Map
Puzes Lutheran Church
Puzes Lutheran Church, a historic landmark, stands proudly in the village of Puze, located in the Ventspils Municipality of Latvia. Built in 1692, it has been a focal point of the community for centuries. The tower, added in 1806 following a…
Guest house / Glamping Laimes taure
Located in the village Vabole, the region of Latgale in Latvia, some 20 km from Daugavpils, guest house Laimes taure offers accommodation with a garden, water sports facilities, a terrace, and free WiFi.
We booked this place for a one night stay,…
Basilica of the Assumption, Aglona
The Aglona Roman Catholic Basilica of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Aglona is one of the most important Catholic spiritual centers in Latvia.
I have visited Aglona cathedral several times and always have left quite inspired. If there…
Christ The King Mount
Christ the King Mount (Kristus Karaļa kalns) is located near the Aglona Basilica in Latgale. This place have been opened to the public in 2006.
Several large wooden sculptures depicting biblical characters can be seen here. This is a great…
Nida Pebble Beach
Nida Pebble beach is the most Southern public beach of Latvia located on the Baltic sea shores just 1 km from the Lithuanian border.
The pebble beach is quite uncharacteristic for a typical Latvian seaside beach and that already a good reason to…
Cafe Somersēta in Aglona
Cafe Somersēta is located on Somersētas street in Aglona town, the region of Latgale in Latvia. We discovered this place by a chance shortly before visiting the famous catholic cathedral in Aglona.
It seems the place is very popular among tourists…
Piloru oak grove
Pilori Oak grove is located on the banks of Lake Ežezers in the region of Latgale. Total area is about 19.6 ha
It is one of the rare oak groves in Latvia with a nature protection status granted already in 1928. The oldest oaks are around 300-400…
Lake Ežezers
Lake Ežezers is located in Kraslava municipality, in Ezernieku and Andzeļu parishes. It is the richest island lake in Latvia and even in the whole Baltic region. There are 35 islands in a total area of 77.6 ha and 70 islands formations or shoals.…
Coffee shop KUUP, Rēzekne
Kuup coffee shop is a chic place in Rēzekne, which offers coffee roasted in Latgale.
We found this place by a chance, thanks to TripAdvisor when searching for top restaurants in Rēzekne. We arrived here for some 40km from Varakļāni, just to…
The Sacred Heart Cathedral of Rēzekne
The Sacred Heart Cathedral of Rēzekne is located in Rēzekne, Latvia.
I briefly visited this cathedral at the start of August 2022, during my birthday trip to the region of Latgale
On the site occupied by the church, there existed a wooden temple…
Rēzekne Castle ruins
Rēzekne Castle ruins are located in the downtown of Rēzekne, Latvia, a city in the center of Latgale. The castle served as a base of the local Livonian order landlords until the 16th century and also as the main military support base for battles…
Guest House 'Odumiņi'
Guesthouse Odumiņi is located close to Varakļāni town in the historical region of Latgale, Latvia. We booked a one-night stay here at the start of August 2022, during our weekend trip to Latgale.
For a one-night stay here we paid about EUR 100,…
Varakļāni Palace
Varakļāni Palace is located in Varakļāni, in the historical region of Latgale, Latvia.
We visited this place shortly at the start of August 2022, during a weekend trip to Latgale. I was not sure what for to look in the area and just googled the top…
Koknese Castle
Koknese Castle is a complex in Koknese, Latvia, dating from the 13th century. The castle was situated on a high bluff overlooking the Daugava river valley. In 1965 a hydroelectric dam was built downriver, creating a reservoir that partially…
Quail Farm Rīta Putni / Olalā Koknese
Rīta Putni is located in one of the most picturesque places in Latvia - Koknese county Bilstini just a few minutes away from Perse and Daugava river, where an impressive view of Koknese castle ruins can be seen.
I first heard about this place, or…
Church hill Daugavpils
Baznīckalns or Church hill in Daugavpils is said to be one of the main tourist attractions in the city. This was one of the rare times I visited Daugavpils and I must admit I didn't had any clue what should we see here and just Google for the top…
Guesthouse Pirts Baudas
Guesthouse Pirts Baudas is located in Ilzenes parish, Aluksnes county. The property is 24.1 km from Alūksne, and guests benefit from complimentary WiFi and private parking available on site.
We booked this place during our day trip to Valka and the…
Velēna church
The Velēna Lutheran Church is at the crossing of the Smiltene-Gulbene-Lizums roads. I would call this as one of the most beautiful churches in Latvia.
It's said the first built church here was a wooden church with a turf roof. This is where the…
Cafe Papes Vēji
Cafe Papes Vēji is a summer cafe located next to the Pape channel in Western Latvia near the Pape Lighthouse.
This place serves traditional Latvian cuisine, and cold beer and some can buy smoked fish (apparently in the season)
I have been fond of…
Goldigen Room Artisan Pizza In Kuldiga
Welcome to another Kuldīga Restaurant review - today I will write about a lovely pizza place located just in heart of Kuldīga town - Goldingen Room Artisan Pizza.
The family restaurant Goldingen room, located in the heart of the old town of Kuldiga…
Šaha Kluba Apartmenti Kuldīga
Šaha kluba apartmenti is a beautiful place to stay in Kuldiga and enjoy the unbeatable atmosphere of the old city and its surroundings, which is recognized as one of the Top 10 tourist attractions in Latvia.
Apartments are located in a…
Latvian National Opera
The Latvian National Opera and Ballet is an opera house and opera company at Aspazijas boulevard 3 in Riga.
Its repertoire includes performances of opera and ballet presented during the season which lasts from mid-September to the end of May.…
Valka Bus Station
Valka bus station is centrally located in Valka and offers quite convenient intercity connections to Riga, Valmiera, Rūjiena, and Smiltene.
The bus station in Valka was opened to the public in 1965. There is cafe Walk across the square.…
Naukšēni Manor
Naukšēni Manor is a two-story manor house located in the Naukšēni Municipality, Naukšēni Parish, in the historical region of Vidzeme, northern Latvia.
We discovered this manor by a chance by traveling Valka - Rūjiena road in the mid July 2021…
Putraimi - guest house and recreational area near Kuldīga
Putraimi recreational area is located in Snēpele parish, Kuldīga municipality, some 170 km from nation's capital.
I discovered this place by a chance in the Summer of 2021, and though I didn't stay overnight here I would love to return here and…
The Ethnographic Open-Air Museum of Latvia
The Ethnographic Open-Air Museum of Latvia is an open-air museum located just outside Riga, the capital of Latvia, on the lightly wooded shores of Jugla Lake.
The museum currently occupies 87 hectares and displays 118 buildings, as well as…
Nīcava restaurant
Restaurant Nīcava is located in Nīca town, Latvia. some 230 km from the nation's capital Riga, sandwiched between Liepāja and Jūrmalciems.
