Ureki beach
Nestled on the west coast of Georgia, adjacent to the charming village bearing its name, Ureki Beach stands out as one of the rare sandy retreats along the Black Sea's coastline. Renowned for its therapeutic qualities, the five-kilometer stretch of shore is blanketed with a unique gray and black sand rich in magnetite - hence the beach's alternative moniker, Magnetite Beach. This extraordinary sand is celebrated for its healing impact on the human body, offering relief for ailments related to the musculoskeletal system, as well as cardiac and pulmonary conditions. While similar sands can be found on the shores of Costa Rica, the Philippines, and Bulgaria, it is Ureki's sand that is distinguished for its medicinal use and substantiated physiotherapeutic benefits.
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Beach description
Despite the fact that the beach is wide and quite long, it tends to be crowded and lively. To avoid the hustle and bustle of the high season, consider visiting Ureki Beach in June or September.
The central part of the beach is the most crowded, especially near the water's edge. For those in search of peace and quiet, a walk along the coast to the less populated edges is recommended.
The beach is not fully equipped, offering only a few showers and toilets at the entrance. Visitors should bring their own umbrellas and beach accessories. Remember to pack comfortable beach shoes, as the sand can be very hot, sticky, and deep.
The sea is shallow, clean, and warm, although the sandy bottom can make the water less than crystal clear. The gradual entry into the water is particularly convenient for elderly tourists and families with small children.
Near the entrance to the beach, you'll find cafes and eateries, a playground, several shops, and souvenir tents. A variety of water attractions and entertainment options are available.
A dense pine forest runs along the coast, creating a unique microclimate and infusing the air with the intoxicating scent of pine needles. In the shade of these trees, tourists pitch tents and groups gather for picnics. Regrettably, not all maintain the cleanliness of the area, often leaving behind household waste. Beachgoers may also find themselves clearing away cigarette butts and small litter to secure a spot in the sun. Additionally, the area is known for its mosquitoes, so bringing repellents and other protective measures is advisable.
When is the best time to go?
The best time to visit Georgia for a beach vacation is typically during the late spring to early fall months, when the weather is warm and conducive to spending time on the coast. Here's a breakdown of the optimal periods:
- Late Spring (May to June): This is a great time to enjoy the beaches of Georgia as the temperatures are comfortable, and the summer crowds have not yet arrived. The water may still be a bit cool in May, but by June it warms up nicely.
- Summer (July to August): Summer is the peak season for beachgoers. The weather is hot and sunny, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. However, be prepared for larger crowds and higher accommodation prices.
- Early Fall (September to October): This is an ideal time for those looking to avoid the crowds but still enjoy warm weather. The ocean remains warm enough for swimming, especially in early September, and the humidity begins to drop off.
Regardless of the time you choose, Georgia's beaches offer a delightful escape with their charming coastal towns, delicious seafood, and beautiful natural scenery. Just remember to check the local weather and water conditions before planning your trip.
Video: Beach Ureki
Infrastructure
Reaching Ureki is straightforward from any location in Georgia. Near the village, the bustling Batumi-Kutaisi-Tbilisi highway is easily accessible. You can board any minibus traveling along this route and request the driver to stop near the turnoff to Ureki or close to the railway station. From there, the beach is a mere ten-minute walk, and the friendly locals will gladly point you in the right direction. Additionally, a dedicated taxi service operates directly to the beach from the old Batumi bus station, with the trip taking approximately one hour.
The village itself is a quintessential Georgian settlement where pigs and cows are common sights on the streets. Despite this rustic charm, Ureki offers a variety of decent accommodation options and excellent restaurants that boast both amazing cuisine and a delightful local ambiance.
One of the most sought-after hotels on the beachfront is Hotel National. This three-story contemporary structure is nestled amidst majestic pine trees and a scenic garden. It draws visitors with its European standard of service and the attentive nature of its owners and staff. The hotel provides guests with comfortable rooms featuring all the necessary amenities, complimentary parking, satellite TV, and free Wi-Fi. An outstanding Georgian cuisine restaurant, considered one of Ureki's finest, is situated on the premises. The beach is a short 50-meter stroll away, where guests can enjoy free parasols and beach towels.
Weather in Ureki
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Most tourists come to Ureki to improve their health with the help of a unique local magnetic sand. Its beneficial effect on the body has been proven by scientists and doctors, however, when taking sand baths, you must adhere to certain rules.
- To lie buried in the sand should be no longer than twenty minutes, while the head should be in the shade.
- After the procedure, you should not immediately plunge into the sea, you need to let the body cool down a bit.
- Sandy procedures are categorically contraindicated for people with tuberculosis, asthma, cancer and unstable blood pressure.
- It is strictly forbidden for people with pacemakers to be on the beach. It is not recommended to put mobile phones and other electronic devices on the sand - this may lead to a malfunction in their work.