Ilūkste offers several distinct points of interest for a stay: church and monastic history, local collections, a route that can be explored using different modes of transport, and sports and outdoor activities. If you are looking for a holiday apartment in Ilūkste, you can choose where to stay based on your own interests: cultural history, activity, or sports and recreation each offer a different focus.
Monastic history, churches and collections
The Jesuit monastery complex of Ilūkste, including church fragments, was added to Latvia’s list of state-protected cultural monuments in 2021; its number is 9310. In the 18th century, the Catholic church of Ilūkste was the largest religious building in the territory of the Baltic states at that time.
The local history therefore spans the church’s significance in the 18th century, the establishment of a women’s monastery in Ilūkste in 1881, and the monastery complex’s protected status since 2021. The “Sēļu istaba” collection preserves the cultural and historical heritage of Sēlija and Ilūkste.
Another collection is the private collection “Senie darbarīki un saimniecības priekšmeti” in the courtyard and tower of the “Pie Torņa” guesthouse. It can be visited by prior arrangement; please arrange your visit in advance. Unlike the “Sēļu istaba” collection, it is dedicated to old tools and household items.
A route and river views
The “ILŪKSTE – PA VĒSTURES PĒDĀM” route can be completed on foot, by scooter, by bicycle or by car. Its name roughly means “Ilūkste – in the footsteps of history” and points to its historical focus. The tour is therefore not limited to walking. You can choose a mode of transport that suits your travel plans.
Ilūkste has parks, squares, and areas for walks and relaxation. The Culture and Arts Centre offers a picturesque view of the Ilūkste River. You can enjoy the peaceful riverside scenery there over a picnic—a way to combine river views with a break outdoors.
Sports and outdoor activities
The Ilūkste Sports Centre has two swimming pools, a steam room, a sauna, a fitness room and a sports hall. Facilities range from swimming and heat experiences to fitness and indoor sports. The centre therefore offers a different focus from the route and the walking and recreation areas.
The newest and largest municipal playground is next to the open-air stage at 2a Grāvju Street. This provides a specific place to spend time outdoors.
Planning routes locally
The Ilūkste Tourist Information Centre helps visitors plan routes and provides free information materials and maps. Once you have decided which interests you want to focus on during your stay, these materials can help with further route planning.
Discover more destinations: Baltiņi, Bebrene
For the broader travel overview: Ilūkstes Novads.
