All sorts of water bodies are great locations to relax and unwind outdoors. Our list includes 9 equipped trails in Latvia that run along water bodies and are accessible for strollers.
1. Visrags Nature Trail
The trail starts at the Silver Gates of Burtnieki Manor Park and leads to Burtnieki Lake and Cinupe floodplain meadows, which make a nesting place for protected birds.
Along the way, you can climb the observation tower, pass by the ruins of the Livonian Order castle, flooded ponds and the lake beach.
The route will take about 45 minutes to accomplish.
Location: Vīsraga dabas taka, Burtnieki
2. “Blue Mountains” Natural Park
This hilly park is known for a 30-meter high wooden observation tower established on its territory and the Dubkalni quarry with crystal clear water.
Location: Ogres Zilie kalni, Ogre
3. Nature trail around the Liduma quarry
This 2.8-km trail is located 6 km from Olaine.
It passes partly over water and partly along a forest path and an asphalt road.
Location: Līdumu karjera taka, Olaine novads
4. “Lake Engure” Natural Park
This is the largest seaside lake in Latvia, where you can find almost all species of migratory birds found in Latvia. Wild horses and cows graze in the lakeside meadows, and 22 species of orchids grow in the surrounding area.
Location: Engures ezera dabas parks
5. Nature trail on Zirgu Island
This 4-km long trail embraces wooden footbridges, two viewing platforms and a birdwatching tower. Decorated with ornamental plants and equipped with exercise equipment and picnic areas, it’s a great place to recreate.
Location: Liepājas ezera Zirgu salas taka, Liepāja
6. Promenade in Talsi
The promenade along Talsi Lake starts in the old part of the city. It represents a boardwalk which leads you around the lake, which also has a fountain in the middle.
Location: Talsu ezera promenade
7. Miezite Pond
In 2020, a nature observation trail was opened on the outskirts of Jelgava.
Located on the floodplain meadows of the Svete River, it reaches a length of about 1.6 km.
Location: Miezītes dīķis, Jelgava
8. Katvaru Lake
Around the lake, there are several spots for fishing, boat rental, picnic and recreation. The most picturesque place is the linden alley with a labyrinth in the park, behind the Katvari estate.
Location: Katvaru ezers, Limbažu novads
9. Gimes Nature Trail
This educational trail features informative stands dedicated to the inhabitants of the local pond, a pedestrian railway bridge, viewing platforms and a recreation pavilion.
Location: Ģīmes Dabas Taka, Valmiera
Material prepared by Juliana Iljina (Facebook: Places to travel in Baltic States; Instagram: jusjka)
