Take a moment. Close your eyes and imagine the sonorous notes of water splashing, the coolness of mossy rocks, and the ever-invigorating scent of lush woods. You've just entered the realm of the Black Grouse Waterfall, or as locals whisper, the Rocho Waterfall. Nestled in the heart of Kakheti, within the embrace of the Lagodekhi Protected Areas, this gem is not just another pretty face in Georgia's resplendent landscape; it's nature singing its purest song.
Hop on a car or minibus, and in no time, you're close to Lagodekhi. But, the real journey begins on foot. A picturesque 5 kilometers (about 3.1 miles) trek from the Lagodekhi Visitor Center awaits. Trekking shoes? Check! As you meander through the unique hornbeam grove, elevated 400-600 meters (around 1312-1968 feet) above sea level, you'll be serenaded by the whispers of ash, lime, maple, and chestnut trees. Let's not forget the thrill of crossing the Shromiskhevi River on wet stepping stones - feels just like nature's version of hopscotch!
And then, the pièce de résistance: a 6-meter (roughly 20 feet) high waterfall cascading between green cliffs, a perfect backdrop for rainbows on a sunny day. It's like nature painted its own masterpiece and framed it right there for you.
If the wanderlust bug still hasn't left you, nearby Gurgeniani Waterfall beckons. And for those with a tad more adrenaline, the alluring Black Rocks Lake trail awaits, notorious as one of Lagodekhi's most challenging yet breathtaking routes.
