Baltic Country Holidays ACTIVE TOURS

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Baltic Country Holidays / Lauku ceļotājs Kalnciema Str. 40, Riga, LV-1046, , T: +(371) 67617600, [email protected] www.countryholidays.lv

About Baltic Country Holidays

Baltic Country Holidays is a small incoming operator based in Latvia and established in 1993. The company grew out of the Association of Countryside Travel (in Latvian: Lauku Celotajs) which united small family-run accom- modation providers in the Latvian countryside and offered nature tours.

Baltic Country Holidays team on one of the inspection trips All our staff are passionate outdoor and nature enthusiasts. All our routes and of- fers are tried and tested by our people. We know personally all our suppliers and have established great relationships with them during many years of coop- eration.

Baltic Country Holidays is focussed on small businesses providing a personal touch and detailed local expertise. We specialize in outdoor activities and wild- life tours.

Our services:

• Creation of personalised packages for groups and individuals • Reservation of accommodation and related services: hotels, guest hous- es, manors, self-catering as well as farms. • Booking of specialist guides and tour leaders Cycling tour - Northern Vidzeme, 2010 Boating tour - The river Gauja, 2007 • Car, bus, bike and boat hire • Our publications, professional maps and route descriptions • Luggage trasfer between accomo- dation • Support transportation for groups

We’ll be pleased to work with you!

Baltic Country Holidays / Lauku ceļotājs Kalnciema Str. 40, Riga, LV-1046, Latvia, T: +(371) 67617600, [email protected] www.countryholidays.lv

About Our Itineraries None of our tours are particularly difficult and most routes are suitable for beginners. The Baltic landscape is gentle rolling hills. The greatest attraction here is untouched nature with old forests, meadows full of flowers, long wild sea shore, provincial towns, medieval and manors as well as carefully kept local traditions.

Our routes often pass national parks, local produce. If you travel with children, quiet country roads, go along the sea we will give you the best advice on the shore and small attractive towns. There routes to take and accommodation to Symboles are several hundred kilometers of river to choose since we actively travel with our be explored in the Baltics. Either during own kids. springtime flooding, when the bird-cher- Price. All prices featured are only indic- walking ries blossom or in the colorful summer ative to give you an idea about the costs or the golden autumn, each river offers involved. They can change depending of exciting adventures. There are beautiful the nature of the tour, type of accommo- sandstone cliffs and old forests alongside dation, season and services required. many of the rivers. The best time for cy- canoeing cling, canoeing and walking in the Baltic BirdwatchingFor enquiries and bookings States is from May to September. welcome to contact us Planning. In our manual you will find via e-mail: [email protected] or call + 371 67617600. various basic tour samples and more can cycling be found on our website: www.tours. With all reservations we provide detailed countryholidays.lv. But we would like to maps and information packs of the route: stress our flexibility. Tours can be tailor- made to each clients individual needs, wishes and fitness level, various other self-drive services can be added. We cater also for groups. The group’s size starts from four persons. We can provide experienced tour leaders/guides for your groups scienic views or arranged specialist guides for some parts of the itinerary. Activities can be mixed together in one tour. For exam- ple, cycling and canoeing, walking and birdwatching and insects, self-drive with family mushrooming. Baltic Country Holidays has huge list of local people who does various crafts, culinary products, organic farming etc. In order to put an extra ex- heritage perience in your tours, we encourage to visit the workshops, farms, arrange tast- ings of wine, bread, lamprey and other www.countryholidays.lv SELF - DRIVE / INDIVIDUAL

Grand Tour of the Three Baltic States

Tallinn This tour gives a good insight into the three Baltic states, featuring their bustling capital cities, tranquil nature parks, white sandy beaches, pine forests, charming provincial towns, varied landscapes, local traditions and historic sites. Highlights: three Baltic capitals - Rīga, Tallinn, Vilnius with their enchanting Old Towns; three National Parks - Gauja in Latvia, Lahemaa in and Austaitija in Lithuania; Picturesque Trakai Lake ; Majestic sand dunes of the Curonian Spit; island with its intact Bishop’s Castle, medieval churches and windmills; Historic university town of Tartu; Un- spoiled Latgale lake district with traditional pottery wokshops and gastronomy; Liepāja,

Vilnius a city with a great atmosphere and distinctive military heritage. approx 2,600 km (12 days)

General Route: Rīga – Cēsis – Valmi- Day 4 era – Saaremaa – Tallinn – Tartu – Saaremaa island ferry – Haapsalu island – Daugavpils – Vilnius – Kaunas – Klaipe- Tallinn (280 km) da – Rīga Sites and attractions en route: Panga cliff – the tallest cliff in Estonia, Haapsalu – charming Day 1 seaside town with the castle, open–air ethno- Arrival in Rīga. Pick up a car at the airport. graphic museum. Free time in Tallinn. Attrac- Maps and detailed itinerary will be at your tions include: Old Town, Kadriorg Park, KUMU hotel’s reception. Free time in Riga. Attrac- art museum, Overnight at the hotel in Tallinn. tions include: Hanseatic Old Town, the Art Nouveau district, the wooden buildings of Day 5 Pardaugava, Ethnographic open-air museum Tallinn – Lahemaa – Tartu (280 km). and an excellent opera house. Overnight at Breakfast. Sites and attractions en route: Jag- museum complex the hotel in Rīga. ala juga waterfall, Kolga Landgut – one of the leading examples of estate architecture Day 2 in Northern Europe, Jaani-Tooma kivi – typi- Rīga – Cēsis – Valmiera (170 km). cal landscape of the Lahemaa National Park, Breakfast. Sites and attractions en route: Sigul- Käsmu fishing village, Rakvere castle ruins. da - Latvia’s most beautiful landscapes in the Overnight at the hotel in Tartu Gauja National park and the Turaida castle museum complex. Numerous well-marked Day 6 walking trails along the Gauja river valley. Tartu – Aluksne – Rezekne – Preili – Aglona Wild animals at Ligatne Nature Park. Cesis – (330km) a charming medieval town with impressive Free time in Tartu. Attractions include: the old- medieval castle ruins. Free time in Valmiera. est Baltic university, the old observatory, Tartu Attractions include: St. Simon’s church, origi- Dome church and the Toomemägi hill. Return nal Soviet cinema, castle ruins and the river to Latvia. Sites and attractions en route: Aluk- Curonian Spit national park with sand dunes Gauja. Overnight at the hotel in Valmiera. sne town - Bible museum and the castle ruins on the island of Lake Aluksne, Latgale region, Day 3 which is famous for its lakes and pottery.Visit Valmiera – Parnu – ferry to Saaremaa island to the workshop of the traditional “black ce- (330 km) ramics” and see the pottery process. Aglona’s Breakfast. Head to Estonia. Sites and attrac- Basilica is one of the most popular pilgrimage tions en route: Parnu, historic Estonian seaside destinations in the Northern Europe, Overnight spa resort, the ethnographic village of at the hotel in Aglona. island, Valjala church and hill fort, Kaali meteorite lake – perhaps the most impresive Day 7 meteorite crater in Europe. Free time at Kures- Aglona - Daugavpils – Vilnius (270km). saare. Attractions include: impressive medi- Sites and attractions en route: Daugavpils eval Bishop’s Castle, art galleries, craft shops - the second largest city in Latvia and birth- and cafes, beach and spas. Overnight at the place of the world famous artist Mark Rothko. hotel in . Daugavpils fortress is one of the mightiest in The Beach on Nida Island Europe. Cross the border to Lithuania. Auk-

Baltic Country Holidays / Lauku ceļotājs Kalnciema Str. 40, Riga, LV-1046, Latvia, T: +(371) 67617600, [email protected] www.countryholidays.lv

Grand Tour of the Three Baltic States

Tallinn Old Town TRIP DETAILS Package price from EUR 445.00 per person in a shared double room

INCLUDES: • 11 overnight stays at hotels or guest houses (double or twin rooms, en suite, breakfast) • Maps and detailed itinerary

EXTRA COSTS: • Single supplement • Extra meals • Tickets and entrance fees for attractions and sites • Any transfers required • Car hire for 12 days Vilnius Old Town • Road tax in Lithuania Medieval Bishop’s Castle in Kuressaare

staitija National Park - Palusee church and eth- nographic villages. The Centre of Europe – the spot that claims to be the geographical centre of the continent. European Park. Overnight at the hotel in Vilnius

