Tbilisi's Hidden Oasis: Unbelievable Rooftop Terrace Garden at ApartTen!
ApartTen: Tbilisi's Rooftop Garden… Or Just Another Pretty Face? A Rambling Review
Okay, so… ApartTen. That name already sounds a little… try-hard, doesn't it? But Tbilisi, Georgia, man, it's a place that demands you give things a chance. So, I booked. And, as usual, I've got a whole mess of feelings to unpack after my stay. Let's dive in, shall we? Buckle up, because this is gonna be a wild ride, probably as chaotic as my suitcase after I unpack.
First Impressions and Accessibility (or lack thereof…grumble)
The hype is TRUE. The rooftop garden is stunning. Photos don't even begin to do it justice. Imagine lush greenery, a pool sparkling under the sun, and panoramic views of the city. It’s genuinely Instagrammable, and I’m not ashamed to admit I spent a solid hour just… gawking.
BUT. And here's where the honeymoon phase immediately soured: Accessibility, or the glaring absence thereof. While the elevator exists, navigating the actual hotel? Forget it! The hallways are narrow and the doorways… well, let's just say a wheelchair user is going to have a very tough time. This is a major, major oversight in this day and age and, frankly, a bit of a slap in the face. I feel bad even writing this; I can only imagine if I were someone needing those things.
The Good Stuff (and the REALLY Good Stuff: The Rooftop) – Let's be real!
The Rooftop Pool with a View: Did I mention the pool? It’s divine. Seriously. That view is something else. The photos speak for themselves, but actually experiencing it? Perfection. I spent most of my time there, and honestly, I’d probably go back just for that. The sun was perfect, the drinks were flowing… it was pure bliss. The pool itself? Clean, refreshing, not too crowded (thankfully!) – a serious win.
The Spa/Sauna/Steamroom (and… Body Wraps?!): Okay, so I'm not a spa person, normally. But I figured, "When in Georgia…" and booked a massage. It was… okay. The massage itself was good, the therapists were friendly, and the facilities (sauna, steam room) were clean and well-maintained. I didn’t go for the body wrap (too much commitment!), but the option was there. It's definitely a relaxing escape!
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking (Mostly on the Rooftop): The rooftop bar is the place to be. They offer a decent selection of cocktails (I may have sampled several… for research purposes, of course), and the snacks (I’m looking at you, spicy fried potatoes!) were perfect poolside fuel. The breakfast (buffet) was… standard. Nothing spectacular, but perfectly edible with a good variety, including Asian influences, always a plus. They also had room service 24/7, which is always a bonus.
The "Meh" Zone (Where Things Got a Little Murky)
Room Quality and Amenities (Mostly Good, But…): My room was… fine. Comfortable bed, decent air conditioning (essential in Tbilisi summers), a nice view (though not as spectacular as the rooftop, obviously). The in-room amenities were pretty standard – complimentary tea and coffee, a mini-bar, a safe box, and a working shower. It was all clean, and that's always a plus. BUT. The soundproofing? Let's just say I heard everything from the hallway – which made things a little… less than peaceful at times. Annoying!
Service and Staff (Generally Friendly, But Could Be Smoother): The staff were universally lovely. Seriously, everyone was incredibly friendly and helpful. However, service could be a little… slow at times. Getting drinks at the bar, for example, sometimes took a while. It wasn't a deal-breaker, but a little more efficiency wouldn't go amiss.
Cleanliness and Safety (Impressive, Given the Times): In the era of COVID, I was relieved to see that they take hygiene seriously. Hand sanitizer everywhere, regular cleaning in common areas, and the staff were all wearing masks. There were even individual-wrapped food options at breakfast.
The Random Stuff Nobody Asked For (But I'm Sharing Anyway!)
The "Proposal Spot": Apparently, they have a specific spot on the rooftop designated for… proposals. I didn't witness any, but I'd be lying if I said I wasn't tempted at one point to grab a random passerby and pop the question. The view is that romantic!
Business Facilities: They have meeting rooms and all the usual business-y things like a business center, and even a Xerox/fax machine. I’m guessing this is why some people call this a “hotel chain.”
For the Kids (If You Have Them): Babysitting services are available, and while not stated in the description, family-friendly amenities and kids’ meals are offered as well. Not something I experienced, but good to know.
The Verdict: Is ApartTen Worth It?
Okay, so here's the deal. ApartTen has incredible potential, thanks to that damn rooftop garden. It's genuinely one of the most beautiful hotel spaces I've ever seen. However, the accessibility issues are a HUGE black mark, making me feel like I’m somewhat biased regarding the overall rating. But even if accessibility isn’t an issue, you might have other issues, like soundproofing.
