2026 Cesis Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in August)

📍 Cēsis, Latvia | The Baltic's Best-Kept Secret While travelers storm Old Town Tallinn and the cobblestone streets of Riga, in the heart of Latvia, a town that was once the capital of the Livonian Order quietly lives. This is Cēsis—a place where medieval ruins coexist with cozy cafes, and the history of knights is intertwined with the Latvian character. There are no crowds of tourists here, but there is an authenticity that big cities have long lost. 👇 🏰 1. Cēsis Castle: The Heart of the Livonian Order This is not just ruins, but one of the most atmospheric medieval castles in the Baltics. It was founded in the 13th century by the knights of the Livonian Order and served as their residence for a long time. Today, you can stroll along the ancient walls, climb the tower with a torch in hand, and gaze at the city from above, just as the guards did eight centuries ago. Lifehack: In the summer, nighttime candlelit tours are held here. The atmosphere is mystical, and history comes alive. 🏛️ 2. New Castle and Museum Next to the ruins stands the 18th-century New Castle, built on the site of the former residence of the Master of the Order. Inside is the Cēsis History Museum. It houses artifacts found during excavations: coins, weapons, and old maps. The exhibition is small but very intimate. It's clear the city is proud of its history. 🌳 3. Castle Park: Quiet Walks Around the castle lies an ancient park with ponds, alleys, and bridges. In the morning, only joggers and ducks are here. It's the perfect place for a leisurely stroll with a coffee. In the fall, the park transforms into a golden tunnel of maples and lindens. 🏘️ 4. Old Town: Streets that Remember Hanseatic Merchants Cēsis was a member of the Hanseatic League, and its old town has retained its medieval layout. Narrow cobbled streets, wooden houses with tiled roofs, and old cellars that now house wine bars are all here. It's easy to get lost here—and that's the best way to get to know the city. Be sure to find the haunted house on Pils Street. Locals say they hear footsteps there at night. Check it out for yourself. ⛪ 5. St. John's Church This church has stood on the main square since the 13th century. Inside, you'll find austere Gothic architecture, ancient tombstones, and an organ that plays on Sundays. Climb the bell tower if it's open. The view of the red rooftops and castle ruins is one of the best in the city. 🍺 6. Cēsu Alus Brewery: A Taste More Than a Century Old Cēsis is home to one of Latvia's oldest beer brands. The brewery has been operating since 1878. Take a tour or simply order a local beer at any bar. It's smooth, honest, and unpretentious. Perfect with fried cheese and lingonberry sauce. 🌲 7. Gauja and the National Park Cēsis sits on the edge of the Gauja National Park, the largest in Latvia. The Gauja River meanders between sandstone cliffs, the forests are filled with trails, and the air rings with silence. Rent a bike or simply head out of town—in half an hour you'll find yourself in the wilderness. Be sure to visit Ergļu Cliffs—a sheer sandstone wall above the river. It's a place of power that few people know about. ⛷️ 8. Žagarkalns Ski Resort In winter, Cēsis becomes Latvia's ski resort. The slopes are small but cozy. In the evenings, lights come on, music plays, and the scent of mulled wine fills the air. Even if you don't ski, come for the atmosphere. 💡 Trip.com Recommendations for the perfect trip: 📅 When to go: Summer (June–August): Warm weather, lots of festivals, a lush park. July – a medieval festival at the castle. Autumn (September–October): Golden season. The park and surrounding area are painted crimson. Winter (December–February): Snow, skiing, a Christmas market. Subzero temperatures, but very beautiful. Spring (April–May): Nature awakens, gardens bloom, and there are fewer tourists. 🚌 How to get there: From Riga: bus or train, about 1.5-2 hours. Trains are cheaper and buses run more frequently. From Tallinn: bus via Pärnu and Riga, about 5-6 hours. From Vilnius: bus via Riga, about 6-7 hours. The train station and bus terminal are located near the city center, within walking distance. 🚶 Transportation around the city: The city is small, so you can walk around everything in an hour or two. For trips to the national park, bike or taxi. Local buses are infrequent, so it's best to check the schedule in advance. 🏨 Where to stay: Book guesthouses and boutique hotels through Trip.com in the Old Town or near the park. Many of the buildings are restored historic houses. Some include a sauna and breakfast made from local ingredients. For budget travelers – hostels near the castle. 🍽️ What to eat: Gray peas with lard – a traditional Latvian dish, hearty and honest. Fried cheese with lingonberries – served almost everywhere. Rye bread – Latvians are proud of it, and for good reason. Local beer – in Cēsis, it's special. 🎁 What to buy: Pottery from local artisans. Linen products. Honey from the farmsteads. A bottle of local beer as a souvenir. 💬 My experience: I arrived in Cēsis from Riga on the morning train. I got off at the station and immediately felt a different rhythm here. No one is in a hurry, cars let pedestrians pass, and the air smells of linden trees. This morning, I strolled through the castle ruins, picturing knights at the gates. During the day, I sat in a cafe on the square, eating fried cheese and listening to the bell ring. In the evening, I walked along the Gauja River trail and watched the sunset at a sandstone cliff. Cēsis doesn't distract—it embraces. It's easy to breathe here, easy to think, easy to be yourself. Conclusion: If you're looking for Europe without the fuss, history without the decorations, and peace without boredom—come to Cēsis. It's a small town with a big heart that stays with you for a long time. Save 📌 this post so you don't lose it! Forward it to someone planning a trip to the Baltics! 🌿 #Cesis #Latvia #BalticTravel #HiddenGems #TripMoments #TravelGuide #VisitLatvia #MedievalCity #Gauja #Wanderlust