Day 8 Vilnius – Kaunas (120km). Breakfast. Free time in Vilnius. Sites and at- tractions en route: Vilnius Old Town with its numerous churches, university buildings and Gediminas Hill, Trakai – picturesque castle Overnight in Klaipeda. Cross the border to Latvia. Sites and attrac- built on an island, Rumsiske - open-air mu- tions en route: Nature trails of Lake Pape with seum of country life in Lithuania. Overnight at Day 10 several bird observation towers and wild the hotel in Kaunas. Klaipeda - Nida - Klaipeda (110 km). horses. Sightseeing in Liepaja with many nice Breakfast. Ferry to the Curonian Spit. Drive cafe’s, white sand beach and military heritage. Day 9 through the Curonian Spit national park with Overnight in the hotel in Rīga. Kaunas – Jurbarka – Silute – Rusne – Vente - sand dunes up to 60 m tall. Sites and attrac- Klaipeda (~350km). tions en route: Juodkrante - hill of witches. Day 12 Breakfast. Free time in Kaunas - the former Dolphinarium. Ferry back to Klaipeda. Over- Rīga Lithuanian capital with a charming Old Town. night at the hotel in Klaipeda. Return the car at Rīga International Airport. Sites and attractions en route: Valley of the Departure. river Nemunas with beautiful vistas from Day 11 various castle mounds, Cape Vente - a popular Klaipeda - Palanga – Liepaja - Saldus - Riga bird observation point, lighthouse, the island (330 km). Rusne with a small ethnographic open-air mu- Breakfast. Drive along the Baltic sea coast seum. Free time in the port city of Klaipeda. through the Pajurio Regional Park to Palanga. www.countryholidays.lv SELF - DRIVE / INDIVIDUAL

Visiting castles and baronial estates

Tallinn This tour introduces with the cultural the cultural and historical heritage left behind in the Baltic States by rulers over the course of several centuries – six outstanding castles in Latvia and seven in Estonia, along with ancient castle ruins. The route weaves through two national parks – the Gauja National Park in Latvia and the Lahemaa National Park in Estonia. You will spend time in enchanting small Baltic towns and visit important centres of culture and history, including Tartu and the two capital cities – Riga and Tallinn. Ac- commodations is organized at baronial estates and castles whereever its possible. Vilnius

• • Length of the route: ~1100 km (7 days)

General Route: Rīga – Limbaži – it’s building is united with a church; Cēsis – Rūjiena – Valga – Otepää – Tartu Ungurmuiža manor – the oldest wooden – Rakvere – Lahemaa Nationalpark - Tal- baroque manor in Latvia; Sightseeing in linn the town Cēsis – the old town, the ruins of the castle of the and Day 1 the new castle. In the garden of the castle Arrival in Rīga there is a workshop of a traditional jew- Pick up the hired car at the airport. Free eller, which can be visited; Dikļi Manor time in Rīga. Overnight in Rīga. (1896) – built in the style of neobaroque. There are collection of valuable antique Day 2 furniture, fireplaces and interior articles Rīga –Sigulda – Turaida- Bīriņi (77 km, inside the manor. Sightseeing in the town The ruins of the castle of the Livonian Order, Cēsis 100% Asphalt). Valmiera Breakfast. Sites and attractions en route: Sigulda medieval castle ruins and baro- Day 4 nial estate; Turaida museum reserve with Dikļi – Valmiera - Naukšēni – Taagepera - the ruins of a Livonia Order castle. There Sangaste - Otepää – Tartu (230 km, 90% is an observation tower and a sculpture Asphalt, 10% gravel road). garden on the banks of the Gauja river; Breakfast. Sites and attractions en route: Bīriņi Manor (built 1857-1860) located Naukšēni manor (1843) with a nice park near a lake and surounded by wonderful and several household buildings; Taagap- park, good for leisurly walk. era manor (1912) in Estonia – built in the style of art nouveau; Sangaste castle; The Day 3 castle mount in Otepää; In the evening Bīriņi- Igate – Limbaži - Straupe – sightseeing on the town Tartu, a visit to Ungurmuiža manor Ungurmuiža – Cēsis - Dikļi (136 km, the first Baltic university and the old ob- 100% Asphalt). servatory on the top of the Toomemägi Breakfast. The route leads through the hill is recommendable. Overnight in Tartu Gauja National Park which is situated on the both sides of the ancient river-valley Day 5 of the river Gauja. Sandstone cliffs and Tartu - Alatsikvi – Rakvere – Lahemaa Na- outcrops and dense forests are typical for tionalpark (~210 km, 100% Asphalt) the park. Sites and attractions en route: Breakfast. Sites and attractions en route: (1880) – built in the style Alatsikivi castle (18-19th century) with of neorenaissance, near the castle there a beautiful park; The castle ruins in Rak- is a romantic park and an old water mill, vere; Vihula manor (19th century) with a where there is a pub serving traditional nice park and an interesting pond system Latvian dishes; Lielstraupe castle (13th in the surroundings. Overnight in Vihula Igate Manor century) – the castle is unique because manor.

Baltic Country Holidays / Lauku ceļotājs Kalnciema Str. 40, Riga, LV-1046, Latvia, T: +(371) 67617600, [email protected] www.countryholidays.lv

Visiting castles and baronial estates

Bīriņi manor TRIP DETAILS Package price from EUR 390.00 per person in a shared double room

INCLUDES: • 3 overnights in hotels (double or twin rooms, en suite, break- fast): in Rīga (1x), Tartu (1x) and Tallinn (1x) • 3 overnights in castles or man- ors (double or twin rooms, en suite, breakfast): in Igate (1x), Dikļi (1x) and Vihula (1x) • Maps and detailed descrip- tion of the itinerary. Palmse manor EXTRA COSTS: • Hired car 7 days • Single supplement • Any transfers required • Tickets and entrances to the attractions and sites • Extra meals

Day 6 Lahemaa National Park – Tallinn (~110 km, 100% Asphalt). Breakfast. The route leads along the northern Baltic sea coast of Estonia through the oldest Baltic national park – Lahemaa. For the park huge stones at the seaside and small fishermen’s’ villages Sagadi manor are typical. Sites and attractions en route: Sagadi manor (1749–1750), there is a for- est museum in the manor; Palmse manor (18th century) – one of the most beautiful in Estonia with a large park; Kolga Manor (17-18th century). In the evening free 6 time in Tallinn. Overnight in Tallinn.

Day 7 Drive back to Riga (330 km) Breakfast. Hand over the hired car at the Riga International Airport / Departure from Riga. Or hand over the hired car in the Airport of Tallinn / Departure from Tallinn.

www.countryholidays.lv SELF - DRIVE / INDIVIDUAL

Through national parks to the cliffs of Estonia’s northen shore

Tallinn The route leads through the most attractive Baltic landscapes – the Gaujas, Lahemaa and Matsalu national parks and through the Vidzeme, Otepää, and Pandivere uplands. You will sea the stony seacoast in the North Estonia and fishermen villages, visit cities Rīga and towns - Rakvere, Tartu, Tallinn. The itinerary also includes nature trails, viewing towers and nature sites.

Vilnius • • Driving 35 - 100 km daily (7 days)

General Route: Rīga - Valmiera – lake which divides Estonia from Russia Valga - Otepää - Tartu - Rakvere - Tallinn and is the fifth largest lake in Europe with - Haapsalu - Pärnu - Rīga Oldbelievers villages alongsite. Rakvere with its impressive medieval castle and Day 1 the Bull as a city’s symbol. Overnight in Arrival in Rīga Rakvere. Pick up the hired car at the airport. Free time in Rīga. Attractions include medieval Day 4 Old Town, Art Nouveau district, Open-air Rakvere - Lahemaa National Park - Tal- etnographic museum and boat trip along linn (160 km, 100% Asphalt). the canal and river Daugava. Overnight in Breakfast. Sites and attractions en route: Rīga. The castle ruins in Rakvere; Road leads ruins along the northern Baltic sea coast of Day 2 Estonia with picturesque limestone cliffs, Rīga - Sigulda - Cēsis - Valmiera - Valka/ throught the oldest Baltic national park Valga - Otepää (225 km, 100% Asphalt). and largest national park in Estonia - La- Breakfast. Sites and attractions en route: hemaa, representing the nature and cul- Sigulda medieval castle ruins and baro- tural heritage, typical of North Estonia. nial estate; Turaida museum reserve with Huge bolders at the seaside and late- the ruins of a Livonia Order castle. There back small fishermen’s villages form a is an observation tower and a sculpture typical landscape. garden on the banks of the Gauja river; En route can visit Sagadi manor (18th cen- Sightseeing of the town of Cēsis with its tury) with forest museum, Palmse manor Livonia Order castle ruins and the Medi- (18th century) and Kolga manor (17.-18th eval Old Town. Border crossing at Valka century). Overnight in Tallinn. Palmse manor (18th century) and Valga. On the way to Otepää- visit Sangaste Day 5 castle which architecture is taken from Tallinn - Keila - Joa Koloogaranna - Keila Windsor castle in UK. In Otepää the cas- - Haapsalu (136 km, 98% Asphalt, 2% tle mound and Pühejärvi lake with well Gravel road). maintained beach. Overnight in Otepää Breakfast. Sites and attractions en route: Sightseeing of the Tallinn medieval Han- Day 3 seatic Old Town, Kadriorg Palace park with Otepää - Tartu - Kallaste - Mustvee - Rak- modern art museum KUMU, the port dis- vere (192 km, 100% Asphalt). trict and the ethnographic open-air mu- Breakfast. On the way historic educa- seum; Keila nature park with hiking trail tion center of Tartu with its attractive through a forest to Keila waterfall which Old Town, university, observatory and is 4m high; Sighteeing in Haapsalu with Bolders at the Lahemaa seaside Toomemägi hill; Other attraction is Peipsi the 13th century Haapsalu Bischop’s cas-

