Mtirala, closer to the road. If you dream of regularly traveling to the sea, then this option will suit you more than others. It is also suitable if you just need an overnight stay before or after a trip to the park.
- Mtirala National Park not only allows for the development of ecotourism in the country, but also plays a vital role in preserving the Chakvi-Kobuleti ridge. This balance prevents flooding and erosion.
- Interestingly, the remote location of the Mtirala park played a positive role: the Colchis forests that appeared during the tropical climate have been preserved.
Mtirala National Park in Georgia: how to get there?
As we have already said, the reserve is located on Mount Mtirala, between the resort town of Kobuleti and the village of Chakvi, which are located on the Black Sea coast. Many travelers prefer to go on a trip to Mtirala National Park from Batumi. Local residents will explain to you how to get there. Chakvi and Kobuleti can be reached by regular bus or minibus. From Kobuleti it is more advisable to go to the village of Hala: it is located closer to the reserve.
Among autotourists you can often hear talk about the bad road to the park. In reality this is not the case. The distance to the park reception from the Batumi highway is about twelve kilometers. The road starts in Chakvi. The first eight kilometers of this route are completely new, smooth asphalt. The route winds between houses scattered in the mountains and crosses the river twice.
After eight kilometers you will come to a ranger post, beyond which the rocky road ends and begins: passenger cars move along it, but slowly. This section is about four kilometers. Passing it, you will get to the reception. You should drive straight, without turning anywhere. From time to time you will come across signs.
Mtirala (Tsiskara) is a rare and unique place in its natural beauty. This rock massif with an area of 15.8 thousand hectares is a national park of Adjara. It is located at an altitude of 1761 m above sea level on Mount Mtirala, which means “Weeping” in Georgian. The mountain got its name due to the fact that it often rains and fogs in Mtirala Park. Due to the huge amount of annual precipitation (4.5 thousand mm), Mtirala is considered the wettest place in Europe. When going on an excursion to the park, just in case, you need to take umbrellas or raincoats. But, despite the possible rain, it is definitely worth visiting this fabulous, unique corner of pristine nature, untouched by man.
The landscape of the park consists of stepped terraces descending to the sea. Each level has its own unique plants and trees, characteristic of a given climate zone. There are mixed deciduous-coniferous forests, beech plantations, Pontic oaks, Colchis forests, gorges, waterfalls, boxwood groves and chestnut forests, mountain rivers, alpine meadows with a variety of herbs and flowers and crystal clear mountain air that is impossible to breathe. The park has many healing springs with simple and mineral water located on the mountain slopes.
How to get to Mtirala National Park from Batumi
You can get to Mtirala either on a guided tour or by renting a car. Prices for excursions from Batumi to Mtirala Park start from 50 GEL (about $20) per person, and prices for renting a car with a capacity of 6-7 people start from 150 GEL (60 $). The asphalt ends in the settlement area and then the road to the park goes serpentine up the rocks, so only an off-road vehicle is suitable for such a trip.
The territory of the park itself begins much earlier than the tourist area itself. And while you are driving through this area, from the car windows you can already see stunning views of evergreen subtropical forests, in which something is always blooming, smelling and bearing fruit. The serpentine road rises higher and higher. Below there are mountain rivers that crash noisily on the rocks, dividing into many endlessly flowing streams. Here comes the first stop for great photos – the suspension bridge. With every step, the bridge sways left and right, which is a little scary at first. But once you get used to it, you can sit on the bridge, dangling your legs over the seething river, and enjoy the beauty and harmony of the landscape: cows graze peacefully on the emerald green grass covered with wildflowers, the chirping of birds can be heard everywhere, colorful butterflies occasionally flutter, bright colors overhead. blue sky, which only happens in the mountains.
From the entrance to the park to the information center it is 5 km along a narrow winding road between rocks and a cliff. When approaching the tourist area of the park, you can familiarize yourself with the route map, which is located in the tourist center, as well as get any information you are interested in on excursions, and get acquainted with local customs and traditions. The center has guest rooms, an information hall, and an exhibition with local exhibits. Entrance to the park is free. The administration of the national park offers visitors a number of tours - walking, horseback riding, tourism, scientific, and photography. Guides will accompany you everywhere. For a tourist tour, you can rent equipment - tents, backpacks and sleeping bags. Tours are offered for one day and for 2-3 days. The price of rental housing here starts from 30 lari ($12) per day per person.