We paid here a short stop in mid-July 2021, while traveling to the Pape beach
Turns out there is both a…
Hotel Butterfly House in Pāvilosta
Set some 3 km from the city center of Pāvilosta Butterfly House offers accommodation with free WiFi, BBQ facilities, a garden, and free private parking.
We booked this place for a 2-night stay in mid-July and paid EUR 266. We chose…
Guest house Otrā Elpa in Valka
Otrā Elpa is located in the center of Valka. Guests are welcome to use free Wi-Fi in all areas of this property.
I have stayed in this hotel a few times, and last time did it so back in the mid-July 2021, when had a quick trip to Valka and nearby…
Andrejsala
Andrejsala is an area located in the Pētersala-Andrejsala neighborhood of Riga, Latvia within a former territory of an industrial port next to the city center.
Andrejsala is a chich, urban place to visit.
It is currently developed into a…
Ērģeme Castle Ruins
Ērģeme castle is located in the parish of Ērģeme, Valka county, some 170 km north from the capital of Riga.
Ērģeme castle served as a powerful fortress for the protection of the Livonian Holy Order eastern border and as a castle-front for the Cēsis…
The White Dune At Saulkrasti
The White Dune is one of the landmarks of Saulkrasti, on the Vidzeme gulf coast. The dune offers a splendid view of the sea, the mouth of the Inčupe River and the vast beach.
Probably, best visited in Summer, we made a short visit here in February…
Guest House Laidi
Guesthouse "Laidi" is located in a beautiful place in the Kuldiga region. The guest house will welcome everyone who wants to relax from the daily rush, enjoy a swim in the beautiful pond or organize any important celebrations.
We found…
Camping Vērbeļnieki
Guesthouse and camping "Vērbeļnieki" is located on the road Klaipeda - Liepāja, 6 km from the city of Liepāja in Nīca parish (Latvia)
We discovered this place by accident, during a random driving around in the area at the start of…
Cēsis Castle
Cēsis Castle is one of the most iconic and best-preserved medieval castles in Latvia.
The foundations of the castle were laid 800 years ago by the Livonian Brothers of the Sword. The most prosperous period Cēsis Castle experienced was…
Piltene Lutheran Church
Piltene Lutheran church is located in Piltene, some 20km from Ventspils. The church was originally built-in 1557.
The pride of the Piltene church is gilded wooden altar and pulpit, organ with 9 stops, wooden images of XII century Apostles, benches…
Gray Dune Area in Ventspils
Gray dune area in Ventspils is a part of “Preserving, Exhibiting and Developing Tourism of Culture History and Nature Heritage of Northern Courland” of the Ventspils Museum project, during which the creation of an infrastructure of the…
Saint Simon's Church of Valmiera
Saint Simon's Church in Valmiera is one of the most noticeable objects in the city, located in the heart of the city on Bruņinieku iela 2.
The architecture of St Simon's Church combines the Romanesque and Gothic styles. The church boasts 15th-…
Valmiera Music school
Valmiera music school is located next to the Gauja river banks on Pilskalna street 3 (Valmiera)
I had a chance to explore the area at the start of January 2021, while doing a day trip to Valmiera and Cēsis.
Discovered by accident, I decided…
Užava Lighthouse
Užava Lighthouse - a lighthouse located on the Latvian coast of the Baltic Sea.
The lighthouse stands in an isolated location, on a 28 metres high sand dune, which is permanently threatened by the Baltic Sea waves…
Vilgāle
Vilgāle (formerly also Saldenieki) is a village in Kurmāle Parish, Kuldīga District, Latvia. Located on the shores of Lake Vilgāle. Distance to Kuldīga 17 km, 181 km from Rīga.
Back in September 2020, I bought a flat in this village in an…
Embūte Castle
The ruins of Embūte Castle are located in Embūte, Latvia, in Embūte Parish, Vaiņode Municipality, not far from an ancient hillfort erected by Curonians.
It was an ancient Curonian settlement…
Zaķu krogs near Jūrkalne
Zaķu krogs is both a restaurant a hotel located near Jūrkalne in Latvia.
We discovered this place while driving around Užava, Pāvilosta, and decided to take here a quick stop to order some food for our toddler girl. Just later I learned…
Devil's Dam Embūte (Joda Dambis)
Devil's Dam of Embūte is an awesome place for hiking and trekking in the Courland region.
We first discovered this site at the end of 2020, and plan to return here more often.
Devil's Dam from a drone flight
Taken with DJI MAVIC AIR…
Embute Church Ruins
The Embūte church is located in the Embūte Nature park, nowadays, there are just remains left from the old day glory.
It was in a hazy December 2020 afternoon, I took my DJI Mavic Air 2 Drone and made some nice aerial photography and even a video…
Īvande Manor
Īvande Manor, also called Lielīvande Manor, is a manor house in Īvande parish in Kuldīga municipality in the historical region of Courland, in western Latvia.
The manor Groß-Iwanden was created by the merger of…
Ēdole Castle
Ēdole Castle is a Gothic Revival castle situated on the banks of Ēdole Lake, Ēdole parish, in the historical region of Courland, western Latvia.
Originally consisting of two residential buildings linked by a stone wall…
Kronvalda Park in Riga
Kronvalda Park (originally Strēlnieku dārzs) is a part of the greenery of the Old Riga canal bank. The total area of the park is 11.92 ha. Kronvalda park which borders Elizabetes and Kr. Valdemāra Street, as well as Kronvalda and Kalpaka…
Apriķi Lutheran Church
Apriķi church is located in the Apriķi village, Laža parish, Aizpute district in the Western part of Latvia (Courland).
Apriķi church is considered to be the pearl of Courland sacral art because the glory of its indoor interior is remembered by…
St Nicholas Naval Cathedral, Karosta / Liepāja
The St Nicholas Naval Cathedral is a Russian Orthodox cathedral church located in Karosta in the north of Liepāja, Latvia.
I have visited this cathedral just a couple of times, but always have been impressed…
Rudbārži Palace
Rudbārži Palace is a palace in Rudbārži parish in Skrunda municipality in the historical region of Courland, in western Latvia.
The estate was, from 16th century to 1661, owned by the family of Eberhard von …
Ķemeri Forest House
Ķemeri Forest house is really cool outdoors tourism attraction located close to Jūrmala
The park centre is located in Ķemeri, in the “Forest House” . We first discovered this place back in Spring 2018 and made some nice hiking in the area, see…
Happy Kids Saldus
Happy Kids Saldus is a cool kid's amusement park in the town of Saldus, Latvia.
I first read about in on a local Latvian Daily Business newspaper, and soon as I had the chance took our baby girl to play here.