Baltic Country Holidays / Lauku ceļotājs Kalnciema Str. 40, Riga, LV-1046, Latvia, T: +(371) 67617600, [email protected] www.countryholidays.lv

Through national parks to the cliffs of Estonia’s northen shore Waterfall in Lahemaa National Park TRIP DETAILS Package price from EUR 300,00 per person in a shared double room

INCLUDES: • 6 overnights in hotels (double or twin rooms, en suite, break- fast): in Rīga (2x), Otepää (1x), Rakvere (1x), Tallinn (1x) and Haapsalu (1x) • Maps and detailed description of the itinerary.

EXTRA COSTS: • Single supplement View of Tallinn Old Town • Hired car 7 days • Tickets and entrances to the at- tractions and sites • Any transfers required • Extra meals

tle, medieval Ridala church and old town with typical, romantic wooden buildings. Overnight in Haapsalu.

Day 6 Haapsalu - Lihula - Paarnu - Rīga (299 km, 100% Asphalt). Breakfast. Sites and attractions en route: Paarnu historic sea and spa resort of Es- tonia with elegant villas and white sandy beach. Rannametsa - Toluse bog nature Haapsalu medieval castle ruins trail with viewing tower. Border crossing at Ainaži. Seacoast Randu meadows and lagoons - perfect for birdwatching, nest- ing and migrating birds, as well as differ- ent dragonflies and butterflies. Along the way there is a forest hiking trail of the Bar- 6 on von Munchhausen in Dunte; Nature trail over the dunes and through the pine forest in Saulkrasti. Overnight in Rīga.

Day 7 Rīga Breakfast. Return the hired car at the Rīga International Airport / Departure from Rīga.

www.countryholidays.lv CYCLING TOUR/ INDIVIDUAL

Cycling Along the Baltic Sea to the Curonian Spit Tallinn This cycling route will take you from Riga along the West coast of the Baltic Sea of Latvia and Lithuania. On the way the route passes the sea resort Jurmala with 19th century wooden ar- chicture, the picturesque Abava river valley, geologicaly interesting steep banks of Jūrkalne, historically exiting city of Liepaja with great ambience and charming Kuldiga with the widest waterfall in Europe. In Lithuania the route goes through Palanga where Amber Museum is located and culminates at the National Park of the Curonian Spit with 60m high sand dune.

Vilnius • • Cycling ~25-67 km daily (13 days)

General Route: Rīga – Sabile – Day 4 Kuldīga – Jūrkalne – Liepāja – Mosedis Kandava - Sabile - Kuldīga – Palanga – Klaipeda – Nida – Rīga Breakfast. Cycling: Plosti - Sabile – Kuldīga (~49 km, asphalt). Kuldīga – a Day 1 charming small town with romantic Arrival at the Rīga airport. wooden buildings, the widest waterfall Transfer to the hotel. The information in Latvia. Overnight in Kuldīga. pack with maps and detailed descrip- tion of the tour will wait you at the re- Day 5 ception. Overnight in Rīga. Kuldīga - Jūrkalne - Pāvilosta Breakfast. Cycling: Kuldīga – Jūrkalne Day 2 – Pāvilosta (~63 km, asphalt). A steep The Ķemeri park Rīga - Jūrmala - Ķemeri - Tukums bank of the Baltic sea at Jūrkalne. Along Breakfast. Pick-up your bicycles deliv- there you can spot blue cows, a typical ered to the hotel. Cycling: Rīga – Jūrmala local breed. Overnight in Pāvilosta. (~30 km, 100% asphalt) – Ķemeri (~20 km, asphalt). A ride through Jūrmala - Day 6 the most popular resort town in Latvia. Pāvilosta - Liepāja Beautiful beach, restored wooden villas Breakfast. 1. Option. Cycling: Pāvilosta and lively pedestrian streets. By train: – Vērgale – Saraiķi – Liepāja (~55 km, 6 Ķemeri – Tukums 1 (~20 min). Over- km of this distance - on a gravel road). night in Tukums. 2. Option. Cycling: Pāvilosta – Akmeņrags – Ziemupe – Saraiķi - Liepāja (~55 km, Day 3 36 km of this distance - on a gravel road Tukums - Kandava or a forest road). The route goes along Orthodoxe St. Nikolai curch in Liepāja Breakfast. 1st option. Cycling: Tukums the seashore with wild beaches and – Vecmokas – Pūre – Kandava – Plosti good swimming spots. The city centre (Sabile) (~36 km, 11 km of this distance of Liepāja offers lively cafés, restaurants – on a major traffic road). 2nd option. and clubs as well as military heritage. Cycling: Tukums – Sāti – Grenči - Zemīte You can cycle to Southern Pier with na- – Kandava – Plosti (Sabile) (~48 km, 15 val defence system, visit former military of this distance – on a gravel road). 3rd. prison and Officers House. Overnight in option. Cycling: Tukums – Abavnieki – Liepāja. Kandava – Plosti (Sabile) (~36 km, 22 km of this distance – on a gravel road). Day 7 Liepāja - Mosedis The part between Kandava und Sabile Breakfast. Cycling: Liepāja – Grobiņa – is very picturesque with small hills and Bārta – Kalēti - Skodas - Mosedis (~70 with a view to the Abava river valley. km, 7 km of this distance – on a gravel Overnight in Sabile road, the rest on minor traffic roads, Bridge of Kuldīga

Baltic Country Holidays / Lauku ceļotājs Kalnciema Str. 40, Riga, LV-1046, Latvia, T: +(371) 67617600, [email protected] www.countryholidays.lv

View to Juodkrante town TRIP DETAILS Package price from EUR 663.00 per person in a shared double room

INCLUDES: • 9 overnights at hotels or guest houses (double or twin rooms, en suite, breakfast): in Rīga (1x), Igate (1x), Salacgrīva (1x), Võiste (1x), Koguva (1x), Kuressaare (2x) and Tallinn (2x) • Hired bicycles with bags (8 days), including delivery • Transfer Rīga Airport –the ho- Curonian Spit – up to 60m high dune tel in Rīga and the hotel in Tallinn – Tallinn Airport • Private transfer Parnu – • Maps and detailed descrip- tion of itinerary

EXTRA COSTS: • Single supplement • Train, bus, ferry and entrance tickets • Any additional transfers re- quired • Extra meals /lunch boxes

asphalt). The route goes through the Breakfast. Cycling: Kretinga – Palanga – Day 11 Žemaitijos National Park in Lithuania Klaipeda (~47 km, 6 km of this distance Nida - Klaipeda with typical stone fences around the – on a gravel road). Resort town Palan- Breakfast. Cycling: Nida – Klaipeda (~55 farmsteads. Overnight in Mosedis. ga. The route goes along the seashore, km, asphalt). Ferry:Smiltyne - Klaipeda. through the Pajūrio regional park. Over- Overnight in Klaipeda. Day 8 night in Klaipēda. Mosedis - Kretinga Day 12 Breakfast. Cycling: Mosedis – Salantai – Day 10 Klaipeda- Rīga 6 Kretinga (~48 km, 100% asphalt). A ride Klaipeda - Nida Breakfast. By train: Klaipeda – Šiauliai. By through the Salantai regional park with Breakfast. Cycling: Klaipeda – Juodkran- train: Šiauliai - Rīga. Return the hired bi- beautiful hilly landscapes and the river te - Nida (~55 km, 100% asphalt). Ferry: cycles at the hotel’s reception. Overnight valley. The highlights of Krentinga in- Klaipeda – Smiltyne. A ride through the in Rīga. clude the cloister, the church and the National Park of the Curonian Spit – up to Winter garden of the count Tischkevich. 60m high dune. Attractions of Smiltyne Day 13 Overnight in Kretinga. are the Sea Museum and the Delphinium Rīga located at the former Prussian fort. For Breakfast. Transfer to the airport. Individ- Day 9 local legends visit Hill of Witches at Juod- ual departures. Kretinga - Klaipeda krante. Overnight in Juodakrante. www.countryholidays.lv CYCLING TOUR/ INDIVIDUAL

