What to bring from Gelendzhik as a gift – 20 best souvenirs

The resort town fascinates with its exoticism. It will not be possible to take him away in backpacks, suitcases, but it is easy to take a piece of the unique atmosphere with you! What to bring from Gelendzhik? Magic figurines, handmade soap, ceramics, juniper products, shell accessories, mysterious mini-copies of dolmens, chicken gods, cone compositions, eucalyptus brooms for a bath, house or water spirit figurines, elite aromatic oils, healing clay, tea, champagne?

Honey

Healthy treats and other bee products (including perga, propolis, royal jelly) are sold everywhere in the resort city. In Gelendzhik, honey with the addition of nuts and dried fruits is especially popular with tourists and local residents. They turn the “food of the gods” into a real vitamin superbomb.

Southern honey has excellent antibacterial, antiviral, antioxidant properties. Its healing powers are legendary. It has been scientifically proven that this amazing delicacy contributes to the prevention of various diseases, strengthens the immune system, has a beneficial effect on the nervous, cardiovascular, digestive, musculoskeletal, excretory systems, increases brain activity, accelerates cell regeneration, slows down the aging process of the body.

A nice bonus: Gelendzhik flower, eucalyptus, acacia, meadow, forb honey helps to lose weight and maintain a slim figure at any age.

Jam

On the Black Sea coast of the Caucasus, delicacy is prepared from organic fruits, berries, feijoa fruits and noble (not to be confused with horse) chestnuts. Other popular local jam ingredients are figs and Circassian pear. The first, along with feijoa, is valued all over the world for its powerful antioxidant properties. The Circassian pear in a number of cities on the Black Sea coast is becoming less accessible and may soon turn into an expensive exotic.

For example: in the nearby Sochi, its trees have already been taken for bioregistration. All varieties of Circassian pears retain amazing healing properties after heat treatment. If you regularly diversify the diet with pear jam in the mornings (Delicacy belongs to the high-calorie category), the body will receive potassium, magnesium, calcium, iron, pectin, and folic acid, which are so necessary for its functioning.

Tea

Since 1936, tea has been grown and processed in industrial quantities in the Kuban. The history of the drink on the Black Sea coast is closely connected with the famous Russian dynasties of Trubetskoy, Mamontov, Sibiryakov, Streshkovich. For a long time, scientists were sure that it was impossible to grow tea bushes north of Abkhazia.

Only at the beginning of the last century, Judas Koshman and other supporters of the development of a new industry managed to prove the exact opposite. In the USSR, Krasnodar tea was valued on a par with Georgian and Azerbaijani. After the collapse of the Soviet Union, the industry survived and found a new life. Tea is not produced at the resort, but its choice in numerous city shops is huge: from black, green to blue, yellow and oriental oolong analogues.

There are also special tea collections named after the famous resort city. One of them, created by LLC “Adler tea”, is called: “Gelendzhik”. Several types of mint and citronella are added to this blend. And in the city you can find a large number of herbal teas made from oregano, nettle, St. John's wort, sage, raspberry, sweet clover, hawthorn and other plants growing on the Black Sea coast.

nuts

Walnut trees grow almost everywhere in the city. They perfectly “get along” with apricots and cherries. This is very surprising, because in other parts of Russia, next to nuts, fruit-bearing garden trees and shrubs are extremely rare. Peanuts and hazelnuts are cultivated in the south, but walnuts are most popular on the Black Sea coast.

In folk medicine, the fruits of Gelendzhik nuts are used to treat and prevent beriberi, depression, heart disease, strengthen immunity, increase vitality. Walnut kernels have excellent taste properties.

Useful natural delicacies can be consumed separately or as part of various salty and sweet dishes: salads, sauces rich in spicy spices, pureed soups, desserts. Another local delicacy: nuts in syrup or honey are in great demand among tourists. In this region, it is prepared mainly according to old pre-revolutionary recipes.

Dried fruits

The main advantage of dried fruits and berries is that after exposure to wind and sunlight, they perfectly retain their original set of vitamins and microelements. For the preparation of dried fruits, locals use the natural air temperature. The appearance of electric dryers has significantly accelerated the processing of berries and fruits, but it also reduces the amount of useful substances, microelements in the gifts of nature.

Local enterprises have long mechanized the process of preparing dried fruits, so experienced travelers advise buying delicacies not in large stores, but in local markets from private traders. Gelendzhik berries and fruits make excellent compotes, fillings for sweet pies, pies. It is customary to add fruits prepared in this way to meat and fish dishes.

