Gauja National Park

Gauja National Park spans 917 square kilometers in northern Latvia, where red sandstone cliffs rise 85 meters above the Gauja River. You'll find the 13th-century Turaida Castle perched on a hilltop, walk through the Gutmanala Cave with its ancient wall inscriptions, or paddle past limestone outcrops on the meandering river. The park's ecosystem supports 900 plant species and rare animals like black storks and lesser spotted eagles.

Walking the Sandstone Cliffs

Walk along the red and yellow sandstone cliffs that tower up to 85 meters above the Gauja River. Take the 1.5-kilometer Sietiniezis Nature Trail to see geological formations created 350 million years ago, or challenge yourself on the 17-kilometer Amata Trail with its series of cliffs and rock outcrops. Stop at Gutmanala, the largest cave in the Baltic states, where centuries-old inscriptions cover the walls.

Medieval Castles of Gauja

Six medieval castles from the 13th to 15th centuries dot the park's landscape. Climb the 38-meter brick tower of Turaida Castle for panoramic views of the Gauja Valley. In Cesis, walk through the medieval castle ruins and explore the restored 18th-century manor house with its period furniture and art collections. These structures date back to the time of the Livonian Order, which built them as administrative centers and defensive fortifications.

Adventure Activities in Sigulda

Take a ride on the Sigulda Bobsleigh Track, reaching speeds of up to 80 km/h on the same course where Latvian Olympic athletes train. Cross the Gauja Valley in a cable car suspended 43 meters above the river, or try bungee jumping from the same height. You can also rent mountain bikes to explore the park's network of cycling trails.

Hiking Trails and Wildlife

Walk the park's marked trails through pine and spruce forests where moose, deer, and lynx roam. The 2-kilometer Ligatne Nature Trail includes wildlife viewing platforms where you might spot wild boars and deer. For a full-day hike, take the 30-kilometer Sigulda-Līgatne trail that follows the Gauja River's bends, passing sandstone outcrops and beaver dams.

Getting Around the Park

Catch regular buses from Riga to Sigulda (1 hour), Cesis (1.5 hours), or Valmiera (2 hours). Local buses connect the park's towns, running every 1-2 hours during daytime. Renting a car helps you reach remote trails and viewpoints, especially early morning or evening when wildlife is most active.

Best Times to Visit

Visit between April and September for hiking and kayaking when temperatures range from 15-25°C. October brings red and yellow leaves to the maple and oak trees, especially visible from the Sigulda cable car. In winter (December-February), temperatures drop below 0°C, but you can still explore the castles and caves, and the bobsleigh track operates with special winter sleds.