Cycling from Latvian Capital Rīga to Estonian Capital Tallinn

Tallinn This tour connects the two beautiful Baltic capitals of Latvia and Estonia. In between, the route passes through charming provincial towns, traditional villages, beautiful nature reserves, sandy beaches, two islands and many historic sites. Highlights include: Old Town and Art Nouveau district of Riga, Old Town of Tallinn, Turaida Castle Reserve, The picturesque River Gauja Valley, Saaremma island with wind mills, medieval churches and mighty Bishop’s Castle at Kuressaare, Ethnographic fishermen village Koguva at Muhu island - Former base of Soviet submarines at Paldiski. Vilnius • Cycling ~20-75 km daily (10 days)

General Route: Rīga – Pärnu – Kures- Breakfast. Cycling attractive roads saare - Tallinn through fisherman villages and along the coast. Overnight in Võiste. Day 1 Arrival in Rīga Day 5 Arrival in Rīga Airport. Transfer to the Võiste – Pärnu (~30 km, 99% tarmac). hotel. Pick up the info package with the Breakfast. Sightseeing of the Pärnu town map and detailed itinerary at the hotel’s – the most popular spa resort of Esto- reception. Overnight at the hotel in Rīga, nia. The Old town, the Ruutli pedestrian in the city centre. street, the old fortifications. Privat trans- fer: Pärnu – Virtsu (~80 km, 1.5 hour). Take the ferry: Virtsu – Kuivastu (~40 EEK Turaida Castle Reserve Day 2 Rīga - Sigulda – Turaida – Ragana – Ig- per person + ~15 EEK per bicycle, 0,5 hour). ate Cycling: Kuivastu - Hellamaa – Liiva - Breakfast. In the morning collect bicycles Koguva (Muhu island) (~21 km, 100% tar- at the hotel. Cycle: the hotel – Central mac). Overnight in Koguva. Railway station (~0.5 hour) Take the train: Riga – Sigulda (at 10:22, Day 6 55 km, ~1,55 LVL per person, ~0.50 LVL Koguva – Valjala – Pihtla – Kuressaare per bicycle, ~1 hour). Cycling: Sigulda – (~ 70 km, 86 % tarmac). Turaida – Ragana – Igate (~45 km, 99% Breakfast. The route leads from the Muhu tarmac). The route leads through the island to the Saaremaa island over the Gauja National Park which is located on dam. En route sightseeing „Valjala maal- both sides of the ancient river valley of inn’’ – one of the most attractive hill forts the Gauja river. Sandstone, caves, forests in Estonia, the Valjala church and one of Cycling between Salacgrīva and Ainaži and castles are characteristic to the park. Europe’s biggest meteorite craters in Kaa- Attractions en route: Sigulda castle ruins li. Overnight in Kuressaare. and Turaida Castle Reserve. Overnight at the guest house near Igate. Day 7 Kuressaare Day 3 Breakfast. Free time in Kuressaare. At- Igate – Limbaži – Salacgrīva (~63 km, tractions include the Bishop’ s Castle, art 80% tarmac). galleries, artisan shops, cafes, spas. Over- Breakfast. Cycling: Overnight in night in a guest house in Kuressaare. Salacgrīva. Day 8 Day 4 Kuressaare – Tallinn Salacgrīva – Ainaži – Haademeeste – Breakfast. In the morning take a public Ferry Virtsu Kuivastu Voiste (~61 km, 99% tarmac) bus: Kuressaare – Tallinn. Free time in Tal-

Baltic Country Holidays / Lauku ceļotājs Kalnciema Str. 40, Riga, LV-1046, Latvia, T: +(371) 67617600, [email protected] www.countryholidays.lv

Art galleries, artisan shops, cafes, spas in Kuressaare TRIP DETAILS Package price from EUR 663.00 per person in a shared double room

INCLUDES: • 9 overnights at hotels or guest houses (double or twin rooms, en suite, breakfast): in Rīga (1x), Igate (1x), Salacgrīva (1x), Võiste (1x), Koguva (1x), Kures- saare (2x) and Tallinn (2x) • Hired bicycles with bags (8 days), including delivery • Transfer Rīga Airport –the ho- tel in Rīga and the hotel in Tal- linn – Tallinn Airport View of Kuresaare city center • Private transfer Parnu – Virtsu • Maps and detailed description of itinerary

EXTRA COSTS: • Single supplement • Train, bus and ferry tickets and entrance tickets • Any additional transfers re- quired • Extra meals /lunch boxes

linn. Overnight in Tallinn.

Day 9 Tallinn – Tabasalu – Muraste – Türisalu – Keila-Joa – Paldiski (~67 km, 100% tar- View of Tallinn Old Town mac) - Tallinn. Breakfast. Free time in Tallinn or cycling to Paldiski. Take the train: Paldiski – Tal- Route: Rīga – Sigulda – Limbaži – linn (45 km, 1.1 hour). Overnight in Tal- Salacgrīva – Pärnu – Koguva – Kures- linn. saare - Tallinn 6

Day 10 1. Tag Riga Breakfast. Transfer to the airport of Tal- Ankunft am Flughafen Rīga. Auf Wunsch: linn. Departure. Privater Transfer zum Gästehaus/ Hotel. Stadtbesichtigung von Riga. Info-Paket mit Kartenmaterial und Routenbes- chreibung - an der Hotelrezeption. Über- nachtung in Rīga.

2. Tag Riga www.countryholidays.lv CYCLING TOUR/ INDIVIDUAL

Cycling Along the Baltic Sea Coast in Latvia

Tallinn

The route gives a chance to enjoy one the most beautiful and diverse parts of the Baltic Sea coast. You will pass white sandy beaches, wild beaches with big rocks and steep banks. The route goes along several national parks and protected nature territories as well as traditional fishermen villages and lively cities of Liepāja and Jūrmala.

Vilnius Cycling: ~20-60 km daily (11 days)

General Route: Rīga – Liepāja – Zi- Day 4 emupe – Pāvilosta – Jūrkalne – Ventspils Pāvilosta - Jūrkalne (~21 km, tarmac) – – Mazirbe – Kolka – Roja – Breakfast. Leisure time till noon to explore Engure – Jūrmala – Rīga the steep banks and the scenic seashore of Jūrkalne. It’s a place were famous blue Day 1 cows grazing coastal meadows – a very Arrival in Rīga typical breed for the region. Overnight in Transfer to the Hotel. Receive from the Jūrkalne. hotel reception the tour information pack with maps and detailed description Day 5 of the routes, sites and accommodation. Jūrkalne – Ventspils (~50 km, tarmac). Overnight in Rīga. Breakfast. On the way, can have a look The Waterbreak at Liepāja at the Uzava church. In the afternoon, Day 2 leisure time at Ventspils. The best main- Rīga - Liepāja tained town in Latvia. Places of interest Breakfast. Receive bicycles delivered to include the castle, central promenade, the hotel. Free time in Rīga. Train: Riga, open-air museum and excellent beach Central Railway Station – Liepāja. Liepāja facilities. Excellent live beer is brewed at – Many nice cafes, nice beach and a park Uzava brewery. Another option is to take by the sea, a harbor, naval fortification an inland tarmac road to Ventspils. Over- and former Soviet military town Karaosta. night in Ventspils. Overnight in Liepāja. Day 6 Day 3 Ventspils – Ance - Dundaga (~55 km, 20 Liepāja – Saraiki – Ziemupe – Pavilosta km of this distance – on a gravel road). Cycling along the authentic Livs’ village (~60 km, 50% gravel road and forest Breakfast. The Dundaga Castle. Overnight road) in Dundaga. Breakfast. In Liepāja, route leads through the Karosta district – the former Soviet Day 7 military town and submarine harbor. Dundaga – Mazirbe – Kolka (~40 km, The territory earlier was closed. There are 20km of this distance – on a gravel military and residential buildings, a park road) and an impressive Russian Orthodox ca- Breakfast. Places of interest include thedral. Further, the 1st option offers a Slītere lighthouse and boardwalk through ride along the coast, stopping to see the marsh, fisherman villages around Mazirbe Saraiķi estate on the way. The 2nd option and a ride through the forests of Slitere offers an easier ride on an inland tarmac National Park. The territory is also a home road. Overnight in Pāvilosta. of the smallest ethnic group in the world Lighthouse of Cape Kolka called The Livs. Overnight in Kolka.

