ToPsiTEs

Transcription

ToPsiTEs

Tukums
and Vicinity
Tour Guide
Tukums Region, Engure Region, Jaunpils Region
and Kandava Region
Museums
Accommodations
Routes
Activities
Nature Trails
www.visittukums.lv
Skiing
Bicycle Rental
www.enguresnovads.lv www.jaunpils.lv www.visitkandava.lv
Болото
Кладбище
Автобусная станция / Автостоянка
Автозаправочная станция
Wald / Park
Moor
Friedhof
Busbahnhof / Parkplatz
Tankstelle
Hotel / Andere Nachtherberge
Restaurant, Cafe / Markt
Post
Museum / Freiheitsbühne
Denkmal, Gedenkstätte
Miškai / Parkai
Pelkės
Kapai
Autobusų stotis /
Automobilių stovėjimo vieta
Degalų papildymo stotis
Viešbutis / Kiti nakvynės namai
Maitinimo įstaiga / Turgus
Pašto skyrius
Muziejus / Estrada
Paminklas, atminimo vieta
Metsad, pargid
Sood
Kalmistud
Bussijaam, parkla
Kütusetankla
Hotell, muu ööbimiskoht
Toitlustuskoht, turg
Postkontor
Muuseum, estraad
Mälestuskivi, mälestuskoht
Brīvības Square
Katrīnas Square
Sporta Street
Jaunā Street
Stadiona Street
Леса, парки
Industriegelände
Pramoniniai ir ūkiniai pastatai
Tööstus- ja majandushooned
Памятник, памятное место
Музей / Эстрада
Отделение связи
Пункт питания / Рынок
Гостиница / Другое место ночлега
Промышленная и
хозяйственная застройка
Bebaute Fläche mit Hausnummern
Apstatytos teritorijos,
namų numeriai
Hoonestatud alad, majanumbrid
Выдающиеся здания (выборочно)
Застроенные территории с
номерами застройки
Sehenwürdigkeiten (Auswahl)
Įžymūs pastatai (atrinkimo būdu)
Silmapaistvad ehitised (valikuliselt)
Общественные здания
(выборочно)
Öﬀentliche Gebäude (Auswahl)
Tarptautiniai pastatai
(atrinkimo būdu)
SUTARTINIAI ŽENKLAI
Ühiskondlikud hooned (valikuliselt)
TÄHISTUSED
Content
Page 3
Tukums town map. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Introduction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Routes
Tukums – a town of roses and art!. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Castles and manors in and around Tukums . . . . . . 18
The medieval Jaunpils . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Get acquitaned with Kandava and
the ancient valley of Abava river . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Over the hills to the sea . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Along the shore. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Around lake Engure. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
A day in Kemeri National park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
Along the foothpath of military history . . . . . . . . . 50
The grand museum route . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Cinema in and around Tukums . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
In search for 7 bridges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
Countryside bounty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
Travel in winter and ski in the area of Tukums! . . . 68
Brīvības (Liberty) Square
The Barefoot Trail
TUKUMS
TOP points of interest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
Tukums district map. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
Still Leaving Your Heart
Down in Tukums Town!
Tukums is a small town surrounded by gardens sitting at the doorstep of Kurzeme. This is where
Zemgale ends and Kurzeme starts and vice versa. Tukums is like a borderline between the prosperous
Zemgale and proud Kurzeme, which is why the inhabitants of Tukums have always had something
from the qualities of Kurzeme and Zemgale alike.
In Tukums, you can still see a fusion between the small town peace and the intensity of the modern
day life. They do not bother each other – a loud and fun entertainment event can exist side by side
with quiet and peaceful museum visits.
During the winter, the vicinity of Tukums offers to go skiing to its three skiing locations – the fast and
steep “Milzkalns", the friendly “Jacob’s ravine" (Jēkaba grava), and the obliging “Swedish Cap" (Zviedru
cepure). Let’s not forget that not only the oldest but also the fastest toboggan track in Latvia delights
the thrill seekers at the Swedish Cap.
The most beautiful castles with the most splendid interior designs are still found in the area of
Tukums – the Durbe Manor and Jaunmoku Palace, Kukšas and Rūmene manor. Jaunpils as usual
tempts everybody with the medieval air, as it is the hometown of one of the oldest masonry castles in
Latvia – the Jaunpils castle and the medieval courtyard “Niedru lija". The only movie town in the Baltic
States – Cinevilla – with open-air props is located near Tukums and the biggest celebration of the
summer solstice festival takes place here.
If it’s too fast or high for somebody, then the numerous nature trails will not let down any nature
enthusiast. Ķemeri National Park with its bogs, the nature park “Engure Lake" with the coastal
meadows, and the nature park “Abava ancient river valley" with meadows and landscapes. Not to
mention the vast opportunities to go bird watching and see wild horses and cows...
If you prefer enjoying culture, then the variety of museums and collections will overwhelm even the
keenest enthusiasts of this type of tourism. And if you travel only during the summer and only to the
seaside, then be it known to you – there is a nearly 60 km of sandy beach stretching from Bigauņciems
to Mērsrags!
Meanwhile, the gourmets will be welcomed at many farmsteads offering the most delicious
vegetables and sweetest berries, the brightest flowers and most resistant trees. But the sweetest stop
without a doubt is the Chocolate Museum “Pure Chocolate". What is more – there are opportunities
to meet up with artists and artisans – potters, weavers, blacksmiths, and sculptors, straw artists, and
hazel-tree furniture makers, artists, and restorers. Discussions with them will be very exciting!
The prominent Latvian poet Imants Ziedonis, who comes from the area of Tukums, once wrote: “Let
me enjoy beauty like cherries blossoming in Tukums! " Don’t wait! Pack your bags and come over!
We will be waiting for you!
What to see?
What to do?
Where to eat?
Tourism Info
Tukums
Pils
Daba
Scan the QR code and download
Visit Tukums mobile app
Abava river
Durbe Manor House
Tukums Tourist Information Centre
Talsu Street 5, Tukums LV-3101 Latvia
GPS: 56.9666006 23.1525851
Ph.: +371 63124451, 28311557
Fax: +371 63132688
E-mail: [email protected]
Skype: visittukums
Twitter: VisitTukums
www.visittukums.lv
Publisher: Tukums Tourist Information Centre, 2014
The publication is financed by: Regional Governments of
Tukums, Engure, Jaunpils and Kandava
Photography by: S.Atte, U.Bajelis, S.Balode, J.Busenbergs,
I.Dravniece, S.Ezeriņa, U.Fedorovičs, U.Grantiņš, K.Grīnvalde,
D.Gudriķe, G.Haņeckis, M.Ignats, A.Jansons, J.Kluša,
I.Lancmanis, A.Neilande, J.Neimanis, K.Ozola, I.Pāže, S.Peipiņš,
I.Piese, A.Priede, L.Ratniece, I.Rencis, D.Rēdmane, E.Rēdmanis,
R.Rēķis, R.Salcevičs, V.Serdāns, I.Smuškova, A.Stikāne, A.Štrausa,
I.Turka, J.Vītols, L.Zaķis, V.Žukovs, as well as photography from
the tourism entrepreneurs and managers of points of interest
of the Tukums region, historic photos – from the collection of
the Tukums region.
Maps: SIA "Karšu izdevniecība Jāņa sēta"
on your
smart phone!
Printed: SIA "Veiters"
Information published in various cultural history sources has
been used to create the map, supplemented by information
provided by tourism object managers and tourism
entrepreneurs about offers to tourists and vacationers.
Page 4
TOP
Sites
of the Route
1. Old Town
2. Castle Tower
3. Art Museum
4. Straw Workshop
5. Durbes Manor
6. Blacksmith’s Workshop of Gints Haņeckis
7. Tukums Golf Club
Trip Planning
TIC Recommends
• If you plan to stay in Tukums only for a
short while, take your time to visit the old
part of the town and see the TOP objects.
• The maps with outlined routes for a
couple of hours, for a day or several days,
you can obtain at the tourism information
centre.
• It is very comfortable and convenient to
go on a one day train trip from Riga to
Tukums!
Points of interest
Leave your heart
down in Tukums town!
T
ukums is a small, garden-embosomed town at the gateway to Kurzeme (Courland),
however the locals have always considered themselves to be natives of Kurzeme,
because they comprise the pride and wealth of the Courlandians, as well as their
stubbornness and insistence. Tukums is the place where the peace of a small town meets
the modern lifestyle rush – a loud and joyful event does not interfere with a quiet and
peaceful visitation of museums. The old town, with the cobble-stone pavement and old
buildings is ideally created for walks with your friends or romantic walks with your mate.
For artists of diverse generations – it is the ideal place for gaining creative inspiration.
The town centre and the fountain is the best place to arrange rendezvous, meet up
during the day or evening, regardless of whether you are young or old. Tasty food and
cosy ambience in cafés and pubs, welcoming and responsive people. Tukums is all that!
During the winter time, in the vicinity of Tukums, there are plenty of options to go skiing.
But if you do not find any pleasure in going out of home during winter, that's fine too –
you can come over in spring. Then there will be cherry-trees, apple-trees and pear-trees
blooming all around. In summer, rose fragrance could be sensed in the air. There is a
reason why they say – Leave your heart down in Tukums town!
Small circle around Tukums
Railroad station Tukums I – Pasta Street – Pils Street – Brīvības (Liberty) Square –
Lielā Street – Harmonijas Street – Dārza Street – Tidaholmas Street – Raiņa Street –
Šēseles Street – Elizabetes Street – Katrīnas Square – Stadiona Street – Pasta Street –
railroad station Tukums I
The route will allow getting to know the town centre – the old wooden buildings, town
planning, search for unique elements in the old town – it will invite you to be extreme and
test yourself and your riding skills on the old cobblestone pavement, and to stop by and visit
some of the museums. Tukums represents beauty!
4
Small circle around Tukums
Large circle around the Town
9
Museums. Creative workshops.
Activities. Service Information
Large circle around the Town
Railroad station Tukums I – Jelgavas Street – Alīnes Street – Durbes Street –
Rīgas Street – Meža Street – Pasta Street – Talsu Street – Pilskalna Street –
Gravas Street – Kandavas Street – Stacijas Street – Zemītes Street – Kuldīgas Street –
Lielā Street – Brīvības (Liberty) Square – Raudas Street – Kurzemes Street –
Tulpju Street – Smilšu Street – "Vāgneris" – "Sveikuļi" – Raudas Street –
Kurzemes Street – Meža Street – Dzelzceļa Street – railroad station Tukums I
The route offers learning about the town and various objects not only in the centre, but
also on the outskirts; you can conquer the hillocks and observe the town skyline from
various viewpoints. On the scale of Latvia Tukums is also a town of hills!
Points of interest in Tukums
1. Railroad Station Tukums I
The Building of the Railroad Station was built in year 1877, when the railroad route to Riga
was open. At that time, the train ran twice daily from Riga to Tukums and back, which
stopped at nine stations, taking two hours and 45 minutes to got from one station of
destination to the other. In our day, the train runs 13 times each direction daily, and the
trip takes 1 hour and 20 minutes.
Dzelzceļa Street 1, Tukums. GPS 56.9664601 23.1691509
Museums and collections
Tukums Livonian Order Castle Tower, Brīvības
Square 19a, Tukums. Ph.: +371 63124348, 25622131,
www.tukumamuzejs.lv
GPS 56.9646445 23.1556064
Gallery "Durvis", Brīvības Square 21, Tukums.
Ph.: +371 63124312, 28391437,
www.tukumamuzejs.lv
GPS 56.9652228 23.1547710
The Art Museum, Harmonijas Street 7, Tukums.
Ph.: +371 63182392, 27843190,
www.tukumamuzejs.lv
GPS 56.9662443 23.1517215
Weavers Workshop, Tidaholmas Street 3, Tukums.
Ph.: +371 63125539, 25622267,
www.tukumamuzejs.lv. GPS 56.9682572 23.1491428
Durbe Manor, M. Parka Street 7, Tukums.
Ph.: +371 63122744, 63122633, 26305946,
Winter Sport Inventory and Compass Collection,
camping "Sveikuļi", Tume parish, Tukums region.
Ph.: +371 29232026, www.sveikuli.lv
GPS 56.9944215 23.1364314
Latvian Road Museum, Milzkalne, Smārde parish,
Engure region. Ph.: +371 63182354,
www.slokenbeka.lv, www.lvceli.lv
GPS 56.9760160 23.2261073
Jaunmoku palace, Jaunmokas, Tume parish,
Tukums region. Ph.: +371 63107125, 26187442,
www.jaunmokupils.lv
GPS 56.9827809 23.0535717
Creative workshops
Art Workshop "Antīks", Harmonijas Street 1, Tukums.
Ph.: +371 63123497, 29540516, 25980177,
www.antiks.viss.lv. GPS 56.9657691 23.1531797
Creative workshop "Ligzda", Brīvības Square 13,
Tukums. Ph.: +371 22000408,
www.manaligzda.com. GPS 56.9656108 23.1563411
Straw Workshop, Dārzniecības Street 4a, Tukums.
Ph.: +371 29495746, www.salmulietas.lv
GPS 56.9682531 23.1605086
Ceramic Workshop of Velga Melne, Durbe Manor,
M. Parka Street 7, Tukums. Ph.: +371 26478677
GPS 56.9669656 23.1928406
Workshop of Hazel-Tree Twig Furniture of Paulis
Čivlis, Salas Street 15, Tukums.
Ph.: +371 26488493. GPS 56.9739820 23.1942187
Workshop of Ruta Štrodaha, Progresa Street 1,
Tukums.. Ph.: +371 29102476
GPS 9712931 23.1450763
Blacksmith’s Workshop of Gints Haņeckis,
"Vecupnieki", Tume parish, Tukums region.
Ph.: +371 29167921. GPS 56.9653831 23.1067257
Wood-carver Juris Jurševics, Lauku Street 5, Tume,
Tume parish, Tukums region.
Ph.: +371 63193287, 26495302
GPS 56.9381251 23.0794378
2. Pasta Street (Post Street)
Pasta Street appeared on the town’s map already in the layout of 1802, and in the 20ties of
the 20th century it became the border street of the old town of Tukums.
3. Post building
Already at the end of the 18th century, a tavern stood at this place. In the 20ties of the 20th
century the Ministry of Transport of the Republic of Latvia bought this property, and in
1928 a post office and telegraph building was constructed here.
Pils Street 20, Tukums. GPS 56.9667420 23.1615787
4. Pils street (Castle Street)
The Pils Street is considered architectonically the most pompous street in the town. Here,
for the first time, appeared the three-storey buildings with fancy decors. Its construction
was formed at the end of the 19th century and in the beginning of the 20 th. The buildings
mostly hosted posh rental buildings, as well as hotels and stores.