If you are traveling on your own, you can stay in a park guesthouse, where you can spend the night and have a delicious meal. The rooms are cozy and have everything you need. The cost of accommodation with meals is 50 GEL ($20) per person per day.
What to see in the park
The paths of the park lead up and down through forests, streams, stones and rocks, so it is preferable to choose sports clothes and comfortable shoes. You need to think about water and snacks in advance or eat at local cafes. Here you will be offered fresh river trout, shish kebab, khachapuri, homemade wine, etc. Products prepared in the fresh air according to traditional recipes are just what you need after a long walk in the mountains. Prices in the park are quite affordable, and the quality of wine, chacha and honey, which are sold here in every home, will be much higher than in the city.
The tourist route through the park begins at the river and this is a small adventure in itself. A cable crossing like this can only be seen in old movies or TV shows. The cabin can accommodate 3-4 people, one of whom must use the steering wheel to move the cabin to the other side. Tourists are always delighted with such a trip.
Then the path goes up and leads you to a fork. The lower trail, 700 meters long, leads to a small blue mountain lake, and the upper one (1.5 km) leads to a beautiful 15-meter waterfall.
Also at this fork there is entertainment for fans of sports and extreme sports - a zipline. This pleasure will cost you 15 lari ($6) and will give you a boost of energy and positive emotions. There are 4 zip lines and all of them are at an altitude of about 10 meters above streams, rocks and forest. It is absolutely safe, thanks to experienced instructors and safety equipment.
A walk to the lake will not take much time and effort. What a beautiful view will open before you - among the mountains covered with dense impenetrable vegetation, there lies a blue saucer of a mountain lake, in which the landscape is reflected. There is something magical in this beauty and silence, as if time has stopped here. The water in the lake is very clean, but cold, about 15 degrees in summer. You can swim in the lake.
Walking through Mtirala Park, you feel cut off from civilization, which brings subconscious joy. Here you feel especially keenly your connection with nature, you feel like an indivisible part of it. The impression is that you are making your way through a subtropical jungle - trees and shrubs intertwine with each other, ivy and vines hang overhead, covering the sky, and under your feet there is a green carpet of ferns and moss. Just then, from behind a tree or bush, a fairy-tale character like an old forest man or some forest gnome will step towards you.
Due to the constantly high humidity, which here reaches 80-85%, moss is everywhere - on trees, bushes, stones, rocks. Green color surrounds you on all sides, calms you down and improves your mood. Sometimes the jungle thickets open up and make it possible to see the slopes of the mountains.
The upper excursion to the waterfall will be much more difficult, because the path rises steeply into the mountains, but the views from the height are breathtaking. Several stunning viewing platforms will open before you, surrounded by greenery. When you reach the waterfall, you will definitely want to take a swim, but the water there is always very cold. However, in the summer heat this stops few people. Fans of photo shoots rush to catch a good shot by standing behind the waterfall, and willy-nilly they come back wet. A friendly and positive atmosphere always reigns here. If you are traveling with small children or elderly people, it is better to avoid this mountain hike.
While walking through the park, you need to stop to listen to birdsong, admire the beauty of the mountain landscape, drink spring water from a mineral spring and breathe in the dizzying aroma of herbs and various flowers. It is very difficult to describe all the beauty and uniqueness of this reserve, created by nature itself, and still retaining its purity and pristineness.
Mtirala Park has a diverse and unique flora and fauna. The flora is represented by Georgian, Adjarian, Colchis and Caucasian endemics. There are many lakes and waterfalls in the park. Rare plants and reptiles of ancient Colchis, which are on the verge of extinction, have been preserved in the park. Many of them are listed in the Red Book.
About a hundred species of fauna live in the Mtirali reserve. Squirrels, badgers, hares, foxes, roe deer, weasels, wild boars, wolves and brown bears, a variety of amphibians and reptiles, and various birds coexist perfectly here. And this is not surprising, because they live in their natural environment with minimal human intervention.
Mtirala National Park plays a very important role in maintaining the balance of the natural ecosystem, preventing soil erosion and flooding of the surrounding areas. The park has large natural reserves of fresh water.
In Mtirala Park you can go to an exhibition and sale of local products grown in this ecologically clean area, taste and purchase real mountain honey from local herbs. You can also go horseback riding and get a couple of riding lessons from professional instructors.