Wine

Vineyards and wines of various brands are the pride of the Black Sea coast. An important point: it is better not to purchase home-made alcoholic drinks in the city and its suburbs. Why risk your health and buy wine from dubious merchants when a winery founded at the end of the 19th century operates on the territory of the city?

In its workshops, using modern equipment, a drink is made according to old recipes, thematic excursions are held, and free tastings are organized. The assortment of Gelendzhik wines in shops, shopping centers of the resort city is huge. Here you can find exquisite sparkling spirits, including Madame Firsova wine, which has an intriguing spicy aftertaste.

If you want the purchase to remind you of the city, feel free to choose the semi-sweet wine Gelendzhik Nectar. No less popular among gourmets and travelers are Aligote, Queen of the Night, Tenderness, Pinot Blanc, Symbol of Love and other local wines.

Cheese

Dairy products are one of the hallmarks of the food industry of the Kuban and the Black Sea coast. In the markets of the region, you can find a huge number of cheeses made at home and in industrial conditions. One of the most famous southern Russian dairies is located in the resort city: Gelendzhiksky.

Fatty, pickled, smoked cheeses, famous all over Russia, are made here. The classic Gelendzhik suluguni has a special taste. The algorithm for making traditional Caucasian cheese has remained unchanged for centuries. And yet gourmets will immediately recognize the taste of cheese prepared in the resort city.

It, like all natural dairy products, is very healthy. Suluguni is considered by cheese fans to be a “self-sufficient product”. It can be consumed without bread with hot, alcoholic or non-alcoholic drinks, and not only used as an ingredient in salads and other dishes.

Spices

It is impossible to imagine southern cuisine without a variety of seasonings, sets of Armenian and Georgian spices. Many gourmet tourists come to Gelendzhik specifically to buy high-quality spices in large quantities at relatively low prices. Here you can find hop-sunel made from 6-12 spices. There is no strict rule on how much seasoning should be in it.

The composition of 6 spices is considered classic, basic, it includes hot red pepper, saffron, dill, coriander, marjoram, basil. A mixture of 7 or more components is more interesting in composition, which gives (even the simplest) dishes an original unique taste. In such Gelendzhik hops-suneli there can be celery, laurel fox, mint, dill, fenugreek, citron.

Everywhere in the city they sell red hot peppers in whole pods and in crushed form, black, allspice-peas, coriander, paprika. Fashionable gastronomic souvenir from Gelendzhik: pickled chili peppers. Its hot, spicy marinated fruits look interesting and will decorate any holiday table.

Fruit

Local fresh gifts of nature in the assortment of goods of city markets, shops, shopping centers are present all year round. The mild subtropical climate makes it possible to grow persimmons, oranges, tangerines, peaches, figs, and other fruits in this part of the Kuban. Gelendzhik gooseberries and currants are especially rich in pectin. Is it possible to bring home berries in sufficient quantities for canning? Spare no money.

Jams made from berries are incredibly tasty. Local melons, watermelons, plums, apples, cherries, sweet cherries are in special demand among tourists. Varieties of the latter are distinguished by increased sweetness, they tolerate transportation well. And from vegetables, pink tomatoes are recognized as kings of delicious souvenirs. They can be similar in size to garden cranberries, reach a kilogram weight, resemble budenovka, plums, valentines in shape.

Tomato varieties growing here have a special honey flavor. Another exotic for guests of the Kuban: salted watermelons. Southerners have long adapted the recipes of Russian national cuisine for local berries, vegetables, and fruits. In addition to watermelons, in Gelendzhik and the southern regions of Russia they salt for the winter, pickle grapes (adding mustard powder), pears, plums and even citrus fruits.

Churchill

Oriental sweetness is very popular among adults and children. The technology of its manufacture has not changed over the centuries. Walnuts, almonds, hazelnuts strung on threads are immersed in thickened juice, the resulting “pods” are cooled, subjected to short-term drying several times, and this completes the process of preparing an amazing delicacy.

It is natural that the name of the delicacy consists of two words in one of the ancient Georgian languages: “cold” and “hot”. In the classic churchkhela, natural wine is used (the drink loses its degrees during the preparation process) or grape juice. On the Black Sea coast, sweets are prepared with the addition of juices from various fruit and berry crops, including exotic ones, because the delicacy can have a very unusual color and taste, for example: chocolate.

In real churchkhela (including Gelendzhik) there are no preservatives, dyes, thickeners hazardous to health. The role of the latter in it is performed by wheat, corn flour. There are 2-3 times more vitamins, microelements, minerals in the delicacy than in fresh fruits. Sweetness is very satisfying, nutritious. In ancient times, warriors took churchkhela with them on long hikes.