The Recommendation:
Go. But go with the understanding that it’s not perfect. If you value a stunning view, a great pool, and you're not overly concerned about having a faultless or accessible stay, then absolutely, head to ApartTen. Just be prepared for a few minor hiccups along the way. And for the love of all that is holy, spend as much time as possible on that rooftop! It’s worth it.
Metadata & SEO (Because, you know…):
- Keywords: Tbilisi hotel, rooftop garden, Tbilisi spa, hotels with pools, Georgia travel, ApartTen review, luxury hotel Tbilisi, accessible hotels, Tbilisi accommodation, rooftop bar, Georgian travel.
- Title: ApartTen Tbilisi Review: Rooftop Paradise or Just Pretty Pictures? (A Messy, Honest Take!)
- Meta Description: My unfiltered review of ApartTen in Tbilisi, Georgia: The stunning rooftop garden, the good (pool, views!), the bad (accessibility!), and the messy in-between. Honest, hilarious, and totally human.
- Focus Keywords: "ApartTen Tbilisi," "Tbilisi rooftop garden," "Tbilisi hotel review"
- SEO Score: (I'll leave that to the robots!)
- Accessibility: NOT ACCESSIBLE. (This is a critical, non-negotiable point.)
Okay, buckle up, buttercups. This isn't your polished, corporate-approved travel guide. This is me, your intrepid (and slightly neurotic) travel buddy, unfiltered and ready to spill the tea on my adventure at the ApartTen RoofTop Terrace Garden in Tbilisi. Prepare for chaos, excitement, and the occasional existential crisis. Let's do this.
Tbilisi Tango: A Messy Itinerary (Subject to Change, Probably Often)
Day 1: Arrival & Altitude Adjustment (Mostly Altitude, Possibly Also Wine)
- Morning (Like, REALLY Morning - 5:00 AM Flight!): Ugh. The alarm. The airport. The existential dread that washes over me every time I question my life choices before a flight. Bagels are mandatory for handling pre-flight anxiety. Check. Flight delayed? Of course. I'm pretty sure it's a cosmic law at this point. Finally, touchdown in Tbilisi. The air hits you – a strange mix of history, diesel fumes, and… potential. The immigration guy looked vaguely amused by my sleep-deprived, slightly-too-bright travel outfit. I'll take it.
- Mid-Morning (Post-Airport Shuffle): Taxi ride to ApartTen. The driver, bless his soul, didn't speak a word of English, but we communicated perfectly through a combination of frantic hand gestures and vaguely terrifying driving (welcome to Georgia!). The city unfolds – a glorious mess of crumbling buildings, vibrant balconies overflowing with flowers, and the occasional stray dog eyeing you with suspicion.
- Afternoon (The Rooftop Revelation): Okay, this is where the magic begins. Finally, I arrive at ApartTen. The rooftop terrace is even BETTER than the pictures. Seriously. I did a little happy dance (probably looked like a seizure) when I saw the view. The view. It's ridiculous. Suddenly, all that jet lag and airport torture? Worth it. The scent of herbs and flowers mingling with the city air… pure bliss. Settling into the apartment, I realize I've massively overestimated my packing skills. Where is the adapter?! The panic sets in.
- Evening (Wine. Lots of Wine. Possibly too much Wine): First priority: wine. Georgian wine, obviously. Found a little cellar place a few steps away, the people are super friendly. I am not a wine expert, but I can tell you this: it’s DELICIOUS. And cheap. My bank account is thrilled. I end up chatting with a local who tells me, after the third glass, about his grandfather's vineyard and a family recipe for something that sounds suspiciously like moonshine. We laugh. Wine, strangers, the sunset over Tbilisi… it's overwhelming, in the best way possible. I might be in love with this city already.
Day 2: Ancient Adventures & Culinary Mayhem
- Morning (Cable Car & Cathedrals): Okay, attempt at planning. I drag myself out of bed (slight headache, but nothing a little more Georgian coffee can't fix). My brain clearly hasn’t fully processed the time change yet. The plan: Narikala Fortress via cable car. The cable car ride is… thrilling. Heights are not my forte. But the views! Breathtaking. The fortress itself is a bit of a ruin, but the atmosphere is palpable. Walking around those ancient walls, I felt a sudden connection to the past. Then, the pigeons start dive-bombing me, and I remember I'm just a tourist in the 21st century.
