Isnauda Manor stood on a hill by the Isnauda (Ilža) River and was surrounded by a park. The landscape of Isnauda parish is shaped mainly by small and medium-sized moraine hills. The Pilda River, also called Isnauda, also flows through the parish. The manor’s historic setting and the parish’s landscape features therefore offer distinct points of interest. When planning your trip, you can give local history and nature different emphasis according to your interests.

Cultural history in different local settings

The Church of St. Stanislaus of Istalsna, a Roman Catholic church, is located in Istalsna. It is a site of architectural and historical significance, associated with the years 1800 and 1935. A different type of heritage site is Isnauda Ancient Burial Ground I, a state-protected cultural monument in Isnauda parish. The church and burial ground thus represent different cultural-historical themes, each associated with a different location.

In the wider area around Isnauda, on the eastern shore of Lake Pilda, there is also an ancient hillfort. It adds a lakeside location to the area’s historic sites. When planning your trip, it is therefore useful to note the precise name of each destination: Istalsna, Isnauda parish, and the wider area around Isnauda refer to different geographical locations.

Folklore and local events

Cultural activities are also part of the area’s character. In 2025, the “Isnauda” folklore group is affiliated with the Isnauda parish Culture House. The 2026–2030 cultural strategy names Isnauda as a local centre where events are held to strengthen the local community and maintain traditions. Alongside historic buildings and heritage sites, folklore and community events are therefore also cultural points of interest. The folklore group is a specific point of reference, while the strategy describes the context for the events and their thematic focus.

Activities by prior arrangement

The “Pelnrušķītes sapnis” salon offers the “Ežuļa sajūtu taka” barefoot trail and creative workshops using natural materials. These activities are available by prior arrangement. You can choose between a named barefoot trail and a creative workshop; for both activities, arranging your visit in advance is part of the planning. If you would like to include one of these activities in your stay, take this requirement into account before finalising your itinerary.

Locations to consider when looking for accommodation

When looking for a holiday apartment in Isnauda, it helps to match the locations of your planned destinations to your travel interests. The moraine hills and river are in Isnauda parish; the church is in Istalsna, and the hillfort is in the wider area on the eastern shore of Lake Pilda. This can help you choose a destination based on the cultural or landscape features you would like to explore. Plan a visit to the salon separately, as its activities are available by prior arrangement.

Discover more destinations: Kušneri, Nirza, Ludza, Tutāni.

Go to the main travel overview: Ludzas Novads.