5. St. Nicholas Russian Ortodox Church
The church was built in year 1871. Its interior design is luxurious and unusual. In the church,
you can see several icons from the 18th and 19th centuries. Particularly noteworthy is the
"Virgin Mary" icon of year 1971 with an icon-setting. In order to see the interior of the
church, you must make advance arrangements.
Pils Street 13, Tukums. Ph.: +371 63125329. GPS 56.9661614 23.1607365
Page 5.
33
Page 6
Points of interest
6. Former German Commandant’s Office and Soviet War Commissariat
The building dating back to 1847 was used as the Russian congregation school. During World
War II, the building hosted the German military commandant’s office, but after the war – from
1948 until 1991 – the Soviet army war commissariat.
7. Soviet Soldiers’ Cemetery in Tukums, on Pils Street
The building dating back to 1847 was used as the Russian congregation school.
During World War II, the building hosted the German military commandant’s office,
but after the war – from 1948 until 1991 – the Soviet army war commissariat.
Between Pils Street 13 and 13a, Tukums. GPS 56.9655112 23.1602413
8. Tukums Friendship Tree
It is a pole – sign post, indicating the collaboration partners of Tukums in different countries.
9. Brīvības Square (Liberty Square) and Fountain
For more than 600 years the square has served in a capacity of the Market Square,
where farmers from near and far came to trade, along with fishermen from the
nearby seaside villages, as well as the local craftsmen. However, until year 1990,
as it was generally supposed to be, the central square of the city was the host of
Lenin’s monument. Nowadays, the square is arranged with benches, splendid
flower beds and a water fountain.
9
Good to know...
• The town centre is best conquered on
foot.
• The big route around the town is best
mastered with bicycles.
• Of course, you can get acquainted with
the town also going by car, but it surely
will not be ecologically cleaner.
• You can visit Tukums at any time of the
year, because looking down to the town
from the surrounding hills in spring time,
the red roofs of the houses will be sinking
in white heaps of blossoming fruit trees,
but in summer – in a sea of green leaves,
however autumn brings crazy colours to
the town, and during winter – it is a cosy
small-town, wrapped in a think, white
snow cover.
• At night time, illumination of the lanterns
turns each small town into a city of
millions!
GPS 56.9656411 23.1555181
16
14
17
14
10. The Police Building
10
The precise year of construction is unknown, however in 1839, the building
had already been built. It served as an administrative building with an internal
courtyard for the prisoners’ walks. In 1919, the Bolsheviks used the building as a
prison. They held here 11 German barons living in the area. But in 1940 and 1941,
people who were ill-disposed towards the Soviet power were imprisoned here
together with those, who were arrested on the grounds of denunciation; since
July of 1941 until July 1944, altogether 1543 people, who were believed to be
antagonistic towards the German fascistic regime, were imprisoned here.
Brīvības Square 19, Tukums. GPS 56.9647455 23.1559330
11. The Former Behr’s villa in Tukums
The eclecticism style masonry building is known as the Behr’s villa, as it was once the
property of Baron von Behr’s family. After World War I, the building was nationalised and it
hosted the war council of Tukums-Talsi area and the apartment of its chairman. A number of
public organisations were also registered there, among them the Tukums division of "Latvijas
Vanagi" (the Latvian Hawks), as well as the Tukums division of the Latvian Aerial Club, and the
Committee of the Soldiers’ Cemeteries.
Brīvības Square 18,Tukums. GPS 56.9641905 23.1562252
12. Medieval Castle Tower and a Fragment of Castle Wall in Tukums
The castle tower is a fragment of the oldest building in Tukums – the Livonian Order castle.
It is believed that the construction of the castle in Tukums was commenced in 1277. The
castle was surrounded by a 7.5 m tall and 1.6 m wide stone wall. The castle defence was
ensured by an artificial, deep moat and its position on the high bank of the River Slocene.
Only a small stone wall fragment has been preserved from the big Livonian Order castle,
but the castle tower built in the 18th century in turns hosted premises for a prison and the
coronal stocks (granary). Nowadays, it hosts the history museum of Tukums town, telling
about the town’s history from the ancient times up until the modern day.
Brīvības Square 19a, Tukums. Ph.: +371 63124348, 25622131, www.tukumamuzejs.lv
GPS 56.9646445 23.1556064
12
14
13. Gallery "Durvis" (Door)
Place for contemporary art exhibitions and gift purchases. The air of ancient times is attributed
to the gallery by rococo style doors of the 18th century, which were found during renovation.
Brīvības Square 21, Tukums. Ph.: +371 63124312, 28391437, www.tukumamuzejs.lv
GPS 56.9652228 23.1547710
14. Tukums Holy Trinity Lutheran Church
Tukums Holy Trinity Lutheran Church is one of the oldest buildings in the town and it dates
back to year 1644. The currently displayed altar piece "Christ on a cross" was obtained in
year 1859, but in the 30-ties of the 20 th century, the wealthiest citizens gave a gift of four
coloured stained-glass windows. There is a watchtower in the church tower, where the
town can be observed from elevation of 23.5 metres.
Brīvības Square 1, Tukums. Ph.: +371 63122305, 20221951, www.tukumabaznica.lv
GPS 56.9653613 23.1599948
15. Lielā Street (Large Street)
Accommodations In Tukums
Hotel "Tukuma ledus halle" (Tukums Ice Hall),
Stadiona Street 3, Tukums. Ph.: +371 63107470,
26633273, www.tlh.lv. GPS 56.9667038 23.1572210
Hotel "Tukums", Pils Street 9, Tukums.
Ph.: +371 63125747, 27761400, www.hoteltukums.lv
GPS 56.9657164 23.1586906
Motel "Autopirts", Vilkājas Street 2a, Tukums.
Ph.: +371 63129181, 26616610
GPS 56.9539290 23.1169306
Apartment in Tukums, Brīvības Square 5, Tukums.
Ph.: +371 26406209, www.kipitis.wordpress.com
GPS 56.9665506 23.1531619
Youth accommodation at the Tukums Leisure
and Sports Complex, Kuldīgas Street 74, Tukums.
Ph.: +371 63123188, 29486981
GPS 56.9523800 23.1215051
Guest house "Ķipītis", Noras Street 12, Tukums.
Ph.: +371 26406209, www.kipitis.wordpress.com
GPS 56.0603358 23.1593882
Vacation house in Tukums, Ganību Street 9, Tukums.
Ph.: +371 22357529, 26060901
GPS 56.9558519 23.1265535
Accommodations near Tukums
Leisure complex "Vāgneris", near Lake Jumprava,
Ph.: +371 22022943, 29139800, www.vagneris.lv
GPS 56.9913145 23.1353348
Camping "Sveikuļi", near Lake Jumprava, Tume
parish, Tukums region. Ph.: +371 29232026,
www.sveikuli.lv. GPS 56.9944215 23.1364314
Guest house "Menģeļi", Sēme parish, Tukums
region. Ph.: +371 29473831, www.mengeli.lv
GPS 57.0424666 23.1519951
Šlokenbeka Manor Hotel, Milzkalne,
Smārde parish, Engure region. Ph.: +371 25155225,
www.slokenbeka.lv. GPS 56.9760160 23.2261073
Jaunmoku Palace Hotel, Jaunmokas, Tume parish,
Tukums region. Ph.: +371 63107125, 26187442,
www.jaunmokupils.lv. GPS 56.9827809 23.0535717
Guest house "Ieviņas", at the end of
Kandavas street, not far from railway station
Tukums II, Tume parish, Tukums region.
Ph.: +371 29428479, 29126213,
www.ievinas.lv. GPS 56.9633706 23.1008196
Guest House "Saulgrieži", Tume parish,
Tukums region. Ph.: +371 29245735
GPS 56.9457302 23.0679243
Vacation house "Mazozoli", Tume parish,
Tukums region. Ph.: +371 29453908,
www.mazozolupirts.lv. GPS 56.9411563 23.0996785
Guest house "Knauķi", Tume parish, Tukums region.
Ph.: +371 63154406, 29251157, 26148003
www.knauki.blogspot.com
GPS 56.9855854 23.0851783
Guest house "Kalna žagari", Smārde parish,
www.kalnazagari.lv. GPS 56.9474385 23.2679939
The Lielā Street is one of the oldest streets in Tukums. Depending on the current
rule of the time, the name had changed along with it: Lielā Street (Large),
Z. Meierovica Street (Z. Meierovics was the first Latvian Foreign Minister),
1905. gada Street (the Street of the year 1905), Gēringa Street (Göring Street).
16. The former Social Community Centre
The former Social Community Centre was established in year 1902. At that time,
it was one of the most luxurious and modern buildings in the town. The building
acquired its name as it was because the statutes of its builder – the Tukums
Association of Latvians – were approved by the Russian Tsarist government only
subject to a condition that its name does not include the word "Latvian".
Lielā Street 1, Tukums. GPS 56.9650011 23.1538714
17. St. Stephan's Roman Catholic Church
St. Stephan's Roman Catholic Church is a relatively recent building, as it was built
in year 1897. There you can see the J.F.Grune painted altar piece of year 1840 –
"Golgotha", paintings from the 18th century in the altar with shatters and the
prospect of organs of the second half of the 18th century.
Harmonijas Street 1a, Tukums. Ph.: +371 63123919. GPS 56.9655609 23.1529541
Page 7.
9
Page 8
Points of interest
18. Art Workshop "Antīks" (Antique)
Art Workshop was established in 2001 and now two artists are working here – the furniture
renovator Leons Čivlis and the artist Ingemāra Treija-Čivle. When visiting the workshops, the
guests can meet the artists, see their works, and learn plenty of new information about
restoration and painting. Visits must be arranged in advance.
Harmonijas street 1, Tukums. Ph.: +371 631243497, 29540516, 25980177, www.antiks.viss.lv
GPS 56.9657691 23.1531797
19. Art Museum
The Art Museum in Tukums is the first provincial art museum in Latvia (1935/1936) and within
70 years of operations, one of the most valuable collections of artworks from the first part of
the 20th century has been accumulated here. At the museum, the guests can explore
exhibitions showing the art of Latvia portrayed in works from the museum stocks and private
collections.
28
Harmonijas street 7, Tukums. Ph.: +371 63182392, 27843190, www.tukumamuzejs.lv
GPS 56.9662443 23.1517215
20. Historical Centre – the Old Town of Tukums
The Old Town of Tukums includes Harmonijas, Dārza, Zirgu, Jaunā, Talsu and Lielā streets. The
historical centre got its current layout during the time period from the 14th till 18th century,
but in the 19th century and at the beginning of the 20 th century, its visual image was formed,
which is characteristic for the town also at the current time. Here, you can see many age-old,
little reconstructed log-style residential and auxiliary buildings.
25
21. Harmonijas Street (Harmony Street)
Harmonijas Street can boast with the Courlandian city construction characteristic for the 18th
and 19th century, including Swiss summer house-style buildings (12 Harmonijas Street). When
you go for a walk along this street, you must pay attention to the street doors, which have
been fancily created by carpenters and blacksmiths.
22. Zirgu Street (Horses Street)
The Zirgu Street is another narrow and cobblestone-paved street in Tukums. The name is told
to have originated from that in the old days, cows and horses were taken along it to the
pasturing grounds, but the cobblestone pavement appeared here only after the year 1860.
Trip
Highlights
The market of Tukums is rich in local produce –
fruit, vegetables, flowers, especially during the
harvest season, which is why we recommend
visiting it. The market is open every Tuesday,
Thursday, and Saturday from early in the morning until about 14.00.
22
23. The Weavers’ Workshop of Tukums Museum
The weavers at the Tukums Museum have been actively operating since year 1974, and those
interested in the matter, can learn the ancient handicraft. It is an exciting point of interest for
the visitors, in order to learn about the regional ethnical clothing of the Tukums area and to
try testing ones skills in weaving.
Tidaholmas Street 3, Tukums. Ph.: +371 63125539, 25622267, www.tukumamuzejs.lv
GPS 56.9682572 23.1491428
26
24. Tukums Rainis Gymnasium
The foundation stone of gymnasium was laid in autumn of year 1927 and the famous Latvian
poet Rainis participated in this event. In 1938, it was written in the newspaper "Brīvā Zeme"
(the Free Land): The new school – the largest building in town – now proudly stands on the
highest hill of Tukums. A broad view opens up in all directions, and, whoever knows the
number of those, who will start exploring the horizons from the windows of this school."
Raiņa Street 3, Tukums. GPS 56.9686546 23.1481303
25. New Market Square
The new market square in Tukums formed at the beginning of the 20th century. During the
construction works, ancient burial site was discovered on the corner of Dārza and Raiņa
streets, which has confirmed the assumption stating that Tukums was once an ancient
settlement for the Livs. Just like before, the market is open three times per week – on
Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays – from early morning till afternoon, gathering local
farmers and other traders to sell goods of the country, offering the market-goers to buy
products from the gardens, forests, meadows and sea.
Raiņa Street, Tukums. GPS 56.9687936 23.1500681
26. Sculpture "Koks-Kubs" (Tree-Cube)
Sculpture was created by a sculptor – resident of Tukums – Evija Rabkēviča. It was her gradua
tion work for the Riga Art and Design Secondary School. The sculpture was set up in year 2004.
Raudas-Pasta street cross, Tukums. GPS 56.9679108 23.1550226
27. Elizabetes and Uguns Streets
On Elizabetes and Uguns streets you can see construction dating back to the 19 th century.
This area has suffered from fires multiple times during the 19th century, and the local
government ordered the houses to be built further apart from each other, however the land
parcels were not very large, therefore the hoses are still situated very closely to each other.
28. The fountain "Money spring"
The fountain "Money spring" was created in 2003 when the plaza was improved. The money
spring is a sign representing the part of the town, where once upon a time active trading
took place.
18
29. Former Synagogue and the Rabbi’s House
The first Jewish inhabitants in Tukums were mentioned already in 1719. Their properties
were mainly around the former Market Square (now – the Liberty Square), as well as on
Elizabetes and Uguns streets. The first synagogue appeared on the town plan in 1802. It
was located next to the more recent synagogue building, which was built in mid-19 th
century. The Jewish congregation and synagogue were active up until World War II. After
the war, the synagogue building was used as a grain warehouse and a sports school.
Now, it is the sport club for people with disabilities.
Guest house "Sanders", 57th kilometer of RīgaVentspils highway, Ozolpils, Smārde parish, Engure
region. Ph.: +371 26434448,
www.sanders.viss.lv. GPS 56.9209373 23.2621554
Leisure complex "Ozolpils", Ozolpils, 57th km of
Rīga-Ventspils highway, Smārde parish, Engure region.
Ph.: +371 26445528, www.ozolpils.lv
GPS 56.9215777 23.2641141
Guest house "Līkumi", near by Ozolnieki, Slampe
parish, Tukums region. Ph.: +371 26524126
GPS 56.9168373 23.2201707
Tent ground and sauna "Ķīvītes", near Ozolpils,
Slampe parish, Tukums region. Ph.: +371 26401330,
26413774. GPS 56.9049022 23.2950820
Guest house "Vašlejas", 2 km from Rīga-Ventspils
highway, Degole parish, Tukums region.
