The Kalsnava Arboretum is a striking natural feature: covering 143 hectares, it is home to more than 2,000 different woody plants, while about 150 rhododendron varieties grow in the collection garden. In Jaunkalsnava, there is also a four-kilometre walking trail, a park with information boards about Kalsnava, and historic buildings from the manor estate. This gives you different options when planning your trip: a woody plant collection, outdoor activities or local history.
Arboretum and Woody Plant Collection
The LVM Kalsnava Arboretum was established from 1975 onwards for dendrological and forestry research, as well as for planting non-native woody plants. Dendrology is the study of woody plants, so both the research purpose and the plantings are part of its history. The area and collection figures describe different scales: the arboretum covers 143 hectares, while the collection includes more than 2,000 different woody plants. About 150 rhododendron varieties can be found in the collection garden. This is an approximate figure; collection numbers may change as the plantings develop. Those interested in plants will find a nature-focused destination here, shaped by a history of research and purposeful planting.
Walking Trail, Park and Seasonal Activities
The “Pastaiga pa Jaunkalsnavu” walking trail is four kilometres long. Check local conditions before setting out. Jura Alunāns Park offers paths, ornamental shrubs, a small open-air stage and information boards featuring stories from Kalsnava. The boards also give a visit to the park a cultural and historical dimension. During the summer season, the park is used for events; dates vary. If you would like to attend an event, check its specific date before your trip.
There is also a bathing spot on the Veseta in the park. However, the stream is shallow, and bathing facilities are seasonal. Check local conditions before swimming. The walking trail, park and bathing spot offer different ways to enjoy the outdoors, but should not be treated as interchangeable activities: the trail’s length is a clear planning detail for a walk, while the shallow water and seasonal availability of the bathing spot are important factors for swimming.
Manor House History in Jaunkalsnava
Jaunkalsnava developed around the historic centre of Jaunkalsnava Manor in the 19th century. The Kālenu family farmed there for a long time. There is another important date in the history of ownership: the manor’s main building belonged to the family from the late 18th century until the land reform. The development of the village and the period of ownership of the main building tell different aspects of the story.
The former uses of individual buildings have also been recorded. The historic manor stable now houses the municipal cultural centre; its façade retains historic red brickwork. The former brewery building, “Trimpulas”, has preserved vaulted cellars. The history of Jaunkalsnava therefore includes not only the development of the village but also different parts of the manor estate. These details help distinguish the historical connections: the stable and cultural centre refer to the same building in different roles, while “Trimpulas”, as a former brewery, is a different building.
Plan Your Journey and Accommodation
Jaunkalsnava railway station handles passenger and freight traffic, albeit on a limited scale. Diesel trains on the Riga–Madona route stop there. If you plan to travel by train, check the current timetable in advance, as services may change. When choosing a holiday rental, it is a good idea to first decide which places you actually plan to visit, then compare the locations of specific listings with your travel plans. Also check availability for your dates. This way, travel, places to visit and accommodation can all fit into a plan that reflects your priorities.
Discover more destinations: Ozoli, Lautere, Stalīdzāni, Tīrumskanuļi, Sarkaņi, Jaunlubāna, Dzelzava, Bērzaune
For the broader travel overview: Madonas Novads.
