Abkhazia, Gudauta: photos with descriptions, vacation options, what to see, interesting facts and reviews from tourists. How much does a holiday in Abkhazia cost? Communications and Wi-Fi

The history of the city begins in the Neolithic era, when a settlement of farmers and fishermen was formed on the banks of the Kistrik River. Like many cities in Abkhazia, Gudauta has its own colorful and touching legend. It tells about the fate of a young man named Guda and a girl named Uta. It’s clear that they loved each other madly, but evil relatives belonging to different clans did not allow them to be together. The lovers managed to reunite only by throwing themselves into the river. Hence the name of the city - Gudauta.

During Soviet times, it remained in the shadow of its brighter neighbor Pitsunda, and in the early 90s, like all of Abkhazia, it found itself at the epicenter of dramatic events. But gradually resort life is returning to quiet Gudauta - Soviet boarding houses are being restored, mini-hotels and new cafes are appearing, and wide pebble beaches are being transformed. History buffs will not be bored here either - just 5 km away is the picturesque village of Lykhny - the medieval residence of the ruling Abkhaz princes.

Gudauta today

The return to a peaceful, prosperous life and the revival of Gudauta as a resort began in 1994. A lot has been done since then, but it is not yet ready to provide vacationers with a full range of tourist services; too much has been destroyed both literally and figuratively. But thanks to the hard work and natural hospitality of the Abkhazians, those who come here will always be able to find housing either in the private sector or in the few boarding houses in the city and its environs. It is unlikely to be fashionable, but it will definitely be hospitable.

How to get to Gudauta

Tourists have three options: by plane, by train and by car. When choosing an air route, you need to buy a ticket to Sochi, and from the airport get to the border with Abkhazia and from there to Gudauta by bus. There is also a direct train Moscow - Sukhum, making a stop in Gudauta, but it runs quite rarely, and there may not be tickets available during the season. If you go by car, you will have to spend more than a day. However, many travelers choose this method, which is why in the summer months there are hours-long traffic jams on the M-4 federal highway leading to the Black Sea.

Search for air tickets to Adler (the nearest airport to Gudauta)

Transport

There is no public transport as such in Gudauta. Intercity buses and minibuses stop at the bus station on the Sukhumi highway opposite the railway station and at the turn to the village of Lykhny. However, drivers usually brake anywhere with a wave of their hand. There are no numbers on the minibuses - only signs with the names of the final destinations (in Russian).

For trips to Sukhum, New Athos, Gagry, Pitsunda and Lake Ritsa, the easiest way is to use minibuses. During the day they walk along the Sukhumi highway at intervals of 5-7 minutes, but in the evening the traffic practically stops; you need to return back no later than 19:00. There are no fixed fares. The cost of the trip is announced by the driver, who also takes money at the entrance or exit. As a rule, the price for visitors is higher, so a little bargaining may be quite appropriate. A reasonable amount is 60-80 RUB per person for travel to New Athos and 80-90 RUB for travel to Sukhum or Gagra.

A taxi ride within the city costs from 100 RUB, to Sukhum and Gagra - from 500 RUB, to Lake Ritsa - from 1000 RUB.

On intercity buses Sukhum - Tuapse, Sukhum - Maykop, New Athos - Stavropol, Sukhum - Cherkessk you can get to Belorechensk, Goryachiy Klyuch, Dzhubga and other cities in southern Russia. True, they operate quite rarely - 1-2 flights per day on each route.

A characteristic feature of the Abkhaz mentality is the chronic lack of change and change from large bills. This manifests itself not only in transport, but also in shops, markets, and catering establishments. Therefore, it is worth exchanging money in advance.

Maps of Gudauta

Hotels

Mini-hotels, guest houses, boarding houses and other accommodation places in Gudauta do not qualify for a “star” classification, although the best of them deserve 3*. Sometimes they lack polish, which, however, is compensated by the sincere hospitality of the staff and humane prices. As a rule, they are located in close proximity to the beach, the price of a double room in season is 3000-3500 RUB per day. The bulk of vacationers stay in budget mini-hotels and family guest houses (1200-2000 RUB) with a private bathroom, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi and parking.

Despite the apparent provincialism, the fashion for “all inclusive” has reached Gudauta. The Apsiliya hotel, the Zolotoy Bereg tourist center, etc. operate according to this system. Room cost: 2600-4000 RUB per night.