Ph.: +371 29211747, www.vaslejas.viss.lv
GPS 56.9256175 23.1569152
Guest house "Jaunrūķi", Šlokenbekas 26,
Milzkalne, Smārde parish, Engure region.
Ph.: +371 63182143, 29142764,
www.jaunruki.ciemos.lv. GPS 56.9752643 23.2179137
Guest house "Milzkalne.lv", Dambkalni-3,
Ph.: +371 26545521, 29574890, www.milzkalne.lv
GPS 56.9814878 23.2364255
Guest house "Upesloki", Milzkalne, Smārde parish,
Engure region. Ph.: +371 29151231
GPS 56.9787329 23.2340140
Leisure complex "Milzkalns", Smārde parish,
www.milzkalns.lv. GPS 56.9993251 23.2081739
Vacation house "Rūši", Smārde parish, Engure
region. Ph.: +371 28637513, http://rusi.viesumajas.lv
GPS 57.0058879 23.2218155
Guest house "Hotel Cinevilla", "Vidusvecvagari",
28606677, www.cinevillastudio.com
GPS 56.8789620 23.2204344
Youth place "Cinevilla", "Vidusvecvagari", Slampe
www.cinevillastudio.com. GPS 56.8789620 23.2204344
Youth place "Dzīvā skola", Praviņas, Degole parish,
Tukums region. Ph.: +371 26447800, 29493033
GPS 56.8775771 23.1700078
Guest house "Pilsētnieki", Slampe, Slampe parish,
Tukums region. Ph.: +371 29497272, 25444949,
www.pilsetnieki.lv. GPS 56.8481207 23.3075445
30. Former Jewish House of Worship in Tukums
The former Jewish synagogue built in late 19 th century next to the synagogue was used for
daily visits. In July 1941, the remaining Jews of Tukums were placed in this building and were
shot a few weeks later in a forest of Valgums. In 1947, a canteen of the Soviet army garrison
was temporarily set up here.
19
Elizabetes Street 8, Tukums. GPS 56.9666633 23.1552153
31. 18th Century Building in Tukums
One of the most valuable buildings from the architectonic viewpoint in Tukums was built
in the 18th century. The building volume has remained unchanged, just like the attic roof
and mezzanine with the high gable. At the beginning of the 20 th century, this building
hosted an inn and a beer brewery. The people say that during World War I, when the
Finnish jaegers stayed in Tukums, they visited this place because they had become very
fond of the sausages with sauerkraut. Interestingly, at the end of the 20th century, this sort
of dish could be bought here again, and the Finnish tourists enjoyed it.
23
32. Creative workshop "Ligzda" (Nest)
Workshop offers you can learn a range of handicrafts: decoupage, plastic modelling, silk
and glass painting, as well as making various souvenirs yourself. You can also order custommade items: gifts, souvenirs, clothing, bijouterie, toys.
Brīvības Square13 (second floor), Tukums. Ph.: +371 22000408, www.manaligzda.com
GPS 56.9656108 23.1563411
Page 9.
New market square. 1935
Page 10
Points of interest
33. "Katrīna of Tukums" and Katrīnas laukums (Catherine Square)
She is kind. She is modern. She is one meter and eighty five centimetres tall. A lady with a dog.
She is "Katrīna of Tukums", whose image is cast in coloured bronze and set up in the Catherine
Square. The square is formed in a place, which once was the area of warehouses. The square
got its name from the event, which took place in 1795: the Russian tsarina Catherine II
awarded Tukums the rights of a regional town.
Katrīnas Square and Stadiona Street 3, Tukums. GPS 56.9664856 23.1568478
34. The Former Headquarters of Tukums Guards Regiment
The building consisting of two, closely together built two-storey brick buildings, since 1926
hosted the Police Office of Tukums-Talsi area, as well as the headquarters of the Tukums
guards regiment.
38
Pasta Street 18, Tukums. GPS 56.9672153 23.1598082
35. Straw workshop
The first straw workshop in Latvia. A broad range of decorative straw figures and souvenirs
can be seen on display here: gnomes, dragons, devils, witches, frogs, hares, cats, and many
more. Visits must be arranged in advance.
Dārzniecības Street 4a, Tukums. Ph.: +371 29495746, www.salmulietas.lv. GPS 56.9682531 23.1605086
36. The Small Architectural Sculpture "Vīzija" (Vision)
The Small Architectural Sculpture was made by the sculpture students – Elīna Kalniņa and
Evija Rabkēviča – both from Tukums. The sculpture was set up in year 2003.
35
Intersection of Rīgas-Baložu Streets, Tukums. GPS 56.9671924 23.1671279
X-UNIT
37. Slocene River
During the times of the Duke Jacob, in 1628, approximately at the site of the current dairy
farm, a dam was set up on the River Slocene, that way forming Lake Tukums, which can be
seen in many old post-cards. Next to the new dam, a mill was constructed on one side, but on
the other – a copper kiln with several furnaces, ore crushing facilities, brass foundry and
forging facilities. The mill burnt down in 1933, but the dam, which was bombarded during the
World War II was dismantled. The lake was drained in 1947, leaving behind only the stream of
Slocene.
33
Motorbike track of Melnezers
33
44
38. Hill Mālkalns (Clay Hill), Monument for
the Freedom-Fighters and Cherry Tree Grove
The name of hill has derived from the clay soil at its bottom. A view of the town’s lake and
panorama once used to open up from the hill (62 a.s.l.). On the top of the Clay Hill is located
Monument for the Freedom-Fighters of Tukums (1975). The author of the monument is
sculptor – A. Dumpe. The monument has been made in a form of an oak-tree, in the centre
whereof is the Mother, and on both sides – sons fighting for opposite fronts. But in 2010, to
celebrate the 77th birthday of the poet Imants Ziedonis, a cherry tree grove with 77 decorative
and 60 sour cherry trees has been planted on Mālkalns. "Let me go and discover the world
dressed up like springtime cherries in Tukums"– as the poet has said many years ago.
Jelgavas Street, Tukums. GPS 56.9589171 23.1710453
Tukums Leisure and Sports Complex
39. Jauntukums
Jauntukums is a part of Tukums, which developed immediately after the World War II for the
Soviet army officers serving in the Tukums Airport. The locals call it also the war-town or
"gorodok" (from Russian – a small town). It is a peculiar monument of architecture and urban
planning bearing witness of the Soviet era. In Jauntukums, you can see the "Khrushchev
buildings" constructed back in 1950-ties and the modern block buildings of the 1980-ties. The
street names – Aviācijas (Aviation), Parādes (Parade), Telegrāfa (Telegraph) – reflect the army
presence in this part of the town.
Alīnes, Telegrāfa, Aviācijas and Parādes Streets, Tukums
40. Durbe
Durbe is one of the suburbs in Tukums. It formed after the World War I, when on the
account of the manors that were situated in the area of the town, following the Agrarian
Reform, the town’s area was expanded. During that time, the lots in this part of the town
were obtained and inhabited by not the richest residents. But in the 60ties and 70ties of
the 20th century, the area shaped up to be among the town’s wealthiest single home
neighbourhoods with wonderful flower gardens and fruit tree orchards.
41. Durbe Manor
Durbe Manor is one of the most interesting castles of classicism style in Kurzeme. At this
time, the renovated exhibition halls the 1st floor of the manor offers expositions of the
interior of countryside manors, however the 2nd floor halls offers various expositions about
manors in the 19th century. One of the auxiliary buildings is hosting to an exhibition of
ancient household items "The Latvian and his Master", which tells the story about the lives
of farmers and craftsmen during the feudal times.
M.Parka Street 7, Tukums. Ph.: +371 63122633, 26305946, www.tukumamuzejs.lv
GPS 56.9669719 23.1938273
Page 11.
Nature trails
Dendrology Park "Vāgneris", at Jumprava Lake,
GPS 56.9913145 23.1353348
Sveikuļi Nature Trail, camping "Sveikuļi", at
Jumprava Lake, Tume parish, Tukums region.
GPS 56.9944215 23.1364314
Activities in Tukums
Ice-skating rink, billiard and table-games at
Tukums Ice Hall, Stadiona Street 3, Tukums.
Ph.: +371 63107470, 26633273, www.tlh.lv
GPS 56.9667038 23.1572210
Billiard and un bowling at Hotel Tukums,
Pils Street 9, Tukums. Ph.: +371 63125747, 27761339,
www.hoteltukums.lv. GPS 56.9657164 23.1586906
Novuss and ping-pong games at the Tukums
Leisure and Sports Complex, Kuldīgas Street 74,
Tukums. Ph.: +371 63123188, 29486981
GPS 56.9523800 23.1215051
Motorbike track of Melnezers in Tukums,
Melnezera Street, Tukums.
Ph.: +371 26290103, www.mototukums.lv
GPS 56.9779559 23.1685823
Urban climbing and military games "X-Unit",
Tukums and vicinity. Ph.: +371 29969613
Airsoft "Airsoftizklaide.lv", Zemgales Street 9,
Ozolnieki, Ozolnieki parish, Ozolnieki region.
Ph.: +371 29415744, 29597772
www.airsoftizklaide.lv
41
41
41
41
42
42. Ceramic Workshop of Velga Melne
The ceramist introduces with her works and the process of pottery making in the
administrative building of Durbe Castle and on the basement floor, where the ceramist
workshop is open. Here, you can meet the ceramist every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday
and learn about the process of making the clay dishes, as well as try out your skills in
pottery. Visits must be arranged in advance.
Durbe Manor, M.Parka Street 7, Tukums. Ph.: +371 26478677. GPS 56.9669656 23.1928406
43. Durbe Manor Park and Eastern White Pine
Durbe Manor Park was established during the time from 1918 until 1838, when the Count
Medem reconstructed the Durbe Manor and improved its surroundings. The park was
arranged according to an example of an English scenic park. Trees for the park were
brought from Siberia and Germany. Also the thickest Eastern White Pine (Pinus strobus L.)
of Latvia is growing here. Its circumference is 3.18 metres
41
GPS 56.9674316 23.1926660
44. Open-air Stage of Durbe
The Durbe Park has been the venue of cultural events for more than 100 years. In 1928,
during the first regional song festival of Tukums, the poet Rainis, President of the State
Gustavs Zemgals, and other high-standing public officials participated as the guests of
honour. In 1957, the former Durbe open-air stage was torn down, but in 1963, the wooden
structure stage of Durbe that we see today was built. Although it suffered damages due to
the snow weight in January 2011, when the roof of the stage collapsed, music specialists
say that the sound on the Durbe stage now is even better than before.
M.Parka Street 2, Tukums. GPS 56.9648207 23.1876405
Tukums Ice Hall
Page 12
Points of interest
45. Workshop of Hazel-Tree Twig Furniture of Paulis Čivlis
Paulis Čivlis is a craftsman in Tukums, making various pieces of twig furniture of hazel-tree
and other wooden materials. The furniture fits in well in apartments and on balconies, as well
as in gardens and summer homes. When visiting the workshop, the master will show how
such furniture is made and tell how long is the process of making, for instance, a chair. Visits
must be arranged in advance.
Salas Street 15, Tukums. Ph.: +371 26488493. GPS 56.9739820 23.1942187
Talsu street. 1950-ties
46. Šlokenbeka Millpond
The lake is a popular fishing site for the residents of vicinity of Tukums and Milzkalne. The
lake covers 7 ha. The catch can include roaches, chubs, tenches, breams, pikes, and perches.
It must be taken into account that the lake receives large quantities of treated wastewater
from Tukums, therefore be careful with eating the fish caught here.
Near Tukums, in the direction of Milzkalne, Smārde parish, Engure region. GPS 56.9742795 23.2084587
50
47. Šlokenbeka Mill and Monument to M. von der Recke
The Šlokenbeka mill was constructed in 1867 during the era of the Šlokenbeka and Durbe
manor owner Matthias von der Recke. A small obelisk with an inscription is placed next to the
millpond as a commemorative sign. There is a legend dating back to more than a century ago
about how the young son of the Šlokenbeka and Durbe baron Matthias fell in love with the
daughter of the Šlokenbeka miller. Both met secretly on the Šlokenbeka milldam, and the
baron found out about it and was so angry that one night, when the full moon was shining
and both lovers went to see each other, the baron wanted to shoot the girl. To spite the
death, both lovers held hands and jumped into the pond. The baron deeply suffered over the
death of his son and ordered a small commemorative obelisk to be built. In 2001, next to the
old Šlokenbeka water mill, a small hydropower station was built. The waterwheel in the mill
was functioning up until 1927, and with the Francis turbine it was functioning until 1967.
Interestingly enough, the mill is still functioning and many local residents favour the
products milled there.
Near Tukums, in the direction of Milzkalne, Smārde parish, Engure region. GPS 56.9750386 23.2091664
60
48. Baltā Tīle
The name Baltā Tīle in Tukums is historically associated to World War II, when this was the site
of one of the few war prisoner camps in the district of Tukums. About 40 war prisoners were
held there. The regulations of the camp prescribed that the farmers of the area for a certain
fee could use the war prisoners as help in their farms.
End of Riga Street, near the border of the town of Tukums, Smārde parish, Engure region.
GPS 56.9751682 23.1900968
49. Meža Cemetery (Forest Cemetery) and Monument by K. Zemdega
The old part of the Meža Cemetery is created almost like a park, where you can see
decorative shrubs and trees of various forms, as well as peculiar monuments and sculptures
of small architectural forms. Here, at the foot of the hill, the warriors' cemetery was created
during the 30-ties of the 20th century with a monument of young soldier with a weapon in his
hands, giving an oath of allegiance to his nation. This monument is considered to be one of
the best artworks by K. Zemdega.
53
Meža Cemetery, Melnezera Street, Tukums. GPS 56.9713375 23.1703582
50. Lake Melnezers
The lake with the area of 1.3 ha is situated right at the border of Tukums town surrounded by
a forest. It is a popular site for relaxation for the townspeople. There are swimming grounds
on the lakeshore with a footbridge and marked paths have been set up for the pedestrians,
Nordic walkers, and joggers. During the summer season, the lake beach is monitored by
lifeguards. The fishermen can try their luck in fishing pikes, roaches, and perches.
At the end of Melnezera Street, at the Tukums town border. Smārde parish, Engure region.
GPS 56.9839934 23.1713274
49
Equestrian sport club of Tukums
51. Meža Street (Forest Street)
Meža Street together with Kurzemes, Raudas, and Dārzniecības Street first appeared on the
town’s maps more than about 100 years ago, when on the former outskirts of the town,
sawmills, slaughter houses, and horticulture farms were set up. Meža Street then was the
town’s border of sorts.
