Baldone combines places for walks with routes of varying lengths and a spa town history that can be seen in its parks and exhibitions. Springs and cultural heritage are at the heart of the town; further afield, an observatory and seasonal ski slopes add to the attractions. For planning, it is therefore worth first considering whether you prefer a longer loop, a shorter route or individual cultural stops.

Walking routes with different focuses

The long loop of the Baldones Stāstu takas begins and ends in the town of Baldone. It is approximately 20 kilometres long and includes 16 tourist attractions with audio guides. Audio guides are available in Latvian, Russian, English and Lithuanian. The shorter loop of the Baldones Stāstu takas is suitable for cycling. The routes therefore differ not only in length, but also in whether you are looking for a longer loop or an option suitable for cycling.

The Riekstukalns trail in the area around Baldone is part of the long loop and is approximately five kilometres long. This distance refers to the trail section, not the entire loop. The “Baldones militārā mantojuma digitālais maršruts” has a different theme: the route is ten kilometres long and includes 13 information stops. The different lengths and themes give you concrete points of comparison when choosing between a long loop and a themed route.

For the “Baldones mežu stāsti” forest walk, Baldone sports complex can serve as a starting point; convenient car parking is available there. This starting point is a practical reference for planning this walk, regardless of which of the other routes you choose.

Spa town history, park and museum

Ceriņu Park has been a popular place for walks in Baldone since the spa town era. The sulphur spring, considered Baldone’s most important natural feature, is also located there. Another named spring, Ķirzaciņa, is in the sanatorium park.

Since 2018, the Baldone Museum has been housed in Mercendarbes Manor. It features the exhibition “Ceļš uz Baldones kūrortu” and changing exhibitions. The museum is four kilometres from the centre of Baldone, and a 130-year-old lime tree avenue leads there. A visit to the museum can thus be combined with a look at the history of the spa town, while the springs and Ceriņu Park offer a different way to explore local history and landscape.

Cultural heritage in Baldone

Baldone Evangelical Lutheran Church of St. Michael has been mentioned in written records since 1567. The town also displays a life-size model of a horse-drawn tram. Vanagkalni Open-Air Stage has 4,000 seats and a roof over the stage area. These places offer different points of interest: written history, a displayed mode of transport and a large open-air stage.

Excursions further afield

Further afield, Baldone Observatory offers a creative workshop and a visit to the mini planetarium “Count the stars, don't count the time”. A lesson titled “The Miracle of Space” is also available on request. The options therefore differ in format: a workshop, a planetarium visit or a lesson that must be requested.

At Riekstukalns, in the area around Baldone, the observation tower offers views of Riga’s main high-rise buildings. There are also ski slopes suitable for experienced and inexperienced skiers, as well as snowboarders. The slopes are subject to seasonal conditions. The views and winter sports therefore offer two different reasons to consider including Riekstukalns in your plans for your stay.

The 2022 municipal tourism map lists excursions at the “Atēna” riding club for private visitors, by prior arrangement. Visitors can see horses, ponies and other animals and learn about equestrian sports. Check before travelling whether these visits are still offered; prior booking is required.

Discover more destinations: Mārupe, Riga.

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