Martvili Canyon Guide
Emerald Waters: Discover the Beauty of Martvili Canyon Guide
Martvili Canyon, located near Kutaisi in the Samegrelo region of Georgia, is a stunning natural wonder carved by the Abasha River. Its emerald green waters, cascading waterfalls, and lush vegetation create a picturesque landscape that attracts visitors seeking tranquility and natural beauty. The canyon offers boat tours and swimming opportunities, making it a refreshing escape from the summer heat. The area surrounding Martvili Canyon has a rich history, with evidence of human settlement dating back to the Paleolithic era. In the Middle Ages, the canyon was part of the Dadiani dynasty's estate, and the nearby Martvili Monastery, founded in the 7th century, served as an important religious and cultural center. The canyon itself was used for various purposes, including milling grain and providing water for the local population. Visitors to Martvili Canyon can enjoy a variety of activities. The most popular is taking a boat tour through the lower part of the canyon, allowing you to admire the towering cliffs and waterfalls up close. You can also swim in designated areas of the river, hike along the canyon rim, and explore the nearby Martvili Monastery. The Samegrelo region is known for its delicious cuisine, featuring dishes like elarji (cornmeal porridge with cheese), gebzhalia (cheese rolls in mint sauce), and kharcho (beef soup with walnuts).
Transportation
To reach Martvili Canyon from Kutaisi, you can take a marshrutka (minibus) from the Kutaisi central bus station. Look for marshrutkas heading towards Martvili village. The journey takes approximately 1-1.5 hours. From Martvili village, you can hire a taxi or walk to the canyon entrance, which is about 5 kilometers away.