Ilia Lake, Kvareli: A Peaceful Retreat in Georgia’s Premier Wine Country

Named after Georgia’s most beloved national hero, this scenic reservoir in the heart of Kindzmarauli wine country offers a tranquil break between vineyard visits and monastery explorations.

In the rolling foothills where the Greater Caucasus meets the Alazani Valley, a man-made lake reflects the mountains and forest that surround it. This is Ilia Lake — not Georgia’s most famous destination, but one of its most pleasant. For travelers exploring Kakheti’s wine country, the lake offers a moment of calm between cellar visits, a shaded walk beneath ancient trees, and a connection to one of the most important figures in Georgian history.

Understanding who Ilia Chavchavadze was, and why his name graces this place, transforms a simple lakeside stop into something more meaningful.

Who Was Ilia Chavchavadze?

The lake’s name honors Prince Ilia Chavchavadze (1837–1907), widely considered the father of the modern Georgian nation. To call him simply a “famous writer” dramatically understates his significance — Chavchavadze was the central figure in Georgia’s 19th-century national awakening, a man whose influence on Georgian identity rivals that of any historical figure.

Writer: Chavchavadze authored novels, poetry, and essays that defined modern Georgian literature and helped standardize the Georgian language.

Publisher: He founded influential newspapers and journals that shaped public discourse during the Russian Imperial period.

Political Leader: As a member of the Russian State Council, he advocated for Georgian interests within the empire while laying the intellectual groundwork for eventual independence.

Banker: He established Georgia’s first bank and agricultural credit institutions, working to modernize the economy.

National Symbol: More than any specific achievement, Chavchavadze articulated a vision of Georgian identity that unified language, culture, religion, and national aspiration. Georgians call him “Tavis Mamuli” — father of the fatherland.

Martyrdom: In 1907, Chavchavadze was assassinated by unknown assailants while traveling from Tbilisi to his estate at Saguramo. The crime was never definitively solved, with theories ranging from Russian agents to internal Georgian political enemies. He was buried at the Mtatsminda Pantheon in Tbilisi, and in 1987, the Georgian Orthodox Church canonized him as Saint Ilia the Righteous.

The lake bearing his name sits in Kakheti, the region where Chavchavadze’s family held estates and where he spent significant time. Naming this recreational area after the national hero connects leisure with remembrance.

About Ilia Lake

Ilia Lake is an artificial reservoir created by damming the Bursa and Chagurgula rivers at the foothills of the Caucasus Mountains. The lake and surrounding resort complex cover approximately 300 hectares, with the lake itself spanning 44 hectares and reaching depths of around 20 meters.

Key Facts:

• Location: Near Kvareli, Kakheti region, approximately 150 km from Tbilisi
• Lake size: 44 hectares
• Maximum depth: Approximately 20 meters
• Elevation: Approximately 400 meters above sea level
• Setting: Forested foothills with views across the Alazani Valley to the Caucasus

The surrounding forest includes centuries-old trees, and the entire area has been developed as a recreational zone with walking paths, cycling routes, and visitor facilities.

What to Do at Ilia Lake

Walking and Cycling

A paved boulevard of approximately 800 meters circles a portion of the lake, offering easy walking with mountain and water views. For cyclists, a 4-kilometer bike path extends through the surrounding parkland. The flat terrain and shaded paths make this accessible for families and those seeking gentle exercise.

Relaxation

The lake’s primary appeal is atmosphere rather than activities. Benches, shaded areas, and cafe terraces provide spots to sit with coffee or wine and simply enjoy the setting. After a morning of winery visits or monastery explorations, the quiet of the lakeside offers a welcome contrast.

Swimming and Water Activities

The lake is suitable for swimming in summer months, with designated beach areas. Paddleboats and small watercraft are available for rental, offering a way to explore the lake from the water. The depth and clear water make for pleasant conditions during warm weather.

Photography

The combination of water, forest, and mountain backdrop creates photogenic scenes, particularly in morning and evening light. Autumn brings spectacular colors to the surrounding forest; spring offers wildflowers and fresh greenery.