Amusement park "Happy Kids" at the…
Oskars Kalpaks Museum and Memorial Place "Airītes"
Oskars Kalpaks Museum and Memorial Place "Airītes" is a branch of the Latvian War Museum established in memory of the hero of the Latvian War of Independence Colonel Oskars Kalpaks in "Airītes", Zirņi Parish, Saldus Region.
On March 6, 1919 during…
Rundāle Palace and Garden
Rundāle Palace is one of the two major baroque palaces built for the Dukes of Courland in what is now Latvia, the other being Jelgava Palace. The palace was built in two periods, from 1736 until 1740 and from…
Taverna in Bauska
Taverna is a restaurant, centrally located in the Bauska town, Latvia, serving traditional Latvian cuisine.
I have been coming to this place once in a while (if in the area), so did happen last time, back in July 2019, while we…
National Library of Latvia
The National Library of Latvia, also known as Castle of Light is located on Mūkusalas iela 3, Riga - on the left side of river Daugava, opposite to Old Riga
The current building was designed in 1989 by noted Latvian-American architect …
Aparthotel Autosole Riga
Located opposite a park in the historical centre of Riga on Hospitāļu street.
Aparthotel Autosole offers to its guests 10 comfortable apartments and studios.
We have been staying at this hotel several times, with the first stay being back in 2017…
Semarah Lielupe Hotel & SPA
Lielupe Hotel SPA & Conferences by Semarah is located in a calm area of Jurmala, surrounded by forest and 400 m from the Baltic Sea. It features a spacious kids club with different games and toys.
We booked this hotel in mid-December 2019, for…
Guest house / Viesu Māja 'Kuncīši' near Murjāņi
Featuring free WiFi and a barbecue, Viesumāja Kuncīši Murjāņos offers accommodation in Murjāņi, 41 km from the center of Rīga. Free private parking is available on site.
We booked guesthouse Kuncīši for a one night stay in July 2019, we paid EUR…
Hotel 'Keizarmezs' Review in Riga
The Keizarmezs is located on the shore of Lake Kisezers in the Mezaparks district, a 20-minute drive from Riga’s centre. A private car park is available free of charge.
We booked a couple of nights here in July 2019, during our visit to Riga…
Grill&Fish Jomas terase, Jūrmala
Grill&Fish Jomas terase is another stylish restaurant located on central Jomas street in busy Latvian seaside town Jūrmala.
We visited this place in early May 2019, during a short 10 day trip to Latvia.
Grill bar Lighthouse…
Villa St Maria Boutique hotel Jūrmala
Offering a sauna, boutique hotel Villa St Maria is set in the heart of Jurmala on the main pedestrian promenade Jomas street, some 400 m from Dzintari Concert Hall.
In summers guests can enjoy a lounge terrace on the rooftop of the hotel and an on-…
Grill Bar Lighthouse Jūrmala
Grill bar Lighthouse is centrally located on Jomas street in Jūrmala.
We visited this place in early May 2019, during a short 10 day trip to Latvia. Before diving in details - I should note - grill bar Lighthouse is a kid-friendly place…
Cabo Cafe
Cabo cafe is a cafe with a unique charm, located in Mežaparks, on the very shore of lake Ķīšezers.
Cabo cafe serves burgers, french fries, and delicious shashlik. First discovered by a recommendation from a friend. Now visited pretty regular…
Autosole Economy Motel in Riga
Autosole Economy is set in a wooden building, 3 km from Riga’s Old Town.
We booked Autosole Economy for one night back in September 2017, paid for a stay here ~ EUR 60.
Despite a week ago we stayed at 4-star Park Hotel by Radisson hotel…
Park Inn by Radisson Riga Valdemara
Built in 2016, Park Inn by Radisson Riga Valdemara invites its guests to stay on the western side of Daugava River with good connections to the Old Town, Riga International Airport and main sights. Guests can enjoy a meal at the onsite restaurant,…
Restaurant 'Piano" in Liepāja
The 'Piano' is a World class restaurant located in Promenade hotel in Liepāja
Enjoy delicious meals and a romantic, relaxed atmosphere at "Piano" restaurant located in "Promenade Hotel".
I first discovered and tried Piano restaurant back in…
Hotel Talsi
Hotel “Talsi” is located in a picturesque place, next to Vilkumuiza lake. Hotel "TALSI" offers 53 different standard Single, Double rooms and comfortable Suites.
I booked Hotel Talsi, for a couple of days (nights) in August 2017. As…
Bīne Restaurant in Talsi
Bīne restaurant is located in Talsi, on Krišjāņa Valdemāra street 13, close to the Hotel Talsi.
That's how I actually discovered this place back in 2017, while I stayed for a couple of nights at Hotel Talsi this restaurant/cafeteria was the closest…
Cinevilla Studio backlot
Cinevilla is a backlot in the Tukums Municipality in Slampe parish, Latvia, and was created for the outdoor shootings of the feature film Defenders of Riga.
It is the only backlot in Latvia, and consists…
Jūrmala airport
Jūrmala Airport (ICAO: EVJA) is an airport located 5 km (3 mi) in the Engure parish, Latvia, southeast of Tukums. The airport is located in the territory of the former army airfield.
All of the…
Cafe / Bistro Dukāts
Cafe/bar/ bakery Dukāts is located in Dubulti, Jūrmala close to the Dubulti church.
During 2018 we lived for a while next to the Dukāts and visited this place quite often to have a bistro style dinner or buying some…
Restaurant Laivas
Dine in amazing ambiance on the banks of Lielupe river, in Jūrmala, Latvia.
We visited Restaurant Laivas for a brunch menu (if I remember correct EUR 18 per person) back in June 2018.
Now I have another great addition to Jūrmala…
Pokaiņi Forest
The Pokaini Forest, located 80 km south-west of Riga, Latvia near the small town of Dobele is a place where myths, superstition and mysterious events co-exist.
The Pokaini Forest is a picturesque location and an ancient holy site famous for the…
Panorama Riga Observation Deck (Latvian Academy of Sciences)
The 107-meter tall building is considered the first high-rise in Latvia. It has been a prominent fixture of the Riga cityscape since the 1950s.
There are a total of 766 rooms on the 23 floors, occupied by scientists, researchers, historians, and…
Cafe "Kāpenieki" in Aizpute
Cafe Kāpenieki has been one of my best finds in the Aizpute town in Western Latvia. Tasty, traditional Latvian cuisine for a very decent price.
The fun fact, at this place in May 2018 I opened my first online brokerage account and soon…
Bird Watching Tower on Sloka Lake
Bird watching tower on Sloka lake actually is a floating platform which is a very popular tourist attraction among the locals and bird watchers.
Discovered in the early May 2018, during our "living in Jūrmala" series.