The number and variety of offers from the private sector - rooms, apartments and even individual houses - cannot be counted. A room for two 15 minutes from the sea will cost 600 RUB, in the center - already 1000-1400 RUB.

Communication and Wi-Fi

The cheapest calls from Abkhazia are from SIM cards of local cellular operators Aquafon and A-Mobile, whose coverage area covers almost the entire territory of the republic. "Simkm" are sold in operator showrooms located in the city center at 9, Geroev Avenue.

The starting price of the “Sea” tourist package from Aquafon is 350 RUB, 200 of which remain on the balance of the SIM card. The cost of local calls is 5.80 RUB/minute, starting from the 4th minute of calls per day, it is reduced by 3 times. International calls: to Russia - 9 RUB/minute, to the former USSR republics and Turkey - 13 RUB/minute, to Europe - 20 RUB/minute. The connected option “Summer” (140 RUB) allows you to get 1000 MB of Internet traffic or 500 MB of Internet and 10 minutes of calls to Russia. The option is valid for 1 week. The cost of a call to Russia in the “Resort” tariff of the A-Mobile operator is the same 9 RUB/minute.

An Internet cafe with computers and a full range of peripheral equipment is available at the Sezam supermarket (50 RUB/hour). Free Wi-Fi is available in most hotels and some cafes. True, there may be complaints in terms of speed and quality of connection.

Beaches of Gudauta

The wide beach covered with small pebbles, almost 3 km long, is undoubtedly one of the main advantages of the resort. Sloping, with a good entry into the sea, it is quite suitable for families with children. There is almost no garbage, and thanks to the pebble bottom, the water is unusually clear. Even at the peak of the season it is never crowded here. The area adjacent to Central Park has several cafes and cabanas. There are no rental umbrellas and sun loungers, but many first-line hotels provide their guests with these attributes for free. Others find shade under the trees lining the beach.

The most popular type of active recreation is banana riding (200 RUB).

To the east of Gudauta stretches a 4-kilometer wild pebble beach, cut by breakwaters every 60-70 m. Except for July and August, it is almost deserted. 6 km northwest of the resort, the 4-kilometer sand and pebble beach “Golden Coast” begins - deserted and wild, with the exception of a small section belonging to the boarding house “Golden Coast”. Even further, behind Cape Ambara, there is a place of amazing beauty overgrown with relict pine trees of Musser.

The sand and pebble beach of the Mussera boarding house with umbrellas, sun loungers, cafes, changing rooms and rental of water equipment is considered the best in the Gudauta region.

What to bring

Souvenirs from Gudauta will not make a hole in the family budget, but they will take their rightful place on the dinner table. Traditionally, tkemali sauce and the famous adjika are brought from Abkhazia - mandatory additions to any Caucasian meal. In Gudauta, housewives cook tkemali over an open fire right in their garden from plums and cherry plums growing right there. Feijoa jam, mountain and chestnut honey are very tasty and healthy, which is best bought at the apiary.

On the shelves of the local market there are a lot of fruits and vegetables, dried persimmons and figs, spices, churchkhela, herbal infusions and even special bolsters and pillows for sleeping with aromatic mountain herbs. Suluguni cheese occupies a worthy place in the grocery basket: the most expensive is made from goat's milk, the cheapest is from cow's milk, and the classic one is made from sheep's milk.

The cost of a jar of adjika is 100-120 RUB, a set of spices - 100 RUB, churchkhela - 50 RUB, honey - 400 RUB per 0.3 l jar, pomegranate juice - 100 RUB per 0.5 l, magnets in Gudauta species - 30-60 RUB

Abkhazians are great masters of wicker weaving. Boxes, baskets, bread bins, and furniture are made here from bamboo, grapevine, and boxwood. Some people buy Abkhaz knives and daggers as souvenirs, but you should remember that these are edged weapons and problems may arise at the border.

Cuisine and restaurants of Gudauta

Little Gudauta does not amaze with the variety and abundance of catering establishments. But those that exist are quite capable of fulfilling their mission. Most of them serve Russian cuisine, which is a definite plus for those vacationing with small children. Abkhazian food is usually spicy. The most common home dish is “sharks” made from boiled beans. It’s hard to imagine a Caucasian table without juicy kebab, Adjarian khachapuri in the shape of a boat and thick mamalyga made from corn flour. Georgian khinkali, kharcho and solyanka take pride of place on it. True, due to difficult relations with neighbors, no one here calls these dishes Georgian.

