THE CORNER HOUSE / Riga, Latvia

A former Latvian headquarters of the brutal KGB secret police is now open as a grim reminder of their atrocities.

 

 

THE LOVELY ART NOUVEAU BUILDING in center of the Latvian capital of Riga is actually a former KGB headquarters known as The Corner House, where political prisoners would be taken and subject to torture and worse.

The city of Riga came under Soviet control in 1940, and the brutal new leaders brought with them the dreaded KGB secret police. Setting up shop in the Corner House, a secretive headquarters in the middle of the city, the KGB began summoning people to uncertain fates within the depths of the building. “Undesirable Elements” could be picked up for crimes as small as having “anti-Soviet conversations” or “instigating panic.” Many of the people captured by the KGB were executed in a killing area in the basement of the Corner House. Still others were crammed into cells with dozens of other prisoners, and made to sweat and go mad with thirst as the basement was kept at around 85 degrees.

When the Nazis drove the Soviets out of Riga during World War II, they opened the doors of the secretive house to garner trust from the population by showing them the horrors the Soviets had created. After the war, the Germans left the country and the Soviets came right back, continuing the secret police practices as they had before.

Latvia finally regained its independence in 1991, and the Corner House was simply closed off so that the country could move on. In 2012 some of the space was reopened as a museum and visitors can now see first hand, the secretive headquarters of the brutal KGB. Most of the official documents are still kept hidden away, but just being able to see the location itself is a haunting reminder of a dark period in the city’s history.



 

 

 

P. Stradins Museum for History of Medicine / Riga, Latvia

Medical museum that houses most notably the taxidermied remains of Vladimir Demikhov’s famous two-headed dog experiment.

SOVIET SCIENTIST VLADIMIR DEMIKHOV SURGICALLY ATTACHED the front half of one dog onto the neck of another dog by combining their two circulatory systems. Yes, this happened.

Though Demikhov’s experiments may seem a little freakish, he was a pioneer in organ transplant surgery. He died in obscurity but his work inspired what is now a modern medical procedure – the transplanting of vital organs. The museum also contains several space-exploration-related medicine exhibits with taxidermied dogs and a monkey that were early Cosmonauts in the Soviet space program (not Laika, but some of her canine “colleagues”).

There is an affiliated pharmacy museum and a small anatomy museum. The Anatomy Museum houses a collection of abnormal anatomy specimens, particularly specializing in anomalies in infants and embryo development.



 

 

 

First-Ever Public Christmas Tree Marker / Riga, Latvia

A stone marker and sculpture in the city of Riga stake a claim for the very first community Christmas tree.

 

WHEN SOMETHING HAPPENED OVER 500 years ago, it can be tricky to parse out fact from legend. Take the first ever Christmas tree. The custom of a decorated tree at Yuletide dates back centuries, to at least the 15th or 16th century. That much is fact, the very first one? The Christmas tree that started it all? That might be more a matter of legend.

A likely candidate was in the medieval city of Riga, the capital of Latvia. Riga’s City Center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, including the Town Hall Square. Flanking the south side of the Square is the House of the Brotherhood of the Blackheads, and it’s here where the Christmas tree story takes shape.

Near the northwest corner of the ornate building is a slightly domed stone marker embedded in the cobblestones, staking its claim—in eight languages—as the spot of the first public Christmas tree.

The Brotherhood of the Blackheads was a guild of professional merchants and traders that banded together in the 14th century, and remained active in Latvia and Estonia right up through the middle of the 20th century. They were known for their twice-yearly holiday celebrations, including the Christmas to New Years season. It’s said that the Brotherhood put a fir tree in the square, festooned it with paper flowers, sang and danced and cheered the season, then lit the whole thing on fire. (Needless to say, it is also said that more than a few glasses were raised by the Brothers during the celebration.).

The Brotherhood has documentation showing that this all happened for the first time in 1510, and it just might be the very first documented Christmas tree. The chapter in Tallin, 175 miles to the north in Estonia, makes the same claim for the same Christmas. Given the chummy relationship between the two chapters, it’s not inconceivable that they lit up their trees simultaneously. A Christmas tree still goes up in Riga’s Town Hall Square, in the same spot, in front of the same Brotherhood, but with a whole lot more lights and decorations. And that much is fact.