Bird watching tower…
Mangaļsala Pier
The Mangalsala Dam or the Eastern Mole has been built between 1850 and 1861 and rumor has the Russian Empire's Tsar actively followed the developments (back in those days there were two tsars ruling the Empire, Nicholas I and Alexander II). …
Hotel Baltvilla in Baltezers
Baltvilla is a 4-star hotel located some 15 km from the city center of Riga, on the shore of a lake with a private beach area and on the Via Baltica highway (E67).
Baltvilla is located 4 km from Latvian Ethnographic Open-Air Museum. Free…
The Botanical Garden of the University of Latvia
The Botanical Garden of the University of Latvia is located in Pardaugava (Kandavas 2), just a 10-minute ride from the central part of Riga. The garden was founded in 1922.
Over 15ha visitors can explore hothouses and outdoor collections…
Kalvene Railway Station
Kalvene Station is a railway station on the Jelgava – Liepāja Railway.
The station is located in the Kalvenes municipality of the Aizpute district in Latvia. I noticed this railway couple of years ago and was amazed by its…
Gutmanis Cave in Sigulda
Gutman's Cave (Latvian: Gūtmaņa ala) is the widest and highest cave in the Baltic countries, located on the Gauja River in the National Park of Sigulda, Latvia.
It started forming more than 10 000 years…
Cafe Ivetas Ķēķis / Jura Staļļi / Grobiņa
Cafe Ivetas Ķēķis (Iveta's Kitchen) is located in Grobiņa municipality, some 10km from Liepāja, this cafe/restaurant actually is part of another cool attraction Jura Staļļi (George's Stables). From my understanding, it's a family run business.…
Red Sun Buffet Liepāja
Red Sun Buffet is a stylish cafe/restaurant located in the heart of Liepāja town.
Visited it briefly in the mid-August 2018, just to take some coffee take away.
Interior at Red Sun Buffet
Featuring elements Latvians are proud of -…
Wild Horses at the Lake Pape (Latvia)
Now, this is an interesting story - we didn't meet any wild horses tonight, but found some great information. At least I did. It turns out, wild horses have been living here just since 1999 when WWF-Latvia started to stimulate the return of wild…
Europa City Amrita Hotel Review in Liepāja
Europa City Amrita Hotel is located in the centre of Liepāja. We booked this 4-star hotel in mid-August 2018 and stayed here for two nights in total paying EUR ~110.
The 4-star hotel offers rooms with a flat-screen TV with cable channels…
Pape Lighthouse
The Pape Lighthouse (Latvian: Papes bāka) is a lighthouse located on the Latvian coast of the Baltic Sea. I paid a short visit here during my 33 birthday in August 2018.
The lighthouse was built in…
Padure Manor in Latvia
I'm continuing to explore manor houses located in Latvia. This time a short stop at Padure manor near Aizpute
Padure manor in 2018
In 2018, there was located Laža special school in Padure manor. See: http://lazasskola.lv/
Dubulti Evangelical Lutheran Church
Dubulti church, the most expressive object and the visual dominant of the surrounding area is the most monumental and exquisite Art Nouveau building in Jurmala from the viewpoint of historical and sacral architecture.
The size and details of the…
Pica Diāna - Pizzeria in Ventspils
Pizza Diana probably is the most popular pizzeria in Ventspils. This Pizzeria offers more than 25 types of pizzas and various second dishes at very friendly prices.
Located on J.Poruka street in an old 5-story Soviet apartment house, the…
Viewing Platform In Ventspils
You can have a look at the city from the bird’s eye view from the 19 meters high viewing tower located next to the Ventspils Southern quay.
When visiting a new place for the first time I'm always looking for some observation desk to make…
Venstpils Livonian Order Castle
The Castle of the Livonian Order, which houses Ventspils Museum since September 2001, is the oldest preserved building in Ventspils, built in the second half of the 13th century (first mentioned in 1290).
The castle was built as a convent-house…
Rāmkalni restaurant near Murjāņi
Rāmkalni is a popular recreational area near Murjāņi (some 60km from Riga), this place features a traditional Latvian Cusine restaurant/bistro
The venue is on the edge of the Murjāņi-Valka road (A3) and in the Gauja River Valley. It offers…
Miciņi
Miciņi has a very special place in my heart. I spent a good time in my early teenage years living here together with my dear granny. In fact, she was born here in 1929. Back in these days, a life buzzed in this area. Now, little has left over from…
Valmiera Market
Valmiera market is another market I've visited latelty in Latvia (See: Riga Central Market, Liepāja market and Kuldiga market).
Though I believe some could buy here goodies grown by local farmers, last time I visited this market (July 2017)…
Mazais Ansis Restaurant Near Valmiera
Mazais Ansis is a popular roadside cafeteria/restaurant located some 15 km from Valmiera town (if driving from Riga). This place serves a traditional Latvian cuisine.
When traveling to the Vidzeme region in Latvia, I love to take a stop here and…
Former bath-house of Emilija Racene in Jurmala
When thinking about bathhouses the first thing that arrives in my head is the sulphur bathhouses located in Tbilisi, should they be located in the Abanotubani district or the old and neglected Kiev's bath.
Turns out there is not less…
Lake Ķīšezers
Ķīšezers is a lake in Riga, Latvia, with a primary inflow of the Jugla River. The lake is 1,730 ha (4,300 acres) large, it has 2.4 metres (7 ft 10 in) of average depth and reaches 4.2 metres (14 ft) at the…
Pontoon Footbridge Over Mill Lake In Kazdanga
The pontoon footbridge over Mill Lake in Kazdanga, Latvia is a recently built and opened for a public a really cool tourist attraction.
Such tourist attractions seem is really gaining the momentum in Latvia, as in fact, this is…
The Great Kemeri Bog Boardwalk
The Great Kemeri Bog Boardwalk is a popular tourist destination in Kemeri National Park, offering visitors a chance to explore the bog and its inhabitants.
As we have been relocated to Latvia's Jūrmala for some time, we decided to explore nearby…
Restaurant Istabas In Talsi Review
Restaurant Istabas in Talsi is among the best restaurants I've tried in Latvia lately, located on Liela street 31 in Talsi city, the restaurant offers great views of Lake Talsi .
Istabas restaurant serves great…
Talsi Evangelical Lutheran Church
On the top of the abrupt Baznīcaskalns (Church Hill) stands the white masonry Talsi church – the dominant of the old town.
It was built in 1567 and later rebuilt for several times. A transept and sacristy are attached to a…
Talsi Regional Museum
Talsi has been on my radar since the Summer of 2017. One of the first tourism attractions I discovered here is Talsi Regional Museum.
For a long time, I thought it's probably some manor house or something, but doing a…
Hiking Trails in Kemeri National Park (Near Forest House)
Kemeri National Park in Latvia is special for its great biological diversity, the unique Kemeri Bog, mineral waters and therapeutic mud found here.