The easiest way to solve the issue of food is when choosing a hotel or guest house that has a restaurant or cafe. For the rest - about a dozen canteens and cafes, located mainly in the center and in close proximity to the city beach.

Average price tag: Caucasian-style solyanka - 120 RUB, mamalyga with cheese - 100 RUB, khachapuri - 120 RUB, shish kebab - 75 RUB per 100 g, coffee brewed on sand - 20 RUB. Lunch in a cafe - 250-300 RUB, dinner with wine in a hotel restaurant - 600-1000 RUB.

Traditional local fast food is “amgal” flatbread (50 RUB), incredibly large chebureks (70-90 RUB) and, of course, boiled corn (30-50 RUB). Prices for products on the market and in local stores are quite comparable to those in Moscow, but the cost of wine (from 140 RUB per bottle) from the local winery is pleasantly surprising.

Entertainment and attractions

Abkhazia is rich in attractions, many of which are located in Gudauta and its immediate surroundings. 4 km from the resort, in the village of Lykhny, you can see a whole architectural complex: a bell tower, a cathedral and the ruins of a palace, all of which were built during the Middle Ages. Particularly interesting is the interior painting of the temple, made in the 14th century.

Literally nearby is the palace of the ruling princes of Abkhazia Chachba-Shervashidze. Another tragic legend is associated with it about a young man and a girl walled up within its walls, thanks to which it became impregnable to external enemies. Whether it’s a legend or not, history says that the palace was destroyed only by time and the elements; the enemies were never able to do it. The picturesque ruins are overgrown with grass, and two stages of construction are clearly visible in the remains of the walls.

The Hasanata-Abaa fortress with the Bzyb watchtower was supposedly built in the 9th-10th centuries. The fortress is surrounded by a powerful wall, the thickness of which reaches 1.5 m, and the building occupies a convenient strategic position. Traces of frescoes are preserved on the inside of the wall. Archaeologists believe that many unique finds are hidden in the depths of the earth under and around the fortress.

Most tourists consider it a must to visit the famous Musser Temple, built in the 10th-11th centuries. Despite the fact that only fragments of it have survived, it is one of the most important cult monuments of medieval Abkhazia. Its southern façade with expressive arched entrances to the temple is especially impressive.

Unfortunately, time has not been kind to this landmark: the roof of the temple has long since collapsed, the walls have been worn away by rain and wind, but it is easy to imagine how majestic this structure was. The temple stands in the middle of the Mussersky Nature Reserve, the road to it leads through thickets of rare plants, oak and boxwood forests, chestnuts, dogwoods and hazels.

All excursions can be booked at the city tourist offices; it is almost always possible to go to explore the surrounding attractions as part of a mini-group, and, thanks to the compact location, visit more than one of them in a day.

5 things to do in Gudauta

Buy delicious tkemali and strong adjika at the market.
Take part in a traditional Abkhaz feast.
Taste all varieties of local suluguni.
Go on a jeep safari along mountain roads.

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December

The resort has a humid subtropical climate (cooler than in Sukhum and Gagra), mild winters, very warm summers. At this point on the coast, the mountains retreated from the sea by 25-30 km, forming a vast plateau. Due to the terrain, winds here are extremely rare and very warm. Precipitation is also infrequent.

The air is clean, since there are no industrial enterprises in the immediate vicinity of the city. Thanks to these factors, the holiday season in Gudauta lasts all year round.

Gudauta is a small resort town in Abkhazia, located near the Black Sea. Created on the site of a former village of fishermen and farmers on the Kistrik River.

The origin of the name goes back to the Gudou River, which flows through the city. According to other assumptions, the city is named after the young man Good and the young beauty Uta. According to a beautiful legend of the local people, two lovers could not be together due to enmity between relatives. Guda, unable to withstand the test and life away from his beloved, threw himself into the waters of the river. Uta followed suit. The name of the city came from the combination of their names.

Gudauta is rich in attractions, pebble and sandy beaches. Unlike other resort towns in Abkhazia, it has a large number of warm and sunny days, fairly low prices and a small flow of vacationers. The holiday season here lasts all year.

Village of Lykhny

How to get there: GPS coordinates for the navigator: 43°8’20″N 40°36’30″E

One of the large Abkhaz villages is located 5 km from the town of Gudauta. The historical age of Lykhna is about 1500 years. In the 19th century, the village was the capital of Abkhazia.