 

 

Riga Aviation Museum / Riga, Latvia

A vast and unlikely aviation museum kept alive for over 50 years due to one man’s tenacity.

 

Thanks to Victor Talpa, Interested parties from all over the world are free to wander amidst the ghosts of aviation’s past while being buzzed by shiny, lumbering jets cruising into Riga International airport.

Young aviation engineer Victor Talpa established the Riga Aviation Museum in 1956. In its early days, Talpa’s employment and subsequent partnership with the Latvian Civil Aviation Administration aided the development of resources and programming culminating in one of the most unique aircraft collections in Europe.

On the grounds of the fledgling museum, Talpa established the Young Pilots’ Club where teen boys interested in aviation theory and mechanics could take lessons and complete basic physical training in preparation for being able to operate the aircraft of their dreams.

Eventually Talpa pled his case that the Young Pilots should have their own plane, rather than a loaner aircraft supplied by the Latvian government. This first airplane–a Mig-21US–became the founding piece of the museum’s collection, with over forty military helicopters and planes of all stripes accumulating over the years.

After the dissolution of the USSR, the museum was taken over by the Riga Airport Administration, which continued to provide the museum with the physical space necessary to all those classic planes and helicopters.

By 1997 the Riga Aviation Museum had been fully privatized, its grounds opened up to the general public. Everything is stored outdoors and may not be in tip-top condition, but most impressive is that Victor Talpa has managed to preserve one of the most treasured collections of its kind for more than half a century despite all odds.



 

 

 

 

 

Great Kristaps /Riga, Latvia

The statue of a legendary giant who carried Christ and shouldered the world’s sins.

 

 

 

According to legend, once upon a time a very strong man lived on the Daugava riverside and he earned his living by carrying people across the river on his back. One night he was approached by a little boy who asked to carry him over the river. Although the weather was stormy, the man picked up the child and began carrying him across the river. With each step, the man found that the child was becaming heavier until by midstream only with the greatest of effort could he made it to shore. The boy turned out to be Christ’s son so the man was named Kristaps (Latvian form of Christopher). Now you will find his statue on the right bank of the Daugava.

The story about Great Kristaps was passed on from one generation to another; it saw many alterations and it has many variations. They say that Kristaps was awarded a heap of money and he used it to buy all of Riga. At that time, the town was so small, a wolf could easily run through it. But one fact is definite – around 1510 a wooden sculpture of Great Kristaps with a little boy on his shoulder and a lamp and a stick in his hands was placed by the river. The sculpture was cherished by the local people; they decorated it with ribbons and garlands of flowers, lit up candles and prayed for protection from evil.


 

 

Art Nouveau in Riga

Flamboyant architecture from the turn of 20th century.

ART NOUVEAU OR JUGENDSTIL (AS it was known in German influenced countries) was a style in decorative arts which marked the turn of 20th century. It originated in France but quickly spread throughout Europe often merging with local artistic tendencies. It left a trail of iconic examples of design, from Paris metro stations and works of Victor Horta in Brussels to Helsinki main railway station and secessionist buildings in Budapest.

Latvian capital boasts one the most extensive assortment of pure Art Nouveau buildings in Europe. There are over 800 Art Nouveau buildings scattered all over Riga’s historic center. The most striking examples can be found along Elizabetes Iela and Alberta. These include buildings by Mikhail Eisenstein the father of the famous director Sergei Eisenstein.

 

RigaTours.lv recommend – Best 20 Hotels in Riga (2022)

We have created a list with the best hotels in Riga, Latvia.

 

———————– Neiburgs Hotel —————————-

Best hotels In Riga

STARS  4*

PRICE from

LOCATION – RIGA, OLD TOWN

Neiburgs is a family-owned hotel praised for its elegant fusion of the historical and the modern. Our guests are welcome to book any of our 55 rooms, which offer breathtaking views of the stately Dom or the meandering medieval streets of the Old Town. For our guests’ convenience and enjoyment, there is a restaurant, business center, conference rooms, as well as a fitness room and SPA. Concierge service is quick and efficient and always at their disposal. Apartments – filled with lots of light and created for you to enjoy the luxuries of full service, the suites are equipped with a kitchenette, a fully functional workspace and comfortable bed. Designer furniture and lamps, parquet floors, natural silk curtains and historical details will satisfy your aesthetic sensibilities. Our cotton bedding and towels are soothing and comfortable for the most delicate skin. Each room has a personal touch – original graphic art by Katrina Neiburga – serving as an affirmation of the family values essential for our hotel.