Baltic Country Holidays / Lauku ceļotājs Kalnciema Str. 40, Riga, LV-1046, Latvia, T: +(371) 67617600, [email protected] www.countryholidays.lv

Promenade at Ventspils TRIP DETAILS Package price from EUR 525.00 per person in a shared double room

INCLUDES: • 10 overnights with breakfast in the accommodation as shown in the programme (double or twin rooms, en suite, break- fast): Rīga (2x), Liepaja (1x), Pāvilosta (1x), Jurkalne (1x), Ventspils (1x), Dundaga (1x), Kolka (1x), Roja (1x), Engure (1x) • Hired bicycles with bags (9 days), including delivery • Transfer Rīga Airport – the hotel in Rīga and the hotel in Dundaga Castle Rīga – Rīga Airport • Maps and detailed description of itinerary

EXTRA COSTS: • Single supplement • Train, bus and ferry tickets and entrance tickets • Any additional transfers re- quired • Extra meals /lunch boxes

Day 8 at Kaltene, the sandy beach at Upesgriva sort started. By train: Jūrmala – Rīga or Kolka – Roja (~34 km tarmac) and coastal meadows near Engure. At- cycling: Jūrmala – Rīga (~25 km, a cycling Breakfast. The Cape of Kolka where the tractions also include bird watching tow- road). In the evening, the hired bicycles 6 Gulf of Rīga meets the open sea and ers, wild horses grazing the meadows by shall be returned at the hotel. Overnight waves cross. Especially impressive during the lake. Overnight in Engure. in Rīga. strong winds. Overnight in Roja. Day 10 Day 11 Day 9 Engure - Lapmežciems – Jūrmala (~ 54 Rīga Roja - Mersrags – Engure (~47 km, tar- km, tarmac). Breakfast. Transfer to the airport. Individ- mac) Route goes through Ķemeri National ual departures. The route goes through fishermen vil- Park. It is possible to walk Dumbrāju trail lages with three different types of the and visit the historic sulphur spring from seashore – coast dotted with boulders where the history of Jūrmala as a spa re- www.countryholidays.lv SELF-DRIVE / INDIVIDUAL

Walking Nature Trails in Latvia and Estonia

Tallinn Tour begins in the Latvian capital Riga, which is known for its Art Nouveau architecture, and it ends in the Medieval town of Tallinn. Along the way you will enjoy lovely land- scapes, walk 15 exciting nature trails (about 40 km on foot in total). The trails crosses marshlands, meadows and forests, goes along the shores of the Baltic Sea. Highlights: Riga Old Town and Art Nouvea district - Rare coastal meadows at Ainazi - Estonian islands – Saaremaa and Hiumaa with distinctive nature, medieval churches and wind- mills - Mighty Kuressaare Bishop’s Castle - Charming medieval Old Town of Tallinn - Un- spoiled nature and sandy beaches. Vilnius Driving in total ~1270 km (7 days)

General Route: Rīga – Pärnu – Saa- maa island (2-3 hours); The Sõrve horn in remaa – Hiiumaa – Haapsalu - Tallinn the western part of the Saaremaa island. Its former military basis for Soviet army Day 1 (1,5 hours). Overnight in Kuressaare. Arrival in Rīga Pick up the hired car at the airport. Free Day 4 time in Rīga. Overnight in Rīga. Kuressaare – Kärdla (150 km, 70% tar- mac, 30% gravel road). Day 2 Breakfast. Sightseeing at Kuressaare. At- Rīga – Salacgriva – Pärnu (190 km, 100% tractions include impressive medieval tarmak). castle, town’s centre with its art galleries, Breakfast / Pick up your info pack with little shops, cafes and restaurants. Ferry Rīga Old Town and river Daugava the map and detailed itinerary from the from Triigi to Sõru (1,5 hours). Sightsee- hotel’ s reception. Sightseeing and walk- ing and walking trails (totally about 7 ing trails (totally about 10 km walking) km walking) en route: Viidumäe Nature en route: Nature trail over the dunes and restricted area with a forest trail and ob- through the pine forest at Saulkrasti (1 servation tower at the seaside (1 hour); hour); Forest walking trail of the Baron Panga cliff is about 22 m high dolomite von Munchhausen at Dunte (2 hours); cliff at the coast (1 hour); Ojarku board- Walking trail through the very rare coast- walk trail on the Kasari island through al meadows at Ainazi – birdwatching overgrown coastal area with an observa- possibilities in spring and fall (0,3 hours); tion tower near Käina bay (bird watching Luitemaa walking trail near Parnu goes available) (1 hour); Sääre nature trail on along the sea and through marsh. There the Kasari island which is a stripe of land covered with junipers. (bird watching Forest walking trail of the Baron von are several observation towers and bird- Munchhausen at Dunte watching possibilities (2-3 hours); Over- available) (1,5 hour); Overnight in Kärdla night in the surroundings of Pärnu. or Käina.

Day 3 Day 5 Pärnu – Muhu – Kuressaare – Sorve - Kärdla – Haapsalu – Matsalu National- Kuressaare (275 km, 100% tarmac). park - Haapsalu (140 km, 90% tarmac, Breakfast. Sightseeing in Parnu, historic 10 % gravel road) spa resort of Estonia. Ferry from Virtsu to Breakfast. Ferry from Heltermaa to Kuivastu at Muhu island (0,5 hours). Sight- Rohuküla (~2 hours). Sightseeing and seeing and walking trails (totally up to 10 walking trails (totally about 5 km walking) km hiking) en route: The ethnographic en route: Walking trail at Matsalu National fishermen’s’ village Koguva at Muhu park boardwalk through the coastal reed island (1,5 hours); Koigi walking trail fields (5 hours); Sightseeing in Haapsalu; View from Maatsalu National Park through marsh and forest at the Saare- Overnight in Haapsalu.

Baltic Country Holidays / Lauku ceļotājs Kalnciema Str. 40, Riga, LV-1046, Latvia, T: +(371) 67617600, [email protected] www.countryholidays.lv

Keila waterfall in Estonia TRIP DETAILS

Package price from EUR 290.00 Rate per person in a shared double room

INCLUDES: • 5 overnights at the hotels (dou- ble or twin rooms, en suite, breakfast): in Rīga (1x), Pärnu (1x), Kärdla or Käina (1x), Haap- salu (1x) and Tallinn (1x) • 1 overnight in guest house (double or twin room with breakfast, WC and shower shared): in Kuressaare (1x) Panga cliff in Saarema • Maps and detailed description of the itinerary.

EXTRA COSTS: • Single supplement • Hired car 7 days • Any additional transfers re- quired • Tickets and entrances to the at- tractions and sites • Extra meals / lunch boxes

Day 6 Haapsalu – Paldiski - Tallinn (180 km, 98% tarmac, 2% gravel road). Breakfast. Sightseeing and walking trails (totally about 8 km walking) en route: View of Tallinn Old Town Walking trail at the Paldiski peninsula – the trail starts at the fortification which was build by the Peter 1st and leads along the steep Baltic sea banks, sightseeing of the former military basis of the Soviet military (2-3 hours); Keila Nature Park – 6 walking trail through the forest to Keila waterfall (1-2 hours); In the evening free time in Tallinn; Overnight in Tallinn.

Day 7 Drive back to Rīga Breakfast. Return the car at Tallinn Air- port. Departure from Tallinn. Or return to Riga and leave the car at Rīga Airport.

www.countryholidays.lv WALKING / GROUP TOUR

Walking Along the Baltic Sea Coast

Tallinn The tour begins in Latvian capital Rīga. Then proceeds along the Baltic Sea coast and pass different landscapes - white sandy beaches, coastal meadows, dunes with pine forests and steep banks. The route leads through ethnographic fishermen villages and two important port towns – Liepāja and Ventspils. On the way back it goes through pretty provincial town Kuldīga. Tour goes through two national parks – Slītere and Kemeri.

