Gauja National Park Hiking & Sightseeing Trip in Cesis: The Most Extensive Nature Tour in Latvia

Are you looking for an incredible nature tour experience in Latvia? Gauja National Park in Cesis is one of the places to consider. This vast national park offers amazing views and plenty of historical and natural attractions for exploration. Whether you are an experienced traveler or a first-time visitor, Gauja National Park’s diverse range of activities and attractions is perfect for all. Here’s what the Gauja National Park hiking & sightseeing trip in Cesis has to offer visitors.

What is Gauja National Park?

Gauja National Park is the largest national park in Latvia. Located in Cesis, it covers an area of 917 km², making it the fourth largest national park in the Baltic states. This beautiful park features diverse landscapes, majestic rock formations, and forests with a wide range of species. The abundance of nature that can be found in the park makes it a popular destination for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Things to Do at Gauja National Park

Gauja National Park offers plenty of activities for visitors of all ages and interests. Here are some of the best things to do while exploring this great park:

Hiking

Gauja National Park is a premier destination for hiking. With its many trails, ranging from easy to challenging, it is ideal for those seeking an adventure or just a leisurely stroll through nature. The terrain varies from dry river valleys to forests, allowing for a variety of experiences. Popular hikes include Sigulda-Paddy Valley Hike, Cedar Hike at Zelmeņi Nature Reserve, and the Bolderaja Nature Trail which takes visitors up to the impressive sandstone cliffs on the banks of the Gauja River.

Kayaking and Canoeing

The Gauja River presents plenty of opportunities for kayaking and canoeing. You can take advantage of the calming waters as you explore this majestic location by kayak or canoe. You can rent kayaks and canoes from several shops near Gauja National Park, and there are guided tours available as well.

Photography

Gauja National Park is a photographer’s dream come true. The beautiful landscapes make for great outdoor photos that capture the beauty of the region. You can also take advantage of the abundance of wildlife in the park to take stunning photos of birds and other animals in their natural habitat.

Sightseeing

For those who wish to take in the impressive sights of Gauja National Park, there are numerous options including visiting Turaida Castle, Cesis Old Town and museum, Riekstukalns Nature Reserve, and Sigulda Medieval Castle.

Book a Gauja National Park Hiking & Sightseeing Trip in Cesis

For those looking to explore Gauja National Park at its fullest, there are several great guided tours that make it easy to get the most out of your time in this incredible destination. Popular tours include day trips to Turaida Castle, valley drives on Seglu-Paddy Valley and Vecmuiža-Ehrenberg Villa Valley, horseback riding trips, canoeing trips, and even multi-day excursions that take you further into the park and to sights that only experienced guides know about.

When you book with GetYourGuide, you get the best experience from one of their experienced guides. You’ll get unique insights into the culture, landscape, and history of the area as you explore this magical place. GetYourGuide offers tours to suit all budgets and interests, so no matter what type of tour experience you’re looking for, they have you covered.

Final Thoughts

Gauja National Park is one of Latvia’s premier destinations for outdoor enthusiasts and sightseers alike. With its diverse array of activities and attractions, there is something for everyone here no matter what your interests or skill level may be. From breathtaking hikes to calm kayak rides along the Gauja River to guided sightseeing tours and multi-day packages, Gauja National Park has something for everyone. For those looking to explore this incredible national park, booking a guided tour with GetYourGuide is an excellent starting point to unlock all that this magical place has to offer.

Insider’s Guide to Cesis: Discovering Hidden Gems in Latvia

Cesis is a charming city in Latvia that boasts a rich cultural heritage and plenty of natural beauty. Beyond the usual tourist hotspots, there are hidden gems that only locals know about, making it a perfect destination for travelers looking to explore off-the-beaten-path experiences and insights. Read on for an insider’s guide to discovering Cesis and its surroundings.

Local Attractions: Explore Cesis Like a Local

The first stop on any trip to Cesis should be the Castle Hill, where you can explore the ruins of the medieval Cesis Castle and enjoy stunning views of the city’s rooftops. However, for a more hidden gem, head to the Cesis New Castle, a stunning Baroque-inspired palace that is now home to the Cesis History and Art Museum. In the summer months, the palace gardens are a popular spot for picnics and outdoor events.

Another unique attraction is the ‘Stūrītis’ Stone, a piece of rock that weighs over 70 tonnes and has been balanced on a small pedestal for over 400 years. Legend has it that if you manage to spin the stone on its axis three times, your wishes will come true!

Dining Spots: Savor the Tastes of Latvia

Latvia has a diverse and delicious food culture, with hearty soups, fresh fish, and various smoked meats and sausages. One of the best places to try these traditional dishes is at the ‘Cepēji’ restaurant, located in the heart of the Old Town. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere, and their smoked ribs with cabbage is a must-try dish.

Another hidden gem is the ‘Krāsns māja’ bakery, where you can pick up freshly baked bread, pastries, and cakes made with all-natural ingredients. Don’t leave without trying the ciabatta with homemade cheese and honey.

Cultural Experiences: Immerse Yourself in Local Traditions

To fully immerse yourself in local traditions, attend ‘Līgo’ celebrations in June, a midsummer festival that celebrates the country’s pagan and agricultural roots. People gather together, light fires, sing traditional songs, and dance all night long.

For a unique cultural experience year-round, visit the Cesis Concert Hall, which hosts a wide variety of concerts, plays, and exhibitions that showcase regional and national artists and performers.

Local History: Captivating Stories of the Past

Cesis has a fascinating history that goes back over 800 years. One of the most interesting stories is about the Blackheads House, a stunning Gothic building that used to be the headquarters of the Brotherhood of Blackheads, a powerful guild of unmarried German merchants. The guild was disbanded during the Soviet era, but the building still stands and now houses the Cesis Tourism Information Center.

Another captivating story is about the Cesis Resistance Movement Museum, which chronicles the city’s anti-Soviet resistance movements during the turbulent twentieth century.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Unique and Unforgettable Experiences

For the intrepid traveler looking for a unique experience, try your hand at beekeeping at the Līgatne Nature Trails! You can suit up, learn about the fascinating world of bees, and even taste some of the honey you helped harvest.

Alternatively, you could go on a canoe trip down the Gauja River, the longest river in Latvia, which winds through the stunning scenery of the Gauja National Park. You’ll have the chance to spot local wildlife, explore hidden caves, and marvel at the beauty of the untouched wilderness.

With this insider’s guide to Cesis, you are now ready to experience the best of what Latvia has to offer. From hidden gems to cultural experiences, this city has something for everyone.