Originally built in the 19th century, Grand Hotel Kempinski Riga graces the very heart of the Latvian capital, just opposite the National Opera House and the entrance to the town’s historic centre. Set foot in this elegant blend of classical and modern styles, and we think you’ll agree: it truly is grand indeed.

Here you’ll discover Riga’s finest collection of 141 luxury rooms and suites. Lush interiors. Luxe materials. And sleek lines — all combine for a rich modern look with the barest hint of mid-century modern. This is the perfect place to relax after a day of meetings, or savour life’s sweetest moments in the company of a loved one.

Ready for the good life? Enjoy relaxed all-day dining at Amber Restaurant, or linger over a beverage of your choice at Grand Bar, Lobby Lounge or the rooftop favourite, Stage 22. The Cigar Lounge also welcomes you for the savviest collection of sticks in Riga. Later, indulge your way at Kempinski The Spa — featuring six treatment rooms, a swimming pool and a health club with fitness centre.

Best hotels in riga Best hotels in riga Best hotels in riga Best hotels in riga

BOOK NOW!

 

————- Pullman Riga Old Town —————

 

STARS  5*

PRICE from 159 EUR (Night /DL)

LOCATION – RIGA, OLD TOWN

 

Located in the centre of the historical area of Riga, Pullman Riga Old Town is set in a former Baron Munchausen’s horse stable of 18th century and features a horse breed theme throughout the premises. It offers its guests a SPA centre with heated indoor swimming pool and a sauna. There is available a free Wifi throughout the property and a public parking.

Modern and spacious rooms are fitted with a LED Smart TV and comfortable beds to relax in after a busy day. Park and atrium views are available in most of the rooms and bathrooms come with a rain shower and free toiletries. There is also a voice-mail and a working area.

Guests can enjoy the on-site restaurant Equus with international fusion cuisine. Tea Deli offers a tea ceremony experience and Vinoteca by Pullman provides a variety of international wines.
A SPA and wellness zone with sauna is available for guests free of charge, as well as fitness and Pilates premises with views of Bastejkalns Park. On the 7th floor there is a 19,5 m long swimming pool that features views of the park and city canal.

BOOK NOW!

 

 

————— Royal Casino SPA & Hotel Resort —————-

 

STARS  5*

PRICE from 145 EUR (Night /DL)

LOCATION – RIGA CENTRE

This hotel is so luxurious that its huge suites are given names instead of numbers. Part of an enormous entertainment complex that includes nightclubs, restaurants, casinos and a spa, this venue is like a piece of Las Vegas transplanted into the centre of Riga. Bathrooms are bigger than accommodation at most local hotels and each room is decorated in a different style: New York in art deco, Barcelona à la Gaudi and the golf suites have huge terraces with their own miniature golf courses. Room service, flat screen TVs the size of small cars and countless other luxuries are all at your disposal if you can afford it.

——————- Gallery Park Hotel ———————

 

STARS  5*

PRICE from … EUR (Night /DL)

LOCATION – RIGA CENTRE

 

Welcome to Gallery Park Hotel & SPA an exquisite 5-star Luxury Boutique Hotel. Located in Riga’s historic center, this 19th century mansion is a UNESCO World heritage building and a Latvian State Monument. The Hotel lies directly in the Art Noveau area, 3 minutes walking distance to Riga Old town and is surrounded by three parks. Latvian National Art Museum and Riga Congress Hall are situated right across the street. International embassies, banks, governmental institutions and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Latvia are also neighbors of the Hotel. The Hotel’s Gallery SPA area features a swimming pool, sauna and a fitness center.