A famous landmark of Lykhna are the ruins of a palace that belonged to the influential dynasty of princes Chachba-Shervashidze for many centuries. The ruins are located on the Lykhny glade, where folk festivals, equestrian competitions and public gatherings are held. A memorial to those killed during the wars was also built here and 2 chapels were installed.

An equally famous and interesting attraction is the cross-domed Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary. Surprisingly, the temple has survived to this day in its original form. Inside you can see fragments of 14th-century painting and the tomb of one of the princes.

Musser temple

How to get there: GPS coordinates for the navigator: Latitude 43.143569 / Longitude 40.489715

One of the most valuable historical monuments in Abkhazia dates back to the 10th-11th centuries. The ruins of the temple are located in the very middle of the Myusser Biosphere Reserve in the Gudauta region. The ruins of the ancient architectural complex are currently surrounded by bushes and plants, but the impressiveness of the silhouette is still impressive.

Most notable for visitors is the southern part of the temple ruins with arches, columns and six impressive windows. Here you can also see the almost destroyed staircase that previously led to the upper parts of the temple.

The remains of a massive structure are stunning in their grandeur and are included in the route of any visitor to Abkhazia.

Stalin's dacha in Myusser

In the village of Myussera, 18 km from Gudauta, one of Stalin’s dachas is located. The building has never been restored, thanks to which the interior has retained its original appearance. Finishing from the most valuable types of wood, Stalin's sofa made to special order and original chandeliers preserve the spirit of that time. In addition, in the building of the dacha there is a cinema hall and a billiard room.

Thanks to the proximity of the Myussersky Nature Reserve, the territory of the dacha is surrounded by foliage and greenery of trees. The square of the attraction is considered one of the most wonderful places on the shores of the Black Sea and is very interesting for anyone to visit.

Rock monastery in the village of Othara

How to get there: Address: Otkhara village, Gudauta, Abkhazia
GPS coordinates: 43.241004, 40.498956

One of the most popular tourist attractions is carved into a steep rock at an altitude of 50 m above the ground. The monastery was built in the 12th century as a refuge for pirates. This is confirmed by the loopholes aimed at the road. Later the monastery was inhabited by monks.

For many years, after the discovery of the building, the local population did not dare to approach the object. Only in the 19th century did the Abkhaz prince build a bridge, climb the rock and penetrate into the lower premises.

Thorough studies of the rock monastery began only in the middle of the 20th century. At the same time, utensils from those times were found and confirmation was received that the monastery was the work of human hands.

Gudauta Wine and Vodka Factory

How to get there: Address: Republic of Abkhazia, Gudauta, Sukhumi highway. The tasting room is located opposite Gudauta station.

GPS coordinates: Latitude 43.10908 / Longitude 40.610447

The opening of the plant took place in 1953 in the town of Gudauta. Thanks to the unique recipes for the production of wine products and the friendly work of the plant’s employees, already in 1958 it gained enormous popularity. Production at that time was about 1,500 tons of wine every month. In 1980, productivity increased to 8,000 tons per month.

The plant was closed from 1980 to 2010, but today it operates again as a private winery.

Frequent excursions are held on the territory of the plant, and in the tasting room visitors are invited to try wine straight from the barrels. In addition, there is the opportunity to purchase the drink you like.

How to get there: Address: Gudauta district, Primorskoye village (between Gudauta and New Athos)

By car – We are coming from the Russian side, Primorskoe village, turn left behind the traffic police post, and then follow the signs (≈1.5 km); on foot - from the traffic police post along the road (20-25 minutes).

The most famous healing springs in Abkhazia were brought to the surface in 1940. On the site of one of the springs, a hospital with three hydrogen sulfide pools was built.

The range of activities includes hydrogen sulfide baths, therapeutic mud, massage services and a cafe. There is a river and a waterfall nearby. All procedures take place in completely natural conditions.

A huge number of people of different ages and genders visit hydrogen sulfide springs. A visit is recommended both for health purposes, to eliminate diseases, and for relaxation of the body as a whole.

Turtle Lake

In the middle of the 20th century, several hydrogen sulfide springs were brought to the surface of the earth near the city of Gudauta. At the same time, a small lake suddenly formed nearby, called Turtle Lake due to the large number of turtles living on the shores of the reservoir. Now the number of animals has decreased significantly, but in some places you can still find representatives of this species.

The path to the lake is laid through boxwood groves, and a well-maintained beach stretches around the reservoir. Crystal water and comfortable conditions for recreation delight both the local population and tourists who visit these places.

Abgarkhuk village

To the east of the city of Gudauta is the village of Abgarkhuk, rich in historical attractions.

