Guria

Where is Guria Located?

Guria is nestled in the Colchian Lowlands of western Georgia, boasting a 22-kilometre shoreline along the Black Sea. The region combines coastal plains with nearby mountains, creating a unique climate that is ideal for resorts, relaxing holidays, and hiking adventures.

The Resorts of Guria

Guria is best known for its climatic mountain and seaside resorts.

• Mountain Resorts: Bakhmaro and Gomismta are favorites among visitors. Bakhmaro is more developed, offering comfortable facilities, while Gomismta appeals to those seeking a rugged, untouched atmosphere. Both resorts operate from winter to spring, offering pure mountain air, healing mineral springs, hiking trails, and pristine snow.

• Seaside Resorts: Ureki, Shekvetili, and Grigoleti are famed for their magnetic volcanic sand, carried from the Bakhmaro Mountains to the Black Sea by the Supsa River. These resorts combine natural beauty with modern conveniences for visitors of all ages.

Guria is also home to the Pichori River, flowing through pristine lowlands before joining Lake Paliastomi, adding to the region’s lush natural landscapes.

The region is rich in mineral waters, most famously Nabeghlavi, available internationally. At Nabeghlavi Resort, visitors can enjoy it fresh from the source in unlimited quantities.

Gurian Oda Houses

In Guria, traditional Oda houses reflect local architecture. Built with wooden planks and long balconies, these homes are raised on stone poles to allow airflow under the humid climate.

Visitors can stay in family-run Oda house hotels and experience true Gurian hospitality, enjoying aromatic Gurian cha (tea) while listening to local stories full of humor. These houses preserve centuries of history and offer a unique cultural experience.

Kalandoba – The Gurian New Year

Kalanda, celebrated on January 14th, is Guria’s traditional New Year, with roots in pre-Christian customs. Families prepare chichilaki (small nut tree twig decorations) and bake cheese and egg crescent-shaped pies. On January 15th, each home is visited by a mekvle, who brings blessings and happiness.

The Gurian Supra and Cuisine

Gurian cuisine emphasizes plant-based dishes and fresh local produce. Signature foods include:

• Mkhali – boiled and spiced vegetables and meadow plants

• Walnut dishes

• Gurian beans with mchadi – cornbread baked in a ketsi (iron pot)

Local drinks include Gurian wines – Chkhaveri, Jani, Skhilatubani, Tsolikouri – and candle vodka, flavored with honey.

The Inimitable Gurian Krimanchuli

Gurian folk music is a cultural hallmark of the region. Residents sing everywhere, all the time, expressing emotion through polyphonic harmony. A standout example is Krimanchuli, often likened to yodeling or scatting. Each voice contributes uniquely, yet together they create a vibrant, unforgettable harmony, embodying the spirit of Guria itself.