The city of Batumi is Georgia’s coastal gem, nestled between the Black Sea and the Caucasus Mountains. It’s an open invitation to uncover Georgia’s wild coastal spirit, from the dense forests that spill out of Mtirala National Park (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) to the rivers carving deep gorges across the landscape. Batumi is the gateway to the wild fringes of the Ajara region. This is a place where every turn inspires discovery, calling to curious travellers seeking authentic encounters. So, plan an off-the-beaten-track adventure with some of these top experiences. 

Glide the Chirukhi zip line

The Chirukhi zip line starts at 2,100m above sea level (Batumi Georgia)

If you are a thrill seeker, then Batumi is the perfect base for your adventures, thanks to its handy location. Situated just a three-hour drive from the city is the Chirukhi Mountains, where you’ll find an exhilarating 1,789m-long zip line that offers adventurers a chance to conquer their fears while taking in unique views of the landscape. However, this isn’t just any zip line; it’s Europe’s longest non-stop dual zip line, so grab your adventurous travel buddy and head up into the alpine region of Georgia for an adrenaline-filled afternoon soaring through the air. Starting at 2,100m above sea level, you will enjoy ample time gliding above lush alpine meadows and watching the green hills roll past. The Chirukhi zip line is a truly unique experience. 

Head out with a local guide on a rugged trail to discover soul-stirring views of crystal-clear lakes such as Shratiani and Karagoli. Admire the impressive Tetrobi fields and Khikhani fortress, whose origins date back to the 10th century. You’ll pass mountain huts and ruins nestled between the rugged mountains. It’s all a far cry from Batumi’s modern high-rises and 19th-century streets.

Hike in alpine Ajara

The alpine villages of Ajara offer a chance to see rural life up close (Batumi Georgia)

Batumi is the capital of the Ajara region, which is situated near the foot of the Lesser Caucasus Mountains. Its beautiful alpine scenery is perfect for hiking and slowly exploring a timeless part of the country. Spring and summer are the best months for trekking here, and with these seasons comes the opportunity to meet the herders who relocate to the Ajara mountains every year to graze their livestock. Seeing this way of life up close feels like a privilege. Head to places such as the Goderdzi Alpine Botanical Garden and Green Lake to sink into a slower pace of life.

In Gobroneti, one of the oldest villages in Ajara, you can stay in a family-run guest house and hike circular trails leading out to waterfalls and the Colchis forest. For a different kind of cultural experience, head to Khikhani Fortress, Skhalta Monastery and the tiny area of Shuakhevi, which offers opportunities to learn about Georgian alpine life. Hikers interested in high-alpine lakes should turn their attention to Green Lake or Shuamta Lakes, which have an impressive backdrop of colourful mountains. 

Taste traditional dishes and local wines

Be sure to try the local food which has a hearty alpine feel (Batumi Georgia)

With a rich history in gastronomy, every corner of Georgia offers distinct flavours and regional dishes, making Ajara, in particular, a fantastic place for foodies. A must-try local dish is Yakhni, a hearty and warming stew consisting of beef brisket, spices and walnuts slow-cooked over an open fire. Another local speciality, and perhaps one of the easiest dishes to prepare, is Borano. This is made by placing local cheese in clarified butter before melting it to form a dish similar to cheese fondue – albeit one that doesn’t go light on calories.

As well as sampling local cuisine, a trip to Batumi would not be complete without a visit to a regional winery. With a history of winemaking dating back around 8,000 years, Georgia’s ancient methods, including ageing its wines in Qvevri (egg-shaped clay vessels), are employed in wineries such as Adjarian Wine House, where you can sample local vintages and dishes surrounded by vineyards. 

Go horse riding in Zortikeli Mountain

Discover the horses who live by the mountain lakes which are scattered in the hills of Ajara (Batumi Georgia)

Batumi is a gateway to exploring Ajara’s alpine region on horseback and learning about local ways of life. Standing at 2,050m above sea level, the Zortikeli Mountain offers some of the best opportunities for horse riding in the region, set amid majestic green slopes. Here you will meet local families tending their farms, who make a living out of raising livestock and taming horses. 

In the high alpine zones of Ajara, summer brings life to the mountains. Families move up from the valleys, filling the meadows with laughter and the scent of fresh dairy being made the old, natural way. The hills burst with wildflowers, the forests hum with wildlife, and the season unfolds in a rhythm of shared meals and mountain festivals—moments where locals and travellers come together to celebrate the land and its quiet abundance.

Cycle along the Black Sea coastline

Cycling the coast from Batumi offers an easy ride (Batumi Georgia)

Georgia’s Black Sea coast offers scenic bike rides that cater to all skill levels. From Batumi, you can discover the region’s shingle beaches, sparkling seas lined with subtropical flora and charming villages by embarking on a brisk and invigorating bike ride along the open coastal path. For nature enthusiasts, the winding trails that thread the UNESCO-recognised Kobuleti Protected Area’s wetlands offer a unique opportunity to experience the region’s remarkably diverse habitats. Its trails are also suitable for cyclists of all levels. And for the more experienced thrill seekers, challenging mountain biking routes can be found in the nearby Ajara mountains, where trails take you through alpine forests and meadows to experience breathtaking views stretching out across the hills.