Raiskums offers several highlights to consider when planning a trip: hiking trails of varying lengths, protected geology, manor heritage and local brewing culture. Nature highlights include the Red Cliffs, nature trails to Kvēpene Cave and a sacred spring. The options are complemented by an open-air exhibition with a literary connection and a tour at Raiskumietis.
Hiking Trails and Nature Highlights
The Red Cliffs are a protected geological natural monument in Gauja National Park. A 2 km circular hiking trail runs through the area. The Red Cliffs trail also features an open-air exhibition of large-scale paintings inspired by the fairy tales of Latvian writer Kārlis Skalbe. The exhibition adds a literary connection to the nature experience.
Hikers on the Kvēpene nature trails can reach Kvēpene Cave and a sacred spring that emerges from an impressive sandstone cliff. The 11 km Kvēpene circular trail starts at the parking lot by the historic Raiskums Chapel, built around 1880. In comparison, the Red Cliffs loop is considerably shorter. If you choose your hike based on trail length, this difference provides a clear point of reference; the destinations also offer distinct nature and cultural highlights.
Manor Heritage with Lake Views
Raiskuma Manor House has a terrace overlooking Lake Raiskums. Around 20 buildings belonging to Raiskuma Manor have survived to this day, several retaining their original façades. This brings two aspects together: the lake view from the terrace and the manor’s preserved buildings. If you would like to take in historic architecture as well as scenery during your stay, you can include both in your plans.
Brewery Tour and a Trip on the Lake
On a booked tour of the Raiskumietis brewery, you can learn how beer and sourdough bread are made and enjoy an extensive tasting. The tour includes a visit to a wood-fired brewing kettle. The tasting features three local craft beers: pale, dark and cherry. As tasting details may change, check the offer before booking.
SUP boards can be rented at the “Apaļkalns” campsite for trips on Lake Raiskums. If you plan to take advantage of this option, check availability before your trip. Lake Raiskums plays a dual role in your plans: it can be seen from the manor house terrace, and a rented SUP board lets you explore the water. You can therefore make it part of your stay as a scenic highlight or a destination for an active outing.
Where to Stay in Raiskums
The “Zaķīši” hotel in Raiskums has a sauna and a fireplace lounge, suitable for small celebrations or relaxing evenings with friends.
Discover more destinations: Cēsis, Rāmuļi.
Go to the main travel overview: Cēsu Novads.