- Mid-day (Sulfur Baths & Surprise): I thought I'd try the famous sulfur baths. The aroma is… potent. I waddle into the place smelling vaguely like a hard-boiled egg, anticipating relaxation. I end up having to fight my way into a tiny space. The water is hot. The scrub is intense. I emerge looking like a lobster that's been through a war. It’s an experience, alright.
- Afternoon (Food Glorious Food): Georgian food is the real deal. Khachapuri is a religious experience. My arteries may hate me later, but right now? Pure, cheesy, eggy heaven. So many dumplings. So many delicious, potentially-spicy surprises. I’m pretty certain I gained five pounds just looking at the menu. Finding a little restaurant tucked away, they have live music so the atmosphere is authentic. The waitress laughs at my pitiful attempts to pronounce the dishes. I blush. I eat. I am happy.
- Evening (The Longest Walk Home): Exhausted, overfed, and slightly tipsy. Deciding to walk back "to take in the atmosphere". Get spectacularly lost. Wander through alleys, dodging cars and stray dogs. I'm pretty sure I saw a ghost. Finally, after a near-panic attack, I find my way back to ApartTen. Collapse on the balcony. The city lights twinkle below. Another bottle of wine (because, why not?). Maybe I’ll try to learn some Georgian tomorrow… Yeah right.
Day 3: Markets, Melancholy & the Search for the Perfect Souvenir
- Morning (Dry Bridge Market): My first market experience! This isn’t just souvenir shopping; it’s a sensory overload. The smell of old books, the vibrant colors of vintage clothes, the oddities everywhere! I end up buying a Soviet-era camera (I have no idea how to use it). I also buy a slightly-too-large hat and a painting of a grumpy cat. I'm pretty sure I'm becoming the crazy cat lady of Tbilisi. The negotiations are hilarious – a mix of broken Georgian, frantic pointing, and lots of laughter.
- Afternoon (The Upside Down): I wander into a church. The feeling of peace descends quickly. A brief moment of introspection. The weight of the world, or at least the weight of all the khachapuri I've consumed, settles on me. Then, I get distracted by a particularly ornate icon, and promptly spend 20 minutes staring. This place has a certain gravity to it, I start searching around for a spot so I can sit and view the scenery.
- Evening (Rooftop Reflections & Maybe a Little Regret): Back at ApartTen. Another sunset. Another bottle of wine. Looking out at the city, I feel a pang of… something. Maybe it's the end of the trip, or maybe it’s the sheer beauty of this place. Maybe it’s just the wine talking. I will miss this place. My apartment, the rooftop garden, the people, the food, the chaos. I could have stayed forever. After a solid hour on my balcony, enjoying the view, it's time for dinner. The final meal of the trip. Regret sets in when I look at the cost of my souvenirs.
Day 4: Farewell, Tbilisi (Until Next Time?)
- Morning (The Last Breakfast of Champions): Reluctant packing (why do my bags suddenly weigh twice as much?). A final, lingering breakfast on the rooftop. Soak it all in. Take a million last pictures. A final, glorious, greasy khachapuri.
- Departure (Goodbye, Tbilisi): Uber to the airport (no crazy driving this time, thank goodness). The airport is a blur. The inevitable flight delay. Looking out the window as the plane takes off. I see Tbilisi disappear below. A tear, slightly salty (from the wine and the emotion, I swear), rolls down my cheek. I'm already planning my return.
Final Thoughts:
This trip wasn't perfect. I got lost. I ate too much. I embarrassed myself on several occasions. But it was real. Raw. Unforgettable. Tbilisi, you beautiful, chaotic mess. I'll be back. Maybe next time, I'll try learning some Georgian… Maybe. Probably not. Until then, Gamarjoba! (that's "hello," if you're keeping track). Now, about that adapter…
Unbelievable Luxury Awaits: Victory Road Villas, Đồng Hới!
Tbilisi’s Secret Eden: ApartTen’s Rooftop – The REALLY Unfiltered FAQs
Okay, okay, so everyone’s raving. Is this rooftop *actually* as amazing as Instagram makes it look?
Ugh, the Insta-hype. I know, I know. I went in expecting a cliché, influencer-overrun disaster zone. But… the truth? It’s… *mostly* true. The views? Jaw-dropping. Seriously. You get this panoramic sweep of Tbilisi, the old city with its terracotta tiles, the mountains looming in the distance… and frankly, they *didn't* Photoshop them in. You can practically taste the history.