Vilnius

Walking ~5-15 km daily (7 days)

General Route: Rīga - Nida - Pape - km). Sightseeing of Pāvilosta, the capital Liepaja - Pavilosta - Jurkalne - Ventspils of windsurfers, Grey Dune with viewing - Kolka - Roja - Ķemeri - Rīga tower. Overnight in Pāvilosta.

Day 1 Day 4 Arrival in Rīga Pāvilosta – Jūrkalne - Kuldīga - Jūrkalne Optional: Private transfer from airport to Breakfast. Bus transfer: Pāvilosta – Ul- the hotel. Overnight in Rīga. male. Walking: Ulmale - Jūrkalne (~12 km, 3 h). From Pāvilosta, hiking in one of Day 2 the most beautiful parts of the Baltic sea Rīga – Liepāja coast where there are 10-15 m high steep Breakfast. 09:00 meeting with the tour sandy banks. These beaches are quiet Seashore with steep sandy banks guide at the hotel lobby. Rīga sightsee- and nice for swimming. In Jūrkalne it is ing tour. Half-day city tour featuring me- possible to see the “blue” cows – a very dieval Old Town and Art Nouveau area. typical breed for the region. In the af- Afternoon: coach transfer Rīga – Liepāja ternoon bus transfer: Jūrkalne – Kuldīga (~250 km). On the way stop for a walk at (~45 km). Sightseeing of Kuldīga – the Cena Heath trail (~5 km, 2 h). Sightsee- ancient town of Courland (Kurzeme) with ing of Liepāja, famous for its nice beach, the widest waterfall in Europe (240 m) cozy pubs and restaurants, music festi- and old brick bridge across the river. Visit- vals, interesting history, military heritage ing of Riežupe sand caves which has been and one of the oldest church organs in artificially made escavating sand for glass Europe. Overnight in Liepāja. making. Bus transfer: Kuldīga – Jūrkalne. Overnight in a guest house in Jūrkalne. Day 3 Liepāja – Pape – Pāvilosta The widest waterfall in Europe at Kuldīga Breakfast. Bus transfer: Liepāja – Nida Day 5 (~65 km). Walkig: Nida - Pape (~ 8 km, Jūrkalne - Ventspils – Kolka - Roja 2,5 h). Walking along the Baltic Sea coast Breakfast. Coach transfer: Jūrkalne area. Access to this territory was strongly – Ventspils (~45 km). Sightseeing of restricted in the Soviet times. Trail passes Ventspils with its renovated convent Pape Lake (the former sea lagoon) nature type castle, Old Town, market place and park. Its a place for great diversity of nest- promenade along the sea. Coach trans- ing birds. Marked nature trail goes along fer: Ventspils - Slītere lighthouse (~ 70 the lake, leading through some late-back km). Walking in the Slītere National Park ethnographic fishermen villages. Possi- on a special hiking trail near the Slītere bility to visit the Nature House, the bird lighthouse (1,5 km, 0,5 h). Coach trans- observation tower, and to watch wild fer: Slītere lighthouse -Mazirbe (~ 10 km). horses in their enclosed area. Coach Walking: Mazirbe – Košrags – Pitrags - Walking in the Slītere National Park transfer: Pape – Liepāja – Pāvilosta (~110 Saunags (~10 km, 3 h).Walk through the

Baltic Country Holidays / Lauku ceļotājs Kalnciema Str. 40, Riga, LV-1046, Latvia, T: +(371) 67617600, [email protected] www.countryholidays.lv

Walking Along the Baltic Sea Coast

Seashore and a fisherman’s boat near to Roja TRIP DETAILS Package price from • EUR 470,00 for 10-13 persons • EUR 430,00 for 14-17 persons • EUR 380,00 for 18-20 persons Rate per person in a shared double room

GENERAL INFORMATION: • Relief: flat, walking along the seashore, maximum height difference - 15 m • Roads: mainly forest trails, plunk trails in marshes, gravel roads, sandy beach along the sea.

INCLUDES: • 6 overnights with breakfast Walking at the Ķemeri National Park in the hotels (double or twin rooms, en suite, breakfast) • English / German speaking guide from the 2nd day till ar- rival in Rīga on the 6th day • Escort bus from the 2nd day till arrival in Rīga on the 6th day • Maps and detailed description of the itinerary

EXTRA COSTS: • Single supplement • Any additional transfers re- quired • Extra meals / lunch boxes • Tickets and entrances to the attractions and sites

Slītere National park through old fish- Roja – Jūrmala - Rīga started. Bus transfer: Jūrmala – Rīga. On ermen villages where lives one of the Breakfast. Hiking: Roja – Kaltene (~8 km, 3 the way stop at Jūrmala, resort town. End 6 smallest ethnic group the Livs, decents h). The route leads along the coasts of the of guide services. Overnight in Rīga. from ancient Finno-Ugric tribe. Coach Rīga gulf through a very attractive stony transfer: Saunags – Kolka – Roja. Stop at area – the beach is studded with many Day 7 Kolka – visit Kolka horn where the Baltic stones of different size. Bus transfer: Ka- Rīga Sea meets the Rīga gulf and the waves ltene – Ķemeri. Stop at Mērsrags - possi- Breakfast. Optional: Private transfer from are crossing forming a long dune. Stop bility to visit the bird observation tower. the hotel to airport or extra days in Rīga at Purciems –walking (1 km, 0,5 h) hiking Walking at the Ķemeri National Park - it is or in the countryside. Individual or group trail to the White Dune. possible to walk Dumbrāju trail and visit departure. Overnight in Roja. the historic sulphur spring from where Day 6 the history of Jūrmala as a spa resort www.countryholidays.lv SELF-DRIVE / FAMILY

Centre-based family tour at Ventspils

Tallinn Founded in 1290, Vetspils has developed from small trading port to the most afluent Latvian town with modern new town, well - restored Old town, clean and well equipped white sandy beaches, arty fountains, flower sculptures, manicured parks and various attractions. Whole town is family oriented but kids particularly enjoy the Blue Flag beach Ventspils

Rīga with different swings, climbing and sliding options as well as Kids Town. Therefore each day allows at least some time which can be spent there. Self-drive excursions feature scenic sea coast, traditional fishing villages, Slītere National Park, wooden architecture of Kuldīga as well as few castles and lighthouses. Driving there is easy since roads are

Vilnius rather empty. Center - based (7 Days)

General Route: Rīga - Ventspils Seaside Park with Tarzan Trail for kids. - Kolka - Pāvilosta - Ēdole - Kuldīga - Overnight stay at the hotel Jūras Brīze. Ventspils Day 5 Day 1. Ventspils - Kolka -Ventspils Arrival in Rīga. Pick-up a car at the hotel and head out Private transfer from the airport to the to Kolka. On the route visit Ventspils hotel. Overnight in Rīga. Radio Astronomy Centre (former Soviet spy station), now its used for scientific Day 2 purposes only, stop at Slītere National Rīga - Ventspils Park with a few walking trails, a light Free morning in Rīga. Attractions in- house and viewing platform, visit old- Rīga Old Town clude: charming medieval Old Town fashioned fishing villages at Livonian with lively outdoor cafes, Art Nouveau coast (home of the world’ s smallest eth- buildings, museums, landscaped parks. nic minority the Livs) and Cape of Kolka Recommended activities: Take a boat where Gulf of Rīga meets the Baltic Sea. tour along the Rīga canal and River Try locally smoked fish. Overnight stay Daugava; Natural History Museum; Doll at the hotel Jūras Brīze. art Museum and creative workshop; Overnight stay at the hotel Jūras Brīze. Day 6 The hotel is located at a pleasant, green Ventspils - Pāvilosta - Ēdole - Kuldīga - residencial area. Blue Flag beach is Ventspils about 20 minutes walking distance. Well Today the route goes opposite direction equipped Kids Town with things to do from Ventspils, towards Pāvilosta. On the for all ages is just next door. way visit Jurkalne steep shore, try to spot Ventspils Old Town famous blue cows (ancient breed typical Day 3 for this coast), visit fishing port, marina Ventspils and windsurfers town Pāvilosta. Then Explore Ventspils Old Town with pro- turn inlands and along Ēdole (medieval manade, market place, Livonian Order castle) head to Kuldiga, charming provi- Castle, ancient crafts house, cow parade cial town with well preserved wooden and Southern Pier with viewing tower. architecture and the widest waterfall in Overnight stay at the hotel Jūras Brīze. Europe. Overnight stay at the hotel Jūras Brīze. Day 4 Ventspils Day 7 Visit Kids town and Seaside Open-Air Ventspils - Rīga Museum, have a ride by Mazbanitis (nar- Drive to Rīga and leave car at the Rīga Ventspils Harbour Promenade row-gauge steam train) and walk along International Airport.

