Martvili Travel Guide

Plan your next adventure to Martvili, Georgia with this comprehensive travel guide. From natural attractions to cultural landmarks, find everything you need to know to make the most of your trip.


Introduction to Martvili

Martvili is a small town in northwestern Georgia, surrounded by breathtaking natural scenery and filled with historical and cultural landmarks. This hidden gem of a destination has something for everyone, from adventurous outdoor activities to relaxed sightseeing and cultural experiences. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or simply looking for a unique travel experience, Martvili is the perfect place to explore.

List of Places to Visit in Martvili

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Martvili is a treasure trove of cultural landmarks and historic sites, waiting to be explored. Here are some of the must-visit attractions:

  • Martvili Monastery Complex: This ancient complex of churches and monasteries dates back to the 7th century and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

  • Martvili Castle: This historic castle was built in the 14th century and was once the residence of local aristocrats. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction, known for its impressive architecture and beautiful gardens.

  • Martvili Ethnographic Museum: This museum showcases the traditional lifestyle, culture, and customs of the people of Martvili.

Natural Attractions of Martvili: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Martvili is blessed with an abundance of natural beauty, ranging from winding rivers and cascading waterfalls to deep canyons and rugged mountain peaks. Here are some of the must-see natural attractions in Martvili:

  • Martvili Canyon: This stunning canyon is located on the Abasha River and offers visitors the chance to explore its crystal-clear waterfalls and lush greenery.

  • Okatse Canyon: This is one of the most popular destinations in Martvili, famous for its stunning views and thrilling hiking trails.

  • Kinchkha Waterfall: This majestic waterfall is located in the heart of the Kinchkha Gorge, offering visitors a breathtaking view of the surrounding cliffs and vegetation.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Martvili

Martvili is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with numerous hiking and biking trails that take you through the heart of its natural beauty. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes in Martvili:

  • The Kinchkha Gorge Trail: This trail takes you through the heart of the Kinchkha Gorge, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and a chance to observe the local flora and fauna.

  • The Okatse Canyon Trail: This trail takes you through the towering cliffs of the Okatse Canyon, with stunning views of the Kinchkha Waterfall along the way.

  • The Abasha River Trail: This trail follows the winding path of the Abasha River, offering visitors a chance to explore the rugged terrain of the Martvili Canyon and take in the beauty of its waterfalls and wildlife.

Best Things to Do in Martvili: Activities and Tours

Martvili offers a range of exciting activities and tours for visitors of all ages, from cultural experiences to thrill-seeking adventures. Here are some of the best things to do in Martvili:

  • Take a boat tour of the Martvili Canyon: This is a unique way to explore the crystal-clear waters of the Martvili Canyon and see its stunning waterfalls up close.

  • Attend a traditional Georgian dance performance: Martvili is known for its vibrant dance culture, and attending a performance is a great way to experience the local culture.

  • Visit a local winery: Georgia is famous for its wine, and Martvili has some of the best wineries in the region. Take a tour of a winery and try some of the local vintages.

Week-Long Itinerary for Martvili

Day 1: Explore the Martvili Monastery Complex and Castle.

Day 2: Take a boat tour of the Martvili Canyon and visit a local winery.

Day 3: Visit the Kinchkha Waterfall and hike the Kinchkha Gorge Trail.

Day 4: Take a tour of the Martvili Ethnographic Museum and attend a traditional Georgian dance performance.

Day 5: Explore the Okatse Canyon and hike the Okatse Canyon Trail.

Day 6: Take a day trip to nearby Batumi, a seaside town known for its beaches and eclectic architecture.

Day 7: Relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Martvili, taking a leisurely stroll through its picturesque streets and visiting local cafes and restaurants to sample its delicious cuisine.

Food and Drink Scene of Martvili

Must-Try Dishes

Martvili is famous for its delicious cuisine, which blends the best of Georgian and Asian flavors. Here are some of the must-try dishes:

  • Khachapuri: This is a traditional Georgian bread filled with cheese, eggs, and herbs, and is a staple of the local cuisine.

  • Mtsvadi: This is a Georgian-style grilled kebab, made with marinated meat and served with a side of vegetables and flatbread.

  • Lobio: This is a traditional Georgian dish made with red beans, onions, tomatoes, and a host of flavorful spices.

Local Beverages

Georgia is famous for its wine, and Martvili has some of the best wineries in the region. Here are some of the must-try local beverages:

  • Saperavi: This is a deep-red, full-bodied red wine that is one of the most popular in Georgia.