The Mushba fortress, located on a cliff, is a fort of the Middle Ages. The length of the structure is 120 m, and the entrance to it is located in a thicket on the edge of a cliff. There is a secret passage from the fortress in the form of a narrow path running along a fissure in the rock.

No less interesting is the Abahuatza fortress, standing above the Aapsta River. Its length is 140 m, and it is possible to enter the fortress by walking along a narrow path along the base of the rock on which the ancient structure is located.

Both buildings are considered important historical monuments and are of considerable interest to visitors.

Trout farm in the village of Othara

A trout breeding farm was built at the mouth of the mountain river Mchyshta in the village of Otkhara. Founded in 1934 at the request of Stalin. In those distant times, trout breeding was in full swing and the Black Sea region was provided with fish. Now the trout farm is more of a tourist attraction, where there is an opportunity to learn how the trout breeding process works.

Around the farm lies a boxwood forest, under the trees of which hospitable workers set tables at the request of guests and treat them to trout fried over a fire.

Lykhny Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary

The temple is located 4 km from the city of Gudauta in the village of Lykhny and is recognized as the oldest Orthodox temple in Abkhazia. It is noteworthy that the temple has not undergone restoration, therefore it has been preserved in its original form.

Externally, the temple does not stand out in any way - the walls are made of red limestone, there are porches on three sides and a small dome. The interior is of much more interest. Here you can see frescoes from the 14th century, ancient inscriptions and the icon of the Mother of God “The Sign” with an ancient inscription in the local language.

The tomb of Prince George II, during whose reign Abkhazia was considered an autonomous region of the Russian Empire, found its place near the temple.

Gudauta Pass

The pass is located on the Bzyb ridge in Abkhazia and has the shape of a round cap. The height is 1500 m and the length is about 70 km. The pass is connected by two rivers - Bzyb and Aapsta. There are many mushrooms growing on the slopes of the pass. The number of chanterelles, honey mushrooms, and milk mushrooms is especially large.

The pass is covered with thickets of rhododendron and surrounded by dense forest. There is no water to be found here, and fog is creeping in from the sea. Many tourists compare the landscapes of the pass with fabulous views.

During the Great Patriotic War, the pass was the site of battles with German troops.

Gudauta embankment and beaches

The sights of Gudauta attract tourists, travelers and simply history buffs with their diversity. And the warm sun and rich nature promote relaxation, walks and give only positive impressions.

Gudauta is a seaside resort in Abkhazia, located on the shores of the Black Sea bay. Thanks to its favorable location (on a plateau between the sea coast and the Caucasus Mountains), it delights tourists with a mild climate, plenty of sunny days and wide beaches
Fans of beach tourism from different parts of Abkhazia and Russia, as well as travelers interested in visiting such famous sights of the country as Lake Ritsa and the Musser Temple, come to Gudauta on vacation. The Bzyb mountain range runs through the Gudauta region, through which there are a number of hiking routes (including multi-day ones), which are in demand among fans of active tourism.

Tourists visiting Gudauta have access to not only a relaxing beach or educational excursion holiday, but also various medical and health procedures. Medical and recreational holiday in Gudauta became possible thanks to the presence of mineral springs in the vicinity of the resort. Over time, the city, next to which the best iodine bromine, sodium chloride and hydrogen sulfide healing springs are located, is planned to be turned into a climatic and balneological resort.

Sights of Gudauta

Not far from the resort there are a number of famous historical attractions. Among the historical sights of Gudauta stand out medieval architectural complex in the village. Lykhny, the fortresses of Abakhvatsa and Khasanata-Abaa, the ruins of the ancient palace of Chachba-Shervashidze and the ruins of the Myusser temple.

There are no natural attractions directly in Gudauta, but there is a biosphere reserve nearby, as well as Lake Ritsa, which every tourist should visit first.

Beaches in Gudauta

The beaches in Gudauta are mostly pebble and quite spacious - their width can reach 200 meters. Only in the eastern part of the resort are there sandy beaches, which are very popular among tourists.

The central city beach of Gudauta has a pebble surface and is equipped with cabins, sun loungers and sun canopies. The beaches furthest from the city are less well-maintained; some of them have a rather steep slope. One of the best beaches located in the resort area is the sand and pebble beach “Golden Sands”.

