Turtle Lake

Turtle Lake in Tbilisi is a well-loved retreat for local families, though it remains something of a hidden gem for most tourists, largely due to its location away from the city’s main attractions. Nestled on the northern slope of Mtatsminda—home to the city’s iconic amusement park and panoramic viewpoints—this tranquil lake offers a peaceful escape from the urban bustle.

Though modest in size, Turtle Lake spans approximately 4.4 hectares and reaches a maximum depth of 2.5 meters. The lake takes its name from the turtles that once inhabited its waters. Today, the lake is open for swimming and various recreational water activities, drawing visitors looking to cool off or simply relax by the water.

Surrounding the lake, especially at the base and along the hillside, is the expansive Vake Park forest area. This green zone is interlaced with winding woodland paths that lead to residential neighborhoods and higher ground. Scattered throughout are benches and tree-lined alleys that offer shaded spots for rest and reflection.

At the heart of Vake Park stands the imposing Glory Memorial, crowned by a 28-meter-tall Victory statue. A wide, beautifully landscaped avenue stretches out from the monument, featuring manicured flowerbeds and paved walkways, perfect for strolling.

Another key highlight within the park is the Tbilisi Open-Air Ethnographic Museum. Covering an impressive 52 hectares, the museum is divided into 11 distinct zones, each representing various regions of Georgia. Here, visitors can explore preserved traditional dwellings, workshops, wine cellars, and household structures. Authentic artifacts—including furniture, clothing, and tools—offer a glimpse into the daily life of Georgia’s rural past. The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday, from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Admission ranges from 0.5 to 5 GEL, and children under six can enter free when accompanied by an adult.

At the summit of the mountain, not far from the path descending to Turtle Lake, visitors can access a scenic overlook with breathtaking views of the city. The area is characterized by its modern residential development, creating a striking contrast with the old city skyline. Close to the viewpoint is the “Tbilisi 2015” monument, commemorating the Youth Olympic Festival held in the city.

Encircling the lake is a wide, well-maintained pathway popular among joggers, cyclists, and parents pushing strollers. On the parking lot side, several cafes and restaurants offer both indoor and outdoor seating areas, ideal for enjoying a meal or coffee with a view.

For those seeking adventure, Turtle Lake Boating provides paddleboat and rowboat rentals. The “Flying Turtle” attraction invites thrill-seekers to soar over the lake on a zipline suspended high above the water.

The lake’s surroundings are also equipped for families and fitness enthusiasts. Children can enjoy multiple playgrounds featuring slides and carousels, while athletes can take advantage of open-air workout stations. The beach is pebbled, and sun loungers are available for rent.

Situated at an altitude of about 700 meters above sea level, Turtle Lake can be accessed either by car or by cable car. Public buses—routes 5, 9, 34, 51, 59, 334, and 345—will take you as far as the “Vake Cemetery” stop. From there, it’s roughly a 40-minute uphill walk, a route better suited to those in good physical condition.

A lesser-known cable car departs from the foot of the mountain, often overlooked by visitors due to its infrequent mention in guidebooks. A one-way ride costs just 1 GEL, payable exclusively with a MetroMoney card, which can be purchased at any metro station and reloaded at the cable car ticket booth. Since this transport mode isn’t heavily trafficked by tourists, you may need to wait briefly for a sufficient number of passengers to gather.

Unlike the more modern cable cars at Rike Park, the cabins here are older and lack seating. Doors must be manually secured by an attendant before departure. However, the journey offers unique views of the Vake Park canopy and the nearby residential developments, making for a scenic and authentic local experience.