There are many reasons to visit Latvia: lazily wandering around the narrow streets of Riga, sunbathing on the famous Jurmala beach, learning the history of magnificent medieval castles and temples that are scattered throughout the country. And, of course, once again to make sure that the most interesting sometimes happens so close.
Why Latvia?
Being the heart of the Baltic states, it has concentrated all the best in itself and is rightfully proud of it. The small state, which Russia, Belarus, Lithuania and Estonia tightly took in the half-ring, for a long time remained for Soviet people “their own country”. However, today it is full of paradoxes. The modest, charming authentic villages are adjacent to the refined elegance of the city's architecture. In megacities, the number of business centers is increasing, and centuries-old castles still keep the secrets of the past.
Forests, lakes, the Baltic coast are restrained in the north, but no less fascinating. Local, European tactful, although very welcoming. Latvians, accustomed to living according to the Western rhythm, are not alien to tradition - they carefully protect them.
Ski resorts in Latvia: list of popular places
The picturesque nature of this country allows not only to spend a lazy beach holiday, but also to come here in the winter to spend your leisure time with interest.
There is enough space for everyone: both experienced snowboarders and cross-country fans, as well as beginner skiers. The most popular resorts include the following.
1. Baili. Located near the city of Valmiera. Tourists recommend this place in their reviews for those who have just recently started skiing or are just going to master this sport. The main advantage is the presence of non-steep slopes, which are great for beginners.
2. Kakisu Trase. Favorite ski resort in Latvia among snowboarders who prefer free style. It is located just 50 km from the capital, so you can get to it very quickly, besides with all the amenities. The place is famous for its many tracks and the steepest slopes in the country. Address: Senču iela 1, Sigulda, Siguldas novads, LV-2150.
3. Reina Trase. The resort, which is preferred by snowboarders and fans of cross-country skiing. A whole park has been built for them, occupying an impressive territory. Tournaments are often held here, so vacationers can see real sports marathons for free. Address: Krimuldas pagasts, LV-2144.
4. Milzkalns. It is located in the Engure region and is considered to be one of the most popular resorts in Latvia. Seven lifts, eight slopes, a park for snowboarders, a slide for beginner skiers, as well as a place for sledding. Tourists stop right here. Accommodation is provided by the Milzkalns hotel complex (17 rooms) and Lidakas, which includes 2 cottages. Address: Dižkalni, Smārdes pagasts, Engures novads.
The list can be supplemented with the following objects:
- Ozolkalns - the longest track in the country;
- agarkalns - a favorite place for Latvians (located in Vidzeme on the banks of the Gauja River);
- Gaisinkals - is known as the highest peak in Latvia;
- Zviedru cepure - for picturesque views it is worth going here;
- Lemberga hute - an artificial mountain with a height of 50 m, located in Veitspils;
- Eglukalns - ski resort near Daugavpils (located at an altitude of 220 meters).
Latvian resorts on the sea: Jurmala
With the onset of the holiday season, many tourists prefer to come here to lie on the shore. The Baltic country is famous for providing guests with a range of procedures. This makes it possible not only to relax, but also to improve your health. And among all cities, the leading place, of course, is Jurmala.
You can swim and sunbathe in almost every area of the Latvian seaside resort, as the beaches periodically receive the Blue Flag, which is a confirmation of their safety and cleanliness. Garbage is cleaned daily, and fine sand covers the coast. Despite the fact that the water here is clean and clear, it is much cooler than in the southern seas.
The nature of the rest depends on the area. For example, in Maiori it is always fun, noisy and too crowded. There are rental points for sports equipment. For those who want to play football, a gate is installed. Those who dream of sunbathing in silence are advised to head to Bulduri, Dubultu or Jaunkemeri. If you want to try windsurfing or kite, stop by Pupuri Beach.
emeri
No less popular than Jurmala, the resort of Latvia, located in the reserve. The uniqueness of the place is explained by the presence of a source of sulfide-sulphate-calcium water, which contains useful trace elements and substances. Nearby is Slokas - a peat mud deposit that is actively used for therapeutic procedures. Reviews about Kemeri recommend coming here to those who want an inexpensive, but high-quality full diagnosis of the body in order to identify diseases, and then get qualified treatment. Popular procedures are:
- climatotherapy;
- mud therapy;
- balneotherapy.
Liepaja
The third largest resort city in Latvia, residents call "the place where the wind is born." Whether it is true or not, few people know, but the fact that thousands of amber stones are born here is an undeniable fact.
Liepaja has one of the best beaches on the entire coast of the Baltic Sea, the width of which in some places reaches 70 meters. Fine sand has a golden and white color. According to numerous legends, during the time of Tsarist Russia, it was practically not filtered, it was used as a material for watches.
Jūrmalas Park stretches along the coastline, where more than 140 species of shrubs and trees currently grow. At the beginning of the last century, a bathhouse, fountains and a sanatorium were built here, but later the territory was built up with luxurious summer cottages. Now Jurmalas is open, and everyone can visit it, and at the same time it is absolutely free.
Ventspils
The Latvian resort, which was the first to receive the coveted Blue Flag, confirming compliance with all necessary standards and the absence of any violations. The width of the beach, covered with the finest white sand, reaches 80 m. Here you can go surfing, enjoy water rides.
As for accommodation, Ventspils cannot boast of a large number of guest houses and hotels, and those that are available can hardly be called chic in the full sense of the word. The resort offers to stay in comfortable rooms, not without elegance. However, reviews claim that some guest houses are located in old wooden houses built in the first half of the 20th century. However, in the eyes of tourists, this adds appeal and charm, especially since the service is at the highest level.
Saulkrasti
The Latvian resort, known as the Sunny Coast, will be an excellent choice for a family holiday, because the climate here is very mild, and there is a calm and peaceful atmosphere around. Upon arrival, be sure to devote several days to a beach holiday, and then go for a walk to enjoy the stunning picturesque view of Saulkrasti.
Also, tourists reviews recommend visiting one of the attractions - White Dune. Its height is 18 meters and this is the favorite location of Latvians: it offers stunning views of the bay.
Cesis
A small but pretty town is the oldest in Latvia. It is located in a very picturesque place surrounded by coniferous forests in the national park. People come here for a relaxing holiday, unhurried walks along the narrow streets, visiting architectural structures.
Several dozens of hotels have been built for guests in Cesis. It is worth clarifying that many of them are marked 2 * -3 *, but, according to tourists, the level of service in them is quite high. There are very few rooms, so you need to book in advance so that the room you like is not busy.
Before leaving, be sure to visit the local attractions, among which the Venden Castle is especially interesting.