Are you an adventure seeker? Do you love to explore the outdoors and get lost in nature? Then you'll love hiking in Tbilisi! The capital of Georgia is surrounded by breathtaking mountains, lush forests, and scenic trails that offer an unforgettable experience. Here are the ten best hiking trails near Tbilisi that you must check out.
1. Mtatsminda Park
Mtatsminda Park is a beautiful location located on a hill overlooking Tbilisi. The park offers several hiking trails that wind through the forest and offer stunning views of the city. The trails are well-marked and suitable for hikers of all skill levels. The park is also home to an amusement park with a Ferris wheel, roller coaster, and other rides.
If you're looking for a more challenging hike, you can take the trail that leads to the top of the hill. The trail is steep in some places, but the views from the top are well worth the effort. You can see the entire city from the top, and it's a great place to watch the sunset.
2. Narikala Fortress
Narikala Fortress is one of the most iconic landmarks in Tbilisi. The fortress sits on a hill overlooking the city, and the hike to the top is well worth the effort. The trail is steep in some places, but the views from the top are breathtaking. You can see the entire city from the top, and it's a great place to take pictures.
The fortress was built in the 4th century and was used as a defensive structure until the 17th century. Today, it's a popular tourist attraction and a must-visit destination for hikers.
3. Lisi Lake
Lisi Lake is a popular destination for hiking, picnicking, and swimming. The trail around the lake is easy and suitable for hikers of all skill levels. The lake is surrounded by lush forests and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. There are several picnic areas around the lake where you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
If you're feeling adventurous, you can rent a paddleboat and explore the lake. The lake is also a popular destination for swimming, and there are several beaches around the lake where you can take a dip.
4. Turtle Lake
Turtle Lake is another popular destination for hiking and picnicking. The trail around the lake is easy and suitable for hikers of all skill levels. The lake is surrounded by lush forests and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
There are several picnic areas around the lake where you can relax and enjoy the scenery. The lake is also a popular destination for swimming, and there are several beaches around the lake where you can take a dip.
5. Mtatsminda Plateau
The Mtatsminda Plateau is a popular destination for hiking and camping. The plateau offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and is a great place to watch the sunset. The trail to the plateau is steep in some places, but the views from the top are well worth the effort.
The plateau is also a popular destination for camping, and there are several campsites around the area where you can pitch your tent. The plateau is a great place to stargaze, and you can see the Milky Way on a clear night.
6. Vake Park
Vake Park is a popular destination for hiking, picnicking, and birdwatching. The park offers several hiking trails that wind through the forest and offer stunning views of the city. The trails are well-marked and suitable for hikers of all skill levels.
The park is also home to several species of birds, and it's a great place to go birdwatching. If you're lucky, you might spot a Eurasian jay, a common buzzard, or a blackbird.
7. Mtskheta
Mtskheta is a historic town located just outside of Tbilisi. The town is home to several historic landmarks, including the Svetitskhoveli Cathedral and the Jvari Monastery. The hike to the top of the Jvari Monastery is steep in some places, but the views from the top are breathtaking.
The town is also a popular destination for shopping, and there are several souvenir shops around the area where you can buy traditional Georgian crafts and souvenirs.
8. Tbilisi National Park
Tbilisi National Park is a popular destination for hiking and camping. The park offers several hiking trails that wind through the forest and offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The trails are well-marked and suitable for hikers of all skill levels.
The park is also home to several species of wildlife, including deer, foxes, and wild boars. If you're lucky, you might spot one of these animals on your hike.
9. David Gareja Monastery
David Gareja Monastery is a historic monastery located in the desert near Tbilisi. The hike to the monastery is steep in some places, but the views from the top are well worth the effort. The monastery is home to several historic landmarks, including the Lavra Monastery and the Udabno Monastery.
The monastery is also a popular destination for spiritual pilgrimages, and there are several religious ceremonies held at the monastery throughout the year.
10. Kazbegi
Kazbegi is a popular destination for hiking and camping. The town is located in the mountains near Tbilisi and offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks. The hike to the top of Mt. Kazbek is steep in some places, but the views from the top are breathtaking.
The town is also a popular destination for skiing, and there are several ski resorts around the area where you can hit the slopes.
Final Thoughts
Hiking in Tbilisi is an unforgettable experience that offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced hiker, there's a trail for you in Tbilisi. So pack your hiking boots, grab your backpack, and hit the trails!