52. Kurzemes Street
The street gained its appearance during the 60ties and 70ties of the 20 th century, when after
private homes were dismantled, the modern (according to the standards of the time) multistorey apartment buildings were constructed. However, only some local residents still
remember or know that it got its current name only about 20 years ago. During the Soviet
era, it was the Pioneer (Pionieru) Street, and even before, there was a slaughter house
situated on this street, hence the name – the Slaughter House (Kautuves) Street.
53. Talsu Street
Talsu Street is the oldest trading route leading from the estuary of the Daugava River to
Germany. Construction here started at the end of the 18th century and during the 19th
century. The original appearance has still been preserved – one or two storey wooden
buildings with gardens.
54. Pavārkalns Mound (Cook’s Hill)
According to legends, the Cook’s Hill (Pavārkalns) (66 m above the sea level) in Tukums was
the site of the Swedish war canteen during the Swedish-Polish war. Beautiful scenery of
Tukums with its church towers opens up from the hill. Just like other cook’s hills in Latvia,
also this is a visually noteworthy place situated at an intersection of ancient roads. Possibly,
it was also the site of an ancient court or other events, or a cult site to honour the dead.
Intersection of Kurzeme-Talsu Streets, Tukums. GPS 56.9706314 23.1233733
55. Kapu or Karātavu Hill (Cemetery or Hanging Hill)
The Karātavu (Hanging) Hill (63 m a.s.l.) is the place for execution of punishment of the
Courland’s Duchy, where witches and wizards were burnt. It is believed that the gallows
were once located here. However, when the deceased were not buried underneath the
church anymore and in the cemetery around the church, then a cemetery was arranged
at the Hanging Hill, which is why the hill is now called also the Kapu (Cemetery) Hill.
Revolūcijas Street, Tukums. GPS 56.9661911 23.1373642
56. Gates to the Cemetery Hill
The gates to the Cemetery Hill were consecrated in year 1932. The project was made by
the artist P. telmahers. The Gates were arranged owing thanks to the Congregation Ladies
Committee, which had collected 1900 lats for this purpose.
Intersection of Talsu-Revolūcijas Streets, Tukums. GPS 56.9703035 23.1383384
Page 13.
Activities near Tukums
Golf and golf playground, "Odiņi", Vilkāja, Tume
parish, Tukums region. Ph.: +371 29474990, 28352001,
26367797, www.facebook.com/golfcoursetukums
GPS 56.9673800 23.0995395
Orienteering, hikes and team building games
at the camping "Sveikuļi", near Lake Jumprava,
Tume parish, Tukums region. Ph.: +371 29232026,
Paintball and wakeboarding at the leisure complex
"Milzkalns", Smārde parish, Engure region.
Ph.: +371 26222333, www.milzkalns.lv
GPS 56.9993251 23.2081739
Paintball in the territory of guest house
"Meņģeļi", Sēme parish, Tukums region.
Ph.: +371 29473831, www.mengeli.lv
GPS 57.0424666 23.1519951
Nordic Walking at the leisure complex "Valguma
pasaule", near Valguma lake, Smārde parish,
Engure region. Ph.: +371 63181222, 29414022,
www.valgumapasaule.lv. GPS 56.9898684 23.3153818
Team building games, "Notikumu raktuves" Ltd.,
Praviņu school, Degole parish, Tukums region.
Ph.: +371 29493033, www.raktuves.lv
GPS 56.8776495 23.1700882
Tennis at the guest house "Vašlejas",
2 km from Rīga-Ventspils highway, Degole parish,
www.vaslejas.viss.lv. GPS 56.9256175 23.1569152
Horses
Equestrian sport club of Tukums, Tīle, Rīgas Street,
Tukums. Ph.: +371 26170318, 29212644
GPS 56.9732805 23.1885421
Tukums region. Ph.: +371 63107125, 26187442,
Stud farm "Skudru staļļi", "Skudras", Džūkste parish,
Tukums region. Ph.: +371 26307695
GPS 56.7847399 23.2474322
CAR RENTAL
FS noma, Zemītes Street 13, Tukums.
Ph.: +371 63181373, 29122000, www.fsnoma.lv
GPS 56.9519751 23.1169275
57
VALGUMA PASAULE
57. Monument "Mother – Homeland"
The monument was set up on the Cemetery Hill (Kapu kalns) in 1985 to commemorate
the 40th anniversary of the end of World War II. Its author is the sculptor Lidija Līce. The
monument depicts a mother with her head down, grieving over the sons who died in
the war.
Guest house "Vašlejas"
Kalnu Cemetery, Revolūcijas Street, Tukums. GPS 56.9661911 23.1373642
58. German Cemetery
The German Cemetery is the oldest section of the cemetery arranged on the Hanging Hill.
The terraces on the steep slopes of the hill were created in year 1913, thus forming an
interesting scenery.
Golf playground "Odiņi"
59. World War I Soldiers’ Cemetery on the Kapu Hill
The World War I Soldiers’ Cemetery is located on the edge of the precipice of the Cemetery
Hill (Kapu kalns), where German soldiers and Finnish jaegers are buried. Unfortunately, the
crosses on the graves have been ruined, only a couple of monuments bearing the soldiers’
names have been preserved, but in the centre – the base of the monument with an
inscription in German: Homeland for its sons – the heroes.
54
Page 14
Points of interest
60. A commemorative site for barons murdered in Tukums
The commemorative site with a memorial plaque is set up at the top of the Cemetery Hill
(Kapu kalns). From January until March 1919, 18 barons from the vicinity of Tukums and from
Kurzeme were killed here.
Hill Cemetery (Kalna kapi), Revolūcijas Street, Tukums. GPS 56.9633333 23.1361111
61. Tirgus Street (Market Street)
The street is situated on the other side of the Cemetery Hill. This has been the site of the
town’s big fairs, including the Horse Fair in February, for which Tukums was the typical venue,
as well as the Wedding Fair in September.
66
62. Tukums Hillfort
The hillfort of Tukums (63 m above the sea level) is situated rather far from the modern-day
town centre. It dates back to the 10th–12th centuries, and it is believed that the Liv and
Couronian tribes lived there. It is considered that in the 13th century, the castle mound was
used to protect the Riga–Prussia road.
Pilskalna Street, Tukums. GPS 56.9681112 23.1305103
67
63. Decorative Garden of Dace Lukševica
The decorative garden created by the certified landscape designer Dace Lukševica is located
in Tukums, near the Veļķi pines. It is an example of an-easy-to-care-for and economical
garden. The garden has a vast collection of plants, and a special surprise for the hostas
enthusiasts – 73 varieties. Visits must be arranged in advance.
Lejas Street 1, Tukums. Ph.: +371 29177195. GPS 56.9657623 23.1357635
64. Veļķi
The area of single homes experienced intensive construction during the 70ties and 80ties of
the 20th century. The pine trees of Veļķi have found their way into the painting "Fair of
Tukums" (1936) by the artist Kārlis Neilis. The painting now forms a part of the collection at
Tukums Museum.
62
65. Cemetery of Veļki and Vilkāja
The cemetery is situated next to the Veļķi suburb. The cemetery is the final resting place for a
range of prominent culture personalities, for example, artists Ansis Artums (1908–1997) and
Leonīds Āriņš (1907–1991), the cartoonist Gunārs Bērziņš (1927–1999) and others.
Kandavas Street, Tukums. GPS 56.9632425 23.1152302
66
68
64
73
63
66. Blacksmith’s Workshop of Gints Haņeckis
Blacksmith is located near the border of Tukums. At the workshop visitors can see readymade items, as well as items that are currently in the process of making, along with a small
collection of ancient items. The works can be seen and purchased, as well as ordered on a
daily basis. Visits must be arranged in advance.
"Vecupnieki", right at the Tukums sign, at the end of Kandavas Street, Tume parish, Tukums region.
Ph.: +371 29167921. GPS 56.9653831 23.1067257
63
67. Railroad Station Tukums II
Railroad Station Tukums II was mainly used as a cargo station, built after construction of
Tukums – Ventspils railroad line at the beginning of the 20 th century. Today, the building of
the station is still a peculiar case of wooden architecture.
Stacijas street 1, Tukums. GPS 56.9603662 23.1150352
68. Memorial of Victims of Soviet Deportations
Not far from the railroad station Tukums II, a monument has been set up to commemorate
the residents of Tukums and the vicinity who in 1941 and 1949 were deported. The
memorial site was set up in 1989, and the railway tracks, which are driven into the ground,
bear the names of all those places, to which the residents of Tukums were deported, but a
memorial plate with the names of all people deported from Tukums and the vicinity stands
in the centre of the memorial.
Upuru piemiņas gatve, Tukums. GPS 56.9592632 23.1217049
69. Lauktehnika
Lauktehnika is another suburban area pertaining to the town. This area formed in the
70ties of the 20th century in the territory of the former vicarage or in the so-called Priest’s
Fields. The suburb grew as an independent centre to the west of Tukums, boasting with
various manufacturing objects, and an administrative centre, multi-apartment residential
houses, and a sports centre built near the single homes constructed back during the time
of the first Republic of Latvia.
Flights on paragliders
BALTICBALLOON
Skatepark in Tukums
70. Kuldīgas Street
Kuldīgas Street is the old road to the former vicarage of Tukums (now, the suburb of
Lauktehnika) and further on – to Kuldīga. Back in the day, the road was paved with cobble
stones and the old pavement can still be seen in one section of the road, but now the
street has been improved with pedestrians’ and cyclists’ roads.
71. Town Park
The Town Park was arranged in year 1869 alongside the Lielā Street upon suggestion of
the Courland Governor. Initially, there were only a few walkways, however by the end of
the 19th century, an open-air stage and a dance ground was arranged, however at the
beginning of the 20th century, a small-sized wood-carved restaurant was built there.
Page 15.
Pleasure flights
Airplane flights with "Balticbees Jet Team",
Tukums Airport, Smārde parish, Engure region.
Ph.: +371 67621450, www.balticbees.com
GPS 56.9359024 23.2261000
Flights on paragliders, "Rājumi", Matkule parish,
Kandava region. Ph.: +371 20065005, 22163863
GPS 57.0167937 22.5959527
Air balloon flights withs polits Gints and Kristīne,
Tukums. Ph.: +371 26117853,
www.balticballoon.lv, www.gaisabaloni.info
Air balloon flights with Aircargo Ltd.,
Tukums. Ph.: +371 29240461, www.airkargo.lv
Bicycle Rental
Velo serviss, Raiņa Street 14, Tukums.
Ph.: +371 26434448. GPS 56.9681940 23.1504107
Velo Divi, Talsu Street 12, Tukums.
Ph.: +371 29507095. GPS 56.0675916 23.1503422
Tourism equipment rental, Pasta Street 11, Tukums.
Ph.: +371 27250005, www.tukumanoma.lv
GPS 56.9686483 23.1578186
"Ķemeru velonoma" (Ķemeri bicycle rental),
Ķemeri railway station, Ķemeri.
Ph.: +371 29239273, www.velonoma.lv
GPS 56.9389536 23.4896707
Camping "Sveikuļi", near Lake Jumpravas,
GPS 56.9944215 23.1364314
Leisure complex "Vāgneris", near Lake
Jumprava, Tume parish, Tukums region.
GPS 56.9913145 23.1353348
Tukums region. Ph.: +371 63107125, 26187442,
Hunting
Hunting and information, Consultancy service
center of State Forest Department,
Mārtiņa Street, 1, Tukums.
Ph.: +371 63125265
GPS 56.9629987 23.1049572
Photo Hunting at the Deer-Garden "Rudiņi",
"Rudiņi", Irlava parish, Tukums region.
Ph.: +371 63027751, 28353700,
www.atputalaukos.lv
GPS 56.8148267 23.0894579
Skateparks
Skatepark in Tukums, Pauzeru Street, Tukums.
GPS 56.9641735 23.1457821
Holy Park "Upesloki", at the guest house "Upesloki",
Ph.: +371 29151231. GPS 56.9787329 23.2340140
Lielā Street, Tukums. GPS 56.9632046 23.1407389
72. Tukums Art School
The Tukums Art School implements a professional orientation education programme
"Visually plastic art". There are also interest education classes held at the school in wood
crafting, floristics, applied arts, pottery, and aircraft modelling. Students of the school are
actively participating in competitions and open-air workshops. The school has also
established their very own exhibition hall called "Bēniņi" (The Attic). The young artists
display their works here.
BALTICBEES JET TEAM
Lielā Street 25 and 27, Tukums. Ph.: +371 63122659, 29121216. GPS 56.9642177 23.1483138
73. The Building of Tukums Elementary School No. 3
After World War II, the number of Russian-speaking residents in the town increased and
premises were necessary for a new school. The buildings on the lots were old and without
owners, therefore in 1952 they were dismantled and the construction of a new school was
started and in 1953 the school was completed. It is one of the best examples of a typical
1950-ties architectural fashion with Stalin era "social realism". It is a standard project
No. 22, and such school buildings sprung up all across the Soviet Union.
UPESLOKI
Page 16
Points of interest
74. The Building of Tukums Elementary School No. 1
The 1st Elementary School was established in year 1806 as the district school and it is the
oldest educational institution in the town. The current school building was constructed in
year 1868. A number of marked Latvian political and social people have studied there, for
instance, the first Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Latvia – Z. A. Meierovics, the
Minister of Interior – V. Gulbis, the linguist – K. Mīlenbahs, the writer – E. Birznieks-Upītis,
poet – I. Ziedonis and others. In year 1935, the school had been given the name of
Z. A. Meierovics, but since year 1961, it carries the name of E. Birznieks-Upītis
Raudas street. 1925
75. Former "New Pharmacy" Building and Square
The former pharmacy building and square in front of it was the venue, where a scene of one
of the most romantic feature film episodes "The long walk in the dunes" (1980) was shot – the
scene where Marta (played by Lilita Ozoliņa) meets Artūrs (Juozas Kiselius) in a pharmacy.
76. "Mushroom"
The small maisonette sitting in the Liberty Square opposite the Police building in Tukums is
known as the "Mushroom". Apparently, it earned its name due to its appearance. During the
1930-ties, it was a fuel station of the company "Shell Company of Latvia Ltd. London Ltd.".
Brīvības Square, Tukums. GPS 56.9653936 23.1561157
75
77. Raudas Street
The road, which only 100 years ago led to the Rauda Manor, now leads to the seashore
in the village of Plieņciems. Already since the end of the 19 th century, various medical
establishments have been situated in the starting section of the street. The out-patient
healthcare centre built in 1979, which back in the day was considered a rather modern
building, is also situated nearby.
78. Workshop of Ruta Štrodaha
Leather art master and painter Ruta Štrodaha comes from Tukums. She participates in
exhibitions of Latvia and abroad, and has arranged several personal exhibitions. She paints
in oil, mostly landscapes and flowers. Visits must be arranged in advance.
