アジャリア自治共和国での周辺の簡単なハイキングとウォーキング

Very nice promenade

Anyone strolling along the waterfront in Batumi will at some point encounter two steel figures moving slowly – toward each other, through each other, and away from each other. Their names are Ali and Nino. And although they consist of nothing but horizontally layered steel ribs, they tell one of the most touching stories this city has to offer. The sculpture was created in 2010 by the Georgian artists Tamar Kvesitadze and Paata Sanaia and is based on the novel of the same name by Kurban Said. It is about an impossible love: He, a Muslim Azeri from Baku. She, a Georgian Christian from Tbilisi. Between them: history, religion, war. And yet also closeness, tenderness – and the attempt to build bridges. That is precisely what this sculpture does: It brings the two together – and then separates them again, in an endless mechanical cycle. The spectacle lasts around ten minutes, but in motion, it feels like an entire film. A visit at dusk is particularly impressive: the sculpture then glows in changing colors, while behind it the Black Sea slowly disappears into the darkness.

In the middle of Batumi's waterfront promenade, a structure stretches into the sky, oscillating somewhere between a space radar, a DNA double helix, and an LED art object: the Alphabet Tower. Anyone approaching the 130-meter-high steel giant must first orient themselves – and perhaps ask themselves: Is this art, science, or an oversized jumble of letters? The tower is indeed a homage to the Georgian alphabet – one of the oldest and most independent writing systems in the world. The 33 illuminated letters spiral around the tower's skeleton, reminiscent of a DNA helix. A clear message: language and identity are inextricably linked. The fact that this message is presented here in neon and glass is typical of Batumi – a place that likes to make everything a bit more colorful, garish, and spectacular. At the top of the tower is a glass sphere with an observation deck and – at least temporarily – a café. The elevator takes visitors comfortably to the top, but service is not guaranteed. Those who dare to climb (and are lucky with the opening times) will be rewarded with a magnificent panoramic view of the Black Sea coast, the promenade and the playful urban chaos of the city.

Anyone entering Europe Square finds themselves in the middle of a postcard scene. Playful facades, a striking clock tower, water features, and, in the center, a stone column with a golden Medea high above – this is Batumi in miniature: dramatic, meticulously detailed, and somehow proud. This is the city's tourist heart. The square is surrounded by cafés, hotels, and historic buildings, including the fairytale Astronomical Tower with its green brick spires. During the day, it's bustling with people, children play in the fountain, tour groups gather beneath the statue, and in the evening, everything lights up in bright colors – a bit of Las Vegas, a bit of Belle Époque. Those seeking peace and quiet should come in the early morning. Those wanting to people-watch should stay until the evening. If you're hungry, take a walk around the square – everything from fast food to delicatessen is available.

What looks like a Greek set piece on a world tour is in fact part of a charmingly playful urban ensemble that cares little about originality but much about impact. The white columns rise in two semi-arches, between which stand figures like those from a plaster figurine catalog – some heroic, some athletic, some holding an airplane. The entire scene is so clean that you briefly wonder if it is simply taken down and re-erected at night. In the evening, the colonnade is effectively illuminated, making it particularly interesting for strolls after dark. During the day, the view is also worth it for the contrast: to the left, the park with its café, Ferris wheel, and pedal boat lake; to the right, the nearby high-rise buildings suggest Batumi's new beginnings. The park itself was established in 1881, formerly under the name "Aleksandrowski", and today is a kind of miniature spa park with a Caucasus flair: there is a small zoo (not necessarily a highlight, but exciting for children), play areas, shade benches and - for fans - a history of post-Soviet renaming, as the park only bore its current name in 2004.

A narrow path winds through lush green hillside vegetation, along the steep coast, and ends in a view almost worthy of a film. The view sweeps from dense walls of foliage down to the Black Sea, which stretches in endless tranquility along the Georgian coastline. Below, the railway line winds its way, and with a little luck, a train might glide through the landscape – like something out of an old travel brochure. The viewpoint is somewhat hidden, but it's signposted and easily accessible. Especially in the morning or late afternoon, when the light is slanted, this place unfolds its full magic. Ideal for a short break – with a bench, camera, or just some time. Tip: Sturdy shoes are helpful; the path can be slippery, especially in wet weather. And those interested in geology, vegetation, or the romance of railways will be doubly rewarded here.

Anyone who wants to not only breathe deeply but also reflect in the Batumi Botanical Garden should take time for a detour to the Red List Plant Trail. This small, unpretentious path is slightly hidden in the upper part of the garden – and leads right into the quiet urgency of nature conservation. Along the narrow path, discreet signs not only name plants, but also tell stories: of rare plants, of habitats that are disappearing, and of attempts to counteract their disappearance. Over 150 endemic plant species in Georgia are considered endangered – here, the abstract term "Red List" suddenly takes on very concrete leaves, colors, and shapes. What can I expect? A simple, easy-to-follow nature trail with explanatory stations. The plants seem unspectacular – but if you read up on them, you'll quickly realize: Something precious is growing here. Species such as Daphne adenantha and rare ferns are not only botanically fascinating, but also symbolic of what's at stake. Practical Information The path is part of a signposted network of paths in the garden and can easily be integrated into a 1.5- to 2-hour circular walk. Sturdy footwear is recommended, especially after rain. Shade is plentiful, and seating is scarce – but not necessary: the path thrives on slow walking.

Anyone walking through the Batumi Botanical Garden will at some point be greeted by a sweeping view of the Black Sea – and right in front of it, somewhat hidden, lies the Rose Garden. Not a romantically over-the-top ornate garden, but a vibrant experimental area steeped in history: Since 1959, rose varieties have been bred, observed, and adapted here to climate, pests, and the spirit of the times. The garden is more functional than playful. Between simple metal scaffolding and the remains of greenhouses, dozens of varieties bloom throughout the year – not always in perfect shape, but surprisingly robust. The garden is at its most colorful from May to September. Then, blossoms glow in every imaginable shade, from classic red to washed-out apricot, and the air is filled with a very distinctive fragrance – less romantic than spicy. What's there to see? – A slope full of rose beds with signage – Practical wooden arches and trellises – Small paths for strolling or resting – At the edge: a new facility with a pond, pergolas, and benches – ideal for taking a breather with a sea view Information for visitors The rose garden is located a bit off the main paths, but is worth the short detour. Sturdy footwear is recommended in wet conditions – the paths are paved but steep in places. Shade is available, as are seating areas.