July 18th First day getting ready for transfer to Finland #riga

#itinerarycheck Gauja is Latvia’s largest park (917 km²), and the Sigulda–Turaida walk (6 km one way) is the classic: two castles, a river gorge, and Devonian sandstone cliffs with caves. I started at Sigulda station (train from Riga, €2.30, card ok, 1h10). Walk through Sigulda town to the Cable Car (Siguldas pacēlājs) over the Gauja—€6 round trip, or skip it and cross the pedestrian bridge 800 m upstream. I took the car down, then the path to Turaida on the right bank: red sandstone cliffs, the Gutman’s Cave (largest in Baltics, 18 m, graffiti from 1667—do not add yours, €50 fine), and the Turaida Castle (€9 entry, student €5, card ok). Trail is mostly dirt with boardwalks at wet spots. 2.5 h easy. Water fountains at both castles; I bought a piragi (meat bun) at Sigulda market for €1.80. Bus back: Turaida stop to Sigulda every 30 min, €0.70, cash on bus. Last train to Riga 22:00. Mistakes: a couple tried to swim in the Gauja—current strong, ranger shouted them out. Another photographed the cave inscription with flash—pointless, it is shadowed. Opinion: this is a half-day cultural hike, not wilderness. But the cliff ecology (orchids on the sand) is real. Sigulda markets itself as "Switzerland of Latvia"—tacky, but the Gauja itself is honest. Would you pay €9 to enter Turaida if the cliff path alone already gave you the best view for free?

The Sigulda zipline experience is one of the most thrilling adventures in Latvia and a must‑try for adrenaline lovers. Located in the scenic Gauja River Valley, Sigulda is often called the “Switzerland of Latvia” because of its stunning landscapes, castles, and forests. The zipline stretches across the valley, offering breathtaking panoramic views as you soar high above the Gauja River. What makes this zipline special is that it is one of the longest in Europe, reaching speeds of up to around 70 km/h. The ride lasts about a minute, but the excitement feels much longer as you glide from one side of the valley to the other. For those seeking an extra thrill, there is even an option to ride in a Superman-style position or backwards. The experience is well organized, with professional staff providing safety instructions and secure harnessing. It’s suitable for most visitors who meet the height and weight requirements. Overall, Sigulda’s zipline combines adventure, natural beauty, and unforgettable views in one incredible experience.