Dining

Several cafes and restaurants around the lake serve Georgian cuisine, including local Kakhetian specialties. The setting — outdoor terraces overlooking the water — elevates simple meals into memorable experiences.

Where to Stay

Ilia Lake Resort

The main accommodation on the lake, Ilia Lake Resort (also known as Royal Batoni Hotel) offers comfortable rooms with lake and mountain views, a restaurant, and direct access to the lake and parkland. The hotel serves as a base for exploring Kakheti while enjoying a peaceful lakeside setting.

Kvareli Town

The nearby town of Kvareli offers additional guesthouses and hotels at various price points. Staying in town provides access to local restaurants and the famous Kvareli Wine Tunnel, while the lake remains just a short drive away.

Kakheti Wine Region Broadly

Many travelers base themselves in Telavi (Kakheti’s capital, 40 km away) or Sighnaghi (“City of Love,” 55 km away) and visit Ilia Lake as part of day tours through the region.

Nearby Attractions

Ilia Lake sits at the heart of one of Georgia’s richest touring areas. Within easy reach:

Kvareli Wine Tunnel

Just 5 km from the lake, the famous Kvareli Wine Tunnel extends 7.7 kilometers into the mountainside, maintaining a constant temperature ideal for wine storage. Tours and tastings showcase Kindzmarauli, Mukuzani, and other wines from the Kvareli zone. This is one of Kakheti’s most popular wine tourism sites.

Kindzmarauli Wine Zone

The vineyards surrounding Kvareli produce Kindzmarauli — Georgia’s most famous semi-sweet red wine, made from Saperavi grapes. Multiple wineries in the area offer tastings, from large producers like Kindzmarauli Corporation to smaller family cellars using traditional qvevri methods.

Nekresi Monastery

Approximately 10 km from the lake, the ancient Nekresi Monastery complex perches on a mountainside with commanding views across the Alazani Valley. The site includes a 4th-century church (one of Georgia’s oldest), a 6th-century basilica, and a 9th-century three-church complex. A winding road and final walking section add adventure to the visit.

Gremi Citadel

The photogenic ruins of Gremi (20 km from the lake) include a 16th-century church and bell tower atop a hill — the remnants of a once-great trading city destroyed by Shah Abbas I in 1615. Excellent views and atmospheric ruins make this a favorite stop.

Alaverdi Cathedral

One of Georgia’s most important churches (25 km from the lake), the 11th-century Alaverdi Cathedral rises from the valley floor with simple grandeur. The monastery complex remains active and produces its own wine.

Tsinandali Estate

The historic estate of the Chavchavadze family (30 km from the lake) features a house museum, beautiful gardens, and a professional wine tasting facility. The family connection to Ilia Chavchavadze makes this visit particularly relevant when combined with Ilia Lake.

How to Get There

From Tbilisi

Ilia Lake is approximately 150 kilometers from Tbilisi, typically a 2–2.5 hour drive via the main Kakheti highway through Gombori Pass or the longer but faster route via Rustavi.

By Organized Tour: Most visitors see Ilia Lake as part of full-day or multi-day Kakheti wine tours that combine the lake with wineries, monasteries, and other regional highlights.

By Private Car/Taxi: The lake is well-signposted from Kvareli town. Taxis from Tbilisi to Kakheti can be negotiated, or rental cars allow independent exploration.

By Marshrutka: Public minibuses connect Tbilisi to Kvareli via Telavi, though the lake itself requires a taxi or walk from Kvareli town.

From Telavi

The regional capital is approximately 40 km from Ilia Lake, an easy 45-minute drive.

GPS Coordinates

41.9447° N, 45.8228° E

Best Time to Visit

Spring (April–May)

Mild temperatures, flowering landscapes, and fresh green vineyards make spring ideal for outdoor enjoyment. The lake is pleasant for walking though perhaps too cool for swimming.

Summer (June–August)

Warmest weather suits swimming and water activities. Afternoons can be hot in Kakheti’s lowlands, making the shaded lakeside particularly appealing. This is peak tourist season.

