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Paliastomi Lake

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Lake
—°1
Paliastomi Lake (Georgia)

Weather…

Paliastomi Lake is a significant coastal lake located in western Georgia, near the port city of Poti on the Black Sea coast. Originally, the lake was a freshwater lagoon, but geological shifts and human interventions in the 20th century connected it to the sea, leading to increased salinity levels. Covering an area of approximately 18 square kilometers with a maximum depth of 3.2 meters, it is a shallow but ecologically vital ecosystem. The lake is a core component of the Kolkheti National Park, which is part of a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site known for its unique wetlands and peat bogs. It serves as a crucial resting and wintering ground for thousands of migratory birds traveling along the East-Palaearctic flyway. Archaeological research has uncovered evidence related to the ancient city of Phasis near the lake, highlighting the region's historical importance since antiquity. Today, the lake is used for eco-tourism and fishing, with conservation efforts focused on preserving its rich biodiversity and restoring the natural balance of its waters.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May–Jul.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C9910121722252623201511
Rain mm967481564252495598117113107

📋 Practical info

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Getting there
The lake is typically approached from the coastal city of Poti, with standard road access leading to designated boat launching areas and the park's visitor center.
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Best season
Late spring and early autumn are generally the prime times for visiting, offering the best conditions for wildlife spotting and avoiding the intense summer humidity.
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Terrain & paths
The surrounding landscape is predominantly flat and marshy, with exploration best conducted via organized boat tours rather than traditional hiking on foot.
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What to bring
Mosquito repellent is absolutely essential, along with a windbreaker jacket, sun protection, and a good pair of binoculars to fully enjoy the rich birdlife on the lake.
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Parking
Official and safe parking is typically provided at the Kolkheti National Park visitor center, allowing visitors to leave their cars securely before embarking on the water.
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Safety
Visitors should stick strictly to licensed boat operators for navigating the wetlands, and always prepare for suddenly changing winds off the nearby Black Sea coast.
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Time needed
Guided boat excursions on the lake typically range from one to three hours, which is generally sufficient to observe the local ecology and enjoy the serene marsh environment.

Geography

Coordinates
42.12280, 41.72140

Facts

  • Paliastomi Lake covers a surface area of approximately 18.2 km².
  • It is part of the Kolkheti National Park and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
  • The lake is relatively shallow, with depths ranging from 2.1 to 3.2 meters.
  • Formerly freshwater, it is now brackish due to a channel built in 1924.
  • Over 90 species of migratory birds use the lake as a seasonal stopover.
  • Evidence of the ancient Greek city of Phasis has been found in the vicinity.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Kolkheti National ParkKolkheti National Park3 km · EExplore →
PotiPoti5 km · SExplore →
Poti Free Industrial ZonePoti Free Industrial Zone7 km · SEExplore →
Poti Sea PortPoti Sea Port8 km · SExplore →
Supsa Sea TerminalSupsa Sea Terminal9 km · NWExplore →
UrekiUreki12 km · WExplore →
Kulevi Oil TerminalKulevi Oil Terminal15 km · SEExplore →
Tsitsinatela Amusement ParkTsitsinatela Amusement Park19 km · WExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Paliastomi Lake (1)

St. Nikoloz Church📍 landmark

St. Nikoloz Church is a beautiful Christian chapel offering a tranquil atmosphere near the natural landscapes of Paliastomi Lake.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Where is Paliastomi Lake located?
Near the port city of Poti on the Black Sea coast of Georgia.
Is it part of a national park?
Yes, it is part of the Kolkheti National Park, known for its wetlands.
Can you go birdwatching there?
Yes, the lake is an important resting place for migratory birds from all over Europe.
Are boat tours offered?
The visitor center has guided motorboat tours through the reed channels.
Is the water fresh or salty?
Formerly freshwater, it is now slightly brackish due to its connection to the sea.
Paliastomi Lake: where is it located?
Paliastomi Lake is located in Georgia.
Paliastomi Lake: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jul.
Paliastomi Lake: why is it worth visiting?
Paliastomi Lake is a significant coastal lake located in western Georgia, near the port city of Poti on the Black Sea coast.
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Nearby cities

Poti — Paliastomi Lake (Georgia)
Poti
Poti is a major port city on the Black Sea and an economic hub of Georgia.
Zugdidi — Paliastomi Lake (Georgia)
Zugdidi
Zugdidi is the historical capital of the Mingrelia region in western Georgia.
Senaki — Paliastomi Lake (Georgia)
Senaki
Senaki is a significant city in the Mingrelia region and an important military base.
Ureki — Paliastomi Lake (Georgia)
Ureki
Ureki is a popular coastal town on the Black Sea, famous for its unique magnetic black sand beaches known for their healing properties.
Anaklia — Paliastomi Lake (Georgia)
Anaklia
Anaklia is an ambitious modern beach resort town in western Georgia, famous for its striking pedestrian bridge and music festivals.

History & landmarks

Enguri Dam — Paliastomi Lake (Georgia)
Enguri Dam
At 271.5 meters, the Enguri Dam is one of the highest arch dams in the world.
Svaneti Towers in Mestia — Paliastomi Lake (Georgia)
Svaneti Towers in Mestia
The medieval defensive towers in the mountainous region of Svaneti shape the unmistakable landscape of Mestia.

Nature

Enguri River — Paliastomi Lake (Georgia)
Enguri River
The Enguri is a wild and fast-flowing river that runs through the rugged gorges of Svaneti before emptying into the Black Sea.

More places

Kolkheti National Park — Paliastomi Lake (Georgia)
Kolkheti National Park
The vast wetlands and swamp forests on the Black Sea coast are a global refuge for migratory birds.
Kolkheti National Park — Paliastomi Lake (Georgia)
Kolkheti National Park
Kolkheti National Park stretches along the Black Sea coast, preserving the unique marshlands and floodplain forests of ancient Colchis.
Poti Free Industrial Zone — Paliastomi Lake (Georgia)
Poti Free Industrial Zone
The Poti Free Industrial Zone offers tax incentives and attracts international manufacturing companies.
Poti Sea Port — Paliastomi Lake (Georgia)
Poti Sea Port
Poti Sea Port is a major transport hub and Georgia's largest port for container and bulk cargo handling.
Kulevi Oil Terminal — Paliastomi Lake (Georgia)
Kulevi Oil Terminal
The Kulevi Oil Terminal is a major facility for loading Caspian petroleum onto tankers in the Black Sea.
Dadiani Palace — Paliastomi Lake (Georgia)
Dadiani Palace
The Dadiani Palace in Zugdidi was the residence of the noble Dadiani family, who ruled historic Samegrelo.
Martvili Canyon — Paliastomi Lake (Georgia)
Martvili Canyon
The Martvili Canyon impresses with its emerald green water and stunning waterfalls.
Mount Laila — Paliastomi Lake (Georgia)
Mount Laila
At around 4,000 meters, Laila is the highest peak of the Svaneti Range.