Georgia's capital city, Tbilisi, is a bustling metropolis that's rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. One of the best ways to experience the latter is by exploring the city's lakes. Tbilisi is surrounded by several stunning lakes that are perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, fishing, and boating. In this guide, we'll take a closer look at some of the best lakes to explore in Tbilisi and what makes them so special.
Tbilisi's Lakes: An Overview
Tbilisi is situated in the foothills of the Caucasus Mountains, which are known for their rugged terrain, stunning vistas, and crystal-clear lakes. The city is surrounded by several lakes, each with its own unique character and charm. Some of the most popular lakes in Tbilisi include:
- Tbilisi Sea
- Lisi Lake
- Turtle Lake
- Kus Tba Lake
- Shaori Lake
- Paravani Lake
Tbilisi Sea: A Popular Destination for Water Sports
Tbilisi Sea is one of the most popular lakes in the city, and for a good reason. This man-made lake is located just a short drive from the city center and is a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as swimming, boating, jet skiing, and fishing. The lake is also surrounded by several parks and beaches, making it a great place to relax and soak up the sun.
Tbilisi Sea is a reservoir that was created in the 1950s to provide the city with drinking water. Today, it's a popular recreational destination that attracts locals and tourists alike. The lake covers an area of 2,500 hectares and has a maximum depth of 26 meters. It's surrounded by several parks, including the Tbilisi Sea Park, which offers a variety of attractions such as a Ferris wheel, a water park, and a beach. Visitors can also rent boats and kayaks to explore the lake's calm waters.
Lisi Lake: A Serene Oasis in the Heart of the City
If you're looking for a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city, Lisi Lake is the perfect destination. This tranquil lake is located just a few kilometers from the city center and is surrounded by lush greenery and picturesque hills. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely walk around the lake, go for a swim, or rent a boat and explore the lake's calm waters. There are also several cafes and restaurants located around the lake, making it a great place to grab a bite to eat or enjoy a cup of coffee.
Lisi Lake is a small lake that covers an area of 22 hectares. It's located in the Vake district of Tbilisi and is surrounded by a 1,000-hectare forest. The lake is fed by several small streams and is home to several species of fish, including carp, catfish, and trout. Visitors can rent paddle boats, kayaks, and rowboats to explore the lake's calm waters. There are also several hiking trails located around the lake, making it a great destination for nature lovers.
Turtle Lake: A Hidden Gem in the Mountains
Turtle Lake is located high in the mountains, just a short drive from the city center. This hidden gem is surrounded by dense forests and offers stunning views of the city below. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as hiking, camping, and fishing. The lake is also home to several species of turtles, hence its name. There are several cafes and restaurants located around the lake, making it a great place to relax and enjoy the scenery.
Turtle Lake is a small, natural lake that covers an area of 0.034 square kilometers. It's located at an altitude of 686 meters above sea level and is surrounded by dense forests. The lake is fed by several small streams and is home to several species of fish, including trout and carp. Visitors can hike to the lake from the city center or take a taxi. There are several hiking trails located around the lake, including a trail that leads to the nearby Mtatsminda Mountain.
Kus Tba Lake: A Pristine Alpine Lake
Kus Tba Lake is located in the heart of the Caucasus Mountains and is one of the most pristine alpine lakes in the region. The lake is surrounded by snow-capped peaks and dense forests, making it a popular destination for hiking and camping enthusiasts. Visitors can also enjoy fishing and boating on the lake's calm waters. The lake is located a few hours' drive from the city center, but the stunning scenery and peaceful atmosphere are well worth the trip.
Kus Tba Lake is a small, natural lake that covers an area of 0.15 square kilometers. It's located at an altitude of 2,200 meters above sea level and is surrounded by dense forests and snow-capped peaks. The lake is fed by several small streams and is home to several species of fish, including trout and carp. Visitors can hike to the lake from the nearby village of Juta or take a taxi. There are several hiking trails located around the lake, including a trail that leads to the nearby Chaukhi Pass.
Shaori Lake: A Hidden Jewel in the Northwest
Shaori Lake is located in the northwest part of Georgia, near the border with Russia. This hidden jewel is one of the largest lakes in the country and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as fishing, boating, and hiking. The lake is also home to several species of fish, including trout and carp. There are several cafes and restaurants located around the lake, making it a great place to relax and enjoy the scenery.
Shaori Lake covers an area of 9.6 square kilometers and is located at an altitude of 1,100 meters above sea level. The lake is fed by several small streams and is surrounded by dense forests and snow-capped peaks. Visitors can reach the lake by car or bus from the nearby town of Ambrolauri. There are several hiking trails located around the lake, including a trail that leads to the nearby Khvamli Mountain.
Paravani Lake: A High Altitude Lake in the South
Paravani Lake is located in the south of Georgia, near the border with Armenia. This high altitude lake is one of the largest in the country and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as fishing, boating, and hiking. The lake is also home to several species of fish, including trout and carp. There are several cafes and restaurants located around the lake, making it a great place to relax and enjoy the scenery.
Paravani Lake covers an area of 37.5 square kilometers and is located at an altitude of 2,073 meters above sea level. The lake is fed by several small streams and is surrounded by barren hills and mountains. Visitors can reach the lake by car or bus from the nearby town of Ninotsminda. There are several hiking trails located around the lake, including a trail that leads to the nearby Khanchali Mountain.
Tips for Exploring Tbilisi's Lakes
-
Dress appropriately: If you're planning on hiking or camping around the lakes, make sure to dress in layers and wear comfortable shoes. The weather in the mountains can be unpredictable, so it's important to be prepared for all conditions.
-
Bring plenty of water and snacks: The lakes are located in remote areas, so it's important to bring plenty of water and snacks to keep you fueled and hydrated during your adventure.
-
Respect the environment: The lakes are home to a variety of flora and fauna, so it's important to respect the environment and leave no trace. Make sure to pack out all of your trash and avoid disturbing the natural habitat.
-
Hire a guide: If you're not familiar with the area, it's a good idea to hire a guide to help you navigate the trails and ensure your safety.
Final Thoughts
Exploring Tbilisi's lakes is a must-do activity for anyone visiting the city. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adrenaline-pumping adventure, the lakes surrounding Tbilisi offer something for everyone. So pack your bags, grab your hiking boots, and get ready to explore the natural beauty of this stunning region.