Village of Lykhny: Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary and Chachba-Shervashidze Palace

The nearest attractions that tourists who come on holiday to Gudauta can visit are located in the village of Lykhny, which is the historical center of Bzyb Abkhazia. On its territory there are the ruins of the princely palace of Chachba-Shervashidze, as well as one of the oldest Orthodox churches in Abkhazia.

From the two-story Chachba-Shervashidze palace (XI-XIX centuries), which at one time was considered an impregnable stronghold, only walls remain in the village of Lykhny, since since 1866, when military officials tried to hide in the palace, it has not been repaired or restored.

But the Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary delights many tourists with the opportunity to admire the 14th-century frescoes in the Byzantine style and the unique icon of the Mother of God “The Sign”. The Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary also houses the tomb of Prince George Chachba-Shervashidze.

Myussersky Temple in the Myussersky Nature Reserve

One of the most famous monuments of medieval Abkhazia is the Myussersky temple, which is located in the Myussersky reserve not far from Gudauta. A visit to the Musser Temple is included in almost every excursion program, despite the fact that only part of it has survived - the majestic stone walls overgrown with ivy.

In addition, the Myussersky Nature Reserve itself is quite worthy of a visit, because relict species of trees and shrubs grow on its territory.

Lake Ritsa (Big Ritsa)

In the Ritsinsky relict national park, which is located on the territory of the Gudauta region, there are many natural attractions, the most significant of which is the mountain lake Ritsa (Big Ritsa).

Bolshaya Ritsa is a lake of glacial-tectonic origin, which is located in the gorge of the Lashipse and Yupshara rivers and is surrounded on three sides by massive mountain ranges. The water in it is clean (the bottom is visible to a depth of 8-10 m), but changes its color depending on the season. So, in spring and summer, the surface of Lake Ritsa is greenish-yellow, and in the cold season it becomes blue-blue.

Tourists can admire the lake from the shore or take a catamaran ride. Ritsa is home to trout, which is served in small restaurants located next to the lake.

Hotels in Gudauta

One of the reasons why Gudauta can compete with a resort like Gagry is its relatively inexpensive accommodation prices. The tourist infrastructure of the resort is developing, but the range hotels in Gudauta, capable of satisfying particularly demanding residents, is still small.

In the city, hotels from Soviet times are being restored and renovated, and small hotels with 2-3 floors are opening, offering economy and standard rooms. Most hotels in Gudauta are located near the sea and offer their guests a small range of additional services - meals, transfers, laundry and organization of excursion tours.

Hydrogen sulfide springs are the most famous healing springs in Abkhazia. In 1940, in the area of New Athos, in the village of Primorskoye, as a result of drilling, several sources of mineral water were brought to the surface. A small hospital was built on the site of one of the natural springs.

This is a small indoor health complex that includes mud, hydrogen sulfide baths, a massage department and a cafe. Next to it there is a mountain river and a small waterfall. In this picturesque place, medical procedures take place in natural conditions, almost under the open sky. The hospital has three hydrogen sulfide pools. One pool is designed for a group of 10 to 15 people, and two smaller baths are designed for 6 people. Hydrogen sulfide hot showers are also installed. Each bath is made of large sea stone and is located under a common canopy.

Hydrogen sulfide sources are very beneficial for health. People come here for diseases of the digestive system, cardiovascular system, diseases of the musculoskeletal system, nervous system, skin diseases, diseases of the genitourinary system in women, strengthens the root system of the hair. Hydrogen sulfide springs and medicinal clay are excellent means of healing and rejuvenation. Visiting thermal baths is not only useful, but also pleasant, which is why both young people and older people happily visit them.

Hydrogen sulfide source

The hydrogen sulfide spring is located in the village of Primorskoye, which is located between the Abkhaz cities of Gudauta and New Athos. The source is located 60 kilometers from the border with Russia, 7 kilometers short of New Athos.

The spring appeared in this place in 1940, as a result of a source of mineral water coming to the surface after drilling wells. Currently, a small hydropathic clinic is located on this place. A distinctive feature of the treatment is the possibility of taking procedures in the open air, enjoying the picturesque nature of Transcaucasia. Here you can take hydrogen sulfide or therapeutic mud baths, as well as massage sessions. Before each treatment appointment, all guests can undergo a consultation with a doctor.

Mineral water from a local source has a healing effect for diseases of the cardiovascular, nervous, genitourinary systems, as well as various skin diseases. Many patients who have undergone medical procedures here come back to restore their health among the unique natural landscapes.

