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Abkhazia's New Athos
New Athos in Abkhazia is a real gem on the Black Sea coast, packed with natural beauty and a ton of history. Whether you're up for some serious hiking, want to explore historic landmarks, or just need a chill vacation spot, New Athos has got you covered. Scenic trails, ancient ruins, and a rich cultural heritage make this place a must-visit destination for any kind of traveler.
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A Visit to New Athos in Abkhazia: What to Expect
summarizeEditor's Summary
I stumbled upon New Athos while on an excursion package to the famous New Athos caves, and what a delightful surprise it turned out to be. The scenery en route was a treat, with lush greenery as far as the eye could see. This ancient settlement, with a history dating back to the 3rd century AD, is a treasure trove of natural beauty and historical significance. From the stunning natural landscape to the rich cultural heritage, New Athos is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Abkhazia. With its unique blend of history, culture, and breathtaking scenery, New Athos is an absolute gem that will leave you in awe. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or just looking for a unique travel experience, New Athos has something for everyone.
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Kararİyi
Düzen9/10
Hizmet7/10
Görüntü8/10
I wasn't planning on visiting New Athos specifically, but it was part of the excursion package that included a trip to the famous New Athos caves. However, the caves themselves weren't the only attraction, so I decided to tag along with the rest.
Even as we were driving up to the caves, which served as a starting point for visiting various New Athos landmarks, the scenery outside the microbus caught my eye. It seemed like everything was surrounded by lush greenery.
New Athos is the oldest inhabited settlement in Abkhazia, with the first mention of it dating back to the 3rd century AD. It's located in the Gudauta district of Abkhazia.
In ancient times, this place was home to the capital of the Abkhazian principality, Anakopia (Trapea), which was the largest trading post. In the 5th century, the Abkhazians, with the help of the Byzantines, built a fortress on Apsar (Iver) Mountain, known as Anakopian.
Today, the population is around 1,500 people. Over the years, it's had several names – Trapea, Psysrcha, and Anakopia.
The natural landscape here is truly breathtaking, with a diverse range of plants. Much of the area's development can be attributed to the monks from the Panteleimon Monastery, who founded the New Athos Monastery in 1875 at the foot of the Athos Mountain.
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NEW ATHOS MONASTERY
Since we were running late for the caves, the guide swapped our tickets and took us to the New Athos Monastery an hour later. To make the most of our time, we decided to visit the monastery first.
When I visited, I was told that admission is free, but you'll need to borrow a scarf or a skirt to cover your shoulders. If you're wearing shorts, you'll be asked to tie a scarf around your waist. Don't worry, everything is returned on your way out. Unfortunately, the interior of the New Athos Monastery didn't leave a lasting impression on me. I didn't quite feel the sense of spirituality that I was hoping for. Maybe it was the crowds, but I found myself wanting to leave as soon as possible.
The surroundings of the New Athos Monastery, on the other hand, are absolutely breathtaking. I've seen just as many people taking photos of the local scenery as there were inside the monastery.
Personally, I spent more time outside the monastery, trying to capture some of the stunning views on camera.
We spent about 40-50 minutes here, which I thought was more than enough for this place, and then headed back to the caves.
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New Afonskaya Pecherskaya
The ticket costs 700 rubles, and we bought a guide who booked our tickets in advance.
At the entrance, there's a cashbox where you're supposed to pay for photo shoots in the cave for 50 rubles. We paid, but no one checked, so it's up to you whether to pay or not.
To be honest, I think 700 rubles for the entrance, plus all the people, isn't the cheapest option, and those 50 rubles could've been included in the price to avoid any feeling of being scammed.
You should dress warmly, but I think it's more important to pay attention to your shoes. The key thing is to have a treaded sole, ideally wear sneakers. It's more damp and humid than cold here, feels like being in a basement.
I've never been to a cave like this before.
I wasn't blown away, but it was a unique experience. I'd definitely go back, although they seem to pack in a huge crowd for each session – I'd say around 100 people per go.
I wish I could've explored the surroundings at a more leisurely pace, but unfortunately, with so many people crammed onto the bridge, it didn't feel very comfortable. You're walking along, thinking about who you might bump into. And forget about taking photos – there's a queue forming for the best spot.
But as you exit onto the terrace, you can take a deep breath of fresh air – the cave is pretty humid – and enjoy the views of the mountains, trees, and the Novoafon monastery in the distance.
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FOOD IN NOVOAFON
Next up, we headed to a café. Given that another tour bus arrived right after us, I got the feeling that there might be some sort of arrangement between the tour organizers and this place.
The prices were reasonable, though – I paid 1000 rubles for two skewers of shashlik, two compotes, a slice of cold cake, and some baklava. Everything was tasty, and the service was friendly.
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WATERFALL, LAKE, IRON RAILWAY IN NOVOAFON
Our next stop was the famous man-made waterfall, Lake, Grotto of Simon the Canaanite, Temple of Simon the Canaanite, Museum of the Abkhazian Kingdom, Psysrcha Railway Station, and Hydroelectric Power Station.
We ended up right next to a boarding house called 'Waterfall', and I have to wonder why it's called that.
Just before the boarding house, you can see the waterfall in the distance - it's a short walk past the market stalls and cafes.Tourists were everywhere, but after visiting the Novoafon Monastery and the caves, it didn't really faze me.
The waterfall itself was a bit of a letdown - it's basically a dam, and I've seen ones just like it back home. Compared to the ones we saw on the excursion to Ritsa, this one didn't quite have the same impact.The waterfall was actually created by the monks who used to live here. Apparently, they stored food behind the waterfall, which served as a makeshift refrigerator.