Progresa Street 1, Tukums. Ph.: +371 29102476. GPS 56.9712931 23.1450763
78
VĀGNERIS
VĀGNERIS
81
82
83
83
80
79. Former fields of the Tukums Horticulture Centre
Tukums earned the fame as the Town of Roses owing thanks to the horticulture centres,
which were run here throughout the 20 th century. Historical sources have it that in 1956 the
total area of Tukums horticulture fields reached 83 ha. The uncovered horticulture territories
up until the mid-90ties were situated between Kurzemes, Raudas, and the modern-day Tulpju
Street. During the warmer seasons, these areas looked like the traditional skirt – with bright
stripes of all colours.
Mucenieku Lake
Intersection of Tulpju-Asteru Streets, Tukums. GPS 56.9751822 23.1488861
80. Dendrology Park "Vāgneris"
A large part of the park is made of the nature monument "Dendrology Park "Garden of
Vāgneris"". Its creation was started already back in 1890 and over the course of 18 years a
large garden was formed there; its owner was the horticulturist Fridrihs Vāgners. There must
be looked at five species of meadow, 6 species of lime, the first flower base, the Crimea, and
as the last Dutch lime, 5 species of elms, several species of mountain ash, birch, spruce and
red beech and pride of the garden – a large beech tree branches hanging and other rarities.
It is considered that this is among the first and best foreign tree collections in Latvia, which
has been preserved until the modern day. This is the only place in our country were some
exotic trees, such as the black spruce, great beech, evergreen ligustrum, white mezereon,
and other species can be found. These days the visitors can explore the nature by taking a
walk along the trails.
"Vāgneris", near from Tukums, at Jumprava Lake, Tume parish, Tukums region.
Ph.: +371 29139800, 22022943, www.vagneris.lv. GPS 56.9913145 23.1353348
SVEIKUĻI
81. Lake Jumprava
The area of the lake is 8.4 ha, the average depth – 1.4 m, and the maximum depth – 1.7 m.
The most common catch includes crucian carps and tenches. There are sandy shores only
at the bathing grounds, elsewhere the banks are muddy. The best access to the bathing
grounds is from the recreation centre "Vāgneris".
Tume parishs, Tukums region. GPS 56.9853464 23.0856614
82. Winter Sport Inventory and Compass Collection in "Sveikuļi"
This is the place, where skis, ski poles, skiing boots, skates, and even sleds made between
the 19th and 21th century has found their place under the sun. Besides the winter sport
equipment, the visitors can check out more than 20 various compasses. The collection keeps
growing; therefore it is possible that when you come here the collection will have grown
considerably. Visits must be arranged in advance.
Camping "Sveikuļi", ~5 km from Tukums, at Jumprava Lake, Tume parish, Tukums region.
Ph.: +371 29232026, www.sveikuli.lv. GPS 56.9944215 23.1364314
83. Nature Trail of the Camping "Sveikuļi"
The nature trail is situated near Tukums and is approximately 3 km long. There you can see
the beaver dwellings at Lake Veļezers, the steep banks, micro-Alpine sceneries, and the
scenic platform over Jumprava Lake. Visits must be arranged in advance.
Downhill skiing
"Jēkaba grava", 4 km from Tukums, direction
to Engure, Sēme parish, Tukums region.
Ph.: +371 29551182, www.grava.lv
GPS 57.0156036 23.1505486
Leisure complex "Milzkalns", 7,5 km from Tukums,
Leisure complex "Zviedru cepure", "Piltiņi", 3.5 km
from Sabile, Matkule parish, Kandava region.
Ph.: +371 26405405, www.zviedrucepure.lv
GPS 57.0245777 22.5930398
Cross-country skiing
Cross-country skiing at the camping "Sveikuļi",
near Lake Jumprava, Tume parish, Tukums region.
GPS 56.9944215 23.1364314
Downhill skiing slopes "Jēkaba grava", 4 km from
Tukums, Sēme parish, Tukums region.
Ph.: +371 29551182, www.grava.lv
GPS 57.0156036 23.1505486
Leisure complex "Milzkalns", 7,5 km from Tukums,
Cross-country skiing place "Jaunūdri", 6 km from
Tukums, in vicinity of Hill Milzkalns, Smārde parish,
GPS 56.9963309 23.2007151
Cross-country skiing place and sauna "Ķīvītes",
14 km from Tukums, near Rīga-Ventspils highway,
Slampe parish, Tukums region.
Ph.: +371 26401330, 26413774
GPS 56.9049022 23.2950820
Places for Swimming
Lake Melnezers, Melnezera Street, Tukums.
GPS 56.9839934 23.1713274
Lake Seklis, Tume parish, Tukums region.
GPS 57.0057265 23.1265047
Lake Jumprava, 50 m from the camping "Sveikuļi"
and leisure compelx "Vāgneris", Tume parish,
Tukums region. GPS 56.9913145 23.1353348
Lake Mucenieku, leisure complex "Pie Mucenieku
ezera", Sēme parish, Tukums region.
GPS 57.0976031 23.0809354
Lake Mucenieku, guest house "Mucenieki", Sēme
parish, Tukums region. GPS 57.0983689 23.0873868
Jaunsāti Quarry Reservoir, Jaunsāti parish, Tukums
region. GPS 56.9672116 22.9499985
Praviņas Quarry Reservoir, Slampe parish, Tukums
region. GPS 56.9091047 23.1922994
Tourism equipment
Tourism equipment rental, Pasta Street 11, c.1,
Tukums. Ph.: +371 27250005 , www.tukumanoma.lv
GPS 56.9686483 23.1578186
Camping"Sveikuļi", ~ 5 km from Tukums, at Jumprava Lake, Tume parish, Tukums region.
Ph.: +371 29232026, ww.sveikuli.lv. GPS 56.9944215 23.1364314
84. Ozoliņi
The suburban area of Ozoliņi acquired its modern-day appearance over the course of the
last 30–40 years, when single homes where constructed in the vicinity of the former
Tukums horticulture centre and wood-processing plant "Vulkāns" (later renamed "Tukums").
This area also has several homes that are nearly 100 years old.
85. Jewish Cemetery in Tukums
The Jewish Cemetery, which was established here already back in 1879, bears evidence of
the fact that during the first part of the 20 th century Tukums, just like the majority of smalltowns of Latvia, was the home of a notable Jewish community.
Klusā Street, Tukums. GPS 56.9820187 23.1581256
86. Dendrology Park of Tukums "Lauksargi"
In 1977, the park was included on the list of nature monuments owing to the unique exotic
species. The park was formed in the turn of the 19th and 20th century, when the brother of
F. Vāgners created the park to landscape the area around the country house. A 340 m long
alley of trees leads to the park from Raudas Street.
Lauksargu Street, Tukums. GPS 56.9821238 23.1497644
Page 17.
JĒKABA GRAVA
Page 18
Points of interest
Castles and manors in
and around Tukums
N
ot everything can be preserved, however the manor houses along with the old
farmer's homes at places are the only truly valuable buildings characteristic to the
Latvian countryside. The manors should be evaluated not only in a capacity of agrarian
relation form in the history of Latvia, because they have always been the centres
conducting the political, social, and cultural life of the countryside living. Places, which
have hosted schools or other social event related buildings, they have best maintained
their former look, and at places, also the interior design or details of it. There are quite
a few places, which have been renovated and can surprise with their luxury once again.
TOP
Sites
of the Route
1. Durbe Manor
2. Šlokenbeka Manor
3. Jaunpils Castle
4. Jaunmoku Palace
5. Kukšu Manor
6.Rūmene Manor
Trip Planning
TIC Recommends
• When choosing the route: Jaunpils Castle –
Šlokenbeka Manor – Durbe Manor –
Jaunmoku Palace, the traveller can very
easily also follow the trends of history and
architecture.
• The medieval adventure and ambience
can be best enjoyed in Jaunpils!
• The most complete interior of the master
houses can be enjoyed at Kukšu Manor
and Rūmene Manor.
• At the Durbe manor, the exhibitions and
their creators will give you the best
information about the fates of manors of
the area of Tukums.
• The special offer of the Šlokenbeka
Manor – tasting of wines from Kurzeme.
Castles and manors in vicinity of Tukums
Tukums – Durbe Manor – Šlokenbeka Manor – Ozolpils – Jaunmokas – Vecmokas – Tukums
41. Durbe Manor
The Durbe Manor in Tukums is one of the most interesting Classicism style castles in Kurzeme.
It was built in the year 1671 and has been reconstructed on several occasions. The castle
obtained its current appearance in the period from 1820–1923 according to the
reconstructions designed by the architect J.G.A.Berlitz. You can go for a lovely walk on a
steaming summer day or when the leaves turn colourful in autumn in the scenic park with
architectural monuments – a rotunda and a stone bridge over the ravine – which was created
next to the castle at the beginning of the 19 th century.
At this time, the renovated exhibition halls of the castle offer various expositions about
manors; however the 1st floor halls of the castle offer expositions of the interior of countryside
manors of the 19th century. One of the auxiliary buildings is hosting to an exhibition of ancient
household items "The Latvian and his Master", which tells the story about the lives of farmers
and craftsmen during the feudal times.
GPS 56.9669719 23.1938273
122
154
125
41
122. Šlokenbeka Manor
The Šlokenbeka Manor ensemble is among the most unique and original cultural monuments
in Latvia; it was first mentioned in writings in 1484. It is one of very few fortified medieval
manor samples in the Baltic States and the only one in Latvia, which has preserved up to the
modern times. Portholes in the masonry walls bear witness to the former manor structures.
The lokenbeka Manor hosts the Milzkalne Community Centre and a library, as well as a hotel
and a salon shop. The manor also hosts the Latvian Road Museum, where the visitors can
learn about the development of the Latvian road industry.
Šlokenbeka Manor, Milzkalne, Smārde parish, Engure region. Ph.: 371 63182354, 29904147,
125
118. Ozolpils
Ozolpils is the centre of the ancient settlement – Ozolmuiža (Oaktree Manor). The information
about the former manor is rather scanty, however it is known that in the 17th century it
belonged to the duke of Kurzeme, however during the Tsarist Russia, it was the crown manor
and belonged to the state and it was used for cattle-breeding and crop cultivation for the
purposes of the state. However, the current building in the manor centre was built only in the
year 1931 as the local council house and community centre.
In the territory of the former Ozolmuiža are found two Swedish era cannon gun tubes. People
114
114
114
tell that one of them was found in the nearby swamp and brought to the castle. But the
other was found in the manor itself. In 1913, both cannons were found in the potato cellar of
the manor, they were lifted out and placed on the banister of the steps of the residential
building of the manor. After World War I, the building was torn down, and the Community
Centre was built in its place, but the cannon gun tubes were placed in the yard.
"Ozolpils", Smārde parish, Engure region. Ph.: +371 26445528, www.ozolpils.lv
GPS 56.9215777 23.2641141
114. Jaunmoku Palace
The Jaunmoku Palace was constructed around 1901 as ordered by the mayor of Riga,
George Armitsted, and it served as a hunting castle and summer residence. The project of
the castle and the horse stable was designed in 1898 by Wilhelm Bockslaff, making the
Jaunmoku Castle into one of the most recognised brick buildings in Latvia. The interior style
typical for hunting castles was recreated at the end of the 20 th century, however particular
attention should be paid to the tile furnaces, one of which was made at the turn of the 19 th
to the 20th century in honour of the 700 years anniversary of Riga city, and on which the
sights of Riga and vicinity of those times were painted.
Jaunmokas, Tume parish, Tukums region. Ph.: +371 63107125, 26187442, www.jaunmokupils.lv
GPS 56.9827809 23.0535717
125. Vecmoku Manor Ruins and Park Alleys
Vecmoku Manor was first mentioned in 1544. It is believed that the master house in the
mid-18th century was designed by the architect Severin Jensen. But the administrative
buildings of the manor – the horse stables – are made in a style characteristic to T. Zeiler.
The manor was ruined in 1944, when the Soviet army divisions took over Tukums for a short
time. Up to the modern day, the master house ruins and several administrative buildings
have been preserved and can still be seen. For several years now, the Vecmoku Manor park
has been attended to; the park boasts with various exotic plant species. From time to time,
various interesting events related to art and music is held here. Three lime tree alleys lead to
the manor. One of them is the longest common lime tree alley in Latvia (approx. 1 km).
Vecmokas, Tume parish, Tukums region. Ph.: +371 29172318, 29495428, www.vecmokupils.lv
GPS 56.9988700 23.0798809
114
Page 19.
Museums
Durbe Manor, M.Parka Street 7, Tukums.
Ph.: +371 63122744, 63122633, 26305946,
GPS 56.9760160 23.2261073
Tukums region. Ph.: +371 63107125, 26187442,
Jaunpils Castle Museum, Jaunpils, Jaunpils parish,
Jaunpils region. Ph.: +371 63162128, 20223423,
www.jaunpilspils.lv. GPS 56.7306762 23.0180901
Valdeķi Manor, Valdeķi, Kandava region. Ph.: +371 63126112, 26452948
GPS 56.9977333 22.7730471
Kukšu Manor, Kukšas, Jaunsāti parish, Tukums
region. Ph.: +371 63181545, 29205188, 25980910,
www.kuksumuiza.lv
GPS 56.9780329 22.8581659
Creative workshops
Ceramic Workshop of Velga Melne, Durbe Manor,
M. Parka Street 7, Tukums. Ph.: +371 26478677
GPS 56.9669656 23.1928406
Workshop of Hazel-Tree Twig Furniture of Paulis
Čivlis, Salas Street 15, Tukums.
Ph.: +371 26488493
GPS 56.9739820 23.1942187
Blacksmith’s Workshop of Gints Haņeckis,
right at the Tukums sign, at the end of Kandavas
Street. "Vecupnieki", Tume parish, Tukums region.
Ph.: +371 29167921.
GPS 56.9653831 23.1067257
Wood-carver Juris Jurševics, Lauku Street 5,
Tume, Tume parish, Tukums region.
Ph.: +371 63193287, 26495302
GPS 56.9381251 23.0794378
Accommodation
Šlokenbeka Manor Hotel, Milzkalne, Smārde parish,
Tukums region. Ph.: +371 63107125, 26187442,
Jaunpils Castle Hotel, "Pils", Jaunpils, Jaunpils parish,
Jaunpils region. Ph.: +371 29442539
Kukšu Manor Guest house, Kukšas,
Jaunsāti parish, Tukums region.
