MTATSMINDA MOUNT AND PARK

Accessible from the funicular station on Chonkadze Street. It is called the "sacred mountain" or "Father David's Mamadaviti". Indeed, Saint David is said to have preached there in the 6th century. The houses of this eponymous district, stretching from the Roustavéli Avenue to the foot of the latter, date from the 19th century.

There are two points of interest to explore: the amusement park at the top of the mountain and the area below. The atmosphere is away from the hustle and bustle of Roustavéli. The streets, full of charm, are lined with old houses with "colonial" architecture. Go and explore it: it's really worth it. You will discover faded pastel-coloured houses with beautiful facades and palaces with superb architecture. Here, time has stood still. If you continue to follow the streets upwards, you will arrive at the path leading to Narikala.

You can also follow your exploration with a funicular ascent to the top of the mountain. It offers a splendid view of Tbilisi. It is difficult to walk around the city without noticing the 227-metre high television aerial and the Ferris wheel marking one of the boundaries of the amusement park. This funicular will take you there: it was opened in 1905 and is an attraction in itself.

Mount Matsminda culminates at 770 m, the ascent allows you to admire Tbilisi from another perspective.

In 2007, the millionaire Badri Patarkatsishvili built an amusement park on the plateau. After his death and the spoliation of his property (since recovered) by the then president, the Tbilisi authorities completed the work. This park will meet all expectations, being equipped with an area dedicated to families and children or other attractions for lovers of more or less strong sensations. Try the main road for its panorama.

If this type of leisure leaves you cold, climb it all the same: the spectacle of the Great Caucasus mountain ranges, the foothills of the Lesser Caucasus and the city is exceptional. The site is equipped with restaurants and cafes. The Funicular restaurant, on arrival, is one of the best in Tbilisi. In summer, an expedition to the heights brings a little freshness. Trails lead down to the Narikala fortress, 2.5 km away. You will pass by the huge residence of the billionaire Ivani Ivanishbili, Georgia's richest man, Prime Minister from 2012 to 2013. Enough to make a very nice walk.