But what really caught my attention was the dam-waterfall combo, which prevented river floods that used to happen all the time before its construction and caused a lot of damage. The monks also built a hydroelectric power plant here, making it the oldest on Russian territory. You can see the GES right next to the waterfall.
What really drew me in, though, was Lake Psyrtskha, which is right behind the waterfall.It's an incredibly beautiful place that just mesmerizes you. You look around and feel this sense of calm, serenity, and complete peace. You almost forget that there are other tourists around you, and there are a lot of them.
Kudos to the architect who designed the beautiful train station building, which still stands from the Soviet era and was the exit point for tourists heading to New Athos.
I didn't venture inside the Church of Simon the Canaanite and the Abkhazian Kingdom Museum, which are situated to the right of the waterfall, mainly because I was exhausted from visiting the New Athos Monastery. What stuck with me, though, was the spot where they collect spring water. I'm pretty sure the church isn't functioning even today.
By the way, there's another waterfall nearby the main one, and I have to say, it's grown on me even more. It looks super ancient, all mossy and mysterious, with these weird yellow streaks that look like they were painted on with a brush.
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THE VERDICT
I wouldn't want to spend my entire vacation here, to be honest. There's just too much hustle and bustle, and I think seeing all the local attractions every day would get old. I'd much rather relax in Pitsunda, specifically at the United Resorts of Pitsunda, where I stay at the Mayak hotel. It's way more laid-back, and I love the relict forest and the sea nearby.
Here, instead of a relict forest, there's a different type of vegetation. I have to say, the cypress alleys really stuck with me.
I'm not sure what kind of entertainment they have here, but I did see a Ferris wheel. Lately, it seems like they're really pushing these attractions in Abkhazia. There's already a Ferris wheel in Gagra, and another one in Pitsunda.
I have to admit, New Athos feels more like a touristy area and a pilgrimage site to me. Seeing all the crowds coming in isn't exactly what I'd call a relaxing experience – it's actually pretty overwhelming. So, yeah, it's beautiful, but I've seen it and I'm good. No need to be surrounded by that level of activity 24/7.
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Other reviews about New Athos
New Athos Monastery
New Athos Waterfall
New Athos Cave
live_helpFeatured FAQ
What is the best time to visit New Athos?
The best time to visit New Athos is during the spring and summer months, when the weather is warm and sunny. However, the autumn months can also be a good time to visit, with comfortable temperatures and fewer tourists.
How do I get to New Athos?
The easiest way to get to New Athos is by booking an excursion package that includes transportation from your hotel or accommodation. Alternatively, you can take a taxi or public transportation from the nearby town of Gudauta.
What are the must-see attractions in New Athos?
The must-see attractions in New Athos include the New Athos caves, the ancient settlement, and the stunning natural scenery. Be sure to also visit the local museum and try some of the traditional Abkhazian cuisine.
Is it safe to visit New Athos?
New Athos is generally a safe destination, but it's always a good idea to take necessary precautions when traveling to any new place. Be sure to stay informed about local conditions and follow any advice from your tour operator or local guides.
What is the local currency in New Athos?
The local currency in New Athos is the Georgian lari, but US dollars and euros are also widely accepted. You can exchange currency at the local bank or use an ATM to withdraw cash.
Can I drink the tap water in New Athos?
It's not recommended to drink the tap water in New Athos, as the quality can be variable. Instead, stick to bottled or filtered water to stay safe and healthy.
Are there any health concerns I should be aware of when visiting New Athos?
The main health concern in New Athos is altitude sickness, which can occur at high elevations. Be sure to drink plenty of water and take regular breaks to avoid any issues.
Can I use credit cards in New Athos?
Credit cards are not widely accepted in New Athos, so it's best to bring cash or use a debit card to withdraw cash. Some larger hotels and tourist establishments may accept credit cards, but it's always a good idea to check ahead of time.
What should I pack for my trip to New Athos?
Be sure to pack comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes, as well as a waterproof jacket and umbrella, as the weather can be unpredictable. Don't forget to bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, as the sun can be strong in the mountains.
check_circlePros
- •The natural scenery is absolutely breathtaking, with lush greenery and stunning vistas around every corner.
- •The history and cultural significance of New Athos are truly fascinating, with a rich heritage that dates back centuries.
- •The excursion package I booked included a visit to the New Athos caves, which were an absolute highlight of my trip.
- •The local guides were knowledgeable and friendly, providing valuable insights into the history and culture of the area.
- •The scenic drive to New Athos was a treat in itself, with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
- •The local cuisine was delicious and authentic, with plenty of opportunities to try traditional Abkhazian dishes.
- •The ancient settlement is steeped in history, with ruins and artifacts that will transport you back in time.
- •The natural beauty of New Athos is simply stunning, with towering mountains and sparkling waterfalls.
cancelCons
- •The infrastructure in New Athos is still developing, so be prepared for some rough roads and basic amenities.
- •The weather can be unpredictable, so it's essential to pack accordingly and be prepared for sudden changes.
- •Some of the historical sites may be closed due to maintenance or restoration work, so it's a good idea to check ahead of time.
- •The local language is Georgian, but many locals speak some Russian and English, so communication shouldn't be too much of an issue.
- •The area is still recovering from the effects of conflict, so some areas may be off-limits due to safety concerns.
- •The local economy is still developing, so be prepared to haggle when shopping for souvenirs or local products.
- •The accommodation options in New Athos are limited, so it's a good idea to book ahead of time.
- •The food options in New Athos can be limited, so it's a good idea to try some of the local cuisine.