In fact, there are not many places left on earth where human presence is not felt. Mtirala Park is one of them. A wonderful, wonderful place for hiking and unity with nature. It will impress not only nature lovers, but also those who simply want to be alone with themselves and their thoughts, away from the noise. For everyone who comes here, Mtirala Park will leave a lot of impressions, and you will never forget the clean mountain air, filled with the heady aromas of meadow grasses and wild flowers.
Anyone who has ever visited this exotic corner of the wild will have the best and most pleasant impressions.
Address: Adjara
Mtirala National Park, Adjara, Georgia
Mtirala Nature Reserve is one of the new reserves, founded after the declaration of independence of Georgia in 2007.
It is located on the rock mass of the same name, the height of which is 1761 meters above sea level. Locals call the massif the “crying mountain” due to the fact that it is shrouded in fog almost all year round.
The territory of the reserve occupies 6 thousand hectares.
Attractions
Mtirala Nature Park is famous for its vegetation - a boxwood grove and relict Colchis forest with unique plant species. Experts believe that this is practically the only place on Earth where such a rare and unique flora is found.
Another attraction of the Mtirala rock massif is its healing mineral springs and springs with crystal clear water.
In addition, on the territory of the park there is a small village with ancient houses of the 19th century, which have preserved their original appearance for two hundred years.
Excursions around the reserve
In the small urban-type village of Chakvi there is a tourist center, whose employees organize excursions around the reserve, introduce tourists to the diversity of the surrounding nature and wildlife, as well as the age-old national customs and traditions of Georgia.
The tourist center has information rooms and regularly holds exhibitions and sales, where everyone can purchase various memorable trinkets and products made by local craftsmen.
An excursion route through the National Park, as a rule, includes a visit to the gorge of the Chakvis Tskali River, a pedestrian ascent to the waterfall in order to admire the picturesque surroundings of the reserve from above. In a clearing not far from the waterfall you can ride horses and have a small picnic.
How to get there
The national park with a reserve is located on Mount Mtirala, between the urban village of Chakvi and the resort town, located on the Black Sea coast. You can get from Batumi to one of these settlements by bus or minibus. Having reached Kobuleti, it is best to go to the village of Hala, which is much closer to the reserve than the village of Chakvi.
For those traveling by car, there is a campsite in the national park where you can stay overnight.
Mtirala National Park is valued for its amazingly beautiful and unique nature: the picturesque Chakvistskhali gorge, the fabulous Colchis forest and boxwood grove, a waterfall and a mountain river - the amazing landscapes of this territory will not leave you indifferent.
Do you want to come here? The Viva-Georgia team will organize an excursion or tour for you, create the optimal travel route and provide any other assistance during the trip.
Mtirala National Park – a chance to see tropical nature in Georgia and shake khachapuriki while walking through the hills. The humidity is hellish, but there are 1548 shades of green all around.
Mtirala is located 25 km from Batumi, 15 km from Chakvi and 30 km from Kobuleti.
They paved through the national park asphalt. Hooray! Now you can get there on any puzoterka.
Georgians go to Mtirala to eat trout with barbecue by the river.
Tourists go to the waterfall and lake. The route is easy, takes two hours, and is possible with children. There is a second route that is more difficult for 1-2 days.
Also in Mtirala there is a rope park, zip line, horse riding and guest houses to spend the night.
The national park lies under Mount Mtirala, translated as “Weeping Mountain”.
The wettest place in Adjara with a special microclimate.
I was there 8 times, I was able to see the waterfall only on the ninth attempt. Before this there is always a rain apocalypse.
Mtirala on the map
Coordinates: 41.680443, 41.860279
Working hours: 9.00-18.00 seven days a week
Plan your visit to Mtirala 4+ hours: an hour for the road from Batumi one way and 2-3 hours for a walk in the park.
How to get to Mtirala National Park
Minibus+taxi
Take minibus No. 40 to Chakvi, stop opposite the lower Batumi station.
We get off in the center of Chakvi at the sign “Mtirala National Park”.
You will also find taxi drivers there. Starting price for a round trip to the national park and 2 hours of waiting in summer 50-60 GEL. You can bargain and go for 30-40 lari.
There is also a minibus running from the Batumi bus station (Mayakovsky, 1) to the village of Khala; from the village to the start of the tourist routes it takes 2-2.5 hours on foot.