Grand Poet Hotel

Grand Palace Hotel

Hotel Bergs

Monika Centrum Hotels

———————- A22 Hotel ————————

Best hotels in Riga

STARS  5*

PRICE from 225 Eur (Night/DL)

LOCATION – RIGA

A22 Hotel features a restaurant, fitness centre, a bar and shared lounge in Rīga. Among the facilities at this property are a 24-hour front desk and room service, along with free WiFi throughout the property. Private parking is available on site. At the hotel each room comes with air conditioning, a seating area, a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a safety deposit box and a private bathroom with a shower, bathrobes and slippers. A22 Hotel provides certain rooms with city views, and every room is equipped with a kettle. At the accommodation every room comes with bed linen and towels. Guests at A22 Hotel can enjoy a à la carte breakfast. The hotel has a spa and wellness centre with a sauna.

Best hotels in Riga

Best hotels in Riga

Best hotels in Riga

 

Hotel Gutenbergs

AC Hotel by Marriott Riga

Radisson Blu Elizabete Hotel

Radisson Blu Latvia

Hillton Garden Inn Riga Old Town

 

————— Wellton Riga Hotel & Spa —————–

Best hotels in Riga

STARS  4*

PRICE from

LOCATION – RIGA, OLD TOWN

This 4-star modern hotel Wellton Hotel Riga is located in the heart of Old Town and features a restaurant Allumette, that specializes in French cuisine and has a seperate cigar room, spa centre and free WiFi throughout the property. Rooms are modern and fitted to international standards, with classical contemporary design and decorated in light colours. All rooms are soundproof, equipped with air-conditioning, flat-screen TV, iron and ironing desk. Tea and coffee making facilities, comfortable beds and private bathroom with free toiletries and hair dryer are included.

Best hotels in RigaBest hotels in Riga

BOOK NOW!!

 

Wellton Riverside Hotel & SPA

Avalon Hotel & Conferences

Hotel Justus

Hestia Hotel Draugi

Islande Hotel

Forums Boutique Hotel

 

Practical information for travelers to Latvia during covid-19 pandemic (OCT, 2021)

 

In order to curb the Covid-19 pandemic, the state of emergency in Latvia has been declared for a time period from October 11th until January 11th

Before arriving in Latvia everyone must fill in an electronic confirmation form on the covidpass.lv website. The certificate must be completed within 48 hours before crossing the border of Latvia. For minors, the form must be completed by the parent/legal representative.

If you can provide a valid digital Covid-19 certificate proving that you are vaccinated against Covid-19 or recovered from it: you don’t need to take the Covid-19 test if you’re returning from the EU, the EEA, Switzerland, the United Kingdom and low-risk third countries. The digital Covid-19 certificate must be issued in the EU Member States, EEA countries, Switzerland or the United Kingdom. If you can’t provide a valid digital Covid-19 certificate proving that you are vaccinated against Covid-19 or recovered from it: you need to take a PCR test 72 hours before entering Latvia or an antigen test taken not earlier than 48 hours before entering Latvia.

The latest list of countries, their current travel status, and the necessary epidemiological measures that apply is available here. Self-isolation is required for everyone if they arrive from a very high-risk country.

This page contains practical travel information for international travelers planning a visit to Latvia during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

  • People must observe 2 meters distance (applies to both public indoor and public outdoor spaces).
  • Only vaccinated people or people recovered from COVID-19 are allowed to take part in public events. Epidemiological safety requirements are increased there, and wearing face masks are mandatory. Cultural events will be held in the “green mode” only, face masks will be mandatory and there will be a limit to the number of visitors – up to 60% of room capacity. The maximum number of visitors permitted at a cultural event is 1000, divided into sectors of 300 persons each.
  • People with a vaccination or recovery certificate will be able to have a meal in person at a public catering facility within opening hours limited from 6.00 to 21.00. Meals will be available for takeaway for both vaccinated and non-vaccinated people.
  • Services related to entertainment and amusement indoors are not permitted.
  • Retail services are prohibited at shopping centres (with floor area exceeding 1500 m2 and with more than five shops) on weekends and public holidays, except shops selling essential goods and providing household services.
  • People who have not been vaccinated against Covid-19 or who have not recovered from the virus are only allowed to shop in convenience stores. Unvaccinated people are able to shop in food stores, pharmacies, opticians, stores selling pet food, press, hygiene products, telecommunication products and fuel retail stations.
  • As the situation in the world develops daily, the Latvian authorities monitor the situation and share their information with the World Health Organization (WHO).
  • In general, the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Latvia reminds all travelers that taking care of good hygiene – e.g. careful washing of hands and using hand disinfectants – is a reasonable use of common sense. If you have any questions regarding the novel coronavirus and COVID-19 and your travels, please call Latvian Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (SPKC) helpline (00 371) 67501590 or (00 371) 67387661 (open 8.30-17.00 working days). In case of emergency call 113.