Ph.: +371 63181545, 25980910, 29205188,
www.kuksumuiza.lv. GPS 56.9780329 22.8581659
Leisure complex "Ozolpils", Ozolpils,
57th km of Rīga-Ventspils highway, Smārde parish,
www.ozolpils.lv. GPS 56.9215777 23.2641141
Kalnmuiža Manor Guest house, Kalnmuiža, Kandava
parish, Kandava region. Ph.: +371 26699033,
www.kalnmuižaspils.lv. GPS 57.0110268 22.6588153
118
41
122
41
Page 20
Points of interest
Castles and manors further away from Tukums
Tukums – Lamiņi – Pūre –Kukšas – Cēre – Rūmene –
Valdeķi – Zemīte – Vāne – Zante - Jaunpils
Cēre
Rūmene
Vecmokas
Ozolpils
117. Lamiņi Manor
In historical sources, the construction of the Lamiņi Manor dates back to the 18th–19th
centuries, however it obtained its current appearance in the mid-19 th century, when it was
acquired by a merchant from Riga, Ferman, who ordered to build a new master house. Along
with the construction of the new castle, a park was arranged with decoratively trimmed trees
intertwined with pathways, flower beds, and dotted with ponds. In a manor description of
the year 1912 it says that this park is a rare model of Old French and Rococo style in the
Baltics. Now in Lamiņi Manor is Dzirciema special boarding school.
Lamiņi, Pūre parish, Tukums region. GPS 57.0994444 22.9601447
120. Pūre Manor
The master house of the Pūre Manor was built in the first half of the 18th century, and its style
corresponds to the Classicism features of a typical master house of a manor in Kurzeme. The
building was later reconstructed and extended by building side quarters, and later – also a
veranda. A beautiful terrace used to face the river ravine, from where a scenic view opened
up across the river Abava. Unfortunately, the castle is now awaiting its reconstruction.
Pūre, Pūre parish, Tukums region. GPS 57.0355388 22.9051459
124
117
126
Good to know...
• The manors, where educational
institutions have settled, can be observed
only from outside.
• In castles and manors, where the historical
interior design has been renovated, their
managers treat the property of cultural
and historical value with great respect and
would expect the visitors to do likewise.
116. Kukšu Manor
The current residential quarters of the Kukšu Manor according to the historians was
constructed in the first half of the 18th century, and initially it was a one-storey stone
building with a four-sided roof. In the middle of the 19th century, as a result from several
reconstructions, it obtained the features of the Classicism manor architecture. The park of
the manor complex was also created around the same time. The manor is considered to be
an excellent example of Latvian manor architecture, where due to gradual evolution, a
stylistic synthesis between Baroque and late Classicism occurred. Black-glazed tile furnaces
from the mid-18th century and doors, as well as several mural paintings from the 19 th
century have been preserved in the manor.
Kukšas, Jaunsāti parish, Tukums region. Ph.: +371 63181545, 25980910, 29205188,
116
116
116
113. Cēre Manor
The Cēre Manor was formed in 1352 from the Riga Heinrich’s fief. The last manor owners since
1883 until 1920 were von Knigge. In the 1960-ties, the two-storey master house of the Cēre
Manor built in the classicism style was rebuilt. The modernisation project of the master house
was implemented by the architect of Kurzeme – Teodors Zeilers. The manor included a dairy
house, cheese-house, windmill, and tar works premises. Since 1921, the local government
owns the manor building and the Cēre School with a small museum have settled in the
manor since that time.
Cēre, Cēre parish, Kandava region. Ph.: +371 63154995, 29284829.
GPS 57.1085520 22.8675777
121. Rūmene Manor
Rūmene Manor is a country-residence of 5-star Hotel "Bergs". The master house of Rūmene
Manor was built in 1876 according to a design by the architect Theodore Zeiler. The master
house is situated on a hillock, and its back façade is connected with the park by a system of
stairs and terraces, ending next to a pond with an artificially created heart-shaped islet. This
terrace system, according to the opinion of historians, is a rarity, and it can be considered as
one of the most exquisite neo-renaissance style constructions of this kind in Latvia. The
scenic park of Rūmene Manor covers 7.8 ha and in 1892 it was designed by the landscape
architect Georg Kuphaldt, who has also designed the Arcadia Park and Viesturs Garden.
Rūmene, Kandava parish, Kandava region Ph.: +371 67770900, www.rumenesmuiza.lv
GPS 57.0596494 22.7279347
123
Page 21.
Bicycle and boat rental
Tukums region. Ph.: +371 63107125, 26187442
Horses
Tukums. Ph.: +371 26170318, 29212644.
GPS 56.9732805 23.1885421
Tukums region. Ph.: +371 63107125, 26187442,
www.jaunmokupils.lv
GPS 56.9827809 23.0535717
115
121
127
116
123. Valdeķu Manor
The master house of the Valdeķi Manor was bought in 1932 in a very bad condition by the
Latvian printed media king and millionaire Antons Benjamiņš. At those times, the owners
created a model household in the manor. For now in palace can celebrate weddings and
banquets.
116
Valdeķi, Kandava parish, Kandava region. Ph.: +371 63126293, 63126112, 26452948
GPS 56.9977333 22.7730471
127. Zemīte Manor
The first known owner of the Zemīte Manor was the "Tall Klaus", who has been mentioned
in the first half of the 15th century as the feudal heir of Zemīte. It is believed that the
current castle or the master house was constructed around 1850, when the park was also
arranged around it. Regardless of the fire damages, the initial extents of the castle have
been fundamentally preserved. Now in Zemīte Manor is elementary school.
Trip
Highlights
For many visitors, the manors of Rūmene and
Kukšas are still new. Both have been improved
to provide accommodation, enjoy the interior
and the beautiful area. The Kalnmuiža Manor
near Kandava also has received a makeover.
Zemīte, Zemīte parish, Kandava region. GPS 56.9283449 22.7954708
124. Vāne Manor
The Vāne Manor (19th cent.) during the times of the barons, along with Aizupe property,
was one of the largest estates in the surrounding area. During the 16th century, the Vāne
Manor was the place, where the last living days were spent by Somolon Hening (1528-1589)
– the Livonian chronicle writer, the secretary and fiduciary of the Duke of Kurzeme,
Gotthard Kettler. Unfortunately, resulting from the events of the 1905 revolution, the castle
was burnt down and renovated for arranging the school during the 1936-1940.
Vāne, Vāne parish, Kandava region. GPS 56.9241422 22.5626802
126. Zante Manor
The master house of the Zante Manor was constructed in the 19th century Classicism style.
It is a relatively pompous building, which was supported by four columns on the garden
side. In 1925, a school settled in the manor castle. From the former manor, several
administrative buildings and the servant’s living quarters still stand tall. Around the manor,
there is a park with foreign tree nurseries. Now in Zantes Manor is elementary school.
121
Skolas Street 14, Zante, Zante parish, Kandava region. GPS 56.8365162 22.7322332
115. Jaunpils Castle
Jaunpils Castle initially was a knight manor, built as a water castle in 1301 during the times
of the Livonian Order Master Gottfried von Roge, and from 1576 until 1920 it was owned by
the von der Recke dynasty.
Jaunpils, Jaunpils parish, Jaunpils region. Ph.: +371 63107082, 26101458, www.jaunpilspils.lv
GPS 56.7306762 23.0180901
121
Page 22
Points of interest
The medieval Jaunpils
Jaunpils – Kartavkalni – Veclauki – Strutele – Viesatas
T
he area of Jaunpils is a real medieval pearl of the Tukums district. Right in the centre
of Jaunpils parish, proud and safe is the Jaunpils Castle, which is surrounded by
water from three sides, but the thick walls of the castle enclose a small courtyard,
where the knight life took place, while not on military operations. Not far away from
Jaunpils centre is the second centre of medieval life – the former Latvian hillfort –
Kartavu hill. The church, which was constructed a short while later, and the Swedish
fortress wall has granted the local residents with their idea – to create their own
medieval times during this age, and visitors are cordially invited to join in.
TOP
Sites
of the Route
1. Jaunpils Castle
2. The Medieval Household "Niedru lija"
over the Swedish Wall in Jaunpils
3. Kartavu Hill and nature trail
Trip Planning
TIC Recommends
• Stay overnight at the Jaunpils Castle rooms
with the medieval setting – you will not
regret it!
• Learn about the buoyancy and life style of
the medieval times at the "Niedru lijas"
medieval grounds.
• Don’t forget to go to the Jaunpils Castle on
January 1, when the traditional mask
carnival takes place there!
115. Jaunpils Castle
Jaunpils Castle initially used to be a knight’s castle, which was built as a "water-castle" in year
1301, during the time of Livonian Order Master – Gottfried von Roge, and was owned by the
von der Reck dynasty during the time frame from year 1576 until year 1920. The Jaunpils Castle
was the biggest private manor in the region of Tukums principal lord. The castle has been
renovated multiple times and has suffered during the course of time, however on the exterior,
the castle has retained characteristics of many order castles of the time – the typical round
corner tower, floor level without windows and the thick walls. Nowadays, the Jaunpils Castle
hosts the cultural community centre and a museum, which invites the visitors to get acquain
ted with the castle in a medieval style along with the monk, brother Theodore, the brisk hos
tess Hilda, the castle love-song singer – minnesinger, and with other residents of the castle.
GPS 56.7306762 23.0180901
225. Jaunpils Cannons
Next to the entrance to the Jaunpils Castle, there are two cannons dating back to the 17th
century, or rather – two cannon gun tubes. Possibly, they were brought here after the 1625
Swedish attack, when the castle had suffered a lot, or they were brought here together with
the war prisoners by Baron Matthias von der Recke after the battle of Salaspils.
Jaunpils Castle, Jaunpils, Jaunpils region. Ph.: +371 63107082, 26101458, www.jaunpilspils.lv.
GPS 56.7306762 23.0180901
115
233
133
208. Jaunpils Park
The Park was created during the rule of von der Recks. There are several secular trees in its
territory. Legends say that the master had requested the gardener to plant the trees in such
manner that when the trees blossom, the coat of arms of the Reck dynasty would be
portrayed there. At the end of the 19th century, the pathways in the park were covered with
gravel. There are several interesting points of interest in the park – a stone bridge, where
there is an engraving giving a year and a monogram G. A. v. d. R. – 1905. A romantic pathway
along the river takes you to the Love Rock – it once used to be a popular place for the
inhabitants of Jaunpils to meet up.
GPS 56.7322472 23.0236555
225
115
133. Jaunpils Lutheran Church
Construction of Jaunpils Lutheran Church started in year 1592, which is witnessed by the
number carved into a metal plate, and it is one of the first churches built in the Duchy of
Kurzeme. The tower was constructed in year 1750. The church was reconstructed and
expanded in year 1849 and 1854. The altar in the church and the pulpit are both worth
mentioning as examples of typical mannerism style. The church bell was made in year 1760
and it was cast by the German master E.Fr.Fechter, right here – in the Duchy of Kurzeme.
From the heights of the church tower, a beautiful view opens to the centre of cultural history
of Jaunpils and its surroundings.
Jaunpils, Jaunpils parish, Jaunpils region. Ph.: +371 29431992, www.jaunpilsbaznica.lv
GPS 56.7305047 23.0237170
Page 23.
Museums
233
Nature trails
Kartavkalnu Hill Nature Trail, Jaunpils parish,
Nature and Learning Trail "Viesatas upesloki"
(River bends of Viesata), Irlava parish, Tukums region.
Ph.: +371 28302871, 29105209
GPS 56.8236003 22.9720596
Animal watching
Deer Garden "Rudiņi", Irlava parish, Tukums region.
Ph.: +371 29191980, www.atputalaukos.lv
GPS 56.8148267 23.0894579
115
142. Jaunpils Watermill
Jaunpils Watermill was constructed in year 1803 and is located in the middle of Jaunpils
village. Grains were processed at the mill, and it also hosted sawmill and carpenter’s
workshop. The milling equipment has been preserved till the modern day; it was still used
during the 20-ties and 30-ties of the 20 th century. Also well maintained are the hydrotechnical constructions and the water reservoir. Available for viewing only from the outside.
Jaunpils, Jaunpils parish, Jaunpils region. Ph.: +371 63107082, 26101458, www.jaunpils.lv
GPS 56.7715470 23.0225786
233. The Swedish Wall and Medieval Courtyard
The Swedish Wall in Jaunpils, according to the legend, was built by the Swedish war prisoners, who were brought to Jaunpils by Baron Matthias von der Recke after the battle of Salas
pils during the Thirty-Year war. This has contributed to the name of the rampart. On the other
side of the wall, the guests can visit the "Medieval Courtyard" to enjoy medieval activities on
weekends or upon making special arrangements in advance; the guests can try out their
hand in shooting with a bow or arbalest, or throwing a spear or an axe, minting coins, trying
the tastes of medieval foods and drinks, listen to music and even try some dance steps.
Accommodation
Jaunpils Castle Hotel, "Pils", Jaunpils, Jaunpils
parish, Jaunpils region. Ph.: +371 29442539,
Family house "Avenes", Jaunpils, Jaunpils parish,
Jaunpils region. Ph.: +371 26314801
GPS 56.7293327 23.0278007
Vacation house "Bramaņi", Jaunpils parish,
Jaunpils region. Ph.: +371 26461975,
www.bramani.viss.lv. GPS 56.7785471 23.0332382
Vacation house "Ķimsīši", Jaunpils parish,
Jaunpils region. Ph.: +371 29127060,
www.kimsisi.viss.lv. GPS 56.7567417 23.0091830
Vacation house "Mitavas", Austrumu Street,
Jaunpils, Jaunpils parish, Jaunpils region.
Ph.: +371 26324629. GPS 56.7272420 23.0292928
Guest house "Zive", "Pērles", Irlava parish, Tukums
region. Ph.: +371 29799455, www.zive.lv
GPS 56.8286063 22.9920952
Guest house "Rudiņi", Irlava parish, Tukums
region. Ph.: +371 63027751, 28353700,
www.atputalaukos.lv. GPS 56.8148267 23.0894579
Activities
The Medieval Household "Niedru lija", over the
Swedish wall in Jaunpils, Jaunpils parish, Jaunpils
region. Ph.: +371 26336513, www.niedrulija.viss.lv
GPS 56.7298631 23.0220992
Medieval Courtyard "Niedru lija", Jaunpils, Jaunpils parish, Jaunpils region. Ph.: +371 26336513,
www.niedrulija.viss.lv. GPS 56.7298631 23.0220992
163. Kartavu Hill
Kartavu Hill – a hilly area covered with forests, and the little River Biktsupīte flowing
through it. Here, arranged are the nature trails, where you can see the grand alley of
larches, and the spruce forest on a hilly terrain, the Karātavu (the Hanging) Spruce, the
hillfort rampart, and diversity of the flora with rare trees, as well as see deserted and new
beaver-made dams. At the Kartavkalns hill, at one point there was a settlement of the
ancient Latvians. There is a theory that the Janupils Kartavkalns could be Babote mentioned
in the Chronicles of Rhymes (Atskaņu hronika), because it is the only hillfort with a rampart
located between Dobele and Kuldīga. Legends say that the old castle has sunk in the hill,
which will reappear once its name is guessed, and instead the castle built by crusaders –
Jaunpils – would sink. This legend gave inspiration to the poet Auseklis, who wrote the
poem "Castle of light" in the mid 19th century.
