Discover Saldus Municipality through its contrasts: protected wetlands and riverside trails sit alongside landscape parks, manor houses and museums. Bird enthusiasts will find important nesting grounds; those seeking culture will encounter traces ranging from classicist architecture to Latvian history. A riverside walk, a museum visit or a tasting also offer different perspectives. You can choose what to explore based on the themes that interest you most.
Wetlands, Water and Trails
The Sātiņi Ponds are a Natura 2000 nature reserve and are important for nesting and migratory waterbirds. A 9.8-metre-high birdwatching tower stands in the reserve; as access conditions may vary, it is best to check them before your visit. The Zvārde Nature Reserve is also defined by its landscape: it encompasses the Stūri and Zvārde bogs and the area around Lake Ķerkliņi, and is an important nesting ground for rare bird species.
The Ciecere Nature and Walking Trail follows the Ciecere River between the bridge on Kuldīgas iela and the bridge on Saules iela. Some sections are built as boardwalks because the terrain is limited and low-lying, and are also suitable for walks with a stroller. In Kalnsēta Park, you will find a different choice of routes along the Ciecere: narrow, steep paths contrast with wider trails for leisurely walks. A walking trail along the Vadakste River leads to the Vadakste Reservoir and the border between Latvia and Lithuania.
Landscape Parks and Cultural History
Jaunauce Castle is designated a state-level architectural monument. Its grounds include a seven-hectare 19th-century landscape park that has preserved its historic scale, layout and plantings. The “VĀRTI” augmented reality app lets you view paintings, busts and historic dances in 3D. The app’s availability may change, so check in advance.
The landscape park at Remte Manor dates from the early 19th century. Its 26 hectares feature varied plantings, ponds and a canal system. The manor’s new castle was built in 1800 in the Berlin classicist style. In Saldus, the Evangelical Lutheran Church of St. John is the oldest building in the town. Its historic furnishings include organs, a Mannerist-style pulpit and a 19th-century altarpiece. The J. Rozentāls Museum of History and Art displays original works from the early career of Latvian painter Jānis Rozentāls.
The Oskars Kalpaks Museum covers Colonel Oskars Kalpaks, the Kalpaks Battalion, the First World War and Latvia’s independence struggles. Another trace of history leads to Ezere: the three-kilometre nature and history trail starts at the former manor complex and also leads to the customs house. The instrument of surrender of the German troops encircled in the “Courland Pocket” was signed there on 8 May 1945. Exhibitions in the barn at Nīgrande Manor focus on the writer Jēkabs Janševskis and his work, traditional life and manor furnishings, as well as the Soviet era. A replica of a mammoth tusk found near Nīgrande is also on display.
Lakeside Activities and Exploring the Area
Lake Saldus has a developed beach with a recreation area, volleyball courts and playgrounds. In summer, an outdoor café is also open there, and SUP boards can be rented. At the Zaņa mill pond, you will find fishing piers, a swimming area, a children’s playground and a beach volleyball court. A fishing licence is required.
At the “Silavas” mini-zoo, visitors can feed the animals with food prepared on site. An indoor exhibition features parrots, dormice, fish, a turtle and pythons. If you enjoy walking, individually planned hikes are offered in the forests around Saldus and in nearby municipalities for children, young people and adults; they include nature, culture and history destinations. The Saldus Tourist Information Centre and the Brocēni Tourist Information Point rent bicycles for rides around the town and along nearby routes. Check availability before planning.
Brewery and Confectionery
Saldalus Brewery traditionally brews five varieties of beer, with the entire production process carried out by hand. Brewery tours with tastings are available for small groups by prior arrangement. The visitor experience is seasonal, and booking requirements may change. At the Gotiņa factory, you can learn about the production process for milk candies and watch a film about how they are made. A visit also includes tasting the candies and buying them on site. As visiting and booking conditions may change, check in advance.
Whether you focus on bird habitats, riverside trails, architecture or local production, these places offer different ways to experience nature and history. Comparing the types of trails or the themes on offer can help you plan your trip around your own interests.
Discover more destinations: Saldus, Šarlote, Jaunlutriņi, Druva, Kursīši, Skrīveri Municipality, Dobele Municipality, Baldone rural area.
For the broader travel overview: Latvia.