It was on a lazy Sunday afternoon we decided to visit Kemeri National Park, as we had no…
Rixwell Elefant Hotel Riga Review
Rixwell Elefant Hotel is a 4-star superior hotel and it is conveniently located between Riga International Airport, which is a 5-minute drive away, and the city centre. Shopping center Spice is within walking distance from…
Rose Garden 'Dailas Rozes' near Tukums in Latvia
We received a special request, from a special person, to deliver park rose Rītausma, which could translate as Dawn in English.
Rītausma is a local, Latvia selected park rose breed. To get one (seedling price was about EUR 5), we had to cross…
Abava Rumba Waterfall
Abava Rumba is the second widest waterfall in Latvia (after Venta Rumba) ,up to 1 m high and 35 m wide.
I had a chance to visit it and spend some hour in lovely photography session at the end of May 2017, just after our Germany trip in the Mossel…
Peter's Market in Liepaja
Peter's market is centrally located on Kuršu street in Liepāja, Latvia. There are more than 200 sales outlets. It's the largest market in Liepaja and second largest in Latvia (after Riga Central market).
Make sure to visit Peter's market…
Sunset hotel in Jurmala
I now have a great selection of Jurmala hotels, in todays article the latest addition - Hotel Sunset on Pilsonu street in Jurmala. When traveling to or from Riga and looking for a cheap stay I prefer Jurmala (as it's close to Riga) or some suburbs…
Cafe - Hotel Kandava
Kandava is a small but lovely town in the Western Latvia. I haven't been here many times, just some 3-4, but I really enjoy these small and tranquil Latvian towns. We were just driving around Latvia and around meal time discovered we are in Kandava…
Spare Hotel in Riga
Spare Hotel is located a 5-minute drive from Riga International Airport and 7 minutes from the historic city centre. It features free parking and an on-site bowling complex. We booked Spare hotel for a short stay in Riga for one night. …
Hotel Mezaparks in Riga
Hotel Mezaparks in Riga is a really great value deal for a very affordable price (we paid about EUR 30). Located next to the lake Kisezers and just 15 minute drive from the Old town. We booked hotel Mezaparks for one night stay in Spring…
Darbnīca Cafe Liepāja
Centrally located on Lielā street in Liepāja, Darbnīca Cafe is another nice addition to my Liepāja restaurant reviews (they are few, I know).
We travel to Liepāja once in a while, during our Summer's in Latvia, mostly for buying some…
Campsite 'Miera Osta' near Pāvilosta
I'm a huge admirer of Latvian seashore town of Pāvilosta. I guess I first discovered it just last year. This Summer we spent many trips to Pāvilosta and vicinity - just by doing nothing - wandering around.
The other weekend we found a new…
Akmenrags Lighthouse
Akmenrags Lighthouse (Latvian: Akmeņraga bāka) - a lighthouse on the Latvian coast of the Baltic Sea, located to the south of the resort town of Pāvilosta.
I first visited Akmensrags Lighthouse in the mid…
Jurkalne Seashore Bluffs
The Jurkalne Seashore bluffs (Jūrkalnes stāvkrasti) are one of the most picturesque parts of Latvia's Western part seashore, located some 20 km from Pāvilosta.Jūrkanle bluffs are great for photography or quiet walk near the beach. The bluffs in…
Rude Manor
Rude manor (Rudes muiža) is located in Laidi parish, Kuldīga district Latvia. According to Kuldīga tourism information center it's one of the best preserved Empire style manors in Kurzeme.
Rude manor complex with a simple, but elegant…
Peony Nursery „Ziedoņi”
Peony nursery Ziedoņi is located in the Western Latvia, district of Kuldīga in Pelči village. I had a chance to visit this garden mid June 2016, at time when flowers did bloom.
I wouldn't call this a little Latvian Keukenhof, but some great…
Hotel Fontaine Royal Review In Liepāja
Set in a converted factory building along the Tirdzniecības kanāls, this laid-back hotel with quirky, royal-inspired interiors is 8 minutes' walk from the Liepajas theater and 6 km from tours of the Karostas Cietums prison.
The eclectic,…
Kuldīga Food Market
Kuldīga Food Market (Kuldīgas pārtikas tirgus, in Latvian) is located on Aizputes street 2a in Kuldīga, Latvia.
Frankly speaking I have no idea why they call it a food market, as from food there are little to nothing to choose. Instead this is a…
Guest House / Restaurant 'Āķa Gals' in Pāvilosta
If there is a reason I would love to return to Latvian coastal town of Pāvilosta - cuisine served at restaurant Āķa Gals will be probably at top of my priorities.
Cozy tavern located in the dunes of Pāvilosta, only 100 meters from the sea, is…
Pāvilosta piers and Lighthouse
If planing your trip to Latvian coastal town of Pāvilosta don't forget to plan a trip to Pāvilosta piers, grab your camera and make some stunning sunset photography here.
I first visited the piers of Pāvilosta and the town at the end of…
Saka Baptist Church
An interesting church I discovered driving Aizpute - Pāvilosta road, back at the Summer 2015 - Meet Saka Baptist church in the middle of nowhere. Thus the church was closed, I was amazed of how well the territory around Saka Baptist church was…
Awakening garden in Aizpute
Almost in the city center of Aizpute, on Atmodas street is located Awakening garden (Atmodas dārzs, in Latvian). It's created by group of people from cross-art organization 'Serde' ('Core')
The second life is given to empty…
Guest House Hapi in Jūrmala
If there is a reason I will remember Hapi guest house in Jūrmala, then probably its green walls and super unprofessional staff attitude will be among top of them.
Hapi guesthouse in Jūrmala
We stayed here for one night back in August 2015…
House Of Food / Fontaine Palace in Liepāja
House Of Food is a place to eat good, quick international food from all corners of the world. Louie Fontaine, the owner and rock musician, has designed the place with a feel similar to a 50’s American diner, with an open kitchen and restaurant…
Cafe 'Jumis' in Skrunda
Cafe Jumis in Skrunda was among my top dining places during Summer 2015, because of it's close location to our rural house.
Located next to the highway connecting Riga with Liepaja in Skrunda town, they serve a typical bistro food here for a…
Cafe 'Pagrabiņš' in Kuldīga
If you are the lucky one and you have a chance to visit picturesque Latvian town of Kuldīga, make sure you make your dinning out at town's of of the best cafe's/ restaurant - Cafe Pagrabiņš.
Or take a look of another Kuldīga restaurants here.…
Campsite Kurzemes Pērle
Campsite Kurzemes pērle is located in the beautiful and picturesque surroundings just 200 meters from the Sepenes Lake.
I discovered this place doing a random driving around spectacular places in Latvia. Just after Podnieku Lake and Pastaiga…
Recreation Center Near Tirelu Lake - Pastaiga Mākoņos
We were just randomly driving around beautiful Latvia and headed here just after had a stop at Podnieku lake.
