How to Plan Your Aukštaitija National Park: Wild Nature Hiking Tour

If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and reconnect with nature, a day trip to the Aukštaitija National Park in Samogitia, Lithuania may be just what you need. This beautiful park is home to dense forests, pristine ice age lakes, and an abundance of edible herbs and berries.

To ensure you have the best experience possible, follow these tips for planning your Aukštaitija National Park tour.

Experience

The Aukštaitija National Park tour is a full-day hiking experience through the Lithuanian wilderness. Here are some of the highlights you can expect:

– Explore dense forests and pristine ice age lakes
– Rejuvenate and fill your body with fresh air
– Escape the bustling city and feel the quietness of wild nature
– Learn about and pick some edible herbs and berries
– Prepare a traditional lunch on a campfire

Getting There

The Aukštaitija National Park can be reached by train or coach from Vilnius in 1.5 to 2 hours. Once you arrive at the meeting point, a short 15-minute transfer will take you to a small village called Puziniškis where the tour will start.

The Hike

The hike itself is a 10-kilometer trek through some of the most beautiful scenery in Lithuania. Your local guide will lead you through the dense forests and along the pristine ice age lakes. Along the way, be sure to ask questions and learn about the flora and fauna of the area. You can also take the opportunity to pick some edible herbs and berries to enjoy later.

After a morning of hiking and exploring, you’ll stop for a traditional Lithuanian lunch cooked over a campfire. This is a great opportunity to relax and refuel before continuing on your hike.

What to Bring

To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable hike in the Aukštaitija National Park, be sure to bring the following items:

– Hiking boots or sturdy walking shoes
– Comfortable and weather-appropriate clothing
– Sunscreen and insect repellent
– Water bottle
– Small backpack
– Camera

Tour Details

To book the Aukštaitija National Park: Wild Nature Hiking tour, simply follow this link: book the tour here. The tour is offered by a third-party company, so be sure to check the details and inquire about any specific needs or concerns you may have.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a day trip outside of Vilnius to experience the natural beauty of Lithuania, the Aukštaitija National Park tour is a great option. With a local guide, you’ll explore the dense forests and pristine ice age lakes, learn about the flora and fauna of the area, and enjoy a traditional Lithuanian lunch cooked over a campfire. With these tips for planning your tour, you’re sure to have an enjoyable and memorable experience in the Aukštaitija National Park.

Insider’s Guide to Vilnius, Lithuania

If you’re planning to go on a hiking tour in Aukštaitija National Park, Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, is the perfect place to start your journey. Vilnius offers many attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions.

Local Attractions

Vilnius has numerous museums, sculptures, and historical landmarks that are worth visiting. The Old Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-see. There, you can explore narrow cobblestone streets, ancient churches, and monuments. You can also visit the Vilnius Castle Complex, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city. For art lovers, the Artillery Bastion, National Art Gallery, and the Contemporary Art Center offer great collections of classical and modern art. Another interesting attraction is the Gediminas Tower, which is the symbol of Vilnius and offers beautiful views of the city.

Dining Spots

Vilnius is famous for its cuisine, which is influenced by Polish, Russian, and German cultures. Traditional Lithuanian dishes, such as cepelinai (potato dumplings filled with meat or cheese), kugelis (potato pudding with bacon), and šaltibarščiai (cold beet soup), are a must-try. You can find these dishes at Lithuanian restaurants such as Forto Dvaras, Šturmų Švyturys, or Lokys. For a more diverse selection, try restaurants like Grey or Sweet Root, which serve contemporary fusion cuisine.

Cultural Experiences

Vilnius has a rich cultural history that is reflected in its architecture, literature, and music. To learn more about the city’s history, visit the Vilnius University, the Presidential Palace, or the Museum of Genocide Victims. Vilnius is also famous for its street art and local festivals. The most popular festivals are the Vilnius Street Music Day, Vilnius Festival, and Culture Night. During these events, you can enjoy many musical performances, exhibitions, and cultural activities.

Local History

Lithuania has a turbulent history, and Vilnius has always been at the center of its struggles. The city has endured wars, invasions, and occupations for hundreds of years. For a deeper understanding of Vilnius’s history, you can visit the Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights, which documents the Soviet and Nazi regimes’ impact on Lithuania. The Jewish history of Vilnius is also significant, with many synagogues and memorials commemorating the Holocaust’s victims.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you have some time left after exploring Vilnius’s main attractions, there are many hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Take a stroll through the Bernardine Cemetery, which is one of the oldest and most beautiful cemeteries in Vilnius. Or visit the Republic of Užupis, an independent district in Vilnius that has its constitution and president. Užupis is famous for its bohemian atmosphere and street art. For a more active experience, visit the Belmontas Recreation Area, where you can enjoy a beautiful waterfall, nature trails, and a cable car ride.

Conclusion

Vilnius offers a vast array of attractions to explore before embarking on your hiking tour in Aukštaitija National Park. From the rich cultural experiences and local history to off-the-beaten-path suggestions, Vilnius has something for everyone. Don’t forget to try traditional Lithuanian cuisine, and make sure to explore the city’s hidden gems before heading out to the wilderness. We hope this insider’s guide helps you plan your Vilnius adventure!