There might be an early morning direct van to Batumi from Mestia, but the more convenient option is to change in Zugdidi.
Even if a van has ‘Mestia’ written on its dashboard, it might still drop you off in Zugdidi – this happened to me on my first trip. The first driver will always liaise with drivers in Zugdidi to make sure you get on the right van to Mestia.
Vans to Zugdidi/Mestia leave from the Intercity Bus Station in Batumi – starting from around 8/9am. The fare to Zugdidi is approximately 25 GEL, and travel time to Zugdidi is 2.5-3 hours. Fare to Mestia might be even 65 GEL.
Check the website below.