Discover Latvia’s Hidden Gem: Gauja National Park

Gauja National Park (pronounced gow-yuh) is Latvia’s first and largest national park. I spent a couple of days there in late 2019 on my first trip to the Baltics (not to be confused with the Balkans), and I was blown away with how much there is to see and experience. I highly recommend you put it on your list. In this post, I’ll give you some ideas on how to maximize your time while you’re there.

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A map of Latvia with key travel points highlighted. The map shows Riga as the fly-in location with "Fly here" written next to it. Gauja National Park is outlined, and "stay here" is marked near Sigulda, suggesting it as a recommended place to stay while visiting the park. The annotations guide a travel plan through the region.

What to Do in Gauja National Park

The park encompasses about 230 acres of lush, green forest in the Gauja Valley. It takes less than an hour to drive from Riga, Latvia’s capital city, which makes it perfect for a day trip. However, there is so much to see and experience that I suggest spending at least one night in the park itself.

I stayed in the town of Sigulda, which is one of several towns within the borders of the park. It is a destination worth visiting on its own and acts as a fabulous gateway to the many activities within Gauja National Park. History, hiking, cultural experiences, and the most beautiful scenery all await you:

Gauja Valley’s Medieval Castles

The Gauja Valley contains the largest concentration of castles in all of Eastern Europe. In the town of Sigulda – a destination worth exploring on its own – you can visit four different castles. Each castle is a unique example of architecture and construction styles of the time that it was built.

These are two castles in Sigulda that I explored:

A stone medieval castle ruin with partially intact walls and a fortified tower stands on a misty, overcast day. The structure is surrounded by bare trees and a rugged landscape, creating an atmosphere of historical significance and quiet solitude. The castle's red-tiled roof and arched window openings add to its ancient charm. — Sigulda Medieval Castle. © Brittany Quaglieri

1. Sigulda Medieval Castle

Construction began on Sigulda Medieval Castle in 1207 by the Livonian Brothers of the Sword, a group of warrior monks who controlled the left bank of the Gauja River. For centuries, it was used as a military base, then eventually it became a private estate.

It lived through many wars, was damaged from nearby battles, then was repaired and renovated. It went on like this until the Great Northern War that lasted from 1700-1721. During that time, it was so badly damaged that it was eventually abandoned and still lay in ruins today.

An outdoor area near a stone castle, featuring a large dirt courtyard with wooden benches arranged in a semicircle around an open space. Small wooden shelters are scattered along the edges, and a few people are walking through the area. The surrounding landscape includes trees with bare branches, suggesting a cool season, and the scene has a rustic, historical ambiance. — View from the second floor of the castle. © Brittany Quaglieri

As an important cultural site, it’s preserved the way it is, and when you visit the castle now, you can safely climb two or three floors of the North and Main Gate Towers and see views like the one pictured above. The open-air amphitheater (seen in the distance in the photo above) is used for annual concerts and festivals, as well. What a backdrop for a summer concert!

It only costs €2 (just €1 for students) to visit Sigulda Medieval Castle and explore the grounds. Learn more at Enter Gauja.

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A close-up view of a red brick medieval building featuring a wooden balcony and a sloped tiled roof. A clock with a blue background and white hands is mounted on the brick tower, adding to the historical charm. The wooden beams and intricate brickwork highlight the architectural details of the structure. — Turaida Stone Castle. © Brittany Quaglieri

2. Turaida Stone Castle

At the heart of the Turaida Museum Reserve is the Turaida Stone Castle, the most visited museum in Latvia. Exhibits inside the castle ruins feature the life and culture of the people who have lived there since construction began in 1214.

One of my favorite exhibits displayed examples of construction techniques used over the centuries to build and expand the castle using artifacts found onsite like different styles of bricks and shingles. The best was a brick that a dog stepped on several hundred years ago, its paw imprinted in it forever. So cute!