  • Khinkali (dumplings): These are traditional Georgian dumplings filled with meat, cheese, or mushrooms, spiced with pepper.

  • Chacha or Georgian vodka: This is a popular Georgian spirit made from grapes or other fruits and can be found in almost every bar or restaurant in Martvili.

Where to Stay in Martvili: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Martvili has a range of accommodation options for visitors, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels and guesthouses. Here are some of the best places to stay in Martvili:

  • Hotel Old Town: Located in the heart of Martvili, this hotel offers comfortable rooms and easy access to the town’s attractions.

  • Guesthouse Keti: This guesthouse is located in a quiet neighborhood and offers cozy rooms and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

  • Hostel Il Vento: This budget-friendly hostel is perfect for travelers on a tight budget, offering dormitory-style rooms and a range of amenities.

What to Buy in Martvili: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Martvili is known for its arts and crafts, and you’ll find plenty of unique souvenirs and local products to bring back home. Here are some of the best things to buy in Martvili:

  • Handmade pottery: This is a traditional art form in Martvili, and you’ll find a range of beautiful pieces made by local artisans.

  • Handwoven textiles: Martvili is famous for its handwoven textiles, including rugs, blankets, and other household items.

  • Local wines and spirits: Martvili has some of the best wineries and distilleries in the region, and you can bring back some of the best local wines and spirits as a souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Martvili

Martvili is a deeply spiritual and traditional town, with ancient cultural practices and customs that are still observed today. Here are some of the most interesting aspects of its culture:

  • Religious traditions: Martvili is known for its ancient monasteries and churches, and religious traditions play a big role in the local culture.

  • Traditional dance and music: Martvili is famous for its vibrant dance culture, and you’ll often see locals performing traditional dances on festive occasions.

  • Family values: Martvili is a close-knit community, and family values are highly regarded.

Best Time to Visit Martvili

The best time to visit Martvili is from April to October, when the weather is mild and pleasant. During this time, you can enjoy all the outdoor activities and natural beauty that Martvili has to offer.

Do’s and Don’ts of Martvili

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and traditions of Martvili.

  • Try the local food and drink, including the famous Georgian wine.

  • Explore the natural beauty of Martvili, taking advantage of its many hiking and biking trails.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect local customs and traditions.

  • Litter or damage the natural environment.

  • Wear inappropriate clothing when visiting religious landmarks or cultural sites.

Safety and Health

Safety in Martvili

Martvili is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a friendly, welcoming local community. However, it’s always important to be aware of your surroundings and take basic safety precautions when traveling.

Health in Martvili

Martvili has a good healthcare system, with several hospitals and clinics that provide medical care to locals and travelers alike. Travelers are advised to have travel insurance before visiting, in case of any medical emergencies.

Getting to Martvili: Transportation Options and Logistics

Martvili is well-connected to the rest of Georgia, and there are several transportation options for visitors. Here are some of the best ways to get to Martvili:

Airports Near Martvili

The nearest international airport to Martvili is the Batumi International Airport, which is about 90 kilometers away. From here, you can take a taxi or rent a car to reach Martvili.

Bus Stations Near Martvili

There are several bus stations in nearby towns, including Kutaisi and Tbilisi, which offer bus services to Martvili. You can either take a direct bus or transfer at one of the nearby towns.

Other Options

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also rent a car and drive to Martvili from one of the nearby towns. This is a great option if you want to explore the surrounding countryside at your own pace.

How to Get Around in Martvili

Martvili is a small town, and most of its attractions are within walking distance of each other. However, if you want to explore the surrounding countryside or visit nearby attractions, you can rent a bicycle or a car from one of the local rental services.

Where to Go Next from Martvili: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Martvili is surrounded by several other fascinating destinations, both in Georgia and neighboring countries. Here are some of the best places to visit:

  • Batumi: This seaside town is famous for its beaches, nightlife, and eclectic architecture.

  • Kutaisi: This historic town is home to some of Georgia’s most impressive landmarks, including the Bagrati Cathedral and the Gelati Monastery.

  • Mestia: This is a mountain town in western Georgia, known for its stunning natural beauty and hiking trails.

Conclusion

Martvili is a hidden gem of a destination, with something for everyone. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or simply looking for a unique travel experience, Martvili is the perfect place to explore. With its stunning natural beauty, vibrant cultural scene, and welcoming local community, it’s no wonder that Martvili is quickly becoming one of Georgia’s most popular destinations.

Martvili Monastery in winter Martvili Monastery in winter Main square of Martvili, above - up on the mountain - the monastery towers Main square of Martvili, above - up on the mountain - the monastery towers