GPS 56.7173871 23.0168351
207. The Elles (Hell) Hill
The Elles (Hell) Hill near Strutele is worth seeing due to the 30 m long underground caves,
which, it is believed, at the end of the 18th century were covered with a barrel-type valve.
The legends tell that here the Devil itself once had lived – the servant of the local baron
at the country manor, who was forbidden to wash, cut hair, shave and clip nails.
115
Trip
Highlights
Elles Hills (the Hell Hills) in the area between
Jaunpils and Viesatas is a peculiar monument
for the 19th century manor park architecture.
Veclauki, Jaunpils parish, Jaunpils region. GPS 56.7551206 22.9251922
139. Strutele Lutheran Church
Strutele Lutheran Church was first built in year 1645 and renovated in year 1883. At this
church, the Latvian Folk Song Father – Kr.Barons was baptized. The services were held there
until year 1962, but then it was deserted and destroyed, however it was then renovated in
the 90-ties of the 20 th century.
Strutele, Jaunpils parish, Jaunpils region. GPS 56.7833755 22.9312752
207
Page 24
Points of interest
Get acquainted with
Kandava and the ancient
valley of Abava river!
T
TOP
Sites
of the Route
1. Promenade of the Kandava Old Town
2. A toboggan ride on the "Zviedru
cepure" (Swedish Cap)
3. Trails of the country park of ancient
valley of Abava river and the cinquefoil
bog
4.Rūmene Manor
5. Country house "Indāni"
6. Kurzeme fortress museum in Zante
7. Goat cheese at the farm "Birznieki"
Trip Planning
TIC Recommends
• Plan your trip to the ancient valley of
Abava river for several days – only that
way you can really enjoy uniqueness of
the local nature.
• A boat trip down the river Abava, Amula,
or Imula will be a special experience,
especially in spring – during the high
water period..
• Places to see and things to enjoy – on the
list of TOP 7. Then you can say that you
have been in the ancient river valley of
Abava!
he ancient valley of River Abava is one of the most expressed river valleys in Latvia. It
had formed when the glaciers melted away. However, next to uniqueness and
impressiveness of the nature, just as interesting to visit is the small-town of Kandava.
Kandava is referred to as the town of painters and lovers, it is also called the pearl of the
scenic Abava valley. Its cobblestone-paved streets and lantern lighting tempts you to
learn more about the culture of the knights and the dukes, to stand on the oldest bridge
in Latvia, to celebrate the midsummer festival, to go to the Christmas fair, or go further
on to visit the nature in the valley.
A Trip Down the Upper Course of Abava
Tukums – Irlava – Sāti – Pūre – Cēre
296. Sculpture park and worhshop of Juris Neimanis
At the sculpture park of the wood-sculptor Juris Neimanis, the visitors can see that the
bounties of nature are many and diverse, but when somebody works them with hand, they
acquire the beauty and uniqueness of shape.
"Mednieki", Irlava parish, Tukums region. Ph.: +371 26302247. GPS 56.8639300 23.0900202
129. Former Irlava Church Site
The Irlava Church was situated at the intersection between the roads of Tukums-Jaunpils and
Irlava-Džūkste. It was blown up in 1944 by the German army.
13th kilometre on the Tukums-Jaunpils road, Irlava parish, Tukums region.
GPS 56.8490456 23.0446529
205
239
222
205. Nature and Learning Trail "River bends of Viesata"
When going on a walk along this trail, you will have an opportunity to see the steep banks of
the river, a 200 year old pine-tree, the brown spring, the pig’s bath, a beaver house, a woodworking site, a black alder stand, a grand birch tree, the rock – Spuņņakmens, and many more
nature objects. If you stay alert, you will see various birds; information about the bird species
is provided in the stands that are set up along the trail. The trail is 5.1 km long one way, and it
can be taken along 3 different routes. Guide services are also available, however the trail is
marked and can be walked also without a guide. It will take 3– 4 hours to track along the
entire trail.
227
Irlava parish, Tukums region. Ph.: +371 28302871, 29105209. GPS 56.8236003 22.9720596
222. The Rock – Spuņņakmens or Spuņņu Rock
One of the boulders of Latvia. It is located in the Viesata River. Travellers can visit it by hiking
along the nature trail "River bends of Viesata". It is a granite boulder brought here with the
glaciers, and it is nearly 2 m tall, 4.7x4.7 m big with circumference of about 16 metres.
On the bank of the Viesata river, Irlava parish, Tukums region. Ph.: +371 28302871, 29105209.
GPS 56.8159723 22.9571645
168. Veckuipji Hillfort
Veckuipji Hilfort, also known as Kuipji Mound, is about 28 m tall, with a sloped plateau with
a four metre tall dyke on the northeast side. In mid-19th century, the masters of the farm
"Veckuipji" found several axes and jewellery when digging the gravel of the castle mound,
but in the bog at the foot of the mound, several large butts of oak logs were found, and it
is believed that they are what remain of an oak-tree fortification wall.
Viesatas parish, Jaunpils region. GPS 56.8309355 22.9069444
145. Mūrnieku Bridge (Mason Bridge)
Mūrnieku Bridge (Mason Bridge) is one of the oldest stone bridges in Latvia. The triple arch
bridge was constructed during the second half of the 19th century across the old river bed
of Abava (now it is called Vecupe – the Old River). Possibly, the bridge was built so long be
cause back in the day Abava was much wider and maps of the time show that the area was
rather boggy. There were attempts to bomb the bridge in 1944, but only the middle arch was
bombed. After the war ended, the damaged arch was simply filled with stones and gravel, the
road surface was evened out – and the bridge continued its life with the remaining arches.
Irlava parish, Tukums region. GPS 56.8563139 22.0202951
227. The big wooden spoon
Imagine the 6.2 metres tall wooden spoon set up at the centre of the village of Irlava.
This is probably the biggest Latvian wooden spoon.
Irlava, Irlava parish, Tukums region. GPS 56.8752653 22.9969437
213. Peņķi Sulphur Spring
Peņķi Sulphur Spring the spring of health – is an ancient cult place and it is located 100 m
from the River Abava on the right bank of the river.
Irlava parish, Tukums region. GPS 56.8695005 22.9995752
150. Irlava local history exhibition hall
Irlava local history exhibition hall hosts an exposition about the head conductor at the
I and II Latvian Song Festivals and the organist – Jānis Bētiņš; information about the
operations of the Irlava teacher’s seminary can also be obtained here.
Route: Tukums – Irlava – Sāti – Pūre – Cēre
Irlava local history exhibition hall, "Svēteļi",
Irlava, Irlava parish, Tukums region. Ph.: +371 26176893, 26477526, www.irlava.lv
GPS 56.8757938 22.9922861
Kukšu Manor, Kukšas, Jaunsāti parish, Tukums
region. Ph.: +371 63181545, 29205188, 25980910,
"Pūre Chocolate" Chocolate Museum, Pūre - 9,
Pūre, Pūre parish, Tukums region.
Ph.: +371 29100161, www.purechocolate.lv
GPS 57.0361450 22.9035791
Kandava
Kandava Regional Museum, Talsu Street 11,
Kandava. Ph.: +371 63182064,
www.kandavasmuzejs.viss.lv
GPS 57.0387717 22.7704092
Art Gallery Kandava, Kandava Regional Museum,
Talsu Street 11, Kandava. Ph.: +371 26369421,
www.vejsparns.lv. GPS 57.0387717 22.7704092
Route: Kandava – Valdeķi – Matkule – Sabile
Valdeķi Manor, Valdeķi, Kandava parish, Kandava
region. Ph.: +371 26452948
GPS 56.9977333 22.7730471
Exposition of ancient tools at the country
house "Indāni", Kandava parish, Kandava region.
Ph.: +371 29259272, www.indani.viss.lv
GPS 56.9683272 22.7543245
Route: Pūces – Vāne – Aizupe – Zante – Zemīte
General L.Bolstein’s Museum, "Pūces dzirnavas",
Matkule parish, Kandava region.
Ph.: +371 63154098, 26354871
GPS 56.9629370 22.6134880
The Museum of Kurzeme Fortress, Skolas Street 8a,
Zante, Zante parish, Kandava region.
Ph.: +371 29442311, www.kurzemescietoksnis.viss.lv
GPS 56.8355971 22.7346245
Zante Voluntary Firemen Association Museum,
"Rotas", Zante parish, Kandava region.
Ph.: +371 26416458. GPS 56.8397070 22.7447968
"Svēteļi", Irlava, Irlava parish, Tukums region. Ph.: +371 26176893, 26477526, www.irlava.lv
GPS 56.8757938 22.9922861
239. Monument to Jānis Bētiņš
Monument to Jānis Bētiņš (1830-1912) – the head conductor of the I and II Latvian Song
Festival, and teacher at the Irlava teacher’s seminary. The monument was set up in year
1986; the authors are the sculptor O. Nigule and architect T. Nigulis.
Irlava‘s Children’s Home, Irlava, Irlava parish, Tukums region. GPS 56.8811429 22.9893689
297. The Ceramic Workshop "Upmalnieki" of Uģis Dainis
Those interested in pottery are invited to see and purchase nice things that can be useful
in any household, be it urban or rural: bowls, plates, cups, jugs, pots, vases, and tableware
of other uses, as well as decorative and practical items made of chamotte. You can also try
your skills in pottery and handling clay.
297
"Upmalnieki", Sāti, Irlava parish, Tukums region. Ph.: +371 29256833, 26440226. GPS 56.9115882 22.9791028
146. Bridge to Nowhere
The bridge reminds of the intended construction of Tukums-Kuldīga railroad, which was
started already during the first independence of the Republic of Latvia in 1930-ties.
However, in the minds of the people, it is instilled as a German wartime commemorative
site, because the German rule during the 1940-ties tried to continue and complete it, but
they did not succeed. The bridge has remained intact in the middle of a meadow up until
the modern day.
296
Sāti, Irlava parish, Tukums region. GPS 56.9126352 22.9774976
137. Sāti Lutheran Church
The Lutheran Church of Sāti was built in year 1778. The external appearance would make
you think that it is just a simple small countryside church, but it is the only one in the
district of Tukums, where the stone piled fencing and the white entrance gates have
remained intact. Ever more value is added with the carved monogram of the Duke Peter
Biron, which can be seen above the entrance into the church. The organ with the organ
prospect was built at the end of the 19 th century by Jānis Bētiņš.
Sāti, Irlava parish, Tukums region. Ph.: +371 29232839, www.satubaznica.weebly.com
GPS 56.9107807 22.9617819
Page 25
296
Page 26
Points of interest
146
136
170. Vecsāti Hillfort
The hillfort is located slightly to the north from the Sāti Church. The locals have found
brooches, rings, and bracelets here, and judging from their shape, they might have been worn
by the Livs in 10th–12th centuries.
"Ķīšu Pilskalni", Jaunsāti parish, Tukums region. GPS 56.9358148, 22.9742175
Trip
Highlights
Before setting out to enjoy the charm of the
ancient river valley of Abava, make your trip
sweeter by stopping by at the Chocolate
Museum in Pūre – it will be a truly interesting
and delicious stop! The Chocolate Museum was
awarded the Kurzeme tourism prize and the
annual Latvian tourism prize in the category of
new developments in tourism in 2013.
166. Pūre Hillfort or Mūļkalns Hill
It is a typical Couronian hillfort dating back to the 10 th–12th century. Stone axes have also been
found here, which means that people had settled there also before Christ. The castle mound
has a 2 m tall dyke and artificially created steep sides; it is surrounded by swampy lowlands.
Near the Pūre School, Pūre parish, Tukums region.
Contacts in Pūre library: +371 63191209
GPS 57.0370630 22.9445519
136. Pūre Lutheran Church
Pūre Lutheran Church was built in year 1805. It obtained its current appearance after the
reconstruction of year 1858. During this time, the altar, the pulpit, and the confessional were
also made. Only two of the pinnacles have remained intact, because the middle pinnacle was
torn down.
Pūre, Pūre parish, Tukums region. Ph.: +371 26337220. GPS 57.0355996 22.9266814
215. The rockery at Pūre
The rockery at Pūre is a rock garden with landscaping, including various conifer trees, foliage
trees (and bushes), perennials, allium flowers and summer flowers. It is located at the Pūre
manor park. There are around 100 tree and shrub species. Each decorative plant has an
informative sign next to it. From the area of the rockery, a beautiful view opens up to the
ancient valley of River Abava.
Pūre, Pūre parish, Tukums region. GPS 57.0340711 22.9068204
215
158. "Pūre Chocolate" Chocolate Museum
This is a great opportunity for all who are interested to learn the story of the origins of
chocolate "Pure Chocolate". When you visit the Pūre Chocolate Republic, you can hear and see
stories about obtaining, processing, and using chocolate, as well as learn about the chocolate
history. The employees at the factory will tell you about the truffle production process in
detail and in an easily perceptible and memorable manner. All, who are willing, can "get
inside" a truffle box, see and create own truffles, as well as taste them. The products made at
Pure Chocolate can be bought in the factory shop.
Pūre – 9, Pūre, Pūre parish, Tukums region. Ph.: +371 29100161, www.purechocolate.lv
GPS 57.0361450 22.9035791
137
219. White Mulberry Plantation in Cēre
In 1930, near the farm "Vīnkalni", white mulberry trees (Morus alba L) were planted and now
have grown to a height of 4–8 metres. In China, the birthplace of white mulberry, it is
cultivated to serve as food for silk moths. Back when these trees were planted, it was believed,
that silk could be produced also in Latvia. Currently, 43 white mulberry trees, which have
survived the very tough weather conditions, continue growing here. There are the white and
black mulberry trees growing in the municipality of Cēre. They bloom at the end of May
(leaves and flowers together) and they yield each year – dark purple berries resembling
blackberries and are sweet and sour to taste.
"Vīnkalni", Cēre parish, Kandava region. Ph.: +371 26133879. GPS 57.1151636 22.8805045
158
Get to know Kandava!
N
ext to uniqueness and impressiveness of the ancient valley of River Abava, just as
interesting to visit is the small-town of Kandava. Kandava is referred to as the town
of painters and lovers, it is also called the pearl of the scenic Abava valley. Its
cobblestone-paved streets and lantern lighting tempts you to learn more about the
culture of the knights and the dukes, to stand on the oldest bridge in Latvia, to
celebrate the midsummer festival, to go to the Christmas fair, or go further on to visit
the nature in the valley.
Points of interest in Kandava
87. The Couronian Hillfort of Kandava
Back in the day, the Kandava Couronian castle stood where the Kandava Couronian hillfort
(66 m above the sea level) now is found – it used to be one of the centres of the Vanema
land. The castle was first mentioned in a contract of 1230, when the Couronians had
promised to get baptized.