A pathway leading to a medieval brick castle with tall towers and partially intact walls. A large stone in the foreground bears engraved text, marking the historical significance of the site. People are seen walking towards the castle in the distance, and the surrounding area is dotted with trees and shrubs, creating a serene atmosphere on a misty day. — Passing through the historic gates of Turaida Castle. © Brittany Quaglieri

An aerial view of a medieval castle courtyard surrounded by red brick walls and towers. The ground is a mix of grass and dirt, with several benches or structures arranged in rows. The misty weather creates a foggy atmosphere, giving the scene a quiet, almost mysterious ambiance. The castle's layout and preserved structures suggest its historical importance. — View from the tower. © Brittany Quaglieri

You can spend a whole day exploring sites in the Reserve, such as Folk Song Garden, Turaida Church, and the Rose of Turaida Memorial. However, you definitely have to save enough time to explore the ruins and climb the tower!

Prices vary to explore the Turaida Museum Reserve on your own or with a museum specialist. Learn more here.

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A group of hikers walking along a grassy trail in a forested area, with a wooden sign in the foreground that reads "Cecīļu dabas taka," indicating a nature trail. The surrounding landscape is dotted with trees and bare shrubs, suggesting a chilly or late autumn day. The hikers are dressed warmly, and the path leads into a wooded area, offering an inviting outdoor adventure. — Entrance to Cecilu Nature Trail. © Brittany Quaglieri

Adventure Activites in Gauja National Park

3. Hiking Trails in Gauja National Park

There are many hiking trails in Gauja National Park. Two that I walked on the same day were the Cecilu Nature Trail and the Amata Hiking Trail. We were led by Sigita, a certified guide with Cesis Inside, on winding paths through thick, damp forests and along flowing rivers.

A tree in a forest that has been gnawed at the base, likely by a beaver, with wood chips scattered around the ground. The tree remains standing but shows significant damage from the chewing. Fallen branches and mossy vegetation surround the scene, creating a natural, woodland environment. — Latvian beavers at work. © Brittany Quaglieri

A forest scene with tall evergreen trees and an old, partially hidden brick structure in the background that is an abandoned Soviet building. The ground is covered with moss and fallen leaves, creating a damp, quiet atmosphere. The brick structure appears abandoned or overgrown, blending into the natural surroundings, giving the scene a mysterious, forgotten feel. — An abandoned building once used by the Soviet military. © Brittany Quaglieri

As we walked in the forest, we saw enchanting birch stands, moss-covered pines, and beautiful red and orange sandstone cliffs. We saw evidence of local beavers at work, but not a single beaver. When a raft full of excited locals in wetsuits taking advantage of rain-filled rivers passed us, we cheered them on.

A small wooden footbridge crossing over a shallow, rust-colored stream in a forest. The ground is damp with leaves and moss, and the surrounding trees and foliage add to the natural, serene setting. The bridge appears to be part of a nature trail, offering hikers a way to navigate across the stream in the wooded environment. — © Brittany Quaglieri

A small conical wooden structure near a tree, with a sign overhead reading "Velna Peptuve." The setting is beside a river, with a picnic table and a firewood pile nearby. In the background, a natural rock formation with a small cave opening is visible, nestled in a forested area. The scene suggests a rustic outdoor location, possibly a campsite or a spot of local interest along a nature trail. — A tiny sauna that looked like a fairy house along the Cecilu Nature Trail. © Brittany Quaglieri

The paths led us over waterfalls and small creeks on footbridges and even by some mysterious abandoned Soviet structures. We also saw many fairy-like structures that were all for full-size human use! Like the tiny sauna pictured above can fit 2-3 people inside, yet it looks like the perfect little fairy house.

The second hike ended at Zvartes Rock, and Sigita took us to meet her daughter at a cabin nearby. Awaiting our arrival was a warm, homemade lunch and an adorable beagle – who reluctantly sat outside while we ate.