Adyghe salt

The national Caucasian spice is very popular among Russian and foreign tourists. Salt preparation options are striking in their diversity. Red and black pepper, paprika, turmeric, spicy greens are added to it. Mandatory component of the Adyghe salt: garlic. This composition of the product has a powerful effect on the human body.

Regular consumption of Adyghe salt reduces the risk of viral diseases, strengthens the immune system, and improves the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract. Spice makes even simple dishes incredibly tasty. There are no artificial flavor enhancers in it. Adyghe salt is considered by many to be one of the secrets of Caucasian longevity. It has a powerful antioxidant effect.

The combination of spices in the seasoning allows you to consume less ordinary sea salt every day and contributes to the prevention of cardiovascular diseases, joint pathologies, the musculoskeletal system, hypertension, and obesity. A unique spice improves appetite, but at the same time relieves cravings for overeating, helps to get rid of excess weight.

Dried fish

The fish offered in the numerous markets of the Black Sea coast can be sung by odes. Inexpensive high-quality dried, dried fish will not surprise local residents, but for tourists it is a real shock that the product can be purchased at the markets for a symbolic price.

First of all, we are talking about dried red mullet, flounder. But the prices for trout in the city, as elsewhere in the Southern Federal District, “bite”. However, one should not spare money for royal fish cooked in the city. Such a purchase will help you get acquainted with the taste of properly cooked trout.

No less interesting is the taste of the Black Sea dried shark, which is actively used in folk medicine for the treatment and prevention of joint diseases. Everywhere in the Gelendzhik fish markets there are carp, carp, silver carp. Dried, smoked, dried fish does not require heat treatment before use, retains excellent taste, rich aroma for a long time.

Adjika

Fragrant red and green spicy seasoning is popular with tourists along with miniature pickled cucumbers. In Gelendzhik, you can find a huge number of adjika options. However, gourmets advise you to definitely try and bring home a seasoning prepared strictly according to the classic recipe from environmentally friendly products as a souvenir.

It will have a minimum of components, but its taste cannot be confused with anything. In Gelendzhik, old-timers prepare the seasoning by rubbing its components on special stones. If you are lucky enough to try just such a variant of adjika, you will know its real taste. An interesting nuance: there are no tomatoes in the classic seasoning.

Tomatoes, vegetable purees, plums, cherry plums began to be added to it relatively recently: 200-300 years ago. This is also a real adjika, but let's put it this way: a mild, less spicy version of a classic dish. Gelendzhik natural seasoning in all versions is good for health.

Garlic, ripe or unripe red pepper, fenugreek, coriander, herbs included in its composition improve the functioning of the digestive system, prevent the development of obesity, have antioxidant, antiviral properties, and strengthen the immune system.

Cosmetics based on therapeutic mud

The history of cosmetics on the Black Sea coast goes back thousands of years. Archaeologists here find vessels intended for various skin care products during excavations. Therapeutic mud for cosmetics, which can be found everywhere in shops, shopping centers of the city, is mined mainly on the Taman Peninsula.

The natural component is perfectly combined with aromatic natural oils. Honey, herbal extracts are added to such cosmetics. The main value of cosmetics sold in the resort town based on therapeutic mud: it is 100% natural. The biologically active substances present in its composition are created by nature itself.

The body perceives such drugs naturally, which reduces the risk of allergic reactions hundreds, dozens of times. Another advantage of cosmetics is affordable prices. At the same time, it is of high quality and has a minimum of contraindications.

The funds are interesting in that they accelerate cell regeneration, quickly rejuvenate tissues at the cellular level. The first results of regular use of cosmetics become visually noticeable from the first days.

Clay products

The inhabitants of the Black Sea coast use the universal natural material for various purposes. Cosmetics are created on the basis of clay. It is also a component for the manufacture of dietary supplements of a new generation. Traditional medicine, the pharmaceutical industry uses clay in the production of products for the treatment and prevention of diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, blood, joints, musculoskeletal, cardiovascular systems. And for tourists, the main value is unique ceramics.

Products of Gelendzhik masters are popular all over the world. Connoisseurs of folk crafts, collectors. Art critics specially come to the city to buy dishes, figurines, decor items, clay accessories.

Local ceramic products fascinate with their simplicity, conciseness, and harmony. Handmade earthenware perfectly retains heat, aroma, and taste of dishes. Such ceramics has a special energy. It is believed that she brings happiness to the house.