Intersection of Abavas-Pūzurgravas Streets, Kandava. GPS 57.0408043 22.7825875
88. Brieži Family Park
The Brieži family park created by Pēteris Briedis, who comes from the area of Kandava and
was subject to repressions, has a tree planted for each family member. In the park territory,
you can climb a watchtower to look at the picturesque valley of the river Abava, as well as
to sit in a gazebo and enjoy a warm tea.
Raiņa Street 18, Kandava. Ph.: +371 29457212, 63126365. GPS 57.0431708 22.7774171
104
89
90
89. KThe Knights Hillfort, the Livonian Order Castle Ruins,
and the Castle Tower
Construction of the Livonian Order Castle in Kandava was initiated in year 1254. The name –
the Knights Hillfort (68 above the sea level) – was derived from the castle of the knights on
this hilltop. The castle remained inhabited until year 1750. However then it was announced
to be uninhabitable and during the course of time, it turned into ruins. The castle tower has
remained relatively intact. The locals call it the Powder Tower, because during the time of
Duke Jacob, gunpowder was stored here.
Abavas and Pils Streets, Kandava. GPS 57.0355508 22.7791340
Page 27
Creative workshops
Wood sculptor Juris Neimanis, "Mednieki", Irlava
GPS 56.8639300 23.0900202
The Ceramic Workshop "Upmalnieki", Sāti,
Irlava parish, Tukums region.
Ph.: +371 29256833, 26440226
GPS 56.9115882 22.9791028
Kandava
Kandava Regional Crafts Centre, Talsu Street 11,
Kandava. Ph.: +371 63181156, 26113310,
www.puralade.lv. GPS 57.0387717 22.7704092
Ceramic Kiln in Kandava, Dzeņu Street 2, Kandava.
Ph.: +371 26369421, www.linda.viss.lv
GPS 57.0444346 22.7697771
Nature trails
Nature and learning trail "River bends of Viesata",
Irlava parish, Tukums region.
Ph.: +371 28302871, 29105209
GPS 56.8236003 22.9720596
The Sulphur Spring Bog Trail, at the end of Zemītes
Street, Kandava. Ph.: +371 63181150, 28356520,
www.visitkandava.lv. GPS 56.0269343 22.7855616
Forest trail in the Fairyland Forest near the guest
house "Imulas", 9th kilometr on the Kandava-Sabile
road, Sabile parish, Talsi region. Ph.: +371 29196494,
www.imulas.lv. GPS 57.0211834 22.6453538
Nature Trail along Imula River, "Vītiņi", Matkule
28356520, www.visitkandava.lv
GPS 57.0126641 22.6245833
Nature Trail of "Zviedru cepures" (Swedish Cap),
recreational base "Zviedru cepure", "Piltiņi", Matkule
www.zviedrucepure.lv. GPS 57.0245777 22.5930398
Accommodation
Guest house "Rudiņi", Irlava parish, Tukums region.
Ph.: +371 63027751, 28353700,
www.atputalaukos.lv. GPS 56.8148267 23.0894579
Guest house "Zive", "Pērles", Irlava parish,
Tukums region. Ph.: +371 29799455, www.zive.lv
GPS 56.8286063 22.9920952
Kukšu Manor Guest house, Kukšas, Jaunsāti parish,
Tukums region. Ph.: +371 63181545, 25980910,
29205188, www.kuksumuiza.lv
GPS 56.9780329 22.8581659
Youth accommodation at the Irlavas Sport Hall,
Sporta Street 1, Irlava, Irlava parish, Tukums region.
Ph.: +371 26598997, www.skirlava.lv
GPS 57.0354963 22.8010359
Camping "Laipas", 89th km on Rīga-Ventspils
highway, Pūre parish, Tukums region.
Ph.: +371 28232301, www.kempingslaipas.lv
GPS 57.0532527 22.8684043
Motel "Sumbrs", 92nd km of Rīga-Ventspils
Ph.: +371 63181070, 29166751, www.sumbrs.viss.lv
GPS 57.0601386 22.8432627
Guest house "Teikas", near Rīga-Ventspils
highway, Kandava parish, Kandava region.
Ph.: +371 29132895, www.teikas.viss.lv
GPS 57.0581701 22.8238674
Guest house "Meļķerti", 3 km from Kandava,
Kandava parish, Kandava region.
Ph.: +371 29332080, 28380618, www.melkerti.viss.lv
GPS 57.0743814 22.7680933
Country house "Ezermaļi", Mazrūmene, Kandava
parish, Kandava region. Ph.: +371 28349018
GPS 57.0799435 22.6954144
Abava river during the 1930-ties
Page 28
Points of interest
93
94
90. Kandava Knight Castle Model
Model is situated at the foot of the Knight Hillfort. The Livonian Order Castle model was
made in 2010. Its author is a local inhabitant of Kandava Zigmunds Piņķis.
100
91. Sculpture "Acorn Knight"
Acorn Knight is the second acorn sculpture. The author of this sculpture is also Zigmunds
Piņķis, who was helped by his sons in creating this sculpture. The sculpture was created in
2011 and set up next to the Knights’ Castle model. Acorn Knight protects the castle ruins
and the Powder Tower hoping that one day a castle will stand here once more.
92. The historical town centre of Kandava and old Market
Kandava is attractive with its historical centre – the old town square and its construction.
Formerly, it used to be the market square. The steep streets will you’re your attention with
buildings, which have a different number of stories on each end of the building. Some
buildings can boast with their walk-through valves.
Tirgus Square, Baznīcas, Lielā, Sabiles, Talsu un Ūdens Streets, Kandava
91
Good to know...
• Be friendly and willing to learn, when
visiting museums and private collections.
• When visiting the country park of ancient
valley of River Abava, use the services of a
tour-guide – that way you will learn the
most about the unique values of this area.
95
93. Kandava Fire-fighter Depot
Kandava Fire-fighter Depot was constructed after the big fires raging through Kandava in
1872. Up until the 20-ties of the 20th century, the depot also served as an important centre
of community life. Now the building has been reconstructed, because fire-engines have
been bought.
Tirgus Square 7, Kandava. GPS 57.0371046 22.7754081
92
94. Mēra kalniņš or the Plague Hill
The Plague Hill is a witness to the plague epidemic of year 1710, after which only
2 craftsmen remained alive. Historians reckon that the Plague Hill was used as a cemetery,
where the victims of plague from Kandava were buried. The stone wall around the hill was
constructed in order for the rain waters not to wash away the remains of human bodies.
Baznīcas Street, Kandava. GPS 57.0374172 22.7724645
95. Promenade of the Kandava Old Town
The Kandava Promenade was created in 2011. Historically, most of this place was unused.
It was boggy and unsuitable for construction. A small part of the Promenade before the
construction was occupied by a playground. In early 20th century, a vegetable garden had
been created there. Now, it is a recreation site. A small stream cuts through the Promenade
with rocky sides and there are 7 bridges inviting the newlyweds. There are two children’s
playgrounds with various swing sets and other leisure activity possibilities in the territory.
Near the historical Market Square, between Talsi, Ūdens, and Baznīcas streets, Kandava
GPS 57.0374270 22.7752986
92
95
96. Former Community Centre
Former Community Centre is now the building of the Cultural Community centre of Kandava
and it was built in year 1909. The interior designs at the Great and Small halls of the building
are very peculiar, as they include decors made of Karelian birch-tree.
Lielā Street 28, Kandava. GPS 57.0377206 22.7768381
97. Kandava Synagogue
The building of Kandava Synagogue indicates of the fact that majority of residents of
Kandava during the 19th century were of Jewish background. The synagogue building was
constructed in year 1880. For many years the building was host to a movie theatre.
Lielā Street 31, Kandava. GPS 57.0385863 22.7762493
98. Kandava’s Roman Catholic Church
Church was open on September 13, 2003, in premises of a formerly residential building, as
a dedication to the Virgin Guadeloupe. The altar of more than 100 years was formerly one
of the side altars at the Ventspils Catholic Church. One of the altar pieces "Virgin
Guadeloupe" was brought there from Mexico.
Liepu Street 2, Kandava. Ph.: +371 28334158.
GPS 57.0397116 22.7773989
Page 29
Kandava
Guest house "Pils", Pils Street 7, Kandava.
Ph.: +371 63124919, 26438887, www.pils.viss.lv,
www.guesthousepils.com
GPS 57.0361487 22.7796417
Hotel "Kandava", Sabiles Street 3, Kandava.
Ph.: +371 26406733, www.hotelkandava.lv
GPS 57.0364211 22.7762545
Kandava Sports Hall Hotel, Skolas Street 2,
Kandava. Ph.: +371 63107352, 29152314,
www.kss.serveris.lv. GPS 57.0365770 22.7674166
Hotel of the State Technical Agricultural
School of Kandava, Valtera Street 6, Kandava.
Ph.: +371 63125814, 29257823,
www.kandavastehnikums.lv
GPS 57.0359356 22.7956826
Vacation house "Mežarags", Daigones Street 13,
Kandava. Ph.: +371 29149754
GPS 57.0386650 22.7998132
Guest house "Dižpriedes", Kandava parish,
Kandava region. Ph.: +371 29133594, 26555597,
www.dizpriedes.lv. GPS 57.0307712 22.7986507
Tent ground "Nāriņa" and "Teteriņi", in territory
of the Kandava Sport Complex, Kandava.
Ph.: +371 29105411, www.saltums.lv
GPS 57.0337840 22.8017831
Country house "Indāni", Kandava parish, Kandava
region. Ph.: +371 29259272, www.indani.viss.lv
GPS 56.9683272 22.7543245
Kalnmuiža Manor Guest house, Kalnmuiža,
Kandava parish, Kandava region. Ph.: +371 26699033,
www.kalnmuižaspils.lv. GPS 57.0110268 22.6588153
Guest house "Kārkli", Kandava parish, Kandava
region. Ph.: +371 29177356, 26141371,
www.karkli.lv. GPS 57.0203260 22.6760729
Tourism and leisure centre "Plosti", 9th km of the
Kandava-Sabile road, Kandava parish, Kandava
region. Ph.: +371 26310303, www.plosti.lv
GPS 57.0245285 22.6539470
Guest house "Imulas", 9th km of the Kandava-Sabile
road, Sabile parish, Talsi region. Ph.: +371 29196494,
www.imulas.lv. GPS 57.0211834 22.6453538
Guest house "Romance", "Vecsīmaņi", Matkule
www.romance.lv. GPS 57.0023572 22.6252600
Guest house "Birzes", Matkule parish, Kandava
region. Ph.: +371 26256214
GPS 56.9947677 22.6254905
Country house "Mucenieki", Matkule parish,
Kandava region. Ph.: +371 26489596,
www.mucenieki2.viss.lv. GPS 57.0080692 22.6031482
Country house "Bienes", Matkule parish,
Kandava region. Ph.: +371 29104813
GPS 56.9961187 22.6071023
Vacation house "Atmatas", Matkule parish,
www.viesunamiem.lv/brivdienu-maja-atmatas
GPS 57.0057850 22.5695253
Recreational base "Zviedru cepure",
"Piltiņi", Matkule parish, Kandava region.
GPS 57.0245777 22.5930398
Tent ground "Buses", Matkule parish,
GPS 56.9921022 22.6038451
Tent ground "Vītiņi", Matkule parish,
GPS 57.0127266 22.6245480
Tent ground "Lejaslanksēdes", Matkule parish,
GPS 57.0127178 22.6270187
99. "Vējspārns" or The Wind-wing
The Wind-wing is the steep, cobble-stone paved part of the Lielā Street. Back in the day,
there used to be a windmill, from which the name of this place has originated. Here, you can
see best, how it looks when one end of the building has a different number of storeys than
the other. Here you can peek into the closed courtyards to get the feeling of romance of
Kurzeme’s small-towns.
Lielā Street, Kandava. GPS 57.0377206 22.7768381
98
Page 30
Points of interest
100. Kandava Regional Museum
Kandava Regional Museum is located in a building, which was constructed at the end of the
19th century as a hospital. Later there was a German school, a warehouse, and a bank. The
Kandava Regional Museum was open in year 1995 and it mainly consisted of the collection of
cultural history heritage gathered by the teacher and historian Viktors Vītols. The visitors of
the museum can get acquainted with the history of the town starting from the most ancient
times up to the modern day.
Talsu Street 11, Kandava. Ph.: +371 63182064, 26667031, www.kandavasmuzejs.viss.lv
GPS 57.0387717 22.7704092
104
101. Kandavas Art gallery
The gallery exhibits works by both Latvian artists and students of the art schools.
Kandava regional Museum, Talsu Street 11, Kandava. Ph.: +371 26369421, www.vejsparns.lv
GPS 57.0387717 22.7704092
102. Kandava Regional Crafts Centre
The artisans of Kandava have found their abode in the building of the Museum of Kandava
Region. Cosy workshop rooms created for the association on the second floor invite
everybody, who wants to do arts and crafts.
Kandava regional Museum, Talsu Street 11, Kandava. Ph.: +371 63181156, 29338847, www.puralade.lv
GPS 57.0387717 22.7704092
101
103. Ceramic Kiln in Kandava
The young potter Linda Romanovska in Kandava will introduce the visitors with one of the
most ancient handicrafts skills, as well as will tell and show how to create an excellent work
of art from a small piece of clay.
Dzeņu Street 2, Kandava. Ph.: +371 26369421, www.linda.viss.lv
GPS 57.0444346 22.7697771
109
AIRKARGO
110
105
104. Kandava’s Lutheran Church building
Construction of the Kandava’s Lutheran Church building was completed in year 1736.
Attention of the visitors of the Kandava’s Lutheran Church will be drawn to the ancient dark
wood-carvings (dating back to the 17th century), the altar-piece (mid-19th century), organs
(1864), two chandeliers (mid-19th century), and artworks by masters of applied arts. Next to
the church is the Church Cemetery with a chapel and piled stone fencing. Parents and sisters
of the prominent Latvian linguist, Kārlis Mīlenbahs, the first leaders of the town, and other
eminent residents of Kandava have been buried here.
108
Baznīcas Street 5, Kandava. Ph.: +371 28277286.
GPS 57.0370160 22.7736972
105. The Art school of Kandava
School premises are held both painting and photography exhibitions made by local artists
and art students.
Sabiles Street 12, Kandava. Ph.: +371 63182045
GPS 57.0358149 22.7712319
106. The thickest wild pear tree in Latvia
The thickest wild pear tree (Pyrus pyraster) in Latvia recognised as such is found in Kandava.
Its circumference has reached 2.95 metres. Usually wild pear trees grow in deciduous woods,
shrubs, roadsides, and on the banks of rivers and lakes.
Sabiles Street 8, Kandava
GPS 57.0359907 22.7745055
107. The Memorial dedicated to the repressed residents of Kandava
The Memorial dedicated to the repressed residents of Kandava is a monument, which is
dedicated to