A dining setup featuring a large bowl of pumpkin soup garnished with seeds, accompanied by bowls of bacon bits, shredded cheese, and pumpkin seeds as toppings. A loaf of fresh bread with herb butter sits in the background, along with stacked plates and a ladle, ready for serving. The arrangement suggests a warm, comforting meal in a cozy setting. — The first course of our homemade lunch provided by Cesis Inside. © Brittany Quaglieri

A black wooden sign hanging on a rustic wooden easel with the words "ATVĒRTS" and "OPEN" painted in white, indicating that the establishment is open. The background features a wooden log wall, adding to the natural, welcoming atmosphere of the setting. — © Brittany Quaglieri

A scenic view of a river flowing through a forested area with tall, reddish cliffs on both sides. The cliffs are covered with greenery, and trees grow atop the rock formations, adding to the natural beauty of the scene. The overcast sky and calm surroundings give the area a serene, untouched atmosphere, highlighting the rugged landscape and flowing water. — Zvartes Rock. © Brittany Quaglieri

The food was so delicious! The first course we feasted on was squash soup with cheese and bacon toppings and fresh-baked bread with herb butter. The second course (not pictured) was roasted pork and potatoes with a creamy dill sauce. On top of all that, they even made a traditional Latvian apple strudel for dessert (also not pictured).

The cabin is an information point where hikers and visitors can pop inside to pick up maps and warm up by a wood stove. They also sell handmade crafts and teas made from herbs collected in the nearby fields.

Learn more about hiking in Gauja National Park here.

This is the only cableway in the Baltic states. © Brittany Quaglieri

The view was foggy but beautiful. © Inma from A World to Travel

4. Cable Car Ride (or Bungee Jump!) Over the Gauja River

From the Sigulda Aerial Cableway, you can see a full panoramic view of the Gauja Valley and spot three of the four castles in the area. Once on the other side of the Gauja River, you embark right at Krimulda Manor, which you can explore before your return trip.

I know that a slow cable car ride across a river might not be the most adrenaline-pumping activity. However, I bet bungee jumping from that same cable car or ziplining across the river would get your heart racing!

I did not partake in these activities, but you can! Learn more about cable car rides, bungee jumping, ziplining, and other activities at Sigulda Adventures.

First heat being prepped for our 1-minute soft bob ride. © Inma from A World to Travel

5. Ride a Bobsleigh at 80 mph

Rollercoaster fans rejoice! Sigulda is home to a bobsleigh, skeleton, and luge track, and it’s open year-round, and anyone can go for a ride! What?!

Yep, for just €10, you can barrel down the 1200 meter track (about 3/4 of a mile) taking its 16 turns at about 80 miles per hour. Each ride is about a minute long – my group finished the track in 1:04:96 minutes – and I’m pretty sure all but one of us felt a bit of motion sickness afterward.

A group of four people seated in a green bobsled, wearing helmets and smiling, while a guide or instructor kneels beside the bobsled giving instructions. The scene takes place indoors at the start of a bobsled run, with the participants looking excited and ready for their ride. The atmosphere is one of anticipation and fun. — We are ready to go! Aren’t we? © Jenna from Wander the Map

A scenic view from the top of a bobsled track, overlooking a forested landscape with rolling hills and a winding river. The cloudy, overcast sky adds a muted tone to the scene, while buildings and parts of the bobsled track are visible below. The high vantage point offers an expansive view of the surrounding countryside, giving a sense of height and distance. — View from the top floor. © Brittany Quaglieri

This may have been a perk of my tour, but we were able to go to the top floor of the building to see the breathtaking view of the Gauja River and the town of Sigulda.

Softbob rides on ice (like the one I did) require at least 4 people per ride, but no more than 5 people. Rides are offered from November to March on weekends only. Learn more about the track and their other year-round services here.

