Latvia, a country rich in natural beauty, is home to the fascinating Gauja National Park, a true gem that takes the hearts of nature lovers and adventurers by storm. With an area of over 900 square kilometers, this park covers the picturesque area along the Gauja river valley, the longest river in the country. The park, which was established in 1973, is not only the oldest national park in Latvia, but also the largest national park in the Baltic States.

Natural treasures and biodiversity in the Gauja National Park

Gauja National Park is home to an astonishing variety of flora and fauna. From dense forests to flowering meadows and steep rock formations, the park offers a breathtaking backdrop for a variety of animal and plant species. Nature lovers will find rare species such as the golden eagle, black stork and capercaillie here. Hikers can explore a variety of trails that lead to breathtaking views of the picturesque landscape.

Cultural heritage and historical sights

In addition to its natural beauty, the Gauja National Park is also home to a rich cultural heritage. Historical sights such as the ruins of Turaida Castle, Sigulda Castle and Gutmann’s Cave tell fascinating stories about Latvia’s turbulent past. These historical sites are not only architectural masterpieces, but also witnesses to a rich cultural tradition that attracts visitors from all over the world. Nearby is also the medieval castle of Cēsis, which we visited during our stay.

Kanu fahren auf dem Gauja in Lettland

Activities in the Gauja National Park

In addition to all the cultural highlights, the national park also offers excellent hiking opportunities. The Baltic Forest Trail stretches over 112 km and runs through the park. Another fascinating way to explore the landscape is on a boat trip on the River Gauja. As we had limited time, we opted for an exciting canoe trip along the river. Visitors who come at the right time of year can also spend their time looking for mushrooms, which is permitted in the national park and offers plenty of opportunities to find them – and not just in the Gauja National Park.

Wanderungen in Hiking in the Gauja National Park – Latvia 

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Fernwanderwege in Hiking in the Gauja National Park – Latvia 

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