Kobuleti is a Black Sea resort town characterized by its unique traditions, warm hospitality, historical sites, a mild subtropical climate, bright sunshine, and inviting warm waters. Located just 25 kilometers north of Batumi, this charming town offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural richness.
Although Kobuleti is a relatively young city, having gained this status in 1944, it boasts a vibrant history. The city’s main street is recognized as the longest in Georgia and is named after King David the Builder, a revered figure who unified Western and Eastern Georgia and was the great-grandfather of the famous Queen Tamar. Today, Kobuleti stands as the second-largest city in the Adjara region.
Life in Kobuleti revolves around this central street, which is also part of the major highway connecting Tbilisi and Batumi. During the summer months, this thoroughfare comes alive with bustling crowds, reflecting the town’s vibrant atmosphere.
Despite its youthful status, Kobuleti’s history stretches back millennia. The surrounding area is rich in archaeological treasures from the Stone Age, ancient times, and the feudal period. Historically, Kobuleti was part of the ancient Kingdom of Colchis. Archaeological excavations in the villages of Kobuleti and Khutsubani have unearthed Stone Age artifacts believed to be over 9,000 years old, alongside numerous materials from the Bronze Age.
Archaeologists have also discovered amphorae and other clay artifacts dating back to the 5th century B.C. At that time, Colchis maintained close ties with Ancient Greece, and later with Byzantium and the Kingdom of Pontus. All these historical treasures can be viewed at the city’s historical museum, which opened its doors in 2013. Though relatively new, the museum houses approximately 4,000 exhibits. Its ethnographic section provides insights into the daily life and customs of the region’s peasantry.
Models depicting the lifestyle of Kobuleti’s inhabitants during the feudal era captivate both children and adults interested in the diverse cultures of the past. One of the museum’s unique exhibits includes handwritten prayer books from the 17th to 19th centuries, which hold both historical and ecclesiastical significance. Visitors can also explore displays dedicated to contemporary cultural figures from the region, learning about the notable individuals who have brought fame to their homeland.
As a resort town, the essence of life in Kobuleti is closely intertwined with the sea. Urban structures and homes are situated just 5 to 10 meters from the sandy beach. Local boys spend their childhood in the water, often saying they grew up in the sea. In the summer, the town swells with tourists eager to bask under the southern sun. Describing the city’s beach as vast is an understatement; it stretches over 10 kilometers in length, with a width ranging from five to 15 meters.
Kobuleti serves as the administrative center of the district of the same name and features numerous hotels, a newly constructed modern clinic equipped with the latest technology, as well as parks and cultural centers that welcome visitors. The residents of Kobuleti, whose primary income is derived from the two to three months of the tourist season, prepare their guesthouses, cafes, and bars for the summer influx. By the end of June, the city is fully ready to welcome tourists.
Conveniently located along the Tbilisi-Batumi highway, Kobuleti also boasts a railway station. Buses operated by the “Metro” company provide easy transportation from Tbilisi, and any train on the Tbilisi-Batumi route will take you directly to Kobuleti. Ticket prices vary depending on the class of seating and the train service. For those interested in experiencing a train ride with double-decker carriages, such a service is available on the Tbilisi-Batumi route.
Kobuleti is aptly referred to as the “golden mean,” situated between Batumi and Ureki. The waters of Kobuleti are among the cleanest in the region, making it a comfortable choice for families with children, while the vibrant atmosphere of Batumi attracts the youth. However, Kobuleti offers a more affordable option for relaxation compared to both Batumi and Ureki, making it an ideal destination for budget-conscious travelers seeking a delightful seaside getaway.