Samtskhe-Javakheti: Lakes, Protected Areas and Culture

Samtskhe-Javakheti is an administrative region made up of the two historic provinces of Samtskhe and Javakheti. Lakes, wetlands, protected areas and cultural sites offer different focuses for a trip. If you are looking for a hotel for your stay, you can first consider whether nature observation, history or a specific activity will shape your plans.

Landscapes of Lakes and Meadows

A prominent geographical landmark is Paravani Lake, a volcanic-tectonic lake in Samtskhe-Javakheti. The Javakheti Protected Areas are characterized by lakes, unique marshes, and subalpine and alpine meadows. The landscape is therefore not limited to a single type: bodies of water and wetlands sit alongside open meadows at subalpine and alpine elevations.

The Javakheti Protected Areas include Javakheti National Park and the managed reserves of Bughdasheni, Khanchali, Madatapha, Sulda and Kartsakhi. In addition, Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park extends across Samtskhe-Javakheti, as well as Imereti and Shida Kartli. It therefore covers more than one administrative region.

Birdwatching and Nature Experiences

At the Javakheti Protected Areas, 140 species of breeding and migratory birds can be observed from birdwatching towers. If birdwatching is important to your trip, you can take this focus into account when planning your time.

Fishing is also associated with the lakes and protected areas, but in different ways: the Javakheti Protected Areas have numerous fish species suitable for sport fishing. Seasonal ice fishing is possible on Paravani Lake, primarily targeting whitefish. Check local regulations and conditions before sport fishing.

The kayaking section on the Paravani River is 16 kilometers long, has an elevation drop of 435 meters and is rated between difficulty levels 4 and 5. Length, elevation drop and difficulty describe different aspects of the trip. This is a challenging activity; experienced kayakers and local support are recommended.

The Region’s Cultural History

The Abastumani Astrophysical Observatory, in operation since 1932, is a special site in the history of astronomy. It offers a different focus from the landscape and nature reserves, adding a scientific point of interest to the trip.

Vardzia is among the cultural and historical sites of Samtskhe-Javakheti. A total of 242 caves are partly or fully preserved there; Vardzia also has the status of an immovable cultural monument of national significance. The number and state of preservation give a concrete sense of the extent of the surviving cave complex.

Poka St. Nino Monastery, dating back to the 11th century, is located on Paravani Lake. The Meskhetian houses reveal another aspect of the region’s history: they had underground darani tunnels that served as shelters during wartime. Thus, monastery history, preserved caves and traditional forms of housing can be found at different sites and in different contexts.

Routes and Orientation

The route from Tbilisi to Vardzia, Ninotsminda, Akhalkalaki and Akhaltsikhe follows the Southern Highway past Paravani Lake. The lake is a geographical landmark along this route. If you use this route for your plans, check local road conditions.

Use the destinations that matter to you as a guide when assessing the location of a particular accommodation.

Discover more destinations: Abastumani, Akhalkalaki, Nakalakevi, Bakuriani, Borjomi, Tsaghveri, Akhaltsikhe, Aspindza, Didi Mitarbi, Likani, Tba, Zanavi, Tmogvi, Bakurianis Andeziti, Tsemi, Abuli and Zarzma.

For the broader travel overview: Georgia.