This place is pretty popular and well known for locals and huge was our surprise when we noticed a turnpike which stopped our ride in the…
Podnieku Lake Near Kalvene in Latvia
Podnieku lake is located close to the Kalvene in Western Latvia. We headed here while returning back from Liepāja (probably we were eating paella's and empanadas at Tex-Mex Klondaika restaurant prior).
This lake seems in past has been…
Tex-Mex Klondaika Restaurant in Liepāja
Tex-Mex Klondaika in Liepāja is among one of my favorite Liepāja restaurants. I can't say I'm visiting this seaside town too often, but once I'm here I'm looking for this brand.
Located on lovely Stendera street in almost Liepāja …
Car Service in Kazdanga
If you are having troubles with engine, need to change a tire or just looking to replace oil and you are stuck in Kazdanga area (Latvia) there is one car service I can recommend. Since I believe it's the one and only one in Kazdanga, let's name it…
Abandoned Airfield Near P104 (Jaunpils-Tukums) Road (Latvia)
As I stated in my previous post about beautiful poppy fields near P104 Jaunipils - Tukums road in Latvia, there is a hidden treasure inside those lovely fields - an abandoned airfield.
I doubt it has been used for any military…
Riga Central Market
Riga Central Market as I believe is among of of the top Riga attractions a tourist might want to visit and see. First opened to public in 1930, with main structures of the market built by reusing old German Zeppelin hangars, it now…
Beautiful Poppy Field Near P104 (Jaunpils-Tukums) Road (Latvia)
Some might think what's so special with those poppy fields in some place called near P104 road in Latvia, and I might reply - probably there is nothing special, but since we used this bypass road to get to Riga all the Summer along, we…
Café 'Staburadze' Review in Kuldīga (Latvia)
Cafe Staburadze is located on Liepajas street in Kuldiga. Here serves a traditional Latvian cuisine (pork chops and other stuff) and ... I just love this place.
After I had tried almost all of the Kuldīga cafe's and restaurants…
Deer Park "Rudiņi" in Latvia
Lovely things happened on June's late evening, we most probably traveled back from Riga to our wolf's lair and noticed a strange construction - The Bridge to nowhere, after I took few photos back there, we continued our drive and suddenly second…
Bridge To Nowhere (Latvia)
It was a late June evening and we most probably returned from Riga to our wolf's lair when suddenly we noticed very interesting object - The Bridge To Nowhere.
The bridge reminds of the intended construction of Tukums-Kuldīga railroad, which was…
Skrunda Open-Air Stage and Park
I just love Skrunda, like I have dedicated a lot of posts to this lovely small Latvian town in Western Latvia. So today is no exception - meet another tourist attraction in this marvelous town - Open air stage and park. You will just love this place…
Skrunda Manor and Hotel
Skrunda Manor is an attractive final destination in the culturally historical region of Kurzeme (Courland) in Latvia. What's use to been a manor house now is turned into a boutique hotel in Western Latvia. I know for sure they have restaurant on…
Brethren Cemetery ensemble in Nīkrāce (Latvia)
It was hard for me to decide should I put this place as a tourist attraction or as a military heritage, I opted for the second one. You see, things related to WW2, especially like Brethren Cemeteries is hard to call tourist attractions, right?
So,…
Lēnas Holy Trinity Roman Catholic church (Latvia)
Lēnu church (Latvian: Lēnu baznīca) is located in Latvia, historical region of Courland in Skrunda municipality. I first discovered this place either in 2013, or 2014, and in fact I was surprised to learn than in Western Latvia (Courland) there…
Rhododendron Garden in Cirava (Latvia)
If you are heading to a remote Latvian village Cirava, you have few options to make your visit pleasant here, like there are very interesting but abandoned manor complex and a lovely church.However, local residents at Cirava has something else…
Cirava Evangelic Lutheran Church
Cirava Evangelic Lutheran Church is located in historical region of Courland in Latvia. Cirava church is closely located to Cirava manor complex, those of you traveling to Latvia and especially to Courland, it's woth to pay a visit to Cirava as well…
Abandoned Manor Complex in Cirava (Latvia)
Now, this was a quite interesting experience discovering a small village in western Latvia (region of Courland) - Cirava.
I was so fascinated about this place that I decided to make two separate articles - one for the manor complex and the second…
Monument to the Sailors and Fishermen Perished in the Sea (Liepāja)
Although this monument in Liepaja (in seaside park) is dedicated to the sailors and fishermen perished in the sea I decided to add this place in military heritage category, because for me it kinda reminds something from Soviet military. Well…
Liepāja Seaside Park and Blue Flag Beach
I'm continuing my Latvia travel guide notes I have taken (photographed) at start of the June 2015. This time I visited a lovely Liepaja Seaside Park and Blue Flag Beach.
Map of the Liepaja seaside park
According to the official Latvia…
Cafe Pīlādzītis in Kuldīga
Cafe Pīlādzītis is located in Kuldīga, on picturesque place with great views both to Venta waterfall and Old Brick bridge. This place offers a typical Latvian cuisine. For a complete list of my Kuldiga restaurant reviews see: Kuldīga…
Guest House "Garīkas" in Latvia
Although this post should probably go into hotel review category, taking into consideration that I haven't stayed here overnight I'm listing this place under tourist attractions. And here are few reasons that made me think that Guest house…
Bandžēni Farm
Now, some of you already of you know my love of different agricultural farming things, like once I visited a dairy farm in Georgia, then I visited a fish farm (again in Georgia), this time I visited an agricultural company in Latvia - meet Bandžēni…
Cafe Bordertauna Close to Saldus
Cafe Bordertauna (Bordertown) is located in the Novadnieku parish in distance of some 3 km from Saldus city. I visited this place after a Kutaisi - Vilnius flight and then Vilnius - Mazeikai transfer. At time I visited cafe…
Riga International Coach Terminal
Riga international coach terminal or bus station is a major traffic hub in Latvia and Baltics. I last time visited this place and used Riga - Vilnius coach transfer and then departed from Vilnius to Kutaisi. This coach terminal is situated in the…
Dali Cafe & Art in Riga
Dali Cafe & Art is located in Spikeri quarter in Riga, I visited this place at night before leaving Riga (right next on the corner from this place is Riga bus station) and headed to Tbilisi (a long way, via Vilnius and Kutaisi). The night I…
Spikeri Quarter and Promenade in Riga
Spikeri quarter and promenade is recently renovated neighborhood in Riga and it has all chances to become a very popular tourist spot in Riga. This place is closely located to Riga Central market (I will write about in anytime soon), Riga…
Dzintari Concert Hall
Dzintari concert hall is popular throughout Latvia as a place where concerts and other events are held, where outstanding artists have been performing for almost for 70 summers now.
I discovered this place by accident during my cycling Jūrmala…
Hotel Dzintars Review in Jūrmala, Latvia
Dzintars hotel is located in Latvian beach resort city Jūrmala - very close to the nations capital city Riga (some 30 minutes drive).
