Georgia is a country that's known for its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and warm hospitality. It's a place where you can explore ancient ruins, hike through the mountains, and relax on the beach all in one trip. But one of the best ways to experience Georgia's natural beauty is by visiting its national parks. In this post, we'll explore some of the best national parks in Georgia and what makes them so special.
1. Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park
Located in central Georgia, Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park is the largest national park in the country, covering over 85,000 hectares. The park is known for its dense forests, crystal-clear rivers, and rolling hills. It's also home to a variety of wildlife, including brown bears, wolves, and lynx.
One of the best ways to experience Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park is by hiking through its many trails. The park has over 300 kilometers of hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging multi-day treks. One of the most popular hikes is the 10-kilometer Borjomi-Kharagauli Nature Trail, which takes you through the heart of the park and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
The park is also home to the famous Borjomi mineral water. The water is known for its healing properties and is a popular drink in Georgia. You can try the water at the park's visitor center or take a tour of the Borjomi bottling plant.
2. Tbilisi National Park
Just a short drive from the capital city of Tbilisi, Tbilisi National Park is a hidden gem that's often overlooked by visitors. The park covers over 22,000 hectares and is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including oak and beech forests, eagles, and wild boar.
One of the highlights of Tbilisi National Park is the Dashbashi Canyon, a stunning natural wonder that's located within the park. The canyon is over 8 kilometers long and features towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and crystal-clear pools. It's a popular spot for hiking, swimming, and picnicking.
The park is also home to the historic Tbilisi sulfur baths. The baths have been a popular spot for locals and tourists alike for centuries. The water is heated naturally by the city's hot springs and is said to have healing properties.
3. Vashlovani National Park
Located in eastern Georgia, Vashlovani National Park is a unique and diverse landscape that's unlike any other in the country. The park covers over 25,000 hectares and is home to a variety of ecosystems, including semi-desert, steppe, and forest.
One of the most popular attractions in Vashlovani National Park is the Eagle Gorge, a deep canyon that's carved into the rocky landscape. The gorge is over 6 kilometers long and features towering cliffs, rushing rivers, and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. It's a popular spot for hiking, rock climbing, and birdwatching.
The park is also home to the ancient city of Vashlovani, which dates back to the 4th century BC. The city was an important center of trade and culture in the region and is now a popular spot for tourists to explore.
4. Kazbegi National Park
Located in the heart of the Caucasus Mountains, Kazbegi National Park is a breathtakingly beautiful landscape that's known for its snow-capped peaks, alpine meadows, and crystal-clear lakes. The park covers over 8,700 hectares and is home to a variety of wildlife, including brown bears, wolves, and eagles.
One of the highlights of Kazbegi National Park is the Gergeti Trinity Church, a stunning 14th-century church that's perched on a hilltop overlooking the surrounding landscape. The church is a popular spot for tourists and offers stunning views of the nearby Mount Kazbek.
The park is also home to the Dariali Gorge, a deep canyon that's carved into the rocky landscape. The gorge is over 12 kilometers long and features towering cliffs, rushing rivers, and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. It's a popular spot for hiking, rock climbing, and sightseeing.
5. Mtirala National Park
Located on Georgia's Black Sea coast, Mtirala National Park is a lush and verdant landscape that's known for its dense forests, rushing waterfalls, and crystal-clear streams. The park covers over 15,000 hectares and is home to a variety of wildlife, including golden eagles, brown bears, and wild boar.
One of the most popular attractions in Mtirala National Park is the Batumi Botanical Garden, a stunning 111-hectare garden that's home to over 5,000 species of plants from around the world. The garden is a popular spot for tourists and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
The park is also home to the famous Mtirala Waterfall, a stunning natural wonder that's over 70 meters tall. The waterfall is a popular spot for hiking, swimming, and sightseeing.
Georgia's national parks are some of the most beautiful and diverse landscapes in the world. From the snow-capped peaks of Kazbegi National Park to the lush forests of Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you're a hiker, a nature lover, or just looking for a peaceful escape from the city, Georgia's national parks are the perfect destination. So pack your bags, grab your hiking boots, and get ready to explore the natural beauty of Georgia.