Gonio Cross: A Majestic Overlook of Batumi

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Experience breathtaking views of the Black Sea and surrounding landscapes from the iconic Gonio Cross near Batumi, Georgia.

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Gonio Cross

Gonio Cross is a large concrete cross built in 2014, perched on a hill above Gonio, offering panoramic views of the Black Sea, surrounding mountains, and the city of Batumi. It's a popular spot for tourists and locals alike, especially for sunset viewing. The cross symbolizes the Georgian Orthodox Church's presence in the area, with plans for a future church nearby.

A brief summary to Gonio Cross

HH6M+V3G, гора над Гонио, Batumi, GE
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Gonio Cross.

Wear comfortable shoes for the hike to the cross, as the terrain can be uneven.
Visit during sunrise or sunset for the most spectacular views and lighting for photographs.
Bring a camera to capture the stunning panoramas of the Black Sea and surrounding mountains.
Consider visiting the nearby Gonio Fortress to enrich your historical experience.
Pack a picnic to enjoy at the cross while taking in the beautiful scenery.

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Getting There

Walking

From Gonio Fortress, the Gonio Cross is accessible via a hiking path. The hike takes approximately 20-30 minutes up the hill. Be mindful of steep paths. No entrance fee is required.
Public Transport

From Batumi, take bus #16 or any marshrutka heading to Sarpi or Gonio. The bus fare is around 0.30 GEL with a transport card or approximately 0.80 GEL with a credit/debit card. Ask the driver to drop you off after the Gonio Fortress. From there, walk up to Gonio Cross.
Taxi

Take a taxi from Batumi to Gonio Cross. A Bolt taxi from Batumi to Gonio Cross costs around 15 GEL. Negotiate the fare beforehand. From the parking area, walk up to Gonio Cross.

Discover more about Gonio Cross

Gonio Cross is a captivating tourist attraction located near Batumi, Georgia. This elevated site provides stunning views of the Black Sea and serves as a landmark steeped in local culture. The cross was built in 2014 to mark the foundation of Gonio Jvari. Georgia has a tradition of building Orthodox churches in mountainous settings. The site commands an epic location, with views of the Black Sea and Upper Adjara mountains. The territory around Gonio Cross belongs to the Patriarch. Gonio Jvari is yet to be built, so Gonio Cross symbolizes the Church staking its claim to the hilltop plateau. The area offers a 360-degree panorama of Gonio and the Black Sea to the west, the Chorokhi river delta to the north, and the lights of Batumi on the horizon. To the east, mountain valleys and small villages can be seen. The site is also known for its wildlife, specifically falcons and buzzards. There's information about the bird species that dwell here. Gonio Cross offers a remarkable encounter with nature's grandeur and spiritual reflection.