With its stone dome, the Lutheran Church of Katlakalns is a distinctive architectural landmark; at the Katlakalns Pines, forest paths lead to the White Dune and down to the Daugava. Other highlights include a monument in the cemetery, a brewery tour with a tasting, horse rides and a picnic area. You can tailor your stay to culture, nature or individual activities.

Church and historical landmarks

The Lutheran Church of Katlakalns was consecrated in 1794. Its stone dome has a diameter of 18 metres and arches over the rotunda. This gives the building both historical and architectural significance: its consecration can be dated to a specific year, while the dome’s size and position above the rotunda shape the building’s design.

Tours of the church and garden can be arranged by calling 26115312. If you plan to visit, arrange a time by phone. Another historical landmark is in the Katlakalns cemetery: the monument to Garlība Merķelis, a historical monument of municipal significance. Alongside the church’s architecture, this brings a separately designated monument and its location in the cemetery into focus.

Pines, paths and the Daugava

In Latvia, “Katlakalna priedes” (Katlakalns Pines) fall under the protected category of dendrological plantings. This category is intended for public education, recreation and educational activities. Katlakalns Pines is also a natural monument of state significance. These designations give the pine landscape a focus on nature and education, distinct from the church’s architectural history.

From the forest paths near the Katlakalns Pines, you can reach the White Dune and head down to the Daugava. The forest, dune and river are specific points of interest on the natural side of Katlakalns. If you want to focus on landscapes and protected nature, this route offers a different experience from the church and monument.

Brewery, horse rides and picnics

The small Hat Brewery is located in Katlakalns, in Ķekavas novads. On a tour of the craft brewery, the brewing process is explained from start to finish. The experience also includes a tasting of three different beers, with an explanation of their characteristics and differences. This combines an insight into the brewing process with a direct comparison of the beers. Advance arrangements may be required, so check beforehand whether you need to book a time.

Agates offers horse rides for children and adults. This is a separate activity from the brewery tour: here the focus is on riding, while the brewery offers an explanation of the brewing process and a tasting. At the “Nēģīši” recreation site, there is a picnic area with benches and a fire pit, as well as a shelter with a table and benches. For an outdoor break, specific facilities are available, including seating and a covered area with a table.

Discover more destinations

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

Return to the main travel overview: Ķekavas Novads.