Gonio Lake: The Forgotten Lagoon of the Black Sea Coast

Imagine a quiet, almost mysterious world of water just a few kilometers from the bustling city of Batumi, beyond the crash of the sea waves and the city’s hum. This is Gonio Lake – a unique relict lagoon that was once a bay of the Black Sea, now separated from the coastline by a thin strip of land. This is not a deep lake hidden in rocky mountains; it is a warm, vibrant, and ecologically crucial ecosystem of the lowlands, telling a completely different story.

Despite its small size, Gonio Lake serves as a vital “stopover” for migratory birds. Thousands of birds traveling between Europe and Africa find a place to rest and feed right here. That is why it is a true paradise for ornithologists and nature lovers. Its water is brackish – a result of the constant mixing of sea and fresh water, which creates unique conditions for specific flora and fauna. The swampy environment around the lake, with its thickets of reeds and sedges, is full of the sounds of life – the croaking of frogs, the chatter of birds, and the gentle splashing of water. This is a place where human activity (traditional fishing) and wildlife merge. Despite urbanization and environmental challenges, Gonio Lake remains one of the most precious natural treasures of the Adjaran coast, offering its visitors tranquility and complete harmony with nature.

Key Characteristics

Name and Location

• Official Name: Gonio Lake.
• Location: Georgia, Autonomous Republic of Adjara, Khelvachauri Municipality.
• Nearby City and Landmark: Batumi city, Gonio Fortress.
• Coordinates: Approximately 41.57° North Latitude, 41.56° East Longitude.

Physical Characteristics

• Size: Surface area is approximately 0.018 square kilometers (1.8 hectares).
• Depth: Very shallow, with a maximum depth of about 1.5 meters.
• Elevation Above Sea Level: Very close to sea level, approximately 0-1 meters.
• Shape: Oval.
• Water Type: Brackish (a mix of sea and fresh water).
• Color and Clarity: Dark, with low transparency due to rich organic life.

Hydrology

• Inflow/Outflow: It is fed by small streams, atmospheric precipitation, and is periodically connected to the Black Sea.
• Seasonal Changes: The water level depends on the amount of precipitation and its connection to the sea. It does not freeze in winter.

Surrounding Environment

• Landscape: Coastal lowland, swampy and reedy environment.
• Flora and Fauna: Rich in aquatic vegetation. It is an important shelter for migratory birds (herons, ducks, etc.). Several species of fish inhabit the lake.
• Climate: Humid subtropical, with mild, snowless winters and warm, humid summers.

Human Interaction

• Recreational Uses: Popular for sport and amateur fishing, as well as birdwatching.
• Tourism: It has ecotourism potential, although the infrastructure is underdeveloped.
• Environmental Status: It is part of the Kintrishi Protected Areas and requires special protection from anthropogenic pressure.

Visual & Experiential Details

• Scenery: Calm, pastoral views, birds flying against a backdrop of reeds, sunset reflected on the water’s surface.
• Atmosphere: Tranquility, closeness to nature, a feeling of being disconnected from the city noise.