The entrance to a souvenir shop called "Spieku Darbnīca" with a sign for a "Walking Stick Workshop" visible on the glass door. The door is open, inviting customers inside, where wooden walking sticks are on display. The shop has a cozy, welcoming atmosphere, with potted plants visible through the glass and a small sign on the ground reading "Atvērts" (open). The cobblestone walkway adds to the charm of the storefront. — Craft workshop built into what used to be the stables. © Brittany Quaglieri

A woman standing in a workshop, holding a partially finished walking stick, explaining or demonstrating the process of crafting. The workshop is filled with tools, materials, and a workbench, suggesting a hands-on environment for creating walking sticks. The shelves behind her hold various supplies and personal items, giving the space a cozy, artisanal feel. — Learning how to make our own walking stick souvenir. © Brittany Quaglieri

Unique Cultural Experiences in Gauja National Park

6. New Castle of Sigulda

Next to the Sigulda Medieval Castle is the New Castle of Sigulda. It’s the youngest of the castles I visited with an 1878 groundbreaking. The property is considered a historic and cultural center of Sigulda and offers visitors lots to do, so it’s worth spending some time here.

Originally the home of a wealthy family, the castle passed through many owners and purposes over the years. Today, the buildings on the property have many uses that highlight Latvia’s ability to blend old and new. Unfortunately for viewers, the castle was being renovated while I was there in 2019 and was completely covered in scaffolding.

The former stables and barn structures have been repurposed into workshops and stores. At one of the souvenir shops, you can make your own walking stick – a prized symbol of Sigulda. Across from the shops is a co-working space and photography studio in what used to be the residential house of the manor.

Sipping fruit and flower wine at Cremon. © Kathryn from Kathryn Anywhere

A table set up for a wine tasting event, featuring a variety of wine bottles, small glasses, and informational cards about different types of berries and ingredients used in the wines. A small barrel, pitcher of water, and snacks are also placed on the table. The display includes decorative elements like flowers, candles, and rustic items such as baskets and hats, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere in the winery. — © Brittany Quaglieri

A close-up of a wine tasting setup featuring a glass of white wine in the foreground, with bottles of Cremon wine behind it. A branded paper bag, a small bottle of spirits, and a pitcher of water with lemon and mint are also visible. The scene captures the refined and inviting atmosphere of a wine tasting experience, highlighting the elegance of the glassware and the focus on local wines. — © Brittany Quaglieri

7. Wine Tasting at Cremon Winery

As the winery is located in a former barn of the Krimulda Manor House, tasting the wines at Cremon is a unique, historical experience.

Also, fun fact: Cremon does not use a single grape in the production of their wines. Instead, each wine and liqueur they produce has a fruit or floral origin. Some flavors you might taste include dandelion, lilac, and every variety of berry that grows in Latvia.

Throughout the tasting, different varietals are poured into your glass, and you are encouraged to guess each flavor. It was a fun game, although each of my guesses was completely incorrect. The wines were mostly enjoyable, some just a little too sweet for me.

Contact Cremon Winery directly to set up a tasting.

A cozy, warmly lit porch at night featuring a wooden bench, soft cushions, and a lantern. The porch is part of a small cabin or house with steps leading up to the entrance, and the wooden deck is glistening as if recently rained on. The peaceful atmosphere suggests a tranquil, inviting spot to relax outdoors. — Latvian pirts – or bathhouse/sauna. © Jenna from Wander the Map

8. Traditional Latvian Sauna Experience

Latvians – like most people in neighboring Northern European nations (not just Finland, I learned) – use saunas on a regular basis. They visit the sauna (also called bathhouses or “pirts” in Latvian) on a monthly, if not weekly, basis.

A sauna experience involves a series of extreme heating and cooling of the body. A traditional Latvian sauna experience adds a salt scrub, a lashing of dried leaves, aromatherapy, a little bit of dizziness, and a dip in a frigid pond. Oh, plus the ability to throw modesty right out the window.

