The Merisi River

The Merisi River: A Picturesque Valley of Eco-Tourism

The Merisi River (მდინარე მერისი) is a river in the Keda Municipality of Adjara, Georgia. As a right tributary of the Acharistsqali River, it originates on the slopes of the Meskheti Range and flows through the stunning Merisi Valley. This valley is becoming increasingly famous as a destination for eco-tourism and rural tourism, known for its pristine nature, picturesque villages, beautiful waterfalls, and the warm hospitality of its residents. The Merisi River is the heart of this idyllic and tranquil landscape.

The river flows through a classic Adjarian landscape of steep, forest-covered mountains, with traditional wooden houses perched on the slopes. The valley is a perfect place to experience the authentic rural life of highland Adjara. Its clean, clear water, fresh mountain air, and serene atmosphere make it a popular escape for visitors looking to get off the beaten path and immerse themselves in nature.

ℹ️ General Information

• Name of River: Merisi River (მდინარე მერისი)
• Location: Keda Municipality, Adjara, Georgia.
• Length: 19 km (12 miles)
• Basin Size: 93 km² (36 sq mi)
• Source (Origin): Meskheti Range.
• Mouth (Where it flows): Right tributary of the Acharistsqali River.
• Main Tributaries: Small mountain streams.

📍 Geography & Course

The Merisi is a fast-flowing mountain river that carves a deep and scenic gorge. It flows westward through its beautiful valley before joining the main Acharistsqali River. The valley is known for its numerous small waterfalls and beautiful swimming spots in the summer.

🌿 Nature & Ecology

The valley is covered in lush Colchic forests, rich in biodiversity. The area is part of the greater ecosystem of the Adjarian highlands, which includes parts of the Mtirala National Park. The clean river supports a healthy population of trout, and the surrounding forests are home to a variety of wildlife.

🏛️ History & Culture

The Merisi valley has a long history of settlement. It is part of highland Adjara, a region that has preserved many of its ancient traditions and its unique dialect. The valley is dotted with small village mosques (a legacy of the Ottoman period) and traditional Adjarian wooden houses (“Oda” houses). The culture is deeply connected to the land and the seasons.

🚣 Activities & Tourism

• Eco-Tourism and Rural Guesthouses: The valley is famous for its family-run guesthouses that offer visitors an authentic experience of local life, cuisine, and hospitality.
• Hiking to Waterfalls: There are several beautiful waterfalls in the valley that are popular hiking destinations.
• Swimming: In summer, the river’s clear pools are a perfect place to cool off.
• Trout Fishing: The river is a known spot for fishing.

🛤️ Accessibility

The Merisi valley is accessible by a local road that branches off the main Batumi-Akhaltsikhe highway in the Keda district. The road is paved for much of the way but can become narrow and winding. The valley is a popular day or multi-day trip from Batumi.