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Turtle Lake

Turtle Lake is a mystical lake in the vicinity of Abkhazia. In the mid-twentieth century, in the area of New Athos, in the village of Primorskoye, as a result of drilling, several sources of mineral water were brought to the surface. At the same time, not far from the hot spring, a small Turtle Lake was formed.

The road to the lake passes through beautiful boxwood groves along the river bank, where you can see buffalos bathing. In the forest you can satisfy your hunger with blackberries that grow along the road. The name of the lake comes from the abundance of turtles that previously lived in these places. Now there are very few turtles left in these places, but you can still see some of these animals. Turtle Lake is a popular recreation area for Primorsky residents and city guests. There is a well-maintained beach around the lake where you can sunbathe and swim in the clear lake water.

The Lykhny Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary is the oldest Orthodox church in Abkhazia, dating back to the 10th-11th centuries. It has been well preserved to this day in its original form, since it did not lend itself to serious reconstruction.

The Lykhny Temple is located in the village of Lykhny, four kilometers from the city of Gudauta, on the western coast of Abkhazia. It is a cross-domed structure typical of the early medieval architecture of Abkhazia. The facade of the building is quite modest - its walls are decorated with red limestone slabs, three sides are topped with vestibules, and a small dome rises on an octagonal drum.

The interior of the ancient temple is more interesting for pilgrims and other visitors - in it you can see beautiful rich frescoes of the 14th century, which are made in the Byzantine style, several ancient inscriptions, as well as a unique icon of the Mother of God “The Sign” from the oldest inscription in the Abkhaz language. In the Lykhny temple there is a tomb of the Abkhaz prince George II Shervashidze, during whose reign Abkhazia as an autonomous region was part of the Russian Empire.

Village of Lykhny

Lykhny is the largest village in Abkhazia and is located in the Gudauta region, 5 kilometers from Gudauta. The history of the village goes back 1.5 thousand years. This is the historical center of Bzyb Abkhazia. In the 19th century, Lykhny was the official residence of the ruling prince, as well as the capital of Abkhazia.

The famous landmark of the village is the ruins of an architectural complex of the 10th century, consisting of the summer palace of the Abkhaz kings and the residence of the Chachba princes. Also in Lykhny there is an active cross-domed Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary from the 10th-11th centuries, which has preserved rich fresco paintings from the 14th century. Inside the temple is the tomb of Prince George Chachba-Shervashidze, during whose reign Abkhazia became part of the Russian Empire. On the outskirts of Lykhna you can also see the ruins of a Christian temple from the 6th-7th centuries.

In October every year, the Harvest Festival is celebrated in the wide clearing of Lykhnashta located in the center of the village. There is also a monument to the Victims of the Georgian-Abkhaz War in the early 90s of the 20th century. On the pedestal there is a complete list of village natives who died at the front.

Stalin's dacha in Myusser

One of Stalin’s Black Sea dachas is located in the small village of Myussera.

It is located 18 kilometers northwest of Gudauta and 8 kilometers south of Pitsunda, in the Pitsunda-Mussersky Biosphere Reserve.

All 50 hectares of the dacha territory are surrounded by the greenery of ancient trees, and on the other side there is a beautiful view of the Black Sea. This place is one of the most picturesque places on the Black Sea coast of Abkhazia.

This building was built before the war and was restored more than once. However, in all rooms of the dacha, the original interior decoration made of valuable wood, original chandeliers and Stalin’s sofa, made by his special order, have been preserved.

There is also entertainment at the dacha - a small cinema hall and a billiard room. Currently, J.V. Stalin's dacha in Myusser is an excursion site.

Musser temple

The Musser temple of the 10th-11th centuries is considered one of the most significant places for the history of Abkhazia, because it is one of the most valuable reserves throughout its territory.

The ruins of the ancient Myussersky temple are located between Myussera in the Gudauta region and the Golden Coast, in the very center of the Myussersky Biosphere Reserve, at the mouth of the Ambara river.

Although today only the ruins of the ancient monumental complex have survived, which are turning black and overgrown with bushes, its semicircular massive silhouette with stone blocks is impressive at first glance. Visitors show the greatest interest in the southern part of the Granary Temple, where there are three entrance arches and six windows through which tree branches look. Once upon a time, a large stone staircase led to the upper part of the temple, which can also be seen here today in a dilapidated state.

Today, every tourist who has just returned from Abkhazia can judge the ancient medieval Myusser temple, located in the small urban village of Myusser, because its inspection is mandatory for almost every excursion program.

