Gebius Falls

Gebius Falls (also known as Teshebs Falls) are a cascade of seven waterfalls on the Teshebs River in Krasnodar Krai, Russia, 60 km from Gelendzhik and about 6 km east of the village of Arkhipo-Osipovka, on the border of Greater Gelendzhik and the Tuapse district.

The falls take their name from Mount Gebius, 735 m high, where the Teshebs River rises — hence the alternative name, Teshebs Falls. The place draws crowds year-round: the parking lot by the falls is regularly full of tour buses and private cars, and getting there is easy, since a highway runs nearby and no long off-road hike is needed.

What to see

Along about a kilometre of the river there are seven waterfalls; three are the best known:

• Stremitelny ("Swift") — 17 metres high, with water crashing into a natural basin; a staircase leads to the top.
• Devil's Mouth, also called Poyasok ("Belt") — the tallest, at 20 metres, where water rushes between limestone slabs, creating a distinctive roar.
• Grot ("Grotto") — a 7-metre waterfall, named after a well-known actor who often visited the area.

The trail runs through forest with Himalayan cedars, beeches and lindens, and orchids and bluebells grow along the way. The main walking route is about 1 km, fitted with stairs, bridges and benches, with souvenir and snack stalls along it; the full network of trails in the area runs 5 km. Entry is paid — an environmental fee is charged at the falls.

Getting there

• By car — drive to the village of Teshebs, then about 3 km along the M4 "Don" highway; free parking is available by the falls.
• By public transport — get to the village of Teshebs, then continue on foot, by taxi or by hitching a ride.
• With a tour group — excursions to the falls run year-round.