Tskaltubo
წყალტუბო
A famous Soviet-era spa town, where many abandoned grand sanatoriums now draw photographers, and you can still take radon spa baths.
Tskaltubo is about 15 km from Kutaisi and was once a resort favored by Soviet leaders, with a private bathhouse even reserved for Stalin. After the Soviet collapse, many of the grand sanatoriums were abandoned, creating a solemn yet decaying 'ruin aesthetic' that attracts many photography enthusiasts. (Entering the buildings carries safety risks, and some are still inhabited, so please do not trespass.) The town center park and Bath No. 6, which is still operating, offer thermal bathing. It pairs well with a same-day visit to Prometheus Cave.
Opening hours
All day (bathhouse hours vary by facility)
Nearby sights
- Prometheus Cave
- Sataplia Nature Reserve
- Kutaisi Cable Car & Gabashvili Park
- Kutaisi Green Bazaar (Central Market)
- Bagrati Cathedral
- White Bridge
- Colchis Fountain
- Kutaisi State Historical Museum