Abkhazia: Which resorts will save this season?

While everyone is buying tickets to Turkey, we'll tell you how to have a blast on your long-awaited vacation in Abkhazia. The borders are already open, you can go! 

How to get there

Abkhazia does not have a tourist airport, so you can enter the republic via Sochi. You fly into Adler, and from there, directly from the airport or the railway station in Adler itself, you transfer to bus №173. It will take you to the border at the Psou checkpoint, and from there, across the bridge, you will see a bus stop with buses that will take you to any resort. The fare depends on the distance. It's only 10 km to the border, so plan your time in advance if necessary.

Trains and electric trains are also suitable; they take you not to the border, but to a specific city, and border control takes place right on the train. And if you have your own transport or a license to rent a car – it's even easier. 

Important: there is no car rental in Abkhazia, so you can rent a car in Sochi. Just clarify in advance if you can cross the Abkhazian border with it. 

Resorts of Abkhazia

The country has several famous resorts, where tourists are almost evenly distributed. Gagra (Gagry), New Athos, Sukhum, Pitsunda, Gudauta. All of them have access to the sea, and each has its own characteristics. 

The map shows the entire coast of the country, where the resorts are located. The most beautiful views are in the northern parts, as there are mountains in addition to the sea. But let's go in order. 

Gagra (or Gagry)

The most popular resort in Abkhazia, and there are reasons for that. The climate here is very mild because this place is located in a bay surrounded by mountains, which allows for vacationing almost all year round. The beaches here are mostly pebble, but in New Gagra, you can find sandy patches. 

It is also one of the few resorts in the country with well-developed infrastructure. There are many hotels for every budget, as well as guesthouses and sanatoriums. You can also come here for treatment, meaning this resort is suitable for people of all ages. 

There are also many interesting sights. For example, Abkhazia has only one water park, and it is located in Gagra. Also in this area are the famous Lake Ritsa, Blue Lake, Gegsky Waterfall, caves, Alpine meadows of Abkhazia, Seaside Park, Prince of Oldenburg's Castle, Tsandripsh Basilica, and others. If you're brave enough, we recommend seeing all this from above by paragliding. 

Pitsunda

For many years, Pitsunda has competed with Gagra for tourist attention. But why choose just one when there are only 25 km between the cities? This resort is considered the most picturesque of all. The fact is that it is located on the territory of the Pitsunda Reserve, where many famous Pitsunda pines grow, the aroma of which can be felt even on the beach. 

If you want to spend your vacation quietly and peacefully, this place is best suited. Besides the many beaches here, we recommend exploring the surroundings. Namely: the aspen and bamboo groves, the ancient city of “Great Pitiunt”, the national dolphinarium, and be sure to visit the relict lakes.

Gudauta

We go further down the coast and arrive in Gudauta. It's also a small Abkhazian town where you can stay for a few days. There aren't many people by the sea (usually), the beaches are quite wild, with the exception of the Central one, and healing springs are hidden in the surroundings. 

There's also an interesting theory about the town's name. Remember Romeo and Juliet? Here, too, there were local lovers who met the same fate, only their names were Guda and Uta. Romantic?

New Athos

Truly a royal place, and here's why: in the Middle Ages, the site of modern New Athos was the residence of Abkhazian kings. But even now, the place has not lost its charm. The climate here is moderate, the sea is clean and warm, the beaches are uncrowded, and the surrounding hills are covered with tangerine and orange groves; in general, the landscapes are worthy. 

There are many water activities: banana boat rides, boat trips, jet skiing, and so on. For those who want to learn more about the city's culture, we recommend taking excursions and mini-tours. The city has good infrastructure, many cafes, restaurants, and tour agencies. You'll be taken to see Swan Lake (not the ballet), Iverian Mountain, New Athos Waterfall and Cave, and the Three Cauldrons Gorge. Charge your gadgets, there will be many photos! 

Sukhum

And here we are at the capital! Throughout its existence, so many traditions and cultures have blended in this city that it has ultimately given it a unique atmosphere. It also has excellent infrastructure: many well-equipped beaches, restaurants, cafes, and other establishments for all ages. This is where the most beautiful Botanical Garden is located, and in the surroundings, the Great Abkhazian Wall is hidden. And also: ruins of an ancient fortress, King Bagrat's castle, Queen Tamar's arched bridge. In short, you won't be bored. 

These are just the major resort towns, and on the way to them, there are equally picturesque villages. They even look more secluded because the majority of tourists go to the cities. If you need a quiet and measured rest more than ever, it's better to stay in the villages. Gechripsh, Tsandripsh, Grebeshok, Ldzaa, Alakhadzy – all of them are located in the suburbs of Pitsunda and Gagra. Therefore, we still recommend renting a car to see absolutely everything!  

Entry Requirements

Under pandemic conditions, as of August 1st, only citizens with Russian or Abkhazian passports can enter Abkhazia; Ukrainians and Belarusians without Russian passports are not yet permitted. A visa is also not required for Russians.

Certificates with a negative COVID-19 test are not required, and self-isolation is also not necessary. However, we still recommend maintaining social distance and wearing masks in public places for your own safety.