An important point: in Gelendzhik there is always the opportunity to participate in master classes conducted by local potters, and take home-made jugs, plates, dishes, mugs, decor items from the resort city with you.

juniper products

Evergreen coniferous trees and shrubs are recognized as one of the most popular materials for creating decor items, beads, amulets, talismans, dishes, massagers and other very useful gizmos. Juniper wood has a pleasant smell. It releases phytoncides.

The latter destroy pathogenic bacteria, prevent the development of viral, fungal, inflammatory diseases. Pleasant to the touch material has a calming effect on the nervous system, relieves insomnia, headaches, improves well-being, vision, and raises vitality.

The durable juniper ware brought from the resort city will last for decades, as it does not rot. The material of souvenirs has a rich natural color palette: it covers various shades of red, yellow, brown. The city always has a great selection of juniper jewelry.

Juniper rings, beads, pendants, brooches, bracelets are used by locals and travelers for medicinal and magical purposes. Natural material helps to cope with the effects of stress, normalizes blood pressure. It is widely believed that juniper things scare away evil spirits.

living plants

Representatives of the world of flora are no less popular souvenirs than ceramics and all kinds of delicacies. The nature of the Black Sea coast is famous for its exoticism, but those who have to cross the border may have problems because of green souvenirs.

According to customs rules, wild medicinal plants are prohibited from being exported from the state. And 99% of the species of plants, shrubs, trees growing on the Black Sea coast have healing properties. Green souvenirs in the city are sold in markets, specialized stores, and large shopping centers.

It is noteworthy that experienced gardeners prefer to buy trees, flowers, shrubs in pots from the owners of small retail outlets. They are usually engaged in gardening themselves, are very sociable, generously share their experience in growing exotics.

The leaders among green souvenirs are: Pitsunda pine, yucca, blue Black Sea spruce. They belong to the category of evergreens, have a lot of unique medicinal properties and (with proper care) adapt well to a new place.

Handmade soap

Products created from natural ingredients are not a luxury for fans and admirers of a healthy lifestyle, but the norm for proper body care. A large number of workshops operate in Gelendzhik, where these products are made to order or in limited quantities. Especially the city of handmade honey soap.

Cosmetologists call it the standard of sophistication, because it not only cleanses and rejuvenates the skin, but gives it tenderness, velvety, healthy appearance. Tar soap is no less popular with locals and travelers. It has a sharp specific smell and treats literally 1001 diseases.

Handmade soap with essential oils and medicinal herbs is a separate issue. In the city, you can choose its options that calm the nerves, relieve the effects of stress, accelerate tissue regeneration at the cellular level, relieve the skin from minor cosmetic defects. Environmentally friendly soap components have a special energy, because master soap makers do not use animal fats to create it.

Souvenirs from the White Horse Gallery

The unusual art gallery is famous for its interesting exhibits created from solid waste. The author's paintings placed in it are created from garbage, but the plots of the images and sculptures are filled with a deep philosophical meaning. At the exhibition site there is a trendy shop where you can buy souvenirs made in single copies.

The gallery constantly hosts individual and group workshops. The number of visitors who prefer to make their own souvenirs is constantly increasing. The gift shop always has an excellent selection of small budget cool items and luxurious panels, paintings, and household items.

Toys, small pocket mirrors, decorations, accessories for offices and rest rooms are especially popular with guests of the city. As many visitors to the gallery admit, amazing objects serve as a kind of source of inspiration, reminiscent of the value of a clean environment.

Champagne “Abrau-Durso”

The famous brand of sparkling wines is considered to be a kind of hallmark of the Black Sea coast. The plant of the same name was opened in 1890. For the manufacture of the drink, French winemaking technologies were introduced. Before the revolution, champagne was supplied mainly to the imperial court of the Romanovs.

The history of the famous drink is closely connected with the princely family of the Galitsins, whose representatives did everything possible to make the drink world famous. In Soviet times, the new government invested colossal funds in the development of the plant. After perestroika, he changed the owner, but TM Abrau-Durso did not disappear.

Today this name unites different collections of sparkling wines, carbonated wine cocktails. Drinks are produced according to the classical multi-stage technology from the juice of elite grape varieties or wine materials. The second option is a budget one, but thanks to it, Abrau-Durso is available to buyers with modest financial capabilities. In Gelendzhik, you can buy both types of drink.

It is noteworthy that the elite collections of “Abrau-Durso” are still made by winemakers according to the pre-revolutionary recipe.