Gonio
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Gonio

Gonio

Georgian coastal village south of Batumi, known for Gonio-Apsaros fortress and a clean pebble beach

Located just a few kilometres south of Batumi, Gonio is home to the Gonio-Apsaros fortress, a Roman-Byzantine fort that impresses by its sheer size. There is not much to see inside — fruit trees, mostly — so it is not strictly necessary to go in. The pebble beach south of the fortress is the cleanest swimming on the Adjaran coast.

If you do, don't go too early since the guy with the tickets doesn't get out of bed very early. He lives in one of the buildings opposite the fort, and there is always someone willing to wake him up for you. The guide doesn't do much talking and only speaks some Russian and Georgian.

The road continues south to the border at Sarpi, from where you can cross into Turkey. Frequent minibuses (no. 142) run from Batumi.

Guide

Getting There

Marshrutka (minibus) no. 142 runs frequently between Batumi and Gonio, continuing south to the Turkish border at Sarpi. The journey from central Batumi takes about 25 minutes and costs a couple of lari. Get off at the fortress — the driver will know if you ask.

Taxis from Batumi cost considerably more but are still inexpensive. If you are driving down the coast to Turkey, Gonio is essentially on the main road; the fortress is signed from the highway.

Guide

Things to Do

Gonio is essentially a fortress, a pebble beach, and a string of small guesthouses. Most visitors come for the fortress, an hour for the beach, and dinner on the way back to Batumi. It is also the obvious lunch stop on the way to or from the Sarpi border.