The Crossroads of Time and Harvest
Akhmeta is a historic region in eastern Georgia, nestled within the Kakheti province. Stretching from the wide Alazani Valley to the snowy peaks of the Caucasus Mountains, this land has been continuously inhabited since the Stone Age. Thanks to its abundant natural resources, strategic location, and ancient trade and caravan routes, Akhmeta has long pulsed to the rhythm of the Caucasus. Over the centuries, alongside native Kakhs, Tush, Khevsur, Pshav, Ossetian, Kist, and Chechen communities settled here. They rooted themselves in the land and shaped a diverse yet consistent local civilization. Akhmeta is steeped in cultural landmarks. The fortress town of Kvetera (8 th –11 th century) and the majestic 11th-century Alaverdi Monastery in the Alazani Valley stand as proud symbols of the region.
Equally remarkable is the winemaking tradition that thrives on its fertile soil, and a cuisine rich with flavors and ritual practices passed down through local communities and generations. Layered oral traditions, colorful folklore, and ethnographic treasures still echo the region’s dramatic history.
The Akhmeta Greenway follows this living heritage, weaving through its natural, cultural, and agricultural roots. It winds through the town center, offering a glimpse into the shared daily life of its communities. The route passes medieval churches, unfolds sweeping views of the Alazani Valley and traditional vineyards, and captures the timeless rhythm of village life. One stop, the village of Kistauri, is linked to the extraordinary Barbare Jorjadze author of The Complete Cookbook, published in 1874. Her work remainsa treasured guide, preserving the flavors and essence of Akhmetian and Georgian cuisine.
Family-run wine cellars lining the Greenway raise a toast to the land-inviting travelers to discover the heart of Georgia through the full bodied spirit of Akhmeta’s wine.
Route Description:
(Zemo Khodasheni – Chachkhriala)
Mode of transport: Bicycle
Route length: 21 km
Total ascent: 960 m
Total descent: 373 m
Average gradient: From start to finish - 0.03%
Route difficulty: The route is of easy category.
*For those who enjoy challenges, you can choose the direction marked in red on the map, where steep slopes and a forest path await.
The Green Route begins in the Ilto Valley, on the gentle slopes of the Chachkhriala village and winds its way toward the heart of Akhmeta. It meanders through the town’s streets and courtyards before reaching the quiet banks of the Orvili River. A bridge carries the travelers across the water, and the road ascends along the slopes of the Kakheti Ridge. A short detour leads to a forest-hidden treasure — the 10th–11th-century Saint George Church of Lomis. Not far off, perched on a hill, rises another jewel of local heritage — the Church of the Archangels of Akhmeta. The trail continues, captivating visitors with vast, panoramic views and the majesty of the Alazani Valley. It passes through the village of Sachale and follows a wooded section toward the edges of Kistauri. On a nearby hill, surrounded by greenery, stands a modest yet deeply historical pre feudal temple—Kistauri’s Church of the Virgin Mary, known as “All Saints.” Its yard is filled with votive offerings: clay vessels and qvevris. Across the road, lies the village of Kistauri, with origins dating back to the Middle Paleolithic era. It also proudly hosts the Raphael Eristavi House Museum, which once made the village a regional center of arts. The journey continues toAkhshani - a village rich with historic churches, surrounded by vineyards, orchards, and meadows. The road here breathes the aroma of ripe grapes and old wine. The greenway route ends in Zemo Khodasheni, where visitors are greeted by the Biological Farming Association “Elkana” (the domestic animal conservation farm), the local wineries and family cellars, warmly sharing the true Kakhetia hospitality.
** The Akhmeta Greenway can also be started from the slopes of the village of Zemo Khodasheni