First impressions
The most visitors of Batumi (even Georgians from other towns and regions) see the town as mainly sea resort and entertainment area consisting of bars, restaurants and discos. However, like in many small European and Mediterranean towns, it is a mix of modern and historical staff like an old part of the town and surroundings, including ancient castle of Gonio and nearby historical villages, Machakhela and Kirnati with its fantastic riverbed and waterfall.
Batumi can be better understood in the early morning, at the sea port front where the old fishermen gather and talk about many things. Now this is the historical part of the town, which is nicely restored and includes historical Suni mosk, Orthodox church of Barbare and beautiful sea view. Here, at the white Naval restaurant you can also taste delicious local coffee and smell the sea and fragrance of magnolias...