In this blog you can find some ideas where to stay while you travel around Latvia. If you like adventure, you may want to stay in a hotel that’s a lot more than just a place to lay your head down at night. Nestled on a secluded island in Dagda lake or Treehouse or maybe in Beaver house?! It can be your experience of lifetime! RigaTours.lv recommend –Here is our Top 10! And we would love to help you to plan your trip! Just ask!

#10 Niedras, lake resort; #9 Kalnozoli, guest house; #8 Sīpoli Mare, guest house;#7 Glamping DiDille; #6 Villa Usma floating house;#5 Peldmāja in Pāvilosta;#4 Beaver house on Usma lake;#3 Melnsils, camping;#2 On island, luxury tent;#1 Čiekurs, treehouse.

    

BEST HIKING ROUTES IN LITHUANIA (2019-2020)

Walking along those trails, you will not only see the most interesting natural objects, but also hear millions of sounds of the Lithuanian forest, dispel the mystery of the wetlands, and at a moment of repose refresh yourself with water from our streams or springs. Read more..

Treetop Walking Path / Parnidis cognitive path / Ecological Cognitive Trail “Litorina” / Juniper valley / Pūčkoriai Cognitive Trail /

What You Should Know About the Hill of Crosses, Lithuania?

 

 

Hill of Crosses (Kryžių kalnas) is located 12 km north of the city of  Šiauliai in northern Lithuania.

From Vilnius to Hill of Crosses – 221km (around 3h by car) Map.

From Riga to Hill of Crosses – 123km (around 2h by car) Map.

 

Hill of Crosses

 

 

Facts About the Hill of Crosses

1. The Hill of Crosses currently has over 100,000 crosses from all over the world. There are actually too many to count.

2. The first cross was put there in the 1800’s.

3. There are two stories that go with the hill – a story of faith and healing & a story of nationalism and the fighting spirit of the Lithuanian people.

Hill of Crosses

History of the Hill of Crosses

The first story is that a Lithuanian farmer had a very sick daughter who was going to die. He tried every kind of medicine and went to every doctor he could find. No matter what he did, her health just got worse. Every night, he sat by her bedside, holding her hand, wishing she would get better.

One night, while sitting by her bed, he fell asleep. That night he had a dream. In his dream, a woman dressed in all white came to him and told him that if he wanted his daughter to get better he had to follow her instructions. He was told to build a large wooden cross. He was then to take the wooden cross across the country and place it on a hill. It would be a sign of faith and love for God, and if he did this his daughter would be healed.

He had no other options at this point and decided to build the cross. He carried the cross 13 hours each way to Siauliai. Here, he put the wooden cross up on the hill. Tired and worn down, he started his long journey home.

When he finally reached his hometown, his wife and daughter were both waiting for him. They had amazing news – his daughter had somehow been cured of her illness! She was out of bed, awake, and joyfully awaiting his return!

The story of the miracle hill spread throughout Lithuania. People would pilgrimage to the site and place a cross on the hill hoping it would also cure their sick loved ones. It became the Hill of Crosses that performed miracles!

The second story: For those of you who do not know a lot about Lithuanian history, they have a long and sordid past with the Soviet Union dating back to the 1800’s. In the 1800’s, Lithuania had been occupied and were under Russian regime. The official religion was Russian Orthodox, and the official language was Russian. They were forbidden to practice any other religion, hang any crosses, or speak any other language other than Russian in public.

 

How to get to Hill Of Crosses?

