Nestled in the heart of Georgia's famed Kakheti wine region, where the world's first wines were crafted over 8,000 years ago, lies the serene Lopota Lake Resort & Spa. This family-owned retreat offers a slice of lakeside luxury, perfectly blending nature, wellness, and ancient viticulture into an unforgettable escape.
A Journey into Georgian Countryside
The journey to the resort from Tbilisi is an experience in itself. The road winds through lush, mountainous landscapes, past wandering livestock and vibrant roadside stalls. These stalls are brimming with local produce, from glistening watermelons and jars of honey to colourful churchkhela, the traditional walnut-filled candy. The region is a verdant patchwork of vineyards, olive groves, and ancient churches perched on hillsides, creating a landscape ideal for slow travel and exploration. For a taste of local life, the bustling town of Telavi is just 25 minutes away, home to a vibrant bazaar and the majestic Alaverdi St. George Cathedral.
Lakeside Luxury and Endless Amenities
Spread across a vast 60 hectares of forests and rolling hills, Lopota Lake Resort is a destination in its own right. The sheer scale of its amenities ensures there is something for every guest. The property boasts six pools, four restaurants, horse stables, a Slavic bathhouse, and tennis courts. A particular highlight is the secluded forest spa, which offers sweeping views of the lake.
The resort's namesake lake is the true heart of the property, and nature is ever-present. Guests might find geese wandering past their windows or hear horses neighing in the distance. The atmosphere is one of tranquil relaxation, encouraging visitors to linger over sunlit meals, sip local wine, and simply unwind.
Culinary Delights and Ancient Winemaking
With four restaurants and multiple bars, dining at Lopota is a journey for the senses. Kakhetian Corner celebrates regional traditions with produce sourced directly from the resort's garden, serving dishes like crisp salads with walnut dressing and charcoal-grilled barbecue. For a more romantic setting, Chateau Buera offers a terrace with stunning views, paired with in-house wines and modern Georgian plates such as beef cheeks and stewed rabbit kharcho.
Wine is, of course, central to the experience. At Chateau Buera, grapes are hand-picked and foot-crushed before fermenting in traditional clay qvevri buried underground. This ancient method produces bold reds, amber whites, and delicate rosés. A cellar tour and tasting is an essential activity for any visitor to this historic wine region.
Family Fun and Practical Details
It's hard to imagine a more family-friendly escape. Children and adults are spoilt for choice with activities including horse riding, quad biking, cycling, an aqua park, and in winter, an ice rink. The resort offers 311 rooms across 16 buildings, from cosy singles to spacious suites, many with private balconies overlooking the lake. Service is warm and attentive, though the resort's large size can sometimes lead to slower room service.
Pets are welcome for an additional fee of around £18, and accessible rooms are available upon request. Check-in is from 3pm, with check-out until 12pm. While perfect for a relaxing retreat, its remote setting makes it less ideal for a quick city break. For those seeking a more intimate Georgian homestay, alternatives like the Tsinandali Estate or Lost Ridge Inn are available in the region.
