In Daugmale, a long history of settlement meets a range of nature and cultural experiences. Daugmale Hillfort and the history of trade reach far back into the past; at Lake Lejas, the focus is on a circular trail that takes about 40 minutes. Memorial sites and seasonal garden visits add other themes to the picture. This lets you tailor your trip to your interests rather than treating every stop as the same kind of outing.

A Far-Reaching History

Daugmale Hillfort was inhabited from the 2nd millennium BC until the end of the 12th or beginning of the 13th century. The ancient monument complex includes a hillfort, two settlements, two burial grounds and a harbour site. Daugmale is considered one of the most important centres of trade and craftsmanship in the Baltic Sea region from the 10th to the 12th century. The dates mark different chapters: the hillfort’s early settlement and its later role as a centre of trade and craftsmanship. Daugmales pilskalns also has an information board, benches and stairs.

Memorial Sites and Waterways

Fighting took place on Nāves sala from April to September 1916. The memorial to the defenders of Nāves sala was unveiled in 1924; it was the first monument in Latvia commemorating the battles of the First World War and the Latvian War of Independence. The island has the audio guide “Līnas Čankas stāsts”. Nāves sala can be reached only by boat, raft or another watercraft. Therefore, check the suitable transport option before planning a visit to the island.

Another memorial site, “Bēgļu ceļš”, was established in 1991 and includes a monument by sculptor Vilnis Titāns. Jāņu kalns, also known as Senču svētkalniņš, lies on the bank of the Daugava. The recreation area has a memorial on the hill commemorating First World War battles in the Daugmale area. At Jāņu kalns, this brings together the riverside recreation area and remembrance of battles in the Daugmale area.

A Nature Break at Lake Lejas

Lake Lejas is a closed-basin forest lake in Daugmales pagasts, Ķekava Municipality. The circular trail around the lake takes about 40 minutes. This makes the walk an activity of manageable duration alongside the historical attractions. If you would like to plan a break outdoors, there are several designated picnic areas on the lakeshore.

Seasonal Visits and Tastings

Daugmales peonijas is geared towards seasonal visits during the flowering period. The nursery sells cut flowers directly from its collection field; availability is seasonal. If you are planning a visit, check in advance whether your preferred date falls within visiting hours.

The family business Malderi grows sea buckthorn and makes sea buckthorn products; its product range may change. With advance booking, Malderi offers tastings and explanations of the production process. ZS “Dorītes” also offers visits by prior arrangement, including tours, product tastings and the opportunity to buy products. The difference is clear when choosing: Dorītes combines tastings with a tour and shopping, while Malderi explains how its sea buckthorn products are made.

Plan Your Journey and Accommodation

Intercity buses run along the Riga–Daugmale–Riga route in Daugmales pagasts; on route variations, there are stops in Ķekava and Baldone. Check the timetable for your travel date. Getting to the island is different: Nāves sala can be reached only by boat, raft or another watercraft. Check seasonal visiting dates, any required advance bookings and your preferred mode of transport before finalising your trip. This will also help you align your search for a holiday apartment with your specific plans.

Discover more destinations: Katlakalns, Vimbukrogs, Pulkarne, Lielvārži, Rāmava, Ķekava, Baloži

For the broader travel overview: Ķekava Municipality.