The reason I chose this hotel is plain simple - my brother works as a concierge here (family ties) and this hotel…
St. John's Church in Saldus
Some time ago I visited a lovely town Saldus (located some 100km from capital Riga), one of the main sights here is a church - St. John's Church of Saldus. As usual I took my camera and made a few shots here.
The altarpiece at Saldus St. John's…
The Evangelical Lutheran Church of Skrunda
History of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Skrunda dates back to 1668 as stated on official Skrunda municipality website. I took my camera and went to memorize this place.
Skrunda church
Bell tower of Skrunda Church
Back view…
Skrunda Cultural Center
Right, I just made this name - Skrunda Cultural Center what is a direct translation from Latvian Skrundas Kultūras Centrs.
I wouldn't probably mention this place on my blog, but since lately I have been travelling around Skrunda a lot, I decided…
The Stender’s Bar&Club in Kuldīga
I believe soon I will have a complete list of Kuldīga restaurants, but prior that I would like to introduce you another interesting place in this charming Curonian city, meet The Stender's Bar & Club.
Stender's Bar&Club is located…
Širhans - Azerbaijani cuisine in Riga, Latvia
Širhans (Shirhan) is a lovely restaurant serving Azerbaijani cuisine located in the suburbs of Sarkandaugava in Riga, Latvia (Meža Prospekts 90).
I visited this place just shortly after a visit to Riga Zoo.
If you just like me enjoy Caucasian…
Riga Zoo
Riga Zoo is a city-owned zoo in Riga, Latvia. It is located in Mežaparks neighbourhood next to the Mežaparks park, on the western bank of Ķīšezers lake. Riga Zoo houses around 4000 animals of nearly 500 species and is visited by 250-300,000 visitors…
Dobele Castle Ruins
Right, lets speak about a topic I like a very much - Castle ruins. Recently I visited Dobele Castle Ruins (Republic of Latvia) and spent here some 30 minutes trying to make some decent photos of this place. History of this castle dates back to the…
Dobele Evangelical Lutheran Church
I was surprised to learn that this church is more than 500 years old. Prior I learnt that I was even more surprised to learn that Dobele town has a lovely historical centre. This church is located just next to this historical centre.
I took my…
The Historical Centre of Dobele - Marketplace Square
Dobele is a small town located in historical region of Zemgale in Latvia some 60 km South West from nations capital city Riga. One thing a tourist should visit while in Dobele definitely is it's historical centre - marketplace square. In recent…
Cafe 'Dzirnaviņas' in Biksti
Cafe Dzirnaviņas is located on the roadside of Riga - Liepaja highway in a small county of Biksti. This place serves a traditional Latvian cuisine for a very affordable prices.
Cafe Dzirnavinas
Menu at Cafe Dzirnavinas
As usual it might…
Skrunda Bus Station
Skrunda bus station is a regional bus station serving local Latvian cities and town. It mainly serves Riga and Liepaja route, but you can get from here to Kuldīga, Kazdanga and other local routes. If you are heading to Skrunda by bus you can either…
Rudzisu Stone
We discovered Rudzisu Stone (Rudzīšu akmens) by accident driving some remote roads in Latvian countryside. What at start seemed an easy task turned to be a mini hiking tour. Although there is a tourist sign right next to the road some (perhaps…
Berghof Restaurant Review in Dairy Manor, Sieksāte, Latvia
This restaurant is located inside the Dairy Manor Berghof complex. During my visit at this complex I had a chance to try a local delicacy like salmon tartar at this restaurant. I learned there exists a gadget called a tea timer while I enjoyed my…
Dairy Manor Berghof
Dairy Manor (Piena Muiža in Latvian) Berghof is located in the remote Latvian village of Sieksāte some 160 km from capital Riga. This manor complex serves a hotel, retaurant, museum and a lovely park.
Bicycle parking at Berghof
Some (…
The Northern Forts of Liepaja
If you just like me are into fortification systems you will definitely enjoy The Northern Forts of Liepaja.
Built by Imperial Russia at the end of the 19th century and at the beginning of 20th century to provide the protection of Liepāja’s naval…
Caffe 'Lielā Pietura' Review in Grobiņa, Latvia
Caffe 'Lielā Pietura' literally translates as 'The Great Stop' and there is no surprise of this name, this cafeteria is actually located close to the ... a bus stop in Grobiņa, connecting capital city Rīga with Liepāja. This cafeteria serves…
Livonian Order Castle Ruins at Aizpute
I have always been into a digging stuff and walking around old ancient sites is just one of my favorite activities to do. Also I'm into a history. So it's no surprise I visited a site called Livonian Order Castle Ruins at Aizpute.
If you are not…
Aizpute Saint John’s church
The Saint John evangelic Lutheran church in Aizpute is one of the oldest churches in Courland, historical region of Latvia. On a rainy day I took my DSLR camera and headed to Aizpute Church mound to photograph this ancient site. Latter I was…
Kazdanga Mill Lake And Its Surroundings
Kazdanga Mill lake (Dzirnezers, Dzirnavu ezers in Latvian) and its surroundings is lovely I would even say a touristic place in a small Latvian village of Kazdanga.
Someone (perhaps you) will find a lot of outdoor activities to do here - starting…
Kazdanga Manor
Kazdanga manor is located in Courland historical region of Latvia.
As I have already stated back when visited Snēpele manor - Latvia is a land of old manor houses and palaces, they dates back from the times when German nobles ruled…
Valtaiķi Evangelical Lutheran Church
When I was back in Germany and visited Germany's most visited landmark - The Cologne's Cathedral my travel mate said to me - it (Cologne's Cathedral) doesn't impress me as much as Valtaiķi church in Latvia. I looked at her - and asked, what?…
Restaurant 'Kūriņš' In Jūrmala, Latvia
Restaurant Kūriņš in Jūrmala serves a traditional Latvian cuisine. It's located close to the seashore in Kauguri (part of Jūrmala). Rumour has it - in weekends it's hard to get a table here. The reason probably is a great food, large portions and a…
The Orthodox Church of Kuldiga
I have been lately a lot in church photography. Perhaps Georgia as an Orthodox country has learned me this lesson. Churches are interesting for photography, I believe it's pretty hard to take a decent image of a church by not using some good lenses…
Daigas Bakery In Kuldiga
Daigas Bakery (Daigas beķereja) is one of my favourite bakery places in Kuldiga. The reason is plain simple - the pastries Daiga and her team is baking here are one of the best in the whole region and I'm not afraid to say - they are among the best…
Confectionery 'Kukulītis' in Kuldīga
One thing I really enjoy at small Latvian towns - they offer a charm and a personal touch. And you will find a lot of from both in the town of Kuldīga located in Western Latvia.
