By the Editors of Car Travel Paths
Tucked along Georgia’s Black Sea coast, where waves meet the lush hills of Guria, lie two hidden gems: the magnetic beaches of Ureki and Shekvetili. These aren’t your average seaside spots. Known for their iron-rich sands and therapeutic vibes, they draw travelers seeking both relaxation and a touch of natural magic. Imagine a place where history, culture, and raw beauty collide—this is Ureki and Shekvetili.
The Mystery of Magnetic Sands: Science Meets Folklore
The secret behind these beaches? Magnetite—a mineral packed with iron that gives the sand its subtle magnetic pull. Scientists from Georgia’s Institute of Geophysics confirm that up to 70% of the sand here is magnetite, which explains why tiny grains stick to metal objects. Locals swear by its healing powers, claiming it eases joint pain, boosts circulation, and even clears skin issues.
Legends say ancient nomads once camped here to “absorb the earth’s energy.” By the 19th century, Georgian doctor Ioseb Bagration-Mukhraneli studied the sands’ properties. Post-WWII, Soviet doctors turned Ureki into a health retreat for veterans and workers—proof that this place has been a wellness hotspot for over a century.
Ureki: Soviet-Era Charm Meets Modern Vibes
A Stroll Through History
The name “Ureki” comes from a bitter wormwood plant that once thrived here. In the 1870s, a railway linking Batumi to Tbilisi put Ureki on the map as a transport hub. By the 1950s, it became a Soviet-era sanatorium town, blending stark architecture with palm-lined streets.
What to Do
- Ureki Sanatorium . Founded in 1952, it still offers “sand therapy.” You’ll be buried up to your neck in warm, magnetic sand—a 20-minute session costs 15 GEL (≈$5 USD) . The campus feels like a time capsule, with Soviet murals and subtropical gardens planted with Sochi-imported palms.
- The Beach . Five kilometers of dark, iron-rich sand stretch along a gentle shoreline. Rent a jet ski (10–15 GEL/hour ≈$3.3–5 USD ) or just soak up the sun. Kids love the shallow waters.
- Teahouse by the Sea . Try khachapuri (cheese bread) and chakapuli (a herby lamb stew) paired with adjika —a fiery walnut sauce. Don’t miss the kubdari (spiced beef pockets) for 25 GEL (≈$8.3 USD) .
Cultural Gems
Check out Ureki’s Soviet-era open-air cinema, “Chernomoretz,” where they screen Georgian films with English subtitles every Saturday. The faded grandeur of the 1960s architecture adds to the charm.
Shekvetili: Wild Dunes and Timeless Traditions
Nature’s Playground
Shekvetili’s 3-km beach is a mix of golden sand and pebbles, framed by 5-meter dunes and juniper groves. The nearby Nachera River creates wetlands teeming with wildlife—keep an eye out for terrapins and otters.
Legends and Legacy
Meaning “oak forest” in Georgian, Shekvetili was once covered in ancient trees. French explorer Jean Chardin described it in the 17th century as a “paradise where the sea shimmers like liquid silver.” Today, remnants of medieval watchtowers hint at its storied past.
Adventures Await
- Nachera River Eco-Tour . Hike through sacred juniper forests with a local guide (30 GEL ≈$10 USD ), ending with a tasting of wildflower honey and herbal tea.
- Likha Village . This open-air museum recreates 19th-century Gurian life. Try kuchmachi (offal in plum sauce) at the rustic café (12 GEL ≈$4 USD ).
Beyond the Beach
Explore the Colkheti National Park , where trails like the “Lily Valley” burst with blooms in spring. For a challenge, hike the 10-km “Wild Beach Route” to Cape Kapia.
Getting There: Tips from car rental Pros
Rent a Car—Your Best Bet
Freedom comes with four wheels. Rent from:
- Getmancar car rental (manual transmission from 15 GEL/day ≈$5 USD ).
- LocalRent (verified listings from 20 GEL/day ≈$6.6 USD ).
- Myrentacar (airport delivery from 25 GEL/day ≈$8.3 USD ).
Pro tip: Always ask for full insurance coverage (CDW/LDW). Gas costs 2.5 GEL/liter (≈$0.8 USD) , and parking runs 5–10 GEL/day (≈$1.6–3.3 USD) .
Public Transport
- From Tbilisi : Buses to Ureki depart from Ortachala station (20–30 GEL ≈$6.6–10 USD ).
- From Batumi : Minibus #12 to Ureki (5 GEL ≈$1.6 USD ) every 30 minutes.
- From Kutaisi : Buses to Shekvetili (10 GEL ≈$3.3 USD ) from 8 AM to 6 PM.
Bike It
Cycle the 30-km coastal path from Batumi to Ureki (10 GEL/day ≈$3.3 USD rental). Pass mangrove swamps and the Gonio fortress ruins.
Insider Tips from Car Travel Paths
- Best Time to Visit
May–October is prime, but September and May offer fewer crowds. July’s water temps hit 79°F (26°C), but expect beach parties. - Eat Like a Local
In Ureki, hit “Bakery Nino” for churchkhela (candle-shaped candy) and shoti bread (3–5 GEL ≈$1–1.6 USD ). In Shekvetili, grab brined Gurian cheese at the market. - Eco-Conscious Travel
Shekvetili bans single-use plastics. Bring a reusable bottle—cafés like “Eco Corner” offer free herbal infusions. - Safety First
Avoid unmarked swimming zones in Shekvetili—strong currents lurk offshore. Stick to flagged areas. - Respect Local Customs
Gurians take hospitality seriously. If invited home, bring wine or sweets. Declining food? That’s a no-no.
Where to Stay
- In Ureki :
- Magnetic Riviera Hotel (80 GEL/night ≈$26.4 USD ): Pool, sea views, breakfast included.
- Sunny Beach Hostel (30 GEL/night ≈$10 USD ): Budget-friendly with shared kitchens.
- In Shekvetili :
- Dunes Guesthouse (50 GEL/night ≈$16.5 USD ): Cozy apartments with a terrace. Free bike rentals!
- Green Valley Eco-Park (65 GEL/night ≈$21.5 USD ): Treehouse stays with private beach access.
Beyond the Beach: Day Trips & Culture
- Prometheus Cave (Kumistavi) : A 40-minute drive from Ureki, this underground wonder boasts lit-up stalactites and a subterranean lake (15 GEL ≈$5 USD ).
- Batumi’s Modern Marvels : Visit the Alphabet Tower’s interactive museum or catch a concert at Europe Square.
- Imereti Wine Tours : Sample tsolikauri wine at family-owned cellars (50 GEL ≈$16.5 USD with tastings).
Festivals & Events
- Magnetic Sands Festival (August) : Sand sculpting, healing workshops, and food trucks galore.
- Fishermen’s Day (September) : Compete in river fishing contests, then feast on smoked fish by the fire.
Ureki and Shekvetili aren’t just beaches—they’re living museums of Georgia’s soul. From magnetic sands to age-old recipes, every moment here connects you to the land’s heartbeat.
All prices based on April 2025 exchange rates (1 GEL ≈$0.33 USD). Double-check rates and book stays early to avoid peak-season rushes.
Safe travels! Your friends at Car Travel Paths.