A collection of dried herbs and plants hanging from strings against a wooden wall. The bundles are neatly tied and include a variety of greenery and flowers, suggesting they are being preserved for use in traditional remedies, teas, or cooking. The rustic wooden backdrop enhances the natural, earthy feel of the scene. — Drying herbs for aromatherapy. © Brittany Quaglieri

A bunch of dried leaves and a knit hat rest on a wooden bench inside a room with wooden paneling, likely a sauna. The leaves could be for a traditional sauna ritual, adding a natural and rustic element to the setting, while the hat may be for protection from the heat. The simplicity of the scene evokes a calming, spa-like atmosphere. — © Jenna from Wander the Map

A “sauna master” guides you through the process of heating up your body inside and out with tea and sauna temperatures upwards of 212F. Then, you cool your body with a dip in a pond or by pouring water over yourself from a bucket. After resting for a while, the process is repeated two more times with increased intensity. Plus, you get the full-body salt scrub and lashing of dried leaves while in the sauna, and yes, you are naked this whole time.

There are many benefits of a Latvian sauna, including:

The heating and cooling of the body “exercises” your vascular system, stretching your veins and blood vessels, which can help prevent cardiovascular disease and heart attacks.
It strengthens your immune system
It helps with insomnia
It’s great for your skin

Among other benefits! It’s okay, you had me at “sauna”…

A vibrant orange soup is served in a black bowl, with green oil drizzles on top for garnish. A slice of bread topped with pesto and fresh greens rests across the bowl, adding texture and contrast to the dish. The presentation is modern and artistic, blending rustic ingredients with a refined plating style. — Creamy tomato soup at Gada Laiki Restorans. © Brittany Quaglieri

A neatly made bed at Spa Hotel Ezeri in Sigulda with a beige quilt sits in the center of the room, framed by a wooden headboard and accompanied by simple nightstands on either side. The wall behind the bed is painted a soft orange, adding warmth to the room, while a sunflower painting hangs above the bed. The décor is minimalist and functional, creating a cozy, uncluttered space. — Simple and comfortable room at Spa Hotel Ezeri. © Brittany Quaglieri

Where to Stay in Gauja National Park

Stay in the park for a night or two, and make Sigulda your base. I suggest a stay at Spa Hotel Ezeri. This is where I experienced the traditional Latvian sauna, ate a delicious and filling dinner at their onsite restaurant (“Seasons Restaurant”), then enjoyed the most restful sleep. Room prices start at €75 per night.

Budget options abound in Sigulda, as well. Several guesthouses and hostels offer dorm rooms at a fraction of the cost of a hotel room. However, all hostels and guesthouses I’ve seen only offer co-ed dorms, which is not ideal for solo female travelers who prefer female-only dorms. Private rooms are available at most hostels, but if you are traveling alone, it might cost just as much – or more, in some cases – than a hotel room.

Three highly-rated hostels and guesthouses to book a bed are Hostel Livonija, the Krimulda Manor, and Hotel Kaupo.

Find an accommodation near Gauja National Park that suits you:

Getting To and Around Gauja National Park

If you are flying into Latvia, the closest airport to Gauja National Park is the Riga International Airport. Direct flights to Riga from the US might be expensive. To save money, fly to another city in Europe, then use a local or budget airline to fly to Riga (beware of strict baggage regulations on Baltic Air). Then hop on one of the frequent buses or trains to get from Riga to Sigulda.

While walking is one popular way to explore Sigulda, an e-bike (electronic bike) is a way to get around a little faster! An 8-hour rental from SmartBike.rent costs just €35 and includes a helmet and a lesson on how to use the e-bike.

To reach the trailheads in Gauja National Park, a rental car might be the most convenient option.

Are you inspired to travel to Latvia and explore Gauja National Park? Let us know if you go!

By Brittany Quaglieri

This post is part of a collaboration with Latvia Tourism and Enter Gauja. As always, all opinions are my own.

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