However, let’s be real. There's the occasional selfie stick-wielding person and on those peak summer days, it can get a little crowded, but hey, that's a price you sometimes have to pay for a good thing – and this is definitely a good thing.
What exactly makes this rooftop a "garden"? Is it just some potted plants?
Potted plants? Girlfriend, no. Think actual *garden*. I mean, not Kew Gardens or anything, but there are sprawling vines, vibrant flowers spilling over stone walls, herbs that actually smell amazing, and even… wait for it… a tiny little vegetable patch! I swear, they've got chives, and I almost stole some (I didn't. Mostly.). It's a real green lung up there, a breath of fresh, slightly-smoky-from-the-restaurants-below air after navigating the chaotic streets of Tbilisi. And the way the sunlight filters through the leaves? Pure magic.
The food and drinks… spill the beans! Are they any good?
Alright, food first. It's… decent. Okay, let's be honest, it's not Michelin-star quality. Think elevated pub grub with a Georgian twist. They do fantastic khachapuri, the classic cheese bread, which you absolutely HAVE to order. Actually, scratch that, order two. And the grilled meats? Cooked beautifully and seasoned just right. But… and there's always a but, right? The service can be a *little* slow when it's packed. But who cares when you're soaking up the views?
The drinks, though… now we're talking. They make a mean cocktail (try the Tbilisi Sunset – trust me), and they have a fantastic selection of Georgian wines. I discovered my new favorite Saperavi there, which has since become a problem… a delicious, ruby-red problem.
Is it expensive? My budget is, let's say, 'frugal'.
Okay, it's not cheap-cheap. It's more of a mid-range experience. You won't be breaking the bank, but it's not a place you'd go to every single day. A good meal with drinks for two could probably set you back around 70-100 GEL (that's somewhere around $25-35, depending on the exchange rate at the time, ugh, currency conversions). But considering the location, the views, and the overall vibe… I think it's absolutely worth it. Splurge a little. You deserve it.
What’s the best time to go to ApartTen? and better yet, when should I avoid it?
Alright, here's the insider intel: Afternoon is great if you want a more relaxed, sun-drenched experience. The golden hour (that magical time right before sunset) is, of course, stunning, but also the most crowded. Be prepared to wait for a table. And the evenings? Pure romance. The city lights twinkle, the air cools… it's gorgeous.
However, avoid the peak tourist season if you can. It's July and August at all costs. It gets really packed. Trust me, you do not want to miss out on the opportunity to fully appreciate it. I’ve heard horror stories (Okay, maybe I *lived* one of those horror stories. Never again.) Also, be prepared for the occasional… well, let’s just say the unpredictable Georgian weather! Tbilisi can be scorching hot during the day, and then suddenly throwing you a curveball of rain later that evening. Bring a light jacket, just in case.
What's the vibe like *really*? Is it pretentious?
Ooh, good question. The vibe… it's pretty chill, actually. I was expecting a scene, a place where people are *trying* too hard. But surprisingly, it's not like that. People are there to enjoy themselves. It's a mix of tourists (obvi), locals, and the occasional expat. You'll see couples on dates, groups of friends laughing, and even a few solo diners (like me, sometimes!). Overall? Relaxed, friendly, and definitely not pretentious. Though I did see *one* guy with a really intense beard and a fedora… that was… something. But hey, to each their own.
Parking? Is it a nightmare?
Okay, real talk? Tbilisi parking is a special kind of hell. And yes, it is a nightmare. If you're driving, which I wouldn't recommend, you're in for a challenge. Street parking is extremely limited, and the roads are narrow. I usually just take a taxi or use Bolt. Much less stress, and you can enjoy that Saperavi a little more freely.
Tell me about a bad experience! Everyone loves juicy details.
Okay, fine. You twisted my arm. So, one time, I went with a friend on a scorching afternoon, and we were seated at a table that was *directly* in the sun. I mean, it was like being slowly roasted in a Georgian oven. We asked to move, and the staff, bless their hearts, were super busy, but eventually, they found us a spot in the shade. The problem? The shade was from a gigantic, wobbly umbrella. The wind picked up, and… well, let’s just say I spent the next twenty minutes dodging a potentially disastrous umbrella attack. The drinks spilled, the hair was all over my face, and I wanted to cry. My friend, however, found it hilarious. She was laughing so hard, I almost forgot I was about to go full "Karen". The good news? The waiter felt bad and gave us a free dessert! And now, it's just a funny story. Lesson learned: check the weather forecast and don't sit under a wobbly umbrella.
Would you go back?
