Machakhela National Park

The Machakhela valley runs inland from the coast south-east of Batumi toward the Turkish border, and the national park established there in 2012 protects one of the better surviving stands of Colchic chestnut and beech forest, along with the villages along the river. Arched stone bridges of the medieval type found across Adjara cross the water at several points, single spans built without mortar in the local manner. The valley is known for a gunsmithing tradition: the Machakhela rifle, made by hand in village workshops from the eighteenth century, became well enough regarded to carry the valley's name, and a small museum covers it. Trails run into the forest from the villages.

What you actually see

• Arched stone bridges - single-span medieval crossings over the river.
• Colchic chestnut and beech forest - the woodland the park protects.
• The Machakhela rifle tradition - village gunsmithing in a small museum.
• Village trails into the forest - the walking routes up the valley.

When to go

May to October; the valley is wet in every season. A day from Batumi. It is a border area, so carry identification. Trails are muddy after rain.

Honest expectations

It is close to an international border and access to upper sections may be restricted. Trail marking is limited. Facilities in the villages are minimal. Rain is frequent and the forest is humid and buggy in summer.

Nearby

Batumi is west; Gonio fortress lies on the coast.