Bazaleti Lake: A Georgian Oasis

Bazaleti Lake, located 60 km northwest of Tbilisi and 5 km south of Dusheti, is a captivating destination in eastern Georgia. Situated at 900 meters above sea level on the Bazaleti Plateau, the lake spans 1.22 square kilometers with a maximum depth of 30 meters. Surrounded by the Gudamakari and Lomisi mountain ranges, Bazaleti Lake is renowned for its natural beauty and therapeutic properties. Formed around 14,000 years ago during the last Ice Age, the lake has a long and fascinating history. The nearby village of Bazaleti shares its name with the lake and was once a thriving medieval town. In 1626, the Battle of Bazaleti took place here between rival Georgian factions. Today, the area is a popular recreational spot with a modern tourist complex. Bazaleti Lake is shrouded in legends, including one about a golden-lipped child in a golden cradle at the bottom of the lake, formed from his mother's tears. Another tale speaks of a bull that drowned in the lake and later reappeared in a nearby village well, highlighting the lake's circulating waters. The lake's waters are believed to have healing properties, attracting visitors seeking relief from skin, joint, and bone ailments. The fresh mountain air is also considered beneficial for cardiovascular and blood disorders. Visitors can enjoy various activities such as swimming, fishing, kayaking, and camping. The lake is home to diverse fish species, including carp, pike, trout, and catfish. The Bazaleti Lake Hotel provides a comfortable stay with picturesque views and Georgian cuisine. The lake is a year-round destination, with frozen surfaces in winter for fishing and warm waters in summer for swimming.