If you are fascinated by the Baltic states, Latvia is a must-visit destination. Half of its land is covered by forests. The capital, Riga, combines the charm of a medieval old town with stunning Art Nouveau architecture. Outside the city, you will find 500 km of white sandy beaches, vast primeval forests, and mysterious swamp boardwalks. Here, you rarely see noisy tour groups; instead, locals enjoy picking berries, steaming in saunas, and dancing around bonfires in peaceful daily life. Whether you are an art lover, a nature hiker, or someone who enjoys slow travel in small towns, you will find your own joy here. 🌿 A healing journey into nature Latvia’s soul lies not in the city but in its hills and coastline. Immerse yourself in the four seasons of Gauja National Park: about 80 km from Riga, roughly a one-hour drive, is Latvia’s largest and oldest national park, known as the “Alps of Latvia.” The park features lakes, streams, and dense forests intertwined, with the winding Gauja River patiently carving out Devonian sandstone cliffs over millions of years, quietly watching over the valley. The park connects three ancient castles: Sigulda castle complex, Turaida red brick castle, and Cēsis castle. In summer, you can kayak gently or hike and bike along the Metara trail, crossing forested valleys and camping under the stars. In autumn, golden leaves light up the valley, and the red and gold tree reflections shimmer on the water. The southwest is Riga residents’ leisure backyard, while the northeast is a nature reserve. Explore the swamp boardwalk in Ķemeri National Park: want to experience absolute tranquility? Walk the Ķemeri swamp boardwalk! Only 35 km from Riga, it represents Europe’s pristine wetlands. The boardwalk crosses colorful marshes with water reflecting the clouds. Birdwatching towers are set along the way, and spring is the best season for birdwatching. The entire route is quiet and ethereal, perfect for travelers who enjoy solitude, birdwatching, and capturing soothing natural scenery. Walk on the sand and splash in the waves at Jūrmala: Latvia’s most famous seaside resort features a 24 km white sandy beach lined with tall pine trees on both sides. Wooden boardwalks lead straight to the sea. The sand is fine yet firm, ideal for strolling or biking along the seaside promenade. A 30-minute train ride from Riga or a bike ride along the road parallel to the tracks will get you there. In summer, locals from across Europe gather here to walk, bike, and watch sunsets on the sand. In autumn and winter, the beach is nearly deserted, offering exclusive access to the entire coast. Besides the beach, visit the Jūrmala city museum to experience life in this coastal town. Admire Europe’s widest waterfall: located in Kuldīga, a newly designated World Cultural Heritage town in 2023, the entire town preserves its medieval street layout. The Venta waterfall, only 2 meters high, is called Europe’s widest waterfall because of its broad curved face. The wide water curtain is distinctive, and locals swim here in summer. If you want more height, the town also has the Alekšupīte waterfall, the site of an ancient watermill. 🏰 immersive history and cultural experiences Latvia is dotted with medieval castles and noble palaces, each with its own unique story. Marvel at the luxury of Rundāle Palace: about 60 km from Riga, this 18th-century summer palace of the Duke of Courland is a testament to aristocratic luxury and the pinnacle of rural Latvian architecture. Designed by Italian master Bartolomeo Rastrelli (the same architect as the Winter Palace in St. Petersburg), the east wing hosts formal events, while the west wing served as the royal private residence. Of the 138 rooms, 40 are open to the public, featuring gilded halls, frescoed domes, and a magnificent French garden in the Versailles style. In the rose season, the garden is filled with fragrant blooms. Bauska castle: located between two rivers, this double castle combines a 15th-century Livonian fortress, now a desolate ruin, and a well-preserved 16th-century ducal residence. The