Baltic Country Holidays / Lauku ceļotājs Kalnciema Str. 40, Riga, LV-1046, Latvia, T: +(371) 67617600, [email protected] www.countryholidays.lv

Centre-based family tour at Ventspils

Kids Adventure Park in Ventspils Kids Town in Ventspils TRIP DETAILS Package price from: EUR 930.00 2 adults + 1 child in a family room

INCLUDES: • two nights at the hotel in Rīga (family room, en suite, break- fast) • four nights at the hotel in Ventspils (family room, en suite, breakfast) • car rental for 7 days • Maps and detailed descrip- tion of the itinerary Ventspils Blue Flag Beach OPTIONAL EXTRA COSTS: • a bed for extra children • additional room • child’ s car seat • bike rental • Any additional transfers re- quired • Extra meals / lunch boxes • Tickets and entrances to the attractions and sites

Other attractions for kids in Ventpils: • Kids Adventure Park, Scate park, BMX park, Acqua Park, Ancient crafts House.

Šlītere Light house Travellers at the Jūrkalne steep coast

!Route: Rīga – Ventspils – Kolka – Pāvilosta – Rīga

1.Tag Rīga Ankunft in Rīga. Mietwagen Übernahme am Flughafen Rīga. Übernachtung in Rīga.

2.Tag Rīga – Ventspils Am Morgen: Zeit zur freien Verfügung in Rīga. Sehenswert sind die Altstadt mit ihrem hanseatischen Flair und netten www.countryholidays.lv FAMILY ADVENTURES / GROUP

Multiactivity Holidays in Gauja National Park and the Gulf of Rīga Tallinn The route starts and ends in Riga. In between, it goes through the Gauja National Park and then loops along the coast of the Baltic Sea. Planned activities are cycling, walking and canoeing. But further down on the itinerary we recommend looking at the various optional activities. A “Time Travel” experience offers an excursion to a former Soviet top

Ventspils secret nuclear bunker at Ligatne, while exploring medieval Cesis and its Livonan Order Castle by night will give another historical insight. During the tour kids can enjoy beauti- ful nature and learn about local flora and fauna, get interested in a bit of history, learn traditonal crafts and enjoy various other activities. Vilnius (7 Days)

General Route: Rīga - Sigulda - Piķenes bank, Velnalas (Devil’s) cliffs and Līgatne - Cēsis - Saulkrasti - Rīga Ķeizarkrēsls returning to Sigulda at the Olympic Bobseld Centre. Overnight in Day 1 Sigulda. Evening meal at the hotel. Arrival in Rīga. Optional: Private transfer from the airport to the hotel. Optional: Day 4 Evening meal at the hotel. Welcome Sigulda meeting – depends upon arrival time Breakfast. Bus transfer: Hotel – Cīrulīši, and arrangements. Overnight in Rīga Cēsis. Canoe trip on the River Gauja from Cēsis to Līgatne (~17 km, ~5 h) Day 2 with a stop to see the Kvēpene hill fort. Open-Air Ethnographic Museum Rīga-Sigulda Other attractions include the Ķūķu cliff Breakfast. Free time to explore Rīga. At- and rapids, the Spriņģu cliff and the old- tractions include: charming medieval Old fashioned wire ferry at Līgatne which still Town with lively outdoor cafes, Art Nou- operates every day using just the power veau buildings, museums, landscaped of the river flow. Picnic lunch at Skaļupe. parks. Bus transfer Rīga – Sigulda (~60 (Soup cooked on the campfire, sizzling km). On the way stop at the Open-Air Eth- sausages on sticks and similar). Kids can nographic Museum, a collection of tra- learn how to set a campfire and cook in ditonal buildings (17th-20th cent) from the wild. Transfer to the hotel in Sigulda. different regions of Latvia. Overnight in Free time for rest or individual activities. Sigulda. Evening meal at the hotel. Evening meal at the hotel.

Day 3 Day 5 Sigulda Sigulda - Līgatne - Cēsis Krimulda castle ruins Breakfast. Walking in the surroundings of Breakfast. Transfer to Līgatne. Līgatne Sigulda (8 km). The route starts from ro- Nature Trails. An impresive park cover- mantic medieval Sigulda castle ruins and ing 200 hectares with enclosures for continues along the Gauja river valley local wildlife including wild boar, bears, to Turaida Museum Reserve with its me- wolves, lynx and birds of prey. There is dieval castle, viewing tower, traditional 4,5 km of walking trails as well as a 5 km estate buildings, working smithy where long bicycle/car route. It is located in the coins can be forged and sculpture gar- Gauja River’s ancient valley deep in the den. Then the route continues past Gut- forest with beautiful views from a 22m mana cave, and a winding road to Krimul- high viewing tower. Sections of the trails da castle ruins. Lunch Option to take a are suitable for disabled visitors. Option cable car across the Gauja river valley and 1: Walking the Nature Trails (~5 km). Well return to Sigulda. Walking tour (8 km) maintained forest trails, boardwalks and Sandstone banks at the river Gauja continue taking the scenic route along steps with viewing points. Transfer to

Baltic Country Holidays / Lauku ceļotājs Kalnciema Str. 40, Riga, LV-1046, Latvia, T: +(371) 67617600, [email protected] www.countryholidays.lv

Multiactivity Holidays in Gauja National Park and the Gulf of Rīga Livonian Order Castle in Cēsis Cable car across the Gauja river valley TRIP DETAILS Package price from • EUR 899,00 (EUR 590,00)* for 6-8 persons • EUR 785,00 (EUR 475,00)* for 9-11 persons • EUR 666,00 (EUR 356,00)* from 12 persons Rate per person in a shared double room * price for kids up to age 11

GENERAL INFORMATION: • Children from age 6 upwards • 1 cycling tour (~17 km) • 4 walks (~5-10 km) Canoe trip on the River Gauja • 1 canoe tour from Cēsis to Līgatne (~17 km, 4-5 hours) • 3 guided excursions • Level of difficulty: easy

INCLUDES: • 6 overnights with breakfast in the hotels (double or twin rooms, en suite, breakfast) • Escort bus from the 2nd day till arrival in Rīga on the 6th day • Hired bicycles with bags (1 day), including delivery • Canoe rent (1 day) • Lunch and dinner as per pro- gramme • Entrance tickets and fees as the ancient Gauja River valley. Along in medieval style will show you the se- per programme the Nature Trails there are special bike crets of the Old Town and Livonian Or- • Maps and detailed descrip- racks allowing you to leave your bike der Castle, revealing local legends and tion of the itinerary for a short walk to watch some animals. stories on the way as you follow with Then cycle to Lāču Miga guesthouse for lantern in hand. EXTRA COSTS: lunch. Lunch at Lāču Miga. Transfer to • Single supplement Līgatne Rehabilitation Centre. Excursion Day 6 • Any additional transfers re- to Līgatne Underground Bunkers. Hid- Cēsis - Sigulda - Saulkrasti - Rīga quired den 9m under a rehabilitation centre is Breakfast. Bus transfer: Sigulda– • Extra meals a former Soviet top secret location, ex- Saulkrasti-Rīga (~60 km). Enjoy walking • Additional tickets and en- tending for 2000 square metres. It is the along Saulkrasti’s white sandy beach trances only bunker of its kind to have survived walking to the large White Dune (~4.5 • Guides / tour leader intact and was designed to serve as a km). Transfer to the hotel in Rīga. Meal at command post in the event of nuclear the hotel. Overnight in Rīga Lāču Miga. Option 2: Cycling Līgatne war. Sip a Russian tea in the Soviet can- Railway Station-Nature Trails-Lāču Miga teen. Transfer to the hotel in Sigulda. Day 7 (~17 km). Scenic tarmac road with roll- 19:00 Meal at the hotel. When dusk sets Rīga ing hills weaving through forest and in: Lantern tour in Cēsis. A guide dressed Breakfast. Individual departure. www.countryholidays.lv ADVENTURE TOUR / INDIVIDUAL www.countryholidays.lv

Soft Adventures at the

Tallinn Gauja National Park

The tour is based in the picturesque Gauja National Park with its main value – the river Gauja ancient valley. The tour will allow to enjoy cycling through forests filled with birds

