Gauja National Park

Departing from Riga, delve into the history and culture of ancient Latvian tribes amidst the breathtaking beauty of Gauna National Park. Visit the Livonian Order Castle ruins, the Turaida Medieval Castle dating back to 1214, and the wooden church constructed in 1750. Also, explore Gutmanis Cave, the widest and highest cave in the Baltic countries, measuring 19m deep, 12m wide, and 10m high. Nestled within Gauna National Park near Sigulda, this natural wonder is rich in myths and legends, adding to its allure. Additionally, enjoy fantastic dining options featuring both traditional Latvian and modern cuisine throughout the tour.

Embark on a personal and immersive adventure on a private van tour from Riga to Sigulda and Turaida. Customize your itinerary to your preferences and visit sights such as Gauja National Park, Sigulda Manor and Castle, and Turaida Castle. Sit back and relax in the comfort of your private vehicle and watch the landscape change from city streets to lush greenery as you head out of Riga. Make your way to Sigulda, a town near the river Gauja that is also known as the Switzerland of Latvia by locals. Marvel at the Gauja valley with its dense forests, meandering river, and the Gauja National Park. Stop to stroll through the park before seeing the Sigulda Medieval Castle ruins, the new Sigulda Castle, the Turaida Castle museum with its watchtower peering above the trees, and Gutman's Cave, the widest and highest cave in the Baltic countries. Cross the river on the optional cable car ride for a different perspective of the region or enjoy a glass of local wine made in the Cremon Winery at Krimulda Manor. See local craftsmen and women at work to gain an insight into local and cultural life before heading back to Riga. This half day tour is a must for those who have visited Riga and Jurmala before and is especially recommended for bloggers and social media fans. Check my other tours on Get Your Guide! Booked tours are guaranteed!

Immerse yourself in the natural, cultural, and historical heritage of Cesis and Sigulda on a day trip from Riga with hotel transfers included. Visit the Cesis Castle ruins, the Old Town, Ungurmuiža Manor, Gutman's Cave, and Sigulda Castle. After a hotel pickup, start your day with a visit to Cesis Castle, one of the best-preserved medieval castles in the Baltic States, where more than ten centuries of Latvian cultural history meet. Soak in the historic ambience with authentic candle lamps lighting up the castle. Listen to the castle gardener Līga share what can be found in the garden – the same vegetables and herbs that grew the Livonian gardens 500 years ago. In summer, watch craftsmen display their skills in workshops, processing stone, metal, and clay, weaving ropes, and printing using early techniques. Then, dive into the Old Town’s cultural and historical heritage by exploring the remaining street network, masonry, ancient manors, and wooden villas built on the banks of river Gauja. On way to your next destination, stop at Ergļu klintis (Eagle Cliff), a sandstone outcrop on the banks of the Gauja River. Continue to Ungurmuiža Manor House, the only wooden baroque building of 18th-century Latvia that has survived to the present day. Walk around the park, Tea House, and Children's House while hearing stories about Baron Campenhausen. On your way back, stop in Sigulda, a town known in the heart of the picturesque Gauja River Valley. Explore Gutman's Cave, the widest and highest cave in the Baltic countries. Continue to the romantic ruins of Sigulda Castle, which has been a popular meeting place for lovers since the 18th century. Stop by the Sigulda New Castle, the summer residence of Prince Kropotkin, which is an architectural monument of national significance, which has retained its Neo-Gothic style and a luxurious interior. Check my profile Day Out Latvia on Get Your Guide for other tours! Tours are guaranteed.

Discover the charming towns of Cesis, Sigulda, and Turaida on this private day trip from Riga. Learn basic historical information from your driver, as well as the best restaurants to stop for lunch. Depart from Riga with private transport and head to Cesis, where you'll find an 800-year-old medieval castle. Learn about its connection to the town's history and its continued expansion during the years. Then head to Āraiši Lake Castle Archaeological Park, where you can visit the castle, nominated as the Latvian archaeological monument of 2021. Check out the permanent exposition with fascinating archeological finds from the area. Next, it's on to the Livonian Order Castle in Sigulda, built in 1207, and current host to the International Sigulda Opera Music Festival. Finally head to the Turaida Museum Reserve, where you'll discover archaeology, culture, and art dating back to the 11th century. Please note that from 1st of November to 30th of April Cesis Castle museum is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. During this time we will be able to see Castle only from outside, we'll do walk thru Cesis old town part.

Beginning the tour with a pick-up from the meeting point at 8:00 AM in Riga. Taking around an hour to drive to Sigulda Town.  Explore nature's trails and local highlights in one amazing day. You’ll get in touch both with the pristine nature of Gauja National Park and the cultural legacy of the area. Hiking several short but amazing hiking trails. Yet, be ready for some 10-15 km on your feet during this unforgettable day. Wander along the beautiful banks of the second biggest river in Latvia – Gauja. Upon reaching the Gauja National Park, where the adventure starts, either in Sigulda, or Krimulda of Turaida. Not rushing as you will get a chance to visit all the major sightseeing sites around Sigulda, Krimulda, and Turaida, including Sigulda and Turaida castles. Then be comfortably returned to your hotel in Riga at the end of the tour.

