Turtle Lake, known in Georgian as Kus Tba (კუს ტბა), is a charming small lake and a highly popular recreational spot located in the Vake-Saburtalo district of Tbilisi, Georgia. Nestled on the left cliff of Mount Mtatsminda, at an altitude of approximately 686-700 meters above sea level, it offers a refreshing natural escape with lovely views, just a short distance from the city center. The lake reportedly gets its name from the abundance of turtles that once inhabited its waters, and its shape, which some say resembles a turtle.

Natural Setting and Recreational Activities:

Tranquil Oasis: Despite its proximity to the bustling city, Turtle Lake offers a calm and tranquil atmosphere. Surrounded by a thick, lush forest, it provides cooler temperatures in summer compared to the city below and fresh mountain air, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and unwinding.
Pebbled Beaches and Swimming: During the warmer months (typically from late spring to early autumn), Turtle Lake becomes a popular destination for swimming and sunbathing. It features well-maintained pebbled beaches with deckchairs where visitors can relax by the water.
Boating and Water Activities: The lake is perfect for leisurely water activities. Visitors can rent catamarans or paddle boats to glide across its calm surface, enjoying the serene environment from a different perspective.
Walking and Jogging Track: A paved track encircles the entire lake, measuring roughly 1 kilometer in circumference. This pathway is popular for leisurely strolls, brisk walks, or jogging, offering continuous views of the lake and its green surroundings.
Sports Facilities: The area around Turtle Lake is well-equipped for various sports activities, including mini-football stadiums, sand volleyball courts, and outdoor gym areas, catering to active visitors.

Amenities and Cultural Significance:

Cafes and Restaurants: Numerous cozy cafes and restaurants line the shores of the lake, many offering outdoor seating with scenic views. These spots are perfect for enjoying a coffee, a meal, or refreshments while taking in the peaceful ambiance.
Children’s Playgrounds: Turtle Lake is very family-friendly, featuring playgrounds for children, ensuring entertainment for younger visitors.
Concert Stage: There is often a professional concert stage with a pontoon on the lake, where various cultural events, concerts, and performances by Georgian DJs are held, especially on weekends during the summer season, adding to the vibrant atmosphere.
Ethnographic Museum: Located on the northern slope near Turtle Lake is the Open Air Museum of Ethnography (Giorgi Chitaia Ethnographical Museum). This fascinating museum showcases traditional Georgian architecture and way of life, featuring over 70 authentic buildings and structures from different regions of Georgia, providing a miniature model of the country’s diverse heritage.

Accessibility and Views:

Turtle Lake Cable Car: The most scenic and popular way to reach Turtle Lake is via the recently renovated Turtle Lake Cable Car. Operating from Ilia Chavchavadze Avenue (near Vake Park), this modern cable car ride takes approximately 6 minutes and offers stunning aerial panoramic views of Tbilisi as it ascends the mountain.
Hiking Trails: For the more adventurous, several hiking trails lead up to Turtle Lake from Vake Park or other parts of the city. These trails wind through forests and offer additional viewpoints of Tbilisi. Taxis and public buses are also available.

Turtle Lake is a beloved getaway for Tbilisi residents and visitors alike, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, active recreation, and cultural experiences in a serene setting high above the city.