Hiking to The Gonio Cross With Sweeping Views of Batumi and Türkiye

"You can see three countries from up here!"

One of the lesser-known but truly rewarding experiences just outside of Batumi is the hike up to the Gonio Cross. Nestled high in the hills above the seaside village of Gonio, this peaceful monument offers some of the most breathtaking panoramic views of Batumi, the Black Sea, and even across the border into Türkiye.

Finding Connection Through Nature

The first time I visited the Gonio Cross, I joined up with a local expat hiking group. One of the things I love most about living in Batumi is how welcoming and active the expat community is. It’s easy to make friends when people regularly get together for hikes, outings, or just casual meetups. These shared adventures create a real sense of community. When moving to a new place, it's so important to be able to meet people and make friends, and I have found that there are such groups being formed all over the world now.

We caught the local bus running to Sarpi from Batumi. We departed at Gonio, then began the scenic uphill hike through the town and into the lush hills. Along the way, a kind local man offered us fresh tangerines from his garden. He even sold a few bottles of homemade wine to some of our group. It was one of those small, spontaneous moments that make Georgia so unforgettable.

Our group was comprised of hikers of all skill levels, and the trail was challenging but manageable. As we reached the summit, the view opened up to reveal sweeping vistas of the green hills rolling down to the Black Sea, the skyline of Batumi in the distance, and the rugged mountains of Türkiye beyond the border. It was stunning. Yet, at the end of it all, we were quite exhausted. 

A Family Day in the Hills

My wife was interested in the hike, and I told her we should do it together. So, the second time I hiked to the Gonio Cross, I went with my family and a friend of my daughter’s. We took a taxi part of the way up to save time and energy, then we hiked the rest of the way on foot. The trail we followed passed through serene woodlands, flowering hillsides, and small tucked-away homes. Once at the top, we laid out a small picnic of khachapuri and enjoyed the quiet atmosphere around the cross.

Afterward, we descended on foot into the town and took a taxi home. The pace was slower than the first trip, but equally memorable.

About the Cross

The Gonio Cross itself is a simple but meaningful monument. Standing tall on the ridge, it represents faith, endurance, and the spiritual depth that runs through much of Georgian culture. It’s not uncommon for locals to make the climb as a personal pilgrimage or just for quiet reflection.  Some take a taxi all the way to the top and just take in the views. The cross faces both the sea and the mountains, almost like a guardian watching over the coast.

Though not as famous as other landmarks in Georgia, the Gonio Cross is absolutely worth visiting, especially if you enjoy hiking, nature, and places that feel a little off the beaten path. It’s the perfect blend of local culture, spiritual symbolism, and natural beauty.

Tips if You Go:

• Bring water and a snack for the top.

• Wear sturdy shoes—the trail can get muddy or steep in parts.

• If you're not up for a full hike, taking a taxi halfway and walking the rest is a great option.

• Be ready for friendly locals and maybe a surprise treat or two on the way.

Visiting the Gonio Cross reminded me that some of the most meaningful places aren’t in guidebooksthey’re found through local connections, shared stories, and a willingness to get out and explore.