Zichisdsiri: Hotels and Accommodations

The Petra Museum Reserve in Tsikhisdziri preserves fortress ruins, the remains of a palace, an ancient bathhouse, service and soldiers’ buildings, as well as the foundations of a basilica from the 6th and 7th centuries. Those wishing to book a hotel in Zichisdsiri can continue their accommodation search afterward.

History and Culture

Petra is an early feudal historical monument and was an episcopal center within the Diocese of Lazica. The city of Petra was built in the 6th century AD by the Byzantine Emperor Justinian over the remains of an ancient settlement of the Laz people. From the landward side, Petra was protected by a wall and a steep cliff.

Tsikhisdziri has been inhabited since antiquity and was a historic fortified city connected with the Kingdom of Egrisi because of its strategic military and economic location. A narrow coastal road through Petra connected western Georgia with Byzantium, Iran, and Armenia. Petra also played an important role in the expulsion of the Ottomans during the Russo-Turkish War of 1878.

Coast and Landscape

The acropolis of Petra stands on a rocky hill overlooking the Black Sea. The coastal landscape of Tsikhisdziri includes green slopes, dramatic cliffs, citrus groves, tea plantations, and paths through bamboo. The area has a Black Sea coastline with rocky beaches.

Tsikhisdziri is described as being shaped by a combination of maritime and mountain climates. Compared with Batumi or Makhinjauri, the summers are relatively cool and the winters relatively warm. Tsikhisdziri is also described as a destination for visitors seeking clear water and a peaceful seaside setting.

The coastal conditions support marine life; dolphins can sometimes be seen close to shore.

Leisure by the Sea

Boat rentals are available at Tsikhisdziri Beach. The green slopes, as well as the parks and gardens, are home to holiday resorts, restaurants, and cafés. Camping is permitted on Tsikhisdziri Beach, and the beach is suitable for seaside recreation.

Tsikhisdziri is listed among the beaches of Adjara where visitors can sunbathe or swim from the beginning of May.

Adjara

In Adjara, visitors can combine Black Sea beaches with mountain hikes, rafting, forest walks, and visits to ancient fortresses and monasteries. The wines Tsolikouri and Chkhaveri are produced in Adjara.

Other places: Gonio, Tkhilnari, Sarpi, Kvariati, Makhinjauri, Batumi, Kobuleti, Chakvi

For the overall travel overview: Adjara.