On a lovely Wednesday morning I was doing some random photography…
Skrunda-1 Abandoned Soviet Military Ghost Town In Latvia
Update: Originally I visited Skrunda - 1 in Summer 2015, Skrunda -1 is closed for public visitors in 2022
Skrunda-1, also known as Skrunda-2, is a ghost town and former Soviet and later Russian radar station located 5 km (3 mi) to the north of…
Snēpele Manor
Latvia is a land of old manor houses and palaces, they dates back from the times when German nobles ruled this territory. A lot of manors one (perhaps you) can find in a historical region of Courland. I found this interesting Snēpele manor during a…
Bangert's Restaurant Review in Kuldiga
Bangert's restaurant is kinda a new restaurant located on the banks of river Venta between Old Brick Bridge and the Venta Waterfall on Pils street 1 in Kuldīga.
I first visited this restaurant last summer and found it a really great. So on the…
The Venta Waterfall (Rapid) - Widest In Europe
The Venta rapid forms a widest waterfall in Europe. It's located very close to Kuldīga town centre in Latvia.
See: Flying Fish over Venta Rapid in Kuldīga
I took my DSLR camera and decided to master my photography skills, couldn't say it…
The Old Brick Bridge Across The Venta River In Kuldīga
Brick bridge in Kuldīga over the river of Venta according to some sources is the longest of its kind bridge in Europe.
I believe nobody actually pays attention to the lengths of this bridge instead I believe the reason everyone enjoys it - it just…
Bakery Lāči
Some Latvians prefer to call Bakery Lāči a top notch place for foreigners to visit. So I decided to visit this place and make some short review of it.
This bakery is located outside the capital Riga and you can reach it by driving route A9 (which…
Neighbourhoods of Riga: Iļģuciems
Iļģuciems is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Riga. History of this neighborhood dates back to the early 13th century. Back in 1236 a small manor was built here and given the name of Hiligen geest hove (Heiligen Geist Hof) in English meaning…
Bakuzi cemetery
Bakuzi cemetery (Latvian: Bākūžu kapsēta) is located in region of Courland (Latvia) in parish of Rudbarzi, Skrunda Municipality. The history of this cemetery dates back to at least to mid 18th century (I found old grave cross with…
Riga Airport
Riga International Airport, also know as RIX is a largest airport in the Baltic states located in capital of Latvia. Airport is located some 13km distance from city centre of Riga. I was agreeably surprised by noticing it was quiet and still here at…
Laidi Manor
Laidi manor or palace (Laidu muiža - pils in Latvian) is a very cool tourism sight in Laidi parish, Kuldīga municipality, in the historical region of Courland (Kurzeme)
Built in the early 19th century by the local German nobility, it has housed the…
Vilgāle
Vilgāle (formerly also Saldenieki) is a village in Kurmāle Parish, Kuldīga District, Latvia. Located on the shores of Lake Vilgāle. Distance to Kuldīga 17 km, 181 km from Rīga. Back in September 2020, I bought a flat in this village in an online auction (without actually seeing the flat), see: Today I bought my first flat on online auction site, It took me a couple of months before I actually get inside the flat (after the flat was…
Embūte Castle
The ruins of Embūte Castle are located in Embūte, Latvia, in Embūte Parish, Vaiņode Municipality, not far from an ancient hillfort erected by Curonians. It was an ancient Curonian settlement and is mentioned in ancient chronicles as a place with strong Curonian resistance to German crusaders. The bishop's castle was built as a border castle with Lithuania by Livonian Order…
Zaķu krogs near Jūrkalne
Zaķu krogs is both a restaurant a hotel located near Jūrkalne in Latvia. We discovered this place while driving around Užava, Pāvilosta, and decided to take here a quick stop to order some food for our toddler girl. Just later I learned there is a hotel also located. Zaķu krogs near Jūrkalne Located in Jūrkalne, Zaku Krogs is about 0.9 mi yards away from a Baltic Sea beach. It offers basic rooms with a work desk. Free private…
Devil's Dam Embūte (Joda Dambis)
Devil's Dam of Embūte is an awesome place for hiking and trekking in the Courland region. We first discovered this site at the end of 2020, and plan to return here more often. Devil's Dam from a drone flight Taken with DJI MAVIC AIR 2 Here is what I was able to find about this place (Source: Joda Dambis) At the western foot of the Indulis (or Curonian) castle mound is the Joda Lower Square, where open-air stages have been built…
Embute Church Ruins
The Embūte church is located in the Embūte Nature park, nowadays, there are just remains left from the old day glory. It was in a hazy December 2020 afternoon, I took my DJI Mavic Air 2 Drone and made some nice aerial photography and even a video here, see Embūte Nature Park 4K. Ancient Curonian Land. Latvia . DJI MAVIC AIR 2 Embūte church Here is what I was able to find about this church (source: Embūtes baznīcas drupas) The…
Īvande Manor
Īvande Manor, also called Lielīvande Manor, is a manor house in Īvande parish in Kuldīga municipality in the historical region of Courland, in western Latvia. The manor Groß-Iwanden was created by the merger of several small estates. In the middle of the 16th century the estate was owned by the family of Rudolf Steinrat. Ivande manor Three generations remained the property in the family Steinrat and was…
Ēdole Castle
Ēdole Castle is a Gothic Revival castle situated on the banks of Ēdole Lake, Ēdole parish, in the historical region of Courland, western Latvia. Originally consisting of two residential buildings linked by a stone wall, the castle is surrounded by a landscaped park. It is considered an architectural and archeological monument of national importance. Ēdole Castle The castle was built for the bishop of …
Kronvalda Park in Riga
Kronvalda Park (originally Strēlnieku dārzs) is a part of the greenery of the Old Riga canal bank. The total area of the park is 11.92 ha. Kronvalda park which borders Elizabetes and Kr. Valdemāra Street, as well as Kronvalda and Kalpaka Boulevards. The city canal divides the park into two parts. Kronvalda park in Riga I spent a good hour with our toddler baby girl and DJI Mavic Air 2 drone to capture some nice aerial photography of…
Apriķi Lutheran Church
Apriķi church is located in the Apriķi village, Laža parish, Aizpute district in the Western part of Latvia (Courland). Apriķi church is considered to be the pearl of Courland sacral art because the glory of its indoor interior is remembered by every visitor. Apriķi Lutheran Church The stone church is built on Apriķi manor house land as Osten-Sakenu private church in the beginning of 17th century. The church got its…
St Nicholas Naval Cathedral, Karosta / Liepāja
The St Nicholas Naval Cathedral is a Russian Orthodox cathedral church located in Karosta in the north of Liepāja, Latvia. I have visited this cathedral just a couple of times, but always have been impressed by the glory of the place. It was at the start of November 2020, I got my new DJI Mavic Air 2 drone and I wanted to make some nice aerography, as we happened to be in the area, it was agreed to…