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Mini Zoo, nature trails and observation towers: ideas for family walks around Riga

It is not always a pleasure to go on long holiday trips. Sometimes you want to quickly stretch your legs after a long day at work or save time spent on the road during the holidays. “Túrisma Gids” gathers places where both children and adults will be interested and you won’t have to spend almost half a day on the road.

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Kaniera lake reed trail

In the territory of the Ķemeru National Park, there is Lake Kaniera, which has become a home for many species of birds. There are 14 islands in the lake, which are home to approximately 200 bird species. It is a unique place to watch the birds and the reed-covered lake from the observation tower. On the other hand, a walk along the path, which is surrounded on all sides by endless reeds, will be a real adventure for both children and adults. More information here.

Mini Zoo, nature trails and observation towers: ideas for family walks around Riga
Photo: Kārlis Dambrāns, DELFI


Lielvārde castle ruins and park

In Lielvārde manor park there are medieval castle ruins, although not much of the castle has been preserved, it is still a place where the spirit of history still lives. You can go for a walk in the park, swing on the swing and watch how the little Rumbiņa flows into the mighty Daugava. On the other hand, next to the park there is Lāčplėš bed and the Andrejs Pumpuras museum, which awaits guests every day from Tuesday to Sunday. More information here.

Mini Zoo, nature trails and observation towers: ideas for family walks around Riga
Photo: Gints Mucenieks


Ložmetējkalns observation tower

About an hour’s drive from Riga is the site of the Christmas battles. Today, a 27-meter high observation tower has been installed here, which offers a panoramic view of the Christmas battlefields. On the other hand, in order to be able to relax after a hard climb in the tower and a walk through the forest, there is a well-equipped resting place with benches and a place for a fire at the foot of the tower. More information here.

Mini Zoo, nature trails and observation towers: ideas for family walks around Riga
Foto: Juris Grinfelds Photography


Ogre Blue Mountains

If you want a longer walk after a working day, you should definitely go to the Blue Mountains of Ogre. Here you can go for a walk through the pine forest or have a picnic right next to the Dubkalni quarry, where there are special rest areas. The most active can also try their hand at the Giant’s Path – an obstacle course located among the trees of the Blue Mountains Park, and then have a cup of tea or coffee in the Giant’s cafe. More information here.

Mini Zoo, nature trails and observation towers: ideas for family walks around Riga
Photo: Laura Šīrante


Dundur meadows

Dunduru meadows are located in the forest and on the banks of the Slampe river, where cattle and Konik horses graze. In summer, Dunduru meadows are a good place for bird watching. Here you can observe a large number of terns, as well as small eagles and other birds of prey. For observing animals and birds, a 5.5-meter high observation tower is located on the southern edge of the meadows. More information here.

National Botanical Garden in Salaspils

In Salaspils, you can enjoy the diversity of plants in the National Botanical Garden, whose origins can be traced back to the 18th century. Today, a modern orangery has been built in the garden, which can be visited at any time of the year. On the other hand, the garden itself boasts a variety of flowers and plants, which look especially gorgeous in summer. Markets and various events are regularly held in the Botanical Garden. In addition, visitors who travel to the botanical garden by train can receive a discount on the entrance ticket. More information here.

Mini Zoo, nature trails and observation towers: ideas for family walks around Riga
Foto: Shutterstock


Kekava Mini Zoo

Just half an hour’s drive from Riga, there is a fantastic place for family recreation, where you can enjoy the relaxing atmosphere of nature. Currently, the Mini Zoo is home to about 40 different species of animals, which children will surely like. Here you can meet wolves, lynx, monkeys, dingo dogs, ponies, rabbits, alpaca, as well as various birds. More information here.

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