An hour-long ride from Riga will bring you to Gauja National Park, the largest and oldest national park in Latvia. Also known as the Switzerland of Latvia, offering some of the most beautiful sceneries in the whole country. It is the most popular place for spending a lovely day outside Riga and exploring castles and nature wonders. You will visit a papermill village Ligatne that still looks almost the same as in the 19th century. Later walk through the Ligatne Nature Trails. On the 4 km trail you will have a chance to see various species of wild mammals living in Latvia like brown bear, elk, deer, wild boar and many more. The Ligatne Nature Trails were established to educate visitors about Latvian natural treasures and local species of wild plants and animals. All of the animals were abandoned, injured or tamed animal babies. Later, you will explore the Sigulda Castle Complex which consists of two castles built in different centuries. Sigulda Medieval Castle Ruins mark the beginnings of Sigulda as a town while Sigulda New Castle serves as a wonderful example of a 19th-century manor house. Take your time and discover the history of the region, climb the tower, and enjoy a great view of the Gauja River valley. Before returning to Riga, visit the impressive Gutman’s Cave – the biggest cave in the Baltics and the oldest tourist attraction in Latvia.

This 15 km long hike brings you to the heart of the Gauja National Park and Sigulda town, also known as the Little Switzerland of Latvia. Autumn is the best season for hiking along the Gauja River, as the valley looks almost golden. Scenic views are guaranteed! Don’t worry if the hiking path brings you up to steep bluffs – the Gauja National Park has established good infrastructure for hikers to climb to the best viewing points. What is waiting for you on this hike? Impressive sandstone outcrops and the biggest cave in the Baltics – Gutman Cave. Ancient historical sites, like Sigulda Brother of Swords castle ruins and Krimulda manor. A well-established trail along the Gauja River. A bit of climbing on the steep river banks to see the primeval Gauja River valley. And… a lot of fresh air!

Enjoy a full-day hiking tour in one of the Latvia's most picturesque regions. Known as the Switzerland of Latvia, the area features mountains, valleys, cliffs, and caves. Take in views of the Gauja River Valley as you cross it by the aerial cableway. Your 15-kilometer guided hike will take you through the area’s natural landscapes and through populated areas as well. You’ll help set the pace for the tour, and there’s no need to rush, as there’s plenty of time to cover the entire route. The hiking route takes you past numerous attractions, including the ruins of the old Sigulda castle, the new castle, and Goodman's Cave. Goodman’s Cave was formed over a 10,000-year period by water gradually eroding sandstone. The grotto is a protected geological site and the oldest tourist attraction in Latvia. You’ll see inscriptions on its walls dating back to 1668 and 1677. You’ll hike to Piķenes Cliff and the Little Devil's Cave, and take in spectacular views from the Velnalas Cliff overlook as well.

Meet your guide in the morning and head to Gauja River Valley to begin your kayaking trip. The curving, wild nature of the Gauja River and its tributaries makes this experience one to remember, and a must-visit for travelers who like to venture off the beaten path. During your kayaking tour, see some of the most beautiful landscapes in Gauja River Valley, including stunning steep riverbanks, awesome sandstone cliffs, the dense forests of Gauja National Park, and more. Your eco-tour leader will engage you with a special “improv-travel” approach and tell you about the nature, culture, and traditions of Latvia. Paddle for 15 to 20 kilometers downstream on a truly enjoyable adventure. There are several alternative points to finish on the way so the length of the trip can be adjusted according to your wishes. After reaching your final destination, benefit from a transfer right back to your hotel in Riga, or stay in the scenic town of Sigulda.

Step outside cosmopolitan Riga and explore the lush rural areas and towns of Latvia. Experience the charm and character of architecture which has been well-preserved since the Middle Ages.Meet your guide at your hotel in Riga in the morning. Lean back and enjoy a scenic drive to Gauja National Park. Stroll historic Old Cēsis Town and feel the atmosphere of both the historic and modern heart of Latvian culture. Have a look at St. John’s Church, built in the 13th century. Visit a medieval castle erected in 1218. Explore its beautiful park, dark medieval rooms and corridors and find out about its chequered past. Walk along the riverbanks of the longest river in Latvia, the Gauja. See some of the most impressive sandstone cliffs in Latvia and Europe. Inhale the fresh air of northern pine forests and maybe pick up some blueberries on your way.Explore Līgatne, tucked away in the forest.. See a few of the (more than 300) unique man-made caves carved out of the sandstone cliffs. Get to know more about the town’s unique history. Sample some of the wines in the local winery.Then head to famous Sigulda Town and cultural heritage site Turaida Museum Reserve. Snap photos Turaida castle’s picture-postcard viewpoint. Find out more about ancient Latvian poetry, medieval history, Livonian cultural heritage, and historic Latvian lifestyle here.