More than 20 tree species, including exotic varieties, grow in Vecate Park. Vecate brings together several themes for a stay: traces of a former manor, Stone Age heritage and the Salaca as a possible starting point for a route. Its recreational sites also have their own character.

Park and former manor estate

The manor estate was once located on the left bank of the Salaca, near its outlet from Lake Burtnieks. Today, only ruins and the park remain. Alongside these historic traces, the variety of trees gives the park its own landscape character. The park also has an open-air stage and a sports field.

Recreational facilities include the “Meža kaķis” obstacle course and elements of a children’s playground. If you plan to use these facilities, check in advance whether they will be accessible on the day of your visit. This lets you explore the historic park, its trees and its recreational options as distinct aspects of the area.

Sculpture and Stone Age connections

In the centre of Vecate village, beside the Matīši–Mazsalaca road, stands the granite sculpture “Vēstures liecinieks”. It is more than two metres tall and weighs six tonnes. The sculpture commemorates Stone Age settlements in the area around Lake Burtnieks; Vecate and the area around the lake are rich in Stone Age finds.

Another historic connection lies nearby: the Tūteres Svētozola vieta site is a cultural monument of national significance and was once used as a place of worship. The sculpture points to Stone Age settlements, while Tūteres is associated with earlier ritual use. These different connections give the area’s cultural heritage more than one historical focus.

The Salaca and possible routes

The Salaca rises at Vecate in Lake Burtnieks and flows into the sea at Salacgrīva. A river route can begin in Vecate. STRAUME provides the necessary briefing and, if needed, training. Check the latest service details before setting out.

“Salacas mauciens” is an annual night-time boat trip on the Salaca. It starts at the bridge in Vecate and ends near the bridge in Salacgrīva. The dates listed for 2026 were 21 and 22 August; these dates have already passed. For future trips, check the current event dates.

Recreational sites and facilities

The Vecates ūdens tūristu atpūtas vieta has a changing cabin, two tables with benches, a volleyball court, a fire pit and a campsite. These facilities complement the options available in the park with practical amenities for spending time outdoors.

When planning your trip, you can first decide what you want to focus on: the park and manor ruins, the sculpture and Stone Age connections, or a possible route on the Salaca. Local facilities and activities vary, so tailor your expectations to each site and check in advance whether the facilities you plan to use will be accessible.

Discover more destinations: Burtnieki, Matīši, Mīlīte

For the broader travel overview: Burtnieku Novads.