Explore Georgia’s Martvili Canyon

There was a time when the exquisite blue-green waters of Martvili Canyon were only open to Georgian nobles, who would visit to bathe. Now, everyone is welcome to boat and swim here. The picturesque natural wonder is located in Samegrelo, a coastal region of Georgia known for being a historical center of the country’s cuisine and culture. The two-level canyon is thick with moss and other plant life and dotted with waterfalls and caves. And even on the hottest days of summer, the water that pools in the lower level of the canyon is refreshingly cool.

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these deep green and blue waters were once the exclusive bathing place of Georgian Nobles but not anymore take a dip yourself [Music] this great big story is by Georgia national tourism administration marvel Canyon is located in the samma gorilla region of western Georgia the lush canyons filled with natural waterfalls and caves that have formed over time by the flow of the Abacha River the cold mountain waters have carved a path through soft limestone to create a natural wonder which at its lowest level reveals traces of fossils embedded in the rock a 40-foot drop from the waterfall into a pool below connects the upper and lower parts of the canyon the pool on the lower level is known for its cool waters even in the peak of summer making it the ideal spot to take in the beauty of nature visitors are encouraged to take a boat ride along the water and surround themselves with the tranquility of the cascading waterfalls imposing cliffs and slender moss covered trees magnificent views can be found either from the water or the walking trails that crisscross the canyon via bridges and viewing platforms the subtropical climate here influenced by the moist warm air from the Black Sea creates a unique ecosystem that allows flora and fauna to flourish within the canyon and which is found nowhere else in the country the sami gorilla region in which Martin fili Canyon is found now regarded as the gastronomic hub of the country was once known as the cultural center of Georgia the impressive mark Thule monastery stands on the highest hill overlooking the village and served as the center of clerical learning and administration for centuries and nine miles to the north in the village of selkie no Dada dyani dynasty built their summer retreat acclaimed the Mart viele Canyon as their personal bathing place [Music] it's easy to see why this fairytale water kingdom with its cool clear pools and secret waterfalls as enchanted people's for generations [Music] [Music]