Shekvetili is a charming resort village located north of Kobuleti and south of Ureki. Renowned for its magnetic sands, reminiscent of those found in Ureki, and a grove of Pitsunda pines, this destination offers a unique blend of natural beauty and tranquility. In 2020, the nearby Shekvetili Dendrological Park opened its doors, adding to the area’s allure.
Historically, Shekvetili was merely a stretch of untamed coastline, until the early 19th century when the Russian army established a small border post here, known as St. Nicholas Post. This outpost lacked significant fortifications. In October 1853, as the war with Turkey (the Crimean War) erupted, a contingent of 2,000 soldiers, including a small unit of Gurian cavalry, was stationed at the post, equipped with two cannons. The Turkish forces landed 5,000 troops north of the outpost and launched an assault, resulting in the near-total annihilation of the defenders, with only 30 men managing to escape into the surrounding woods. This tragic event essentially marks the historical significance of Shekvetili.
Today, the village of Shekvetili stretches approximately 3 kilometers along the Black Sea coast, immediately north of the mouth of the Natakhebi River. It occupies a narrow strip of land, about 500 meters wide, nestled between the sea and the Batumi highway.
The village is dotted with quaint holiday homes, many of which are being transformed into hotels. However, a fully developed resort with comprehensive infrastructure is still a work in progress. On the contrary, Shekvetili serves as a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of civilization. Along this untouched stretch of coastline, private villas are available for rent, providing a serene getaway.
Shekvetili captivates visitors for two main reasons: its magnetic sands and the Pitsunda pine grove. This grove features a healthy forest, largely unspoiled by litter. The famous Pitsunda pine (Pinus brutia var. pityusa), the same species found along the beaches of Pitsunda, thrives here. The pine forest forms a rectangular area measuring 1,700 by 400 meters, stretching along the shoreline to the north of the village.
In terms of its beaches, Shekvetili can be seen as a simplified version of Ureki. The area boasts similar magnetite beaches (due to the river’s outflow from Natakhebi), though the concentration of magnetite is slightly lower here. The sand in Shekvetili is dark but still a bit lighter than that of Ureki. The water is as clear as that found in Kobuleti, and the proximity of the pine grove adds to the beach’s appeal. This beach is particularly well-suited for wild camping—here, you can pitch a tent among the pines and enjoy a peaceful retreat, free from the crowds.