Ilia Lake is located near the town of Kvareli in the region of Kakheti, Georgia.
First discovered back in 2014, while staying at Royal Batoni hotel next to the lake. Since then I've headed here several times. It was at the start of 2020 when I learned that this lake actually is manmade.
Ilias lake was formed in a valley of the Duruji Rivier a few years ago, financed from the then Presidential fund (Mikheil Saakashvili)
Ilia’s Lake was named after Ilia Chavchavadze, a nobleman who is still considered one of the mightiest thinkers in the history of the country. He was a real polymath – a person of many jobs and aspirations.
Ilias lake in Georgia
There is a small amphitheater located on the lake
Unfortunately, the recreational area has been abandoned and hasn't got any serious repairs (at least in January 2020), the lake seems is losing water, in fact, the close by Duruji river is lacking any water (I wonder why, maybe because of the Hydro Power Plants)
Hotel Royal Batoni in the background
Former president of Georgia Mikheil Saakashvili opened the Ilia Lake on November 18, 2011. The lake is surrounded with 4-kilometer-long cycle-path. Training equipment, football and basketball grounds are arranged in the complex.
Abandoned recreational area around Ilia lake
In the background you can see the riverbend of Duriji river
Part of infrastructure has been out of order for several years already. In summer the guests from all municipalities of Kakheti region visit the resort.
The Ilia Lake is the only resort complex owned by the municipal administration which is available for everybody.
