Zīlāni offers two distinct points of interest: the open-air stage “Mārdadzis” and the history of the railway station—a cultural venue and a piece of railway history. A cycling route is also planned, with its start and finish able to be planned in Zīlāni, and intended to provide access to Laukezers Nature Park. The occasion may be the deciding factor when choosing: a specific cultural event, an interest in the historical development of the settlement, or planning a cycling tour.

Open-Air Stage and Cultural Events

The open-air stage “Mārdadzis” was built in 2016 near Zīlānu Tautas nams. It has a covered stage and seating for 700 spectators. The “Manfreda fon Mārdadža dārza svētki” were announced there for 25 May 2025; that year’s program included beach volleyball games, a Zolīte tournament and laughter yoga. The stage and the festival program belong to different points in time: the venue was built in 2016, while the specific festival announcement was for 2025. If you want a cultural event to determine your travel dates, check the announcements for your travel year.

Railway Station and Railway Workers’ Village

A new large railway station was planned near Krustpils, and Zīlāni station was built in a settlement three kilometres from Krustpils. A whole village for railway workers grew up by the station. These details reveal different aspects of railway heritage: the three kilometres connect Zīlāni with Krustpils, while the village tells the story of settlement development around the station. The historical perspective therefore extends beyond a single station building.

Cycling Route and Circular Trail

A 15–20 km cycling route is planned to provide access to Laukezers Nature Park; its start and finish can be planned in Zīlāni. This gives you two practical questions to consider when planning your tour: Does the stated length fit your itinerary, and would you like to set the start and finish in the town? As planning details can change, it is a good idea to check the current route before setting out.

Laukezers Nature Park has a 7.15 km circular trail suitable for running, Nordic walking, cycling and easy walks. Compared with the planned cycling route, this trail is shorter and forms a loop; for the longer route, the start and finish can be planned in Zīlāni. The two routes therefore differ not only in length, but also in form and activity: a loop suitable for several types of activity, or a planned cycling route with a connection to Zīlāni. When choosing, consider not just the distance but also whether you prefer a loop or a cycling route with a planned start and finish in town.

Finding Your Way to the Obstacle Course

The obstacle course is next to the A12 and can be reached via an exit from the regional state road V825 Zīlāni–Galvānkalns. On a map, the two roads provide different reference points: the A12 marks the course’s location, while the V825 indicates the access route. Use both references when including the obstacle course in your plans for the area; this will help you distinguish its location from the route in.

Discover more destinations: Rudzīši, Kaķīši, Atašiene.

Return to the regional travel overview: Krustpils Novads.