Outstanding Villages in Adjara

Georgia is a country steeped in tradition, where villages carry significant cultural weight. It's a rarity to find a family here that doesn't have deep-rooted ties to the village life. This bond is particularly strong in Ajara, a region revered for its commitment to preserving and reviving ancient farming methods and village customs. Visitors are welcomed into these villages to experience their unique lifestyle firsthand. If you find yourself in Ajara during autumn, a visit to these charming villages is a must. 

Rich agricultural traditions, diversity of cultural flora, traditional landscape, beautiful nature of the region, mountainous terrain, sea coast, and hospitality - these are the recreational resources that you will find in the villages of Adjara. Autumn marks a time of intense activity and emotion in village life as it's the harvest season. Visitors are often invited to join in on various tasks, be it the harvest itself, picking mandarins, or tobacco cultivation. 

Ajara also places a strong emphasis on rural tourism. One of the highlights is the rural tourism festival, which is open to everyone. "Gandagana," an annual event aimed at promoting rural tourism, is held at Europe Square and is the region's most anticipated festival. For one day, Adjara's municipalities showcase their distinctive products, handicrafts, traditions, and folklore. You can also attend the Agro Batumi exhibition, a regular event that displays agro-food products and technologies. Over two days, participating companies present their products and services to potential buyers. 

Each region showcases a diverse array of local customs, best preserved in the mountain villages. These areas blend old Georgian traditions with their unique, historically informed methods of local product production and cuisine. Here are some villages that you must visit:

• Tago - The village of Tago, nestled in the valley of the Ajaristskali River within the Khulo municipality, stands out. Unique to Tago is its connection to Khulo by an unsupported cable car, the second longest in Europe at 1720 meters in length and 280 meters in height. If glamping is your cup of tea, Tago offers prime locations with extraordinary views. 
• Makhuntseti - In the Kedi municipality resides the village of Makhuntseti, home to one of the most beautiful waterfalls in not just Ajara, but all of Georgia. The river basin offers opportunities for boating and rafting. The village takes great pride in its historic 12th-century arched bridge, a cultural monument. Makhuntseti also features an ethnographic museum, where exhibitions recount the history and lifestyle of its inhabitants.
• Mirveti - Not far from Batumi, just 19 kilometers away, lies the picturesque village of Mirveti. This proximity makes it an excellent destination for a cycling adventure, with beautiful views en route. The famed Mirveti waterfall is a sight to behold here, and you might also catch a glimpse of the rare Colchian elm, an endemic and endangered species listed in the Red Book.