Located in the Gauja Valley, this Latvian town is known for its medieval castle ruins, bobsleigh track, and scenic cable car ride over the river. Popular for hiking and skiing.
Sigulda, a town in Latvia's Vidzeme region, lies 53 km from Riga on the edge of Gauja National Park. Here, you'll find Turaida Castle's red brick towers rising above the forest, an Olympic bobsleigh track where you can reach speeds of 80 km/h, and Gutmanis Cave, the largest grotto in the Baltic states. Hike through forests that turn vibrant shades of red and gold in autumn, or float on a column of air at the Aerodium vertical wind tunnel. The Gauja River winds through the valley, carving out sandstone cliffs and creating a landscape ripe for exploration.
Discovering Sigulda's Medieval Fortresses
Three medieval castles stand within a small area around Sigulda. Turaida Castle, built in 1214, has distinctive red brick walls and towers that rise above the forest canopy. Climb its towers for views across the Gauja valley. Sigulda Medieval Castle, constructed in 1207 by the Livonian Brothers of the Sword, now exists as ruins that you can explore. The 19th century Sigulda New Castle, with its neo-Gothic spires, currently houses the town council and a restaurant. Across the valley, you'll see the stone remnants of 14th century Krimulda Castle.
Exploring the Gauja National Park
Gauja National Park surrounds Sigulda with forests and sandstone cliffs. Walk along winding trails through dense woods, where you might spot deer or woodpeckers. Visit Gutmanis Cave, the largest grotto in the Baltic states, measuring 19 meters deep, 12 meters wide and 10 meters high. Look closely at the cave walls to find inscriptions dating back to the 17th century. A small spring flows from the cave, which local stories claim has healing properties.
High-Octane Activities in Sigulda
Sigulda has plenty to offer for thrill-seekers. Try the Olympic bobsleigh track, where you can reach speeds up to 80 km/h on the same course where Latvian athletes train. At the Aerodium vertical wind tunnel, float on a column of air, simulating the freefall of skydiving. Take a cable car ride across the Gauja valley to see the landscape from above. For an extra rush, you can bungee jump from the cable car itself. At the Tarzans adventure park, test your balance on rope courses suspended high in the treetops.
Traveling to Sigulda
You can reach Sigulda from Riga in about an hour by car, train, or bus. If driving, take the A2 highway northeast from Riga. Trains leave regularly from Riga Central Station, arriving in Sigulda about 1 hour 15 minutes later. Buses depart frequently from Riga International Coach Terminal, also taking around 1 hour 15 minutes. In Sigulda, you can explore the town center on foot. Rent a bike to cover more ground or reach hiking trails more quickly.
Seasonal Highlights in Sigulda
Each season brings different experiences to Sigulda. In autumn, the forest leaves change to shades of red, orange and gold. Spring sees cherry trees in the town's parks bloom with pink flowers. Summer provides warm days for hiking, cycling, and other activities. Winter covers the landscape in snow, creating opportunities for skiing and sledding. Throughout the year, Sigulda hosts various events, including an open-air opera festival in the medieval castle ruins each summer.
