Tsiteli Kvebi Waterfall

The Tsiteli Kvebi waterfall is a quiet natural site located within the forested slopes near Borjomi. While it lacks the massive scale of larger regional cascades, this waterfall is defined by its setting: water flows over striking, red-hued volcanic rock formations, creating a vivid contrast with the deep green deciduous forest that surrounds it. It serves as a peaceful point of interest for those walking the trails near the edge of the Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park.

The Geology of Red Rocks

The name Tsiteli Kvebi—literally meaning "Red Rocks"—originates from the specific mineral composition of the cliff face. These rocks are part of the volcanic complex that shapes much of the Lesser Caucasus. Over centuries, the constant flow of water has cut into these porous, iron-rich layers, allowing the stream to carve a steady path downward. The environment remains cool and shaded, supporting a variety of mosses and moisture-loving ferns that cling to the rock surface throughout the summer months.

Historical and Ecological Significance

This area has long been part of the wider landscape managed by the historical Borjomi forest administration. The geography here is characterized by steep ravines and dense mixed-wood forests, primarily consisting of oak, beech, and spruce. For observers of the region’s natural history, the waterfall serves as a microcosm of the volcanic activity that once defined the Meskheti Range, leaving behind these distinct geological features that remain visible in the strata exposed by the water's erosion.