Gudauta Wine and Vodka Factory

The Gudauta wine and vodka distillery, located in the Abkhazian village of Gudauta, was built and opened in 1953. Already in 1958, his products gained popularity in the Abkhaz wine market thanks to the original recipe and the well-coordinated work of the craftsmen, who produced up to 1,500 tons of wine per month. By the early 1980s, productivity had increased to 8,000 tons per month.

From the late 1980s to the early 2010s, the plant was not operational. Now it has been re-launched as a private winery. In the tasting room, you can try different types of wine produced by the plant straight from the barrels, the most popular of which is Ritsa wine. You can purchase your favorite products in the factory store.

Gudauta Pass

The Gudauta Pass is located in Abkhazia, on the spur of the Bzyb ridge. Its height is 1500 meters, length is 70 kilometers. The pass connects two rivers - Bzyb and Aapsta. The surface of the pass is covered with dense forest and rhododendron thickets.

There is a dense forest along the edges of the pass; there is no water anywhere nearby. At the pass itself, along the edges of the path there are thickets of rhododendron, and on the sea side there is fog. Here you can feel like you are in a fairy tale, the trees are shrouded in white fog and there is silence all around. A little further, a lot of mushrooms grow, mainly milk mushrooms. There are also a lot of chanterelles and honey mushrooms.

During the Great Patriotic War, there were battles with the Germans on the passes. They were stopped at Doe Pass.

Abgarkhuk village

The village of Abgarkhuk is located in Abkhazia, Gudauta region. Three mountain rivers flow through it. Also in the village there are ruins of ancient fortresses - historical monuments. An interesting secret passage that leads from the fortress to the street.

In Abgarkhuk there are ruins of ancient fortresses. One of them, "Mushba", is located between the rivers Zhbaarta and Dokhuarta on a rocky cliff. It is a medieval fort. The entrance to the fortress is located in the eastern tower, which stands on the edge of a cliff in the forest. The length of the fortress is 120 meters, inside of which you can see the ruins of buildings. Also very interesting is the secret passage that leads from the fortress to the outside world in case of a siege. A narrow path goes along a break in the rock to its base; locals call the path the “royal staircase”.

Another fortress, Abahuaza, is located above the Aapsta River. There are forests around the fortress and tower. You can enter the fortress along the path along the base of the rock; its length is approximately 140 meters. In the corner of the fence there is a loophole window. The finds revealed during excavations date back to the Middle Ages.

Trout farm in the village. Othara

The trout farm is located on a river where trout are bred. It is located in Abkhazia, at the mouth of the Mchyshta River. Founded in 1934 and during the Soviet era, this farm provided the entire Black Sea region with trout. Nowadays it operates at only 5% of its capacity.

But now it is a local attraction where you can see all stages of trout breeding.

Trout farming has become a popular tourist destination. Here you can watch the trout grow and feed it. Visitors will be told and shown all stages of fish development. You can also try trout roasted over a fire.

Not far from the trout farm you can see another attraction - a rock monastery. It is located right in the mountain, from under which the Mchyshta River begins. Here, in the boxwood forest, in the gazebo, a table will be set with delicious river trout and Abkhazian khachapuri.

Rock monastery in the village. Othara

The rock monastery, located in the Abkhazian village of Otkhara, is carved into a picturesque steep cliff. It is located 50 meters from the ground, so it is impossible to get there without equipment. The monastery was created in the 12th century as a refuge from pirates. Then monks settled in it and bred trout. Currently, this is the most popular tourist site in Abkhaz

At the base of the rock where the monastery was carved, there is a cave from which the Mchyshta River flows. Initially it was assumed that the rock monastery was a natural phenomenon. But after his research in 1958, it was confirmed that the monastery was cut down by man. It is believed that there was originally a refuge from pirates here. This is confirmed by the loopholes aimed at the path. Then monks settled there, breeding trout. And on the other side, a citadel was built that guards the road to the North Caucasus.

Only in the 19th century, Prince Mikhail Shervashidze (Chachba) was able to build a bridge with the help of local residents and climb into the lower sections. After researching the monastery in the 20th century, utensils belonging to the inhabitants of the Middle Ages were found. Now the rock monastery is one of the popular sites for tourists in Abkhazia. Even if visitors cannot get into the cells, a walk through the boxwood forest and trout farm will give an unforgettable experience.

The most popular attractions in Gudauta with descriptions and photographs for every taste. Choose the best places to visit famous places in Gudauta on our website.