museum inside offers a comprehensive history of the Courland region. It is just a short drive from Rundāle Palace, making it a convenient stop. Explore Cēsis castle by lantern light: one of Latvia’s best-preserved medieval castles and a symbol of knightly heritage, it consists of two castles now merged into one. Visitors explore the dim corridors by candlelight, stepping into the dark castle interior and feeling the atmosphere of history in the flickering firelight. Nearby, the new manor displays period interiors, and you can climb to the dome for a panoramic view of the castle. Every early August, the Cēsis medieval festival takes place around the castle, recreating the medieval era with continuous performances showcasing knights’ daily life and combat. Visitors can dress up and experience a day in the past. Experience the historical blend of Sigulda: about 50 km northeast of Riga, here you can see the 13th-century Livonian Brothers of the Sword castle alongside the 19th-century manor of Grand Duke Nikolay Kropotkin. The contrast between neo-Gothic and medieval castles is fascinating. The ruins include an excellent viewpoint overlooking the Gauja valley. Sigulda is great for cycling, with many bike rental shops. Turaida castle: a red brick round tower castle whose name means “God’s garden” in Old Livonian, built in 1214 on the site of a former Livonian fortress. At the site, you can hammer Livonian pagan symbols into small iron pieces at the blacksmith’s shop. The surrounding folk garden features 26 sculptures honoring Latvian heroes immortalized in the Dainas, a traditional form of folk poetry and an important national heritage. This place offers a unique cultural atmosphere. Tips: Take bus 3112 from Sigulda to Turaida. 💡 practical travel tips for Latvia 🚗 transportation and before you go Arrival and departure: Riga airport is the Baltic hub. Buses connect directly to Vilnius, Lithuania, and Tallinn, Estonia. There is also a train to Vilnius; to reach Tallinn, transfer at the border town Valka. Local transport: Riga’s old town is fully walkable. For nearby national parks and towns, renting a car is the most convenient option. Trains connect Riga, Sigulda, and Jūrmala with low fares. Regional buses cover rural towns. The entire country has a well-developed cycling network with dedicated trails along the coast and through forests. Camping enthusiasts: Latvia allows wild camping if you stay away from private land and observe forest fire safety. You can download the “Dabas Turism” app to find free or paid rest areas. 👍 tipping and language Tipping: While not mandatory, leaving 5%–10% in restaurants is common. Language: Young service workers in Riga generally speak English. Russian is common in eastern cities, but in rural areas, learning a Latvian greeting will be warmly appreciated. Safety: Overall, Latvia is safe and friendly to solo travelers. Just watch your belongings in the old town tourist areas. Rural communities are simple and honest. Culture: Latvians have experienced long Soviet rule and hold strong anti-Soviet sentiments. Avoid discussing Soviet-related topics or wearing Soviet-themed accessories. 🔮 seasonal guide Summer (June–August): Long daylight hours and plenty of sunshine. Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and light clothing. Evenings can be cool. Autumn (September–October): Gauja National Park’s forests turn red and gold. Fewer tourists, lower accommodation prices, and excellent hiking and sightseeing. Winter (December): Riga’s Christmas market is magical, but January and February are very cold. Bring all your warm gear. Winter is also a good time for swimming in icy water and cross-country skiing. Latvia’s charm lies not in grand landmarks but in the candlelight of castles, reflections in swamps, and the scent of pine forests. Early mornings on empty old town cobblestones, Baltic sunsets through pine trees at dusk, autumn valleys ablaze with color, and medieval ruins lit by candlelight. Save time for the unknown corners—this Baltic sanctuary always offers unexpected healing.

