Aizkraukle Municipality reveals its history in many different settings: as a castle at a river mouth, as an impressive ruin, in museums and in a landscape whose distinctive character is shaped by the Daugava. Those looking to combine culture with waterside trails will find a wide range of ways to experience the region, from its medieval heritage to small hands-on activities.

Castles and historic sites

The medieval castle of Aizkraukle was built around 1211 at the mouth of the River Karikste. Its ruins are privately owned and should be viewed from a distance for safety reasons. Construction of the medieval castle at Koknese began in 1209, and impressive ruins remain there to this day. A historical exhibition is housed in the castle ruins pavilion.

There is also something to discover on the water: a pier for summer boat trips is located by the ruins. Ūdens prieki Koknesē offers sightseeing boat trips and SUP board rentals on the River Pērse by the ruins; boats and catamarans are also available for hire. Odziena Manor offers a different kind of attraction: it is considered a Neo-Gothic landmark. Its history dates back to the first written mention of the name Odensee in 1455.

Trails and landscapes along the Daugava

The 828-metre-long “Daugavas takas” walkway runs below the district secondary school building, along Draudzības krastmala, and extends to the skate park. An observation platform offers views of the Daugava landscape. The walkway borders Aizkraukle’s multifunctional cycling park, which has a pump track; it was renovated and expanded in 2024. Check local conditions before visiting.

Daugavas ieleja Nature Park covers 1,091 hectares and has been part of the Natura 2000 network since 2004. It protects a distinctive section of the old Daugava Valley that has remained unchanged since the construction of the Pļaviņas Hydroelectric Power Plant. Another trail runs along the banks of the Pērse and the Daugava: the Koknese Nature Trail is 5.65 kilometres long. The Daugava waterway trail runs through the municipalities of Aizkraukle and Jēkabpils.

In Likteņdārzs, 77 apple trees line the 200-metre-long Friendship Avenue. Each tree is dedicated to a Latvian individual, family or clan. The roof of the building in Likteņdārzs also serves as a walking area and viewing point, with views of the garden and the Daugava.

Museums and hands-on experiences

The Aizkraukle Museum features exhibitions on painting, applied arts, photography and local history. In its garden, you can try out traditional games and play equipment. The Voldemārs Jākobsons Memorial House displays more than 50 sculptures, as well as drawings, graphics, tools, and art and household items belonging to the Jākobsons family. At the Pēters Graudulis Museum, you can see the master’s works, from his earliest to his latest pieces.

Those who want to get involved can first solve fun and challenging tasks with the team at “Raganu lidlauks” and then practise flying on a real broom under the guidance of a witch. Advance booking is required for this group activity. During tours of Skrīveru mājas saldējums, visitors can learn about the history of ice cream, taste up to 20 different flavours and learn how to make ice cream themselves. Check booking conditions in advance. Another guided tour shares stories and legends from the days of Aizkraukle Manor and explores the cultural and historical diversity of Daugavas ieleja Nature Park; advance booking is required.

Discover more destinations: Aizkraukle, Skaistas Parish, Vaiņode Municipality, Rauna Municipality, Cesvaine Municipality, Olaine Municipality, Smiltene Municipality, Garkalne Municipality

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