Bazaleti Lake

Bazaleti Lake (ბაზალეთის ტბა) is a unique and historically significant lake located on the Bazaleti Plateau in the Dusheti Municipality of the Mtskheta-Mtianeti region, Georgia, roughly 60 kilometers northwest of Tbilisi. Unlike many lakes, Bazaleti is a closed system, lacking any major rivers flowing in or out, primarily relying on precipitation and underground sources for its water. This geological distinctiveness contributes to the local belief in the special properties of its water and mud, which are traditionally considered to have curative effects, particularly for dermatological and rheumatic conditions. The lake is steeped in Georgian folklore, most famously involving legends connected to the medieval Queen Tamar, including tales of a golden cradle hidden in its depths. Beyond its legends and reputed health benefits, Bazaleti Lake serves as a popular recreational and tourist destination, offering swimming, fishing, and boating opportunities. A significant resort complex on its shores provides modern amenities, making it an accessible getaway combining natural beauty, history, and relaxation options relatively close to the capital.

Identification and Location

• Name: Bazaleti Lake (English), Bazaletis Tba / ბაზალეთის ტბა (Georgian).
• Location:
  • Country: Georgia
  • Region: Mtskheta-Mtianeti
  • Municipality: Dusheti
  • Landmark: Situated on the Bazaleti Plateau, about 5 km south of the town of Dusheti and approximately 60 km northwest of Tbilisi.
  • Coordinates: Approximately 42.037∘N, 44.679∘E.
  • Relationship to other bodies of water: A non-outlet lake; fed by precipitation and underground springs, with no major surface inflow or outflow.

Physical Characteristics

• Surface Area: Approximately 1.22 square kilometers.
• Maximum Depth: Around 7 meters (some legends mention greater historical depths).
• Average Depth: Approximately 2.5 – 3 meters.
• Elevation: Approximately 879 meters above sea level.
• Water Source(s): Precipitation and underground water inflow (springs).
• Outlet(s): None (a closed lake system).
• Water Type: Freshwater.
• Basin Geology: Located on a plateau, believed to be of tectonic or potentially volcanic origin.

Ecological Information

• Flora: Shoreline vegetation includes reeds and various aquatic plants. The surrounding plateau landscape consists of meadows and potentially some forested areas or agricultural land. Specific algae in the lake are thought to contribute to its curative properties.
• Fauna: Supports fish populations suitable for recreational fishing (e.g., carp, crucian carp, roach, barbel). Various species of waterfowl and other birds frequent the lake. Amphibians and reptiles typical of the region are likely present.
• Trophic Level: Likely mesotrophic or eutrophic.
• Water Clarity: Variable.
• Water Temperature: Fluctuates seasonally. The lake can freeze over in winter (January-February).
• Unique Ecological Features: The water and lake mud are widely reputed to have balneological (curative) properties, beneficial for skin, rheumatic, and joint conditions. This is often attributed to its unique mineral composition and specific algae.
• Conservation Status: Functions as a recreational and health resort area.

Human Interaction and Significance

• Historical Significance: Central to several significant Georgian legends, most notably concerning Queen Tamar (golden cradle legend) and tales of warriors healing wounds in its waters. Site of the Battle of Bazaleti in 1626.
• Current Uses: Major recreational and tourist destination. Used for swimming, boating, recreational fishing, and health tourism (balneotherapy). A large hotel and recreational complex (Bazaleti Lake Resort) operates on the shore, offering accommodation, restaurants, pools, conference facilities, and sports grounds. Also used for training camps (e.g., sports teams).
• Environmental Issues: Potential impacts from tourism development, agricultural runoff from surrounding areas, and natural water level fluctuations inherent to a closed lake system. Maintaining water quality alongside recreational use is a consideration.
• Management and Conservation Efforts: Managed by local authorities and the operators of the resort complex. Focus is on maintaining recreational facilities and managing tourism impact.
• Local Communities: Important for local economy through tourism and recreation. Holds cultural significance due to historical legends.

Interesting or Unique Facts

• Famous for the enduring legend of Queen Tamar’s golden cradle hidden at its bottom, linked to Georgia’s future prosperity.
• The lake water and mud are widely believed to possess unique healing properties.
• It is a rare example of a non-outlet lake in the region, relying solely on atmospheric precipitation and underground sources.
• The presence of a large, modern resort and training complex makes it a multi-purpose destination.
• The lake freezes over in winter, sometimes with ice thick enough for activities.