Mtirala National Park

Why go: Relict Colchic flora, chestnut–beech stands with rhododendron; waterfalls, small lake, traditional village life; part of the Caucasus Biodiversity Hotspot.
Look out for: Wildlife: Lynx, Brown Bear; Caucasian Viper & toad. Birds: White-backed & Black Woodpeckers, Grey-headed, Lesser/Middle/Great Spotted; Sombre Tit, Caucasian Chiffchaff, Green Warbler, Treecreeper, White-throated Dipper (caucasicus), Long-tailed Tit, Jay; overhead Bee-eaters, Roller, Crossbill, Siskin, Tawny Pipit, Ortolan.
Best conditions: All year; Apr–May & Sep–Oct prime.
Time needed: ½–full day.
Tactics: Waterfall route for dippers; quiet side paths for woodpeckers (go slow, listen often).