Poti – the sea gate of Georgia

In Svaneti, western Georgia, there's a Black Sea city called Poti. Situated at the mouth of the Rioni River, it's Georgia's largest port. Before Poti, the city of Phasis stood on this site. It attracts countless tourists from around the world.

The city is distinguished by its unique character, provincial atmosphere, and tranquility. Narrow streets, breathtaking views, and clean air—all the ingredients for a truly relaxing holiday.

History of the City

The city's history began at the turn of the 7th and 6th centuries BC. The Greeks chose a picturesque and convenient location for their city. It was called Phasis. Phasis was an eastern city in the Kingdom of Pontus. Pheasants are named after this city. This was the old name of the Rioni River, at the mouth of which the city stands. It was later renamed Poti.

In 1992, a conflict broke out between Zviadists and the Tbilisi authorities.

In 2008, the Georgian-Russian conflict erupted, and Russian paratroopers captured the city.

In 2008, a free industrial zone was unveiled here.

Poti's Climate

The coastal town of Poti enjoys a subtropical climate, making it always warm; the lowest annual temperature never drops below freezing. The air here is clean and marine. The hottest month is July.

Attractions

Poti is a large and modern city today. Its growth and geography have played a significant role in the preservation of architectural monuments. The city is very ancient, and many interesting ancient sites could have been preserved here, but unfortunately, development and restoration have changed the city's appearance. The Church of the Holy Mother of God remains here, although after restoration, it too lost its ancient paintings. Next to the cathedral, you will see the Poti Fortress. This is arguably the oldest structure in the city. The city of Poti began to develop around this fortress.

By booking a tour, you will visit the following sites:

• Port Museum;
• Museum of Local History;
• Pontic Cathedral;
• National Theater.

Heading southeast of Poti, you'll come across the incredibly beautiful Lake Paliastomi. It's part of the Colchis National Park. Known as the "Georgian Baikal," it's freshwater and never freezes. The vegetation along the lake's shore will amaze you with its beauty, and by the way, you can only explore it by boat. There are boat rentals, hotels, and restaurants available.

Beaches

There are several beaches near Poti. The closest beach, Maltakva, is located 3 km from Poti. If you're planning a vacation here, plan your preparation in advance, as there is no beach infrastructure. Maltakva borders Grigoleti Beach.

Entertainment:

• rides,
• jet skis, catamarans,
• children's pools,
• cafes, pubs.

The water here is very warm and shallow, although winds are often strong, which can spoil the experience.

Other beaches in Georgia:

Kobuleti – 10 km. The sea here is clean and warm. The infrastructure is well-developed.

Grigoleti – a small beach for a quiet, peaceful holiday. It is known for the black, therapeutic sand that covers the shore.

Shekvetili – 3 km. This beach is little known, but its beauty rivals that of other beaches.

Ureki (Magnetiti) – 5 km. Also known for its black-gray sand with therapeutic properties.

Anaklia – a very young beach, considered one of the cleanest beaches in Georgia.

Dining in Poti

Since we're in Georgia, we'll be serving Georgian cuisine. Every visiting tourist will appreciate the local dishes. Poti is reasonably priced, so there's a restaurant to suit any budget.

Popular Georgian dishes:

• Chashushuli (veal with tomatoes).
• Khashlama (meat with vegetables in its own juice) is a delicious dish, and a great place to start your exploration of Georgian cuisine.
• Adjarian khachapuri (a boat with egg and cheese).
• Khinkali (dough pouches with various fillings; khinkali with meat is especially popular).
• Georgian wines.
• Mingrelian kupaty.

You'll find a wide variety of delicious Georgian dishes here. Georgia also makes wonderful sweets that will surely delight you.

A Trip to Mestia

In Upper Svaneti, near the city of Poti, lies the charming and picturesque town of Mestia, surrounded by high mountains. For many centuries, Mestia was the religious center of Svaneti. Numerous medieval monasteries and buildings remain here.

Mestia has recently become the capital of trekking tourism. From here, you can explore Svaneti on foot, by bike, or by car.

While in Mestia, visit the town's Historical and Ethnographic Museum. It displays antique photographs by Vittorio Sella, weapons, tableware, and church utensils.

Svan House – Margiani Museum

Another interesting place in Mestia is located in one of the Svan towers. Here you can see the everyday life and furniture of bygone times. But the most important thing is the building itself. You'll have the opportunity to explore the Svan tower from the inside and walk through its floors.

Also here you can see Georgia's most unusual building: Queen Tamar Airport.

Mestia is home to the Hatsvali Ski Resort. If you're visiting in the summer, you can simply take the lift up and admire the picturesque mountain views. And if you're visiting in the winter, you can visit the Hatsvali Ski Resort itself. It's home to the Zaruldi Restaurant, the only restaurant in Georgia located at such a high altitude. The restaurant has an outdoor area where you can dine while admiring the snow-capped mountain ranges.

For a great vacation in Mestia, it's best to rent an SUV. You can also rent a car upon arrival at the airport.

Poti is a provincial Georgian town on the Black Sea coast. You won't regret coming here for a vacation. It has a tranquil atmosphere, and city life flows at its own pace, unlike larger cities like Batumi. It's free of the bustle and frantic pace of the city. Your quiet getaway will be enhanced by the local Georgian cuisine and beautiful picturesque landscapes. Don't stop at just exploring the town itself; explore its surroundings, and you'll understand why Poti is so popular with tourists.