team leader Wang Chao and local guide Ms. Wang, arrived at Tallinn's second attraction: Kadriorg Palace for a visit. This royal garden, hidden along the Baltic Sea coast, was Peter the Great's summer palace for Catherine I, and also Estonia's century-old artistic dwelling. The French formal gardens in front of the palace immediately captivate the eye. Wide grounds paved with reddish-ochre fine sand, geometrically cut emerald lawns arranged in a staggered pattern, purple violets and white chrysanthemums intertwined in layers within curved flowerbeds, and neatly trimmed evergreen shrubs standing along the paths, with clean and sharp lines, exuding the restrained grandeur unique to 18th-century European garden design. The sky was clear, the clouds thin, and the formal flowerbeds extended to the palace steps. The symmetrical layout blended royal order with natural softness. Walking on the warm sand, with the faint scent of flowers and grass carried by the wind, instantly isolated us from the hustle and bustle of the old town. Behind the palace is the Presidential Palace, and we happened to catch the changing of the guard ceremony, so my phone recorded another solemn little ceremony.

At 12:45 PM on June 20, 2026, the 'World Puzzle: Poland, Belarus, and the Three Baltic States' team, led by Wang Chao, the team leader from CITS, successfully arrived in Tallinn, the capital, from Tartu, Estonia's second-largest city, after a drive of over three hours. Under the guidance of local tour guide Ms. Wang, who is from Chongqing and has lived here for many years, we entered Tallinn Old Town for sightseeing. This was also my second visit here, 8 years after my last trip on September 22, 2018. As a medieval Hanseatic city listed as a World Cultural Heritage site in 1997 and the best-preserved in Europe, Tallinn is never a cold museum of ancient relics. Within its over 700-year-old city walls, residents still live, and the aroma of bread wafts through the air. Walking through the uneven cobblestone streets and alleys, every step feels like treading through the real, vibrant medieval life. The Old Town is naturally divided into Toompea Hill (Upper Town) and the Lower Town at its base. The optimal sightseeing route is to first ascend to the high ground, then stroll through the streets and alleys. Many ancient European cities are left with only their tourist shells, with all residents having moved out, but Tallinn is different. In the alleys, you can encounter elderly people carrying cloth bags for groceries, children running home from school, and daisies blooming on windowsills. Historical buildings still serve as vibrant carriers of life.

At 5:40 PM on June 19, 2026, the world puzzle team "Poland and Belarus plus the Three Baltic States," led by Ctrip tour leader Wang Chao, after more than eight hours of travel throughout the day, finally arrived at Tartu, the second-largest city in Estonia, where the team would stay. After dropping off their luggage, everyone went out together to explore the city. The old town center, with its pink vintage Town Hall as the focal point, features the Tartu landmark—the Kissing Students Fountain—right in the middle of the square. The bronze sculpture of a young couple embracing is a popular spot for couples throughout the city. In front of the century-old Nordic university, the University of Tartu, a few female students were taking graduation photos, so a bright smile was captured along with them. Tartu lacks the heavy medieval epic feel of Tallinn but has a unique gentle scholarly charm. The four-century-old university has cultivated a relaxed and inclusive city temperament. Rivers, stone bridges, graffiti-covered wooden houses, and carefree students create a slow romance unique to southern Estonia. There’s no need to rush; just walking slowly along the riverbank allows you to understand the quiet and moving soul of this small city.

At 12:00 on June 19, 2026, the world puzzle team "Poland and Belarus plus the Three Baltic States," led by Ctrip tour leader Wang Chao and local guide Luo Jiamei, continued sightseeing at Turaida Castle in Gauja National Park, Latvia. Known as the "Little Switzerland of Latvia," Sigulda, with its layered pine forests in Gauja National Park, hides a millennium-old tribal epic and a tragic love legend passed down for four hundred years. Turaida means "Thor's Garden" in the ancient Livonian language. The castle's core is the towering main tower, with narrow steep stone stairs spiraling upward; reaching the top is the most worthwhile experience of this trip. The unobstructed viewing platform on all sides offers a panoramic view of the Gauja Valley.

At 10 a.m. on June 19, 2026, the world puzzle team "Poland and Belarus plus the Three Baltic States," led by Ctrip tour leader Wang Chao and local guide Luo Jiamei, first visited Gauja National Park in Latvia. As Latvia's first national park, Gauja Park protects the intact Gauja River Valley ecosystem and preserves the millennium-old cultural heritage of the Livonia region. The entire valley is wrapped in primeval forest, with the river flowing through the valley, sandstone cliffs standing by the water, and ancient castles built on the hills. The natural landscape and cultural relics coexist perfectly, with every step revealing the gentle sediment of time. Here, the team visited Sigulda Castle, Gutman’s Cave, and Turaida Castle. Sigulda Castle and Turaida Castle face each other across the river, guarding the entire valley. Compared to the retro and tranquil Turaida Castle, Sigulda Castle has a more robust military fortress character, with ancient walls and watchtowers that witnessed the conflicts and wars of the medieval Livonian Order knights. Walking along the cliff trail around the castle, visitors can closely observe the uniquely shaped sandstone cliffs formed by weathering, see the river water eroding the cliffs day and night, and find millions of years of geological changes hidden in the rock patterns.

