Turtle Lake

Turtle Lake: A Scenic Escape in the Heart of Tbilisi.

Turtle Lake is a hidden gem in the heart of Tbilisi, it is a small reservoir located in the neighborhood of Vake of the Tbilisi city on the height of almost  687m above the sea level. It is cozily situated on the left cliff of the Mount Mtatsminda, towering over the Vake Park and the Ethnographic Museum. Once there were many turtles, this is how the lake got its name. They are still there, but not as many as before.

Getting There:

Turtle Lake is located on the hillside of Mtatsminda Mountain, about 7-8 km from the city center of Tbilisi. There are several ways to reach the lake, including by car, taxi cable car, or public transportation. The most spectacular way to get there is by cable car, which was reopened in 2016. The cable car with its small blue cabins leads from Vake Park (directly on the main road) up to the lake and is in operation daily from 08:00 to 22:00 o’clock. The return trip costs 2 GEL.
Also you can use a taxi application like : Bolt in inDrive, which should cost around 20-25 GEL (about $8-10 USD) from the city center.

Attractions:

Turtle Lake is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. The lake itself is surrounded by lush greenery and is a great place to relax and take in the scenery. There are also several hiking trails in the area, including a trail that leads to the top of Mtatsminda Mountain, which offers breathtaking views of Tbilisi.

One of the main attractions at Turtle Lake is the Open Air Museum of Ethnography, which showcases traditional Georgian architecture and way of life. The museum is spread over 52 hectares and features more than 70 buildings, including houses, churches, and other structures.

Activities:

There are plenty of activities to enjoy at Turtle Lake. During the summer months, you can rent paddle boats or take a swim in the lake. There are also several cafes and restaurants in the area where you can enjoy a meal or a drink with a view.

Also from Turtle lake you can use one of the great attraction Zipline. This is a unique zipline in Europe. One of the longest in Europe with a large difference in height. If you like bright emotions and impressions, then this zipline is for you! Going down from the top of the mountain to the park in the city center, you will have time to see the whole city from a bird’s eye view or appreciate an unforgettable sunset, fly in the crowns of trees and land softly at the finish!

In the winter months, the lake freezes over, and the surrounding area becomes a popular spot for ice skating and sledding. The nearby Mtatsminda Park also offers a variety of winter activities, including skiing and snowboarding.

Tips:

• Bring comfortable shoes and clothing, as the hiking trails can be steep and rocky.
• If you’re planning to visit the Open Air Museum, be sure to check the hours of operation, as they vary depending on the season.
• If you’re visiting in the summer, be prepared for crowds, as Turtle Lake is a popular spot for locals to gather and socialize.

Conclusion:

Turtle Lake is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Tbilisi, Georgia. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful escape or an outdoor adventure, there’s something for everyone at this scenic spot. So, grab your camera and get ready to explore one of Tbilisi’s hidden treasures!