A cable stretched across the Gauja moves the Līgatne Ferry from one bank to the other, powered by the current. Two connected boats carry its wooden deck; it is the only ferry of its kind in the Baltics. The ferry operates daily, although technical or other unavoidable circumstances may lead to exceptions. Check the current timetable before your trip.
River Landscapes, Cliffs and Nature Trails
Gauja National Park also includes areas in Cēsis Municipality. More than 65 percent of the area is shaped by forests, waterways, hills and cliffs; Cēsis Municipality has a total of 49 natural monuments. For a closer look at the geology, visit Zvārtes iezis: this reddish Devonian sandstone outcrop lies on the banks of the Amata and is considered one of the most beautiful in Latvia. You can enjoy good views both from the river and from the top of the cliff.
The Līgatne Nature Trails focus on native wildlife and the Gauja Valley, in a wooded landscape shaped by ravines. The Cecīļi Nature Trail offers a different focus: it runs along the Kumada, Dančupīte and Amata rivers and includes a canyon, a small waterfall and Cecīļi Cliff. The nature experiences therefore range from wildlife watching to striking landforms.
Medieval Towns and Remarkable Buildings
Cēsis has a history spanning more than 800 years and is considered one of the best-preserved medieval towns in the Baltics. Cēsis Medieval Castle is an 800-year-old historical landmark and one of the best-preserved castle ruins in Latvia. In summer, visitors can try medieval games and activities in the castle garden on weekends, learn traditional crafts and explore the medieval garden. As this program is seasonal, it is worth checking the current dates.
Architectural history can also be discovered through very different examples. Āraiši Archaeological Park features the only reconstruction in Europe of a fortified settlement dating from the 9th to 10th centuries. A guided tour there explores the way of life and building traditions of the ancient Latgalians; check the current booking arrangements in advance. Liestraupe Castle, meanwhile, is the only castle in Latvia connected to a church within a single building.
The Cēsis Museum was founded in 1925 and holds more than 160,000 museum objects. The Melānija Vanaga Museum exhibits a film about the writer, handwritten unpublished books, personal belongings and stories. Nearby is a Siberian dugout, considered the only structure of its kind in Latvia.
Cycling and Walking Routes
The Jaunpiebalga–Viņķu Hill circular route is 17 kilometres long, of moderate difficulty, and starts at 21 Gaujas Street in Jaunpiebalga. The cycling route of the same name passes through the Piebalga landscape and by cultural and historical attractions in the centre of Jaunpiebalga. Together, the route and landscape offer a distinct way to discover the area’s cultural heritage. As trail conditions can change, check them before setting out.
In the Līgatne Paper Mill Village, the cultural heritage trail has a three-kilometre walking route and a 1.8-kilometre option suitable for bicycles and strollers. The length and available modes of transport can help you choose the right option for your outing; check current accessibility and trail conditions in advance.
More Experiences: From Winter Sports to Local Flavours
Ozolkalns Ski Resort has four runs: a blue, a green, a red, and a children’s and practice run. Each is up to 500 metres long; there is also a chairlift. As winter operations may change, check the latest conditions before your visit.
Rakši Zoo is home to more than 200 animals, including camels, llamas, alpacas and lemurs. Activities on offer include camel rides, walks with llamas, donkey-cart rides and feeding lemurs at close quarters. Check current availability before your trip. If you are interested in regional food, you can book a 1.5-hour guided tour of garlic production with a tasting at Latvijas Ķiploks; advance booking is required. The Slow Food Straupe market is held in the historic Straupes zirgu pasts complex. The complex is also home to Straupes zirgu pasta virtuve.
On the water, the Žagarkalns Boat Base rents canoes, kayaks, inflatable boats, river catamarans, rafts and SUP boards for trips on the Gauja and Brasla. It also offers transfers from the campsite to the starting point, or from the destination back to the starting point. Check the current rental and transfer options in advance.
Discover More Destinations: Cēsis, Raiskums, Rāmuļi, Aglona Municipality, Cesvaine Municipality, Saulkrasti Municipality, Baltinava Municipality, Salacgrīva Municipality.
For the wider travel overview: Latvia.