Ventspils Rīga songs, visit several castles, stop at charming provincial towns and take old fashioned ferry across the river. Walks at Līgatne Nature Trails give insite into local wildlife - brown bears, moose, wild boar and others. Canoying the river Gauja allows different perspec- tive to the river bank with wonderful views to the sandy outcrops. Vilnius

Daily cycling distances: ~30-55 km (7 Days)

General Route: Rīga - Strenči - Valm- to Cīrulīši. Walk the Cīrulīši trail (4,5-7,2 iera - Cēsis - Līgatne - Sigulda - Rīga km), picturesque trail along Gauja River Valley. Canoeing from Cēsis to Līgatne (~17 km, 4-5 h) which is one of the pic- Day 1 turesque parts of the river Gauja where Arrival in Rīga sand stone banks are visible. Cycle from Additional: Transfer to the hotel. Pick up River Gauja to Līgatne Nature Park (~4 the info package with maps and the de- km, 98% tarmac). Cycling at the Līgatne tailed itinerary at the hotel’ s reception. Nature Park (5,1 km, 100% tarmac) is ex- Attractions of Rīga include medieval cellent way to watch local wild animals Hanseatic Old Town, Art Nouveau district, (such us brown bear, woolves, foxes, red Central market and boat trip along the deers, wild boar and elks). Further nature Sigulda castle ruins canal and the river Daugava. Overnight trails possible: the trail of the untouched in Rīga. nature in the fern glen (1,3 km) and the trail along the river Gauja (1,3 km). Cycle Day 2 from the Nature park to the guest house Rīga-Strenči - Valmiera (~4- 9 km, 100 % tarmac). Overnight in Breakfast. Pick up the bicycles at the ho- Līgatne. tel. Cycle from the hotel to the Central train station (~0.5 hour). Take the train: Day 5 Rīga – Strenči. Cycling: Strenči - Valmiera Līgatne - Sigulda (~33 km, 50% tarmac, 50% gravel road). Breakfast. Cycling: Ligatne – Nurmizi - Overnight in Valmiera. Sigulda (~30 km, 40% gravel road, 60% tarmac). Visit picturesque sandstone Day 3 outcrop Raganu katls (witch’es cul- View to the Turaida Castle Valmiera - Cēsis deron), Peter’s cave, Satezeles castle hill, Breakfast. Cycling: Valmiera - Cēsis (~55 Kraukļu cliff and Paradise hill with exel- km, 5% tarmac, 10% gravel road, 85% lent view to the Gauja river valley. Over- forest trails), en route sightseeing of night in Sigulda. Sietiņiezis white sandstone cliffs and Ērgļu red sandstone cliffs by the river Day 6 Gauja. Free time in Cēsis. Attractions in- Sigulda clude impressive Livonian Order castle, Breakfast. Cycling: Sigulda – Turaida Old Town and St. John’ s Church. Over- – Krimulda - Sigulda (~30 km, forest night in Cēsis. trails, gravel road and tarmac) en route can visit Sigulda castle ruins, Gutmana Day 4 cave, Turaida Museum Reserve, with Cēsis - Līgatne the castle museum, observation tower Cycling trails in Ligatne Nature Park Breakfast. Cycle from the guest house providing excellent view across the river

Baltic Country Holidays / Lauku ceļotājs Kalnciema Str. 40, Riga, LV-1046, Latvia, T: +(371) 67617600, [email protected] www.countryholidays.lv

Park of The Livonian Order Castle in Cēsis Cable car and bridge across river Gauja TRIP DETAILS Package price from EUR 425.00 Rate per person in a shared double room

GENERAL INFORMATION: • 4-5 Cycling tours • 2-3 Walking tours • 1 Canoeing tour

INCLUDES: • 7 overnight at hotels or guest houses (double or twin rooms, en suite, breakfast): in Rīga (2x), Valmiera (1x), Cēsis (1x), Līgatne (1x) and Sigulda Krimulda Manor and park (2x) • Hired bicycles with bags (6 days) • 2-seated canoe boats (1 day) • Maps and detailed descrip- tion of the itinerary

EXTRA COSTS: • Single supplement • Any additional transfers re- quired • Extra meals • Tickets and entrances

Gauja ancient valley, history museum and sculpture garden, the olympic Bob- Ērgļu red sandstone cliffs by the river Gauja sleigh track with opportunity to have a ride yourself. Overnight in Sigulda.

Day 7 Sigulda - Rīga Breakfast. Take a train from Sigulda to Rīga. Free time in Rīga. In the evening return bicycles at the hotel’ s reception. Overnight in Rīga.

Day 8 Rīga Breakfast. Additional: transfer to the Rīga Airport. Departure.

www.countryholidays.lv ADVENTURE TOUR / INDIVIDUAL www.countryholidays.lv

Canoeing in Kurzeme

Tallinn Western part of Latvia

The route covers spectacular ancient Abava river valley. The territory is interesting with its biological diversity as well as natural and historical monuments and scenic land- Rīga scapes. The ancient cult places, settlements, famous Sabile wine hill, Pedvale open-air art museum - are only few attractions on the route. The small Abava river fall provides extra excitement for boating experience.

Vilnius

(7 Days)

General Route: Rīga - Tukums - Ren- Dinner and overnight near Renda da - Kuldīga Day 4 Day 1 Renda - Kuldīga Breakfast at the guest house / Take the Arrival in Rīga prepared lunch boxes. Transfer to the Transfer from the airport to the hotel. river. Canoe tour along the river Abava, Overnight in Rīga. Renda – “Seržu valks” (20 km). Its beauti- ful and tranquil course with some small rapids, fords and swift sources. There is Day 2 no much civilization and facilities along Rīga - Tukums The old brick bridge in Kuldīga the way but good chance to observe Breakfast at the hotel. Leisure time in some wildlife along the river banks. Rīga. Attractions in Rīga include beauti- Sites at Renda: Īvande waterfalls, tiny ful medieval Old Town, Art Nouveau dis- but nice. Dinner and overnight near trict, boat trip along the Riga canal and Kuldīga. the river Daugava as well as impressive Central Market. Day 5 Train Rīga – Tukums (~1 hour, 30 min- Renda - Kuldīga utes). Dinner and overnight near Tu- Breakfast at the guest house / Take the kums. lunch boxes. Canoe tour in the river Abava, “Seržu valks”– the river Venta (16 Day 3 km). During this course there is no much Tukums - Renda civilization and access to the river from Breakfast at the guest house / Take the outside is rather limited. Dinner and Kandava town prepared lunch boxes. Transfer to the overnight in Kuldīga. river. Canoe tour along the picturesque river Abava, Abavas Rumba (waterfall) – Renda (20 km). Day 6 There are several swift sources, espe- Kuldīga - Rīga cially at the places where are dolomite Breakfast at the guest house. Leisure outcrops. Sometimes there are small time in charming Kuldīga – the capital of rapids, however during spring floods the former Duchy of Kurzeme (16-18th those might disappear all together. The cent), Old Town with well preserved course can be done without getting out wooden architecture, the Ventas rumba of the boat until Abavas Rumba. Begin- – one of Europe’s widest waterfalls ( 249 ners better take a boat around its side. m) and the old brick bridge across the Sites en route: the windmill of Svente, river. Sabile town different sand stone cliffs and outcrops. Collection of the boat. Public bus trans-

Baltic Country Holidays / Lauku ceļotājs Kalnciema Str. 40, Riga, LV-1046, Latvia, T: +(371) 67617600, [email protected] www.countryholidays.lv

The Abava River Near the the Abava river fall TRIP DETAILS Package price from EUR 435.00 Rate per person in a shared double room

INCLUDES: • Transfer Rīga International Airport – hotel in Rīga – Airport • Public bus and train tickets Rīga – Tukums und Kuldīga – Rīga • 2 overnights in Rīga (dou- ble or twin rooms, en suite, breakfast) Road to Medieval Historical Centre of Kuldīga • 4 overnights in guest hous- es in the countryside (dou- ble or twin rooms, en suite, breakfast) • Lunch boxes (3 days) • Canoe boat (2 seats, 3 days) • Maps and detailed descrip- tion of the itinerary

EXTRA COSTS: • Single supplement • English speaking canoe- guide (3 days) • Rīga city sightseeing in English language (2 hours) Canoe tour in the river Abava • Kuldīga town sightsee- ing in English language (2 hours) • Any additional transfers re- quired • Extra meals • Tickets and entrances fer Kuldīga – Rīga (3 hours). Overnight in Rīga.

Day 7 Rīga Breakfast at the hotel. Transfer to the air- port. Departure. www.countryholidays.lv