Autumn (September–October)

Many consider this Kakheti’s finest season. The grape harvest (rtveli) transforms the region into a celebration of wine. Forests around the lake turn golden and red. Weather remains warm but not hot. September is especially recommended.

Winter (November–March)

The lake remains accessible but offers less appeal for outdoor activities. Visiting in combination with wine tastings — more comfortable in cellar temperatures — makes sense during cooler months.

Practical Information

Entrance: No fee to visit the lake and public areas. Facilities like boat rentals, restaurants, and hotels charge separately.

Hours: The lake area is accessible throughout the day. Individual facilities have their own operating hours.

Facilities: Cafes, restaurants, restrooms, parking available. The resort hotel offers additional amenities.

Swimming: Permitted in designated areas during summer. No lifeguards; swim at your own risk.

What to Bring: Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection in summer, camera, swimwear if planning to swim.

Time Needed: One to two hours for a relaxed walk and coffee. Longer if swimming, cycling, or having a full meal.

Ilia Lake in a Kakheti Itinerary

Rather than a standalone destination, Ilia Lake works best as one element of a Kakheti exploration. A typical day combining the lake with nearby highlights might include:

Morning: Nekresi Monastery (early light, cooler temperatures for the climb)

Midday: Ilia Lake for a walk and lunch overlooking the water

Afternoon: Kvareli Wine Tunnel for tasting in the cool underground cellars

Late Afternoon: A family winery for traditional qvevri wine and conversation with producers

This combination balances history, nature, and wine — the three pillars of Kakheti’s appeal.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Ilia Lake named after?

The lake is named after Prince Ilia Chavchavadze (1837–1907), Georgia’s most revered national hero, writer, and public figure. He is considered the father of the modern Georgian nation and was canonized as Saint Ilia the Righteous by the Georgian Orthodox Church.

Where is Ilia Lake located?

Ilia Lake is located near the town of Kvareli in the Kakheti region of eastern Georgia, approximately 150 km (2–2.5 hours) from Tbilisi.

Is Ilia Lake natural or man-made?

Ilia Lake is artificial (man-made), created by damming the Bursa and Chagurgula rivers. The lake covers 44 hectares with depths reaching approximately 20 meters.

Can you swim in Ilia Lake?

Yes, swimming is permitted in designated areas during summer months. There are no lifeguards, so swimmers should exercise appropriate caution.

Is there an entrance fee for Ilia Lake?

No, access to the lake and public walking areas is free. Individual facilities such as restaurants, boat rentals, and the hotel charge separately.

What is there to do at Ilia Lake?

Activities include walking along the lakeside boulevard, cycling on the 4-kilometer bike path, swimming and paddleboating in summer, relaxing at lakeside cafes, and enjoying the peaceful natural setting.

What attractions are near Ilia Lake?

The Kvareli Wine Tunnel (5 km), Nekresi Monastery (10 km), Gremi Citadel (20 km), Alaverdi Cathedral (25 km), and numerous wineries are all within easy reach.

What is the best time to visit Ilia Lake?

September and October offer ideal weather combined with the grape harvest season. Spring (April–May) is also excellent. Summer suits swimming but can be hot.

How long should I spend at Ilia Lake?

One to two hours is sufficient for a walk and refreshment stop. Allow more time if planning to swim, cycle, or have a leisurely meal.

Can I stay overnight at Ilia Lake?

Yes, the Ilia Lake Resort (Royal Batoni Hotel) offers accommodation directly on the lake. Additional hotels and guesthouses are available in nearby Kvareli town.

Visit Ilia Lake on a Kakheti Wine Tour

Ilia Lake offers a moment of tranquility in the midst of Kakheti’s rich touring landscape. Named for a man who dedicated his life to Georgia’s cultural and national awakening, the lake connects relaxation with remembrance, leisure with legacy.

We include Ilia Lake in our Kakheti wine tours, combining lakeside breaks with winery visits, monastery explorations, and the full experience of Georgia’s premier wine region.

Georgia Tours has been exploring Kakheti with visitors since 2011. We know which wineries welcome guests warmly, which viewpoints reward the climb, and how to balance a day between culture and pleasure. Contact us to plan your Kakheti journey.