We had a savory experience in Latvia, topped by our visit to Sigulda and Gauja National Park. The day began with a 2 ish hour journey on the steady passenger train. Exiting the train, we took photos in the town square and consulted our map to plan out our activities more seamlessly (unsuccessfully). We first walked about 20 minutes across town to try the Minotaur's Labyrinth- a fun and unassuming activity where we had the whole maze to ourselves. This was a fun start, which was followed by a walk back to the town center to eat lunch and attempt to rent bicycles (we later walked and rented from Okej- not conveniently located, but offered a very good deal for an hourly rental). Seated on bicycles, we petaled down a scenic road and massive hill to the Gauja National Park (river valley). Here we explored the mountain bike paths to see a few caves and historic sites. Our grueling ride/ walk back up the hill was quite the workout (and trust us to attempt a shortcut according to Google maps😜). After half pushing, half carrying our bikes up an incredibly steep path on the hill overlooking the river valley, we crested and continued our ride to return our bikes. We hurried our 30 minute walk to return to the train station, only to see our final train slowly pulling away from the station- a matter of mere minutes! We placated ourselves with snacks from the train station convenience store and waited for a bus to return us to Riga. All in all a great trip, but we have notes for our next visit which should improve the experience and possibilities for next time!

🇱🇻 Latvia Latvia is a charming Baltic country where medieval history meets untouched nature. It’s known for its beautiful old towns, forests, lakes, and calm seaside vibe. Top highlights: Riga Old Town 🏰 – UNESCO-listed, famous for cobblestone streets and stunning Art Nouveau buildings Jūrmala 🌊 – A peaceful beach town with white sand and wooden villas Gauja National Park 🌲 – Castles, caves, rivers, and hiking trails Cēsis Castle ⚔️ – One of the best-preserved medieval castles in the Baltics Why visit? Affordable travel, fewer crowds, rich culture, and beautiful seasonal landscapes — especially magical in autumn and winter ❄️🍂 Perfect for travelers who love history, nature, and quiet European charm.

#europetrip Gauja National Park isn't just for nature lovers; it's a surprising hub for adrenaline sports! We took the iconic Sigulda Cable Car across the valley, which offers breathtaking aerial views of the forest canopy, the river, and the castle ruins. From the cable car, you can even spot the Bobsleigh and Luge Track, which is open for public rides (a slightly terrifying but exhilarating experience!) in both summer and winter. For true thrill-seekers, bungee jumping or riding the Zērglis Zipline across the river is available. The combination of easy access to stunning nature plus these unexpected, high-octane activities makes Sigulda a unique destination. A fun and unexpected dose of adventure on an otherwise nature-focused #europetrip.

#europetrip There is no better way to appreciate the immense scale of the Gauja River valley than by paddling on the water itself. We rented a canoe for a half-day trip and floated past towering forested cliffs, secluded beaches, and the occasional wildlife sighting. The river currents are generally gentle, making it accessible even for beginners, and it provides a completely different, peaceful perspective of the park's sandstone formations, like the Erglu Cliffs. It’s incredibly calming to drift along, surrounded by the silence of the Latvian forest. Many local companies offer rental and shuttle services, making the logistics easy. This activity provided a fantastic break from walking and city sightseeing. A wonderful, relaxing adventure activity for your summer #europetrip.

#europetrip For a slightly different focus, exploring the Līgatne area of the park is rewarding. The Līgatne Nature Trails offer a chance to view native Latvian wildlife like wild boars, moose, and deer in large, natural enclosures—a great, family-friendly activity. More fascinating, though, is the nearby Secret Soviet Bunker located deep beneath the Līgatne Rehabilitation Centre. This fully preserved Cold War relic, complete with its original equipment, is a sobering and intriguing step back into the recent history of the Baltics. This dual offering—natural wildlife viewing combined with a unique, atmospheric historical site—makes Līgatne a unique stop within the park. A great option for travelers seeking both nature and Cold War history on their #europetrip.

#europetrip Visiting Gauja National Park during the 'Golden Season' of autumn (late September/early October) is a visually stunning experience. The deciduous forests along the slopes of the valley explode into a breathtaking palette of red, orange, and gold, providing an incredible contrast to the dark green pine trees. The best views for photography are definitely from the Turaida Castle Tower and the Ķeizarskats (Emperor's Seat) viewpoint. The cooler, crisp air is perfect for long hikes, and the early morning mist rising from the Gauja River adds a magical, ethereal quality. If you want to capture spectacular European fall foliage, this park should be high on your #europetrip list. A perfect destination for breathtaking autumn landscape photography.

