Dunga Waterfall Trail
Main Attractions: Dunga Waterfall, Colchian-type mixed forest.
Route: Upper Chkhutuneti village center → Dunga Waterfall
Distance: 1 km
Duration: 30 minutes
Elevation: Starting/Highest/Final point: 605/622/579 meters
Difficulty: Easy, hiking trail
The trail begins from the center of Upper Chkhutuneti village, crossing a small stream and leading into a beautiful Colchian-type forest. Hikers often hear various bird species and see moss-covered rocks, enhancing the journey. The trail to Dunga Waterfall is straightforward, with breathtaking views of the valley along the way, surrounded by diverse plant life creating a festive display of biodiversity.
Machakhela Wine History Trail
Main Attractions: Chonchkho Winepress, Mere Winepress, Dzneladze Winepress, Colchian forest.
Route: Upper Chkhutuneti village → Chonchkho Winepress → Mere Winepress → Dzneladze Winepress
Distance: 1.3 km
Duration: 1 hour
Elevation: Starting/Highest/Final point: 531/531/510 meters
Difficulty: Medium, hiking trail
This trail allows visitors to experience the rich history of winemaking in a short time, following the same paths taken for centuries by the valley’s inhabitants to protect one of their most important cultural symbols—wine. The route starts on the main road connecting Upper and Lower Chkhutuneti, quickly transitioning to a footpath along the left bank of the Machakhela River. Walking through the narrow village path down the hillside, surrounded by Colchian forest, travelers are transported back to an era when locals produced wine in secrecy.
One notable stop is the Chonchkho Winepress, set in a hidden rock crevice and shaded by a massive yew tree. The trail then descends steeply to the river’s edge, where the Mere Winepress is located, built in an even more concealed location to hold several tons of grapes. Finally, visitors reach the Dzneladze Family Winepress, located in a similarly concealed spot by the river and surrounded by forest, offering insights into the dedication locals had to preserving their winemaking heritage, despite physical challenges and threats.
