Private Tour Medieval Gems of Kuldīga, Sabile and Kandava
1) After a roughly 2-hour drive from Riga to Western Latvia (Courland), including a coffee stop and enjoying beautiful views on the way, arrive at the picturesque medieval town of Kuldiga. It's no coincidence that it's now a UNESCO World Heritage site. Take a stroll through the narrow streets of this exceptionally well-preserved medieval town. Visit Ventas Rumba, Europe's widest waterfall, where you can admire the famous Kuldiga bridge and soak in the stunning scenery. If you're lucky enough to visit in spring, you might see local fish, vimba, swimming to their spawning grounds and jumping upstream in Ventas Rumba. On warm summer days, don't miss a refreshing swim in Ventas Rumba. Have lunch in one of the cozy restaurants of Kuldīga town. If you're interested, you can extend your visit with an optional trip to the Live Museum, where you'll learn about Kuldiga's history and the Courland Duchy. Please note that this will add an hour to your trip. You can choose this visit in place of one of the following destinations listed on the itinerary. 2) It's time to get into the car and head to Sabile, the next picturesque small town in Courland. Take a leisurely stroll around the charming narrow streets of this historic town and enjoy the stunning views of the Abava River Valley from the top of Sabile Hillfort. Sabile is also known as the town with the biggest minority of gypsies in Latvia. Discover the renowned Sabile Wine Hill, featured in the Guinness World Records as the northernmost vineyard. Perched above Sabile Town, the hill offers a breathtaking panorama of the Abava Valley and the charming town below. Buy some local wines and some amazing local ciders in the local shop. 3) Take the next stop in Kandava Town. Kandava is one of the most beautiful towns in Latvia. Its history dates back to 1230. Take a late afternoon-evening walk on its narrow and tranquil streets and visit Kandava church hill and old Kandava castle ruins. From here have the last view of the beautiful Abava River Valley. 4) Before heading back to Riga, enjoy a hike along the beautiful Abava River in the Čužu purvs Nature Reserve. Explore the scenic valley and rare wetland habitats. Keep an eye out for hidden sulfur springs adding to the natural allure. And if you visit in the summer (from June to August), you might see the bog blooming with yellow flowers called "krūmu čuža" in Latvian adding a touch of magic to your adventure. After a day filled with unforgettable experiences and emotions, it's time to return to your hotel. It takes around one and a half hours to get back to Riga.