#europetrip The hiking trails along the Gauja River valley are the true heart of this national park. The highlight is undoubtedly the towering, sculpted sandstone cliffs—unique geological formations that create dramatic river bends and ravines. We hiked a challenging 15km loop from Sigulda, passing several key sites. The sheer lushness of the forest is striking; you could easily mistake it for a wilder, more remote region. The most famous cave, Gūtmaņala (Gutmanis Cave), the largest in the Baltics, is steeped in ancient legends and features historic wall inscriptions. While some of the trails can be a little poorly marked in remote sections, the sheer beauty of the river-carved landscape makes navigation worth the effort. Highly recommended for a refreshing and quiet nature walk on your #europetrip.

#europetrip Gauja National Park offers a rare mix of pristine nature and deep cultural history. The town of Sigulda serves as a perfect hub, often called the gateway to the park. The sheer concentration of medieval castles here is incredible. We spent a day exploring the majestic Turaida Museum Reserve, with its iconic red-brick fortress offering panoramic views over the winding Gauja River valley—an absolute must-see viewpoint! The nearby Sigulda Medieval Castle Ruins and the neighboring New Castle add layers to the region’s history, showcasing its importance to the Livonian Order. It's fantastic how easily you can transition from exploring ancient stone walls to hiking deep forest trails. A perfect blend of European medieval history and natural beauty for your #europetrip.

#falladventures If your looking for a stunning sky photos. you should visit Latvia during Summer and Autumn. The colourful display will leave you in and I bet you're friends will drool over every picture you'll show. This is place of nature, serenity and peace. Latvian rivers offer great relaxation opportunitiesm if you like to hike or kayak or just spend a night in a tent - look no further. If you’re looking for stunning sky photos, visit Latvia in summer or autumn. The colors are unreal, and I guarantee your friends will be jealous of every shot you take. It’s a place of nature, serenity, and quiet beauty. Latvia’s rivers are perfect for relaxing—whether you’re into hiking, kayaking, or simply spending a night in a tent, you won’t find a better escape.

Built in 1852, the raii Windmill (Fig. 1) is the so-called Dutch-style mill. Initially, in the 14th century, such a mill was built on the existing territory of Latvia, close to the castle and the manor. With the help of a special mechanical device, the top of the mill can be turned to the wind. People use windmills to grind flour to make brown bread and feed, and they can also shell the grain. Located in the Vienkou park, the Lgatne Woodcraft Museum (Fig. 2) is a traditional workshop for making spoons. It is possible to polish the original wood into a spoon in a short time, which is very good as a unique experience. Cisis St. John's Church (Fig. 3), built in 1284, is one of the oldest medieval monuments in Latvia. The church's organ and bells are often echoed in the streets. The ancient city of Cesis (Fig. 4) was built in 1206 and is dotted with a quiet courtyard with a unique red tiled roof. The narrow, cobbled medieval style trails are still in the city, painted in ancient times. Folk houses are scattered in every corner. Although the city of Cesis is not big, there are quite a few interesting shops. A local woman opened a shop called Skola 6 specializing in carrot-related foods, 100% green organic freshly squeezed carrot juice (Figure 5), the taste is very good, a large bottle is only 3 euros. She reprocessed the residue left in the juice and made a dim sum of different flavors. The beer here is also very famous, and the oldest beer in Latvia comes from Cesis. The brewery called Trimpus can taste black tea beer, alcohol-free sweet beer and other unique brewed beer. Xiao Ge (Figure 6) is happy to share, humorous, often go to Hong Kong, went to China three times, and even has a lot of memories in Tibet. Cesis Maize, next to St. John's Church, is a workshop that specializes in local handmade bread. The owner uses local ingredients to create six different flavors of bread. In addition, his home solid wood cutting board is very characteristic, the price is only half of Riga. (Fig. 7) Araisi Archaeological Park has two major attractions, one is the castle ruins left by German rule, and the other is the wooden buildings from the 9th-10th centuries (Figure 8 ). The Cesis Medieval Castle (Fig. 9) dates back to the early 13th century and is the best preserved castle in Latvia and the most magnificent castle relic in the Baltic States. It witnessed the history of the Livonian Knights fighting the Tsarist Russia, Poland and the Swedish army. After being attacked by the Ivan the Terrible army of Tsarist Russia in 1577, all the people in the castle lit the explosives and committed suicide, leaving a story of ecstasy.