Located in the Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti region, the Big and Small Lakes of Lebarde (also locally called Tobavarchkhili Lakes) sit on the west slope of the Gvira ridge within Martvili municipality. Accessible via two main routes, visitors can choose their own adventure en route to the lakes.
Starting from Doberadzeebi village in Martvili, a damaged 30 km (18.64 miles) ground road leads to Lebarde resort, passable only by high-clearance 4X4 vehicles and trucks. From there, a 10 km (6.21 miles) trail, accessible on foot, extends to the lakes. Alternatively, from Kulbaki village in Lechkhumi municipality, adventurers can embark on a 21 km (13.05 miles) trek to the lakes, passing by the mountain Askhi and continuing along the west slope of the Gvira ridge.
Lebarde resort itself stands at 1,600 meters (5,249 feet), nestled among stunning pine and mixed forests, and featuring curative acidic water springs. The lakes, a breathtaking sight, are perched higher up – the Big Lake at 2,300 meters (7,546 feet) and the Small Lake at 2,400 meters (7,874 feet).
For those seeking to explore, the best time to visit is between July and September, when temperatures average 16-17°C (60-62°F). The journey from Lebarde resort to the Big Lake takes about an hour and a half, with an additional hour to reach the Small Lake.
Those coming from Lechkhumi will find good camping sites and a refreshing atmosphere around both lakes, completing a truly adventurous experience in this pristine mountainous region.