  1. You can rent car and visit Hill Of Crosses  from Riga (around 2 hours, one way) or Vilnius (around 3 hours, one way). From Vilnius you can have day trip Hill Of Crosses and Siauliai. From Riga you can have day trip to Hill of Crosses and Rundāle palace.
  2. Other option is if you are visiting Riga and Vilnius in your trip. Then you can have transfer with sightseeing stops in Hill of Crosses and Rundāle Palace. Both directions – Vilnius-Riga or Riga Vilnius. Here you can find our offer for  transfer. Price starting from 70 EUR/PAX
  3. Also you can have private day tours from Riga or Vilnius. Here you can find tour from Riga. Prices starting from 60 EUR/PAX

Winter in Baltics: 5 Reasons Why You Should Visit Baltic’s in Winter!

Many will argue that the Baltics (Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia) are great travel locations in summer, and they would not be wrong. What they might not know, is that the Baltics are as great for holidays in the winters too, especially for the beautiful scenery.

For one, the Baltics make use of what they have to create that amazing winter holiday experience. On the other hand, these are one collection of countries that come together to make your experience a totally unique one.

Here are some of the top things through which you get to enjoy winter in the Baltics… and reasons why you should consider going at all three countries.

Skiing

Cross skiing in Latvia

Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia are all great locations for skiing. In the fact the outdoors always provides a great skiing experience.

You would think so too if you saw how well the snowy forests formed out delicately challenging paths for different levels of skiing experiences. Frozen lakes also bring all the fun and adrenaline rush into your skiing.

All of these resorts offer services that cater to different skill levels of skiers, so you are always covered.

The longest road in Europe

 

Ice road winter EstoniaOne thing you get to experience when you travel to Estonia in the winter is the chance to drive through the longest road in Europe. This would not have been an interesting endeavor but for the fact that the entire road would be covered in ice. Imagine having to drive all through all that mass of ice throughout multiple islands which would not have been connected otherwise.

 

 

You get to see three countries

One thing we love most about taking a trip to the Baltics is the close proximity of the countries one to another. It is always a 3-in-1 experience, such that you don’t get anywhere else.

It’s even bettered in the fact that all of these countries share a similar climate, so you get to enjoy the same activities over all the regions. You could even split out your activities in such away that they can be spread over all of these regions.

 

 

Speaking of activities…

HORSE SLEDGE AND TRADITIONAL LATVIAN SAUNAThere are a ton of them. There is no shortage of fun when you are enjoying winter in the Baltics. You get to enjoy everything from the bobsleigh in Sigulda, ice fishing, skiing, winter bag walk and horse sledge in snowy forests. 

That is in addition to being treated to the ultimate husky dog sledding experience (Latvia, Lithiuania and Estonia), and having a snowmobile or ATV’s safari experience to remember.

 

 

 

It is a better cost alternative

One thing you should look at when planning a winter trip is the cost of setup. If you consider everything you get from a visit to the Baltic countries to other similar regions of the world, you would quickly see that it is a cost-effective holiday idea for you. 

Scandinavian countries are the only ones that closely compare to what Baltics will offer you, but they come at a higher price margin. Couple that with the fact that distances are usually within fast reach in the Baltics, and you have a winner.

 

Wrap Up

Spend your next winter holiday here in Baltic’s – Latvia, Estonia and Lithuania!

The Baltics are waiting to give you a warm welcome!

For Solo travellers. Find others and travel cheaper!

Great if you are planning to visit Baltic’s – Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia! If you are a Solo traveller and want to join some tour, please write down in comment:
1.        What tour you are interested in,
2.        Preferable date,
3.        Language

..find other interested travellers, and travel cheaper! Meet other people from different countries. Also here you can  get some travel tips for Baltics!

Spring 2018. Amata trail.

 

One of our team passion is hiking. For all 4 seasons here in Latvia – winter, spring, summer and autumn it’s beautiful experience where you will be charmed by the untouched nature. In early spring, you will see boaters chasing extreme sensations on the rapid waters of the Amata River. Spring is also a great time for watching the fascinating bird life. Whereas in summer, the wonderfully bright green scenery offers a large diversity of plants to examine and admire! In autumn, the trail is exceptionally picturesque, clad in shades of bright red and gold. It is also the time for watching the captivating spawning of fish.

