Elsewhere
Some 17km (11 miles) from the Latvian capital, the Baltic resort of Jurmala – consisting of 12 small villages – extends over 30km (19 miles) along the Gulf of Riga at the mouth of the River Lielupe. Fresh pine forest-scented air, sun and endless sandy beaches make this stretch of coast a particularly attractive holiday destination for all age groups. Drivers entering Jurmala need to purchase a special ticket; the fee is used to sponsor ecological programmes in the area. The area is connected by roads and the commuter railway, which takes about 15 minutes from Riga.
Another Latvian health resort is Sigulda, about 53km (33 miles) from Riga. Situated on the picturesque banks of the River Gauja, the town has been established since the 13th century and attractions here include the ruins of the castle and local caves. In the National Park that is situated here, Turaida Castle (13th century) and its museum can be visited, as well as a sculpture park where Latvian folk poetry has been captured in stone. There is good downhill skiing in winter, and Sigulda is a popular boating spot in summer.
The most important Baroque building is the Palace in Pilsrundale, about 77km (48 miles) south of Riga, near the Lithuanian border. This fine summer residence of the Dukes of Courland was designed by the Italian architect Rastrelli, who also designed the Winter Palace in St Petersburg – an outstanding blend of Baroque architecture and Rococo decorative art, with gardens modelled on those of Versailles. The surrounding park is excellent for long walks.
Nature enthusiasts will enjoy the rich flora and fauna in the regions of Kurzeme, Latgale and Vidzeme, which are also favourites with hikers. Throughout the country, the landscape is dotted with picturesque villages such as Bauska, Cesis, Kolka and Talsi, where life generally follows a very relaxed pace amidst beautiful countryside. Nearby Kuldiga, situated on the banks of the River Venta, is Latvia’s highest waterfall and a favourite picnic spot.
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