Departure times of the Batumi-Khala minibus: 8.30, 11.30, 14.30, 17.50
Return from Hala-Batumi: 9.20, 12.20, 15.20, 18.30
The minibus schedule may change, the price is 1-2 GEL.
They promised to launch a direct minibus from Batumi to Mtirala for the summer, but I’m not sure of its existence. Check at the station.
Taxi from Batumi
Riding a minibus in the heat to Chakvi is not much fun (people sit and stand like carpenters).
It’s easier to overpay a little and get to the national park by taxi from Batumi without transfers.
Using any app, a taxi from Batumi to the Mtirala Nature Reserve will cost 25-30 GEL one way.
Drive along the Batumi-Chakvi road, after the river at the sign we turn right, then 15 km along the route Hala-Visit Center-Chakvistavi along the serpentine road.
Keep to the river, it will be on the right. The road is asphalted all the way. There was only one dirt section left at 600 meters at the end.
Stop at the visitor center and talk to the rangers. They will tell you what to see and give you a paper map.
What to see in Mtirala
There are 2 routes in the park. If you come for half a day and are not ready for a hike in the mountains, choose second, easy.
Route 1: “Tsivtskaro”
Two-day, walking or horseback
Length 16 km
Altitude 260-1250 m above sea level
Medium difficulty
Hiking for 2 days with an overnight stay through the broad-leaved Colchis forests. By starting early in the morning, you can catch up one long day.
The route passes through the habitats of brown bear, roe deer, chamois, marten, and lynx. At the 9th kilometer there is a shelter for 8 people and a picnic area.
Simple route for 2 hours Route 2: “Tsablnari Waterfall and Lake”
Length: 4 km, 2 hours
Altitude: 260-445 m above sea level
Mostly they come for a couple of hours and walk along a circular route: river-waterfall-lake-parking.
It is considered lightweight and suitable for people of all ages.
Still, this is no walk in the park. Walk up a narrow path through the humid jungle. It's hard in the heat.
If you don't have the strength to climb to the waterfall – go to the lake. The road is straight, you can have a picnic and swim by the lake.
Wear sports shoes. It’s problematic in slates, and after rain it’s also slippery.
Step by step route
▫ We arrived at the reserve and left the car in the free parking lot.
To get to the trail leading to the waterfall and lake, you need cross the river. There are two options:
▫ (a) Free by bridge behind the Shoka&Leo restaurant. But you will have to walk an extra 650 meters (+15 minutes) to the waterfall.
Right there in the restaurant you can pay 20 GEL and ride a zip line over the river, the length is 250 meters.
Bridge coordinates: 41.678823, 41.86324
there is a free bridge behind this restaurant ▫ (b) In a mini-trailer cable car for 2 GEL/person
Cable car coordinates: 41.678011, 41.869320
Free parking is available both there and there. We are crossing by cable car – that's more interesting.
▫ We cross the rope park and the stream.
▫ To the waterfall to the right, to the lake to the left. Turn right, walk 1.5 km to the waterfall, 20-30 minutes up.
The trail passes through the Colchis forest, along the way we see a blooming rhododendron.
▫ Tsablnari waterfall is 15 meters high, you can swim. We just drank ice water (delicious).
There is no designated picnic area or bench near the waterfall. We came, rested, took a swim.
▫ We go down to the lake through the thickets.
Along the way we see rare species of relict plants. Evergreen rhododendron Ungern and epigea, Pontic rhododendron, laurel leaf, holly, boxwood.
There are walnuts, chestnuts, hornbeams, and maples. The forest in Mtirala is ancient. They say it even survived the last ice age and has continued to grow since then.
▫ There is a table and benches near the lake for a large company. River trout live in the creek.
▫ In 20-30 minutes we returned to the river, again crossed in the trailer and went out to the parking lot.
In total, exactly two hours: we arrived at 15.40 and left at 17.40.
Beekeeping
Beekeeping is well developed in the national park. Honey is collected twice a year: in May, honey from acacias, citrus fruits and wildflowers, in August – chestnut honey 20-25 lari per kilogram. Sold in guest houses and along the road.
Camping
There are several camping sites in the national park. To reserve them, contact the visitor center. Rental prices:
Tent 10 GEL
Sleeping bag 5 GEL
Picnic area for 10 people - 15 GEL
Horse rental 50 GEL per day
Contact faces:
Khvicha Kontselidze +995 558 65 39 62
Beka Apakidze +995 557 51 61 37