This spring we hiked Amata trail. Trail is located only on the right bank of the river Amata. Sandstone and dolomite outcrops, landscapes, diverse flora. Ainavu cliff- 46 m, the highest in Latvia. Marking- red rhombs on tree trunks, route isn’t maintained. Gauja river and it is full of rapids, the word “amada” in the lībiešu language means rapid. The trail is a wonderful place for walking and immersing yourself in the nature.  Trail Amata is located in the Gauja National Park.

 

You can choose one of the routs:

1) Amatciems – Melturi 2 h;
2) Melturi – Kārļi 3 h;
3) Kārļi – Zvārtes cliff 4 h;
4) Zvārtes cliff – Veclauču bridge 1–2 h. (this suitable for family with children)

Coordinates:

Amatciems  25.30342, 57.22543

Veclauču bridge –  25.13721, 57.26149

Zvārtes cliff 25.14279, 57.24601

Photo from – Amata.lv

 

 

 

WINTER IN BALTIC’S (LATVIA)

The winter in Latvia usually lasts from mid-December to the beginning of March. Air temperature can fluctuate from +5 degrees Celsius all the way down to -30 degrees.

A weekend in Riga, the capital of Latvia, is the perfect winter destination. There are plenty of things to do in Riga during a winter weekend. Read our blog to find out what to do in Riga,Latvia.

 

WINTER ACTIVITIES

Luge and Bobsleigh Track in Sigulda – zip down the only bobsleigh track in the Baltics at speeds of up to 80 km/h. In winter, rides are done by “vučko” or the so-called soft bob. The total length of the bobsleigh and luge Track is 1200 m, it features 16 curves, and allows for a maximum speed of 125 km/h. The track is suited for bobsleigh, luge, and skeleton competitions and training sessions. Both international and local competitions are held here every season.

Cross-country skiing -When staying in Riga, cross-country skiing is easily accessible. One does not have to venture far from the capital  – a groomed cross-country track is available across the river in Victory Park. Sigulda is also close to the Latvian capital for long distances in pristine natural surroundings. Cross-country skiing is special in Jurmala where one can enjoy wonderful landscape of frozen waters in cold winters.

Downhill ski slopes:

  • Zagarkalns – one of the most popular ski resorts in Latvia, located in Cesis by the Gauja River
  • Ozolkalns – is proud of the longest downhill ski track in Latvia
  • Milzkalns – one of the most popular places of wintertime activities in Latvia, located in Engure district

Ice fishing – enjoy the ice fishing on the frozen lake and rivers and try to catch you own fish.

Husky dog sledding – hop on a sled and let a pack of Huskies power you along through a Latvian forest,  generally the best months for husky dog sledding are January to March!

RESTAURANTS

You can treat yourself to lovely meals – Riga is perfect destination for food lovers. Thanks to a creative and enthusiastic generation of chefs, there are now numerous world-class restaurants in Latvia serving exquisite local and international cuisine.

Restaurant 3 – Taste of nature “Restaurant 3” offers to the guests menus, which display modern culinary tendencies in the world. Restaurant’s menu is made by using forest goods, natural, bio and seasonal products. They offer guests to enjoy the taste of nature and forest at the very heart of Old Riga.

 MUUSU – is a story of values developed through years of experience. We hail and pursue beauty and comfort; every detail counts. The Nordic interior – distinct lines, exposed brick, flax fabric and wood  accents in combination with metal provides an exquisite background for all that is essential – fine food and emotions. The strength of MUUSU is its chef, Kaspars Jansons. We do not hesitate to claim that he is one of the best chefs in the city. The ascetic table settings and dishes, made by Rauna Kiln, is very much like a canvas to paint on. Time-tested, stable culinary values are at the base of our menu. These are the classics of contemporary Europe, leaving space for new interpretation and seasonal accents, with respect for everything fresh and of local origin.

Ferma – At restaurant “Ferma” you can try local products – wild venison, Baltic salmon, shrimp grown in Latvia, dry aged beef from Latvia, as well as Latvia’s Culinary Heritage. Restaurant “Ferma” is a long-awaited project by chef Maris Astics. Restaurant is in the Quiet Centre of Riga which gives a chance to enjoy a meal with a view of the Viesturs Garden park.

Vincents Restaurant – since it opened in 1994, Vincents has become the prime destination for all those passionate about good food and fine wine. Vincents is located in one of the most picturesque parts of Riga, surrounded by Art Nouveau buildings. The modern interior forms the backdrop for chef Aleksandrs Nasikailovs’ inspired & constantly evolving cuisine. A gourmet’s grotto & celebrity haunt. The guest book at Vincents is a cornucopia of praise from President George W. Bush, brothers Prince Charles and Prince Andrew, Paco Rabane, Pierre Cardin, Mstislav Rostropovich, Montseratt Caballe, Maija Pliseckaya, Nikita Mihalkov, Jose Carreras, and Elton John – to name a few.

MUSEUMS

Discover the most interesting museums to visit when in Riga.

Latvian National Museum of Art -The collection of the largest art museum in Latvia comprises more than 52 thousand works by Baltic and Russian painters and sculptors.

Riga Art Nouveau Centre – Rīga is one of the few European cities where Art Nouveau architecture, art and design objects have survived in great numbers. It is even called “the metropolis of Art Nouveau”. There are 800 Art Nouveau buildings in Rīga, mostly located in the city’s centre – particularly on Alberta Street. Riga Art Nouveau Centre can also be found on this street, in the former apartment of the renowned Latvian architect Konstantīns Pēkšēns, who lived and worked here till 1907 and designed this beautiful building.

Riga Motor Museum -Visit Riga Motor Museum to see the largest and most diverse collection of antique motor vehicles in the Baltics and listen to exciting stories about them. The museum exhibition has been created as a story about unique motor vehicles, prominent persons and the most important historical events in the automotive world. Innumerable interactive elements have been installed throughout Riga Motor Museum, which will draw the attention of any child.

 Latvian Ethnographic Open-Air Museum – One of the oldest and largest open-air museums in Europe is located on the banks of Lake Jugla, just a 30 minute drive from downtown Riga. This museum is unique when compared to similar museums around the world with the fact that it began to collect its exhibitions before the war, and thus many of its exhibition objects are in very good condition. 118 historical buildings from all four of Latvia’s provinces – Kurzeme, Vidzeme, Zemgale and Latgale, have been put on display at the museum. The buildings range in age, and most of them were originally constructed between the 17th century up all the way up until the 1930s.

Aldaris beer museum and brewery – Aldaris beer museum is the most up-to-date museum of beer in the Baltics and the very first one in Latvia. The museum offers its guests to discover the diversity and charm of beers brewed in Latvia and elsewhere, the secrets of brewing, and also to try hand at brewing. It also displays the collection of historic exhibits related to beer and relies on state-of-the art technologies to better introduce its visitors to the four basic elements of beer – water, hops, malt and yeast.

The Corner House – a project by the Occupation Museum, provides the opportunity for the wider public to gain insight into the former KGB, or ‘Cheka’, headquarters in Riga by preparing an exhibition on the institution’s operation in Latvia and a tour of the building. Visitors are able to view jail cells, dungeons, strolling areas, the lift for the interrogated and office workspace. It is a revelation for the young generation and foreign tourists as well as a memorial for those who suffered within these walls.

kim? Contemporary Art Centre was founded in 2009. The name of kim? is an abbreviation of an insistent question “what is art?” (“kas ir māksla?” in Latvian). The organization is offering a certain range of activities such as exhibitions, lectures, discussions and other events related to recent art, theory and social issues. kim? supports the development of emerging Latvian artists, theoreticians and curators and collaborations between art professionals and thinkers of other spheres aiming to provide a responsive context to their work and to make critical practices accessible to a wider audience.

Laima chocolate museum – is the biggest and most well-known producer of chocolate and sweets in the Baltic, where chocolate is made with cocoa beans without using semi-prepared products. The method was introduced in 1870 by factory founder Teodors Rigerts. The Laima chocolate museum welcomes, treats and inspires its visitors. Laima tells, shows and involves! The mastery LAIMA is known for since 1870 is full of love and affection, resulting in chocolate without equal in the world.  Life is full of secrets. One of them is how to make chocolate. In the Laima chocolate museum visitors will discover the secrets of making chocolate, find out how cocoa beans are used to make Laima’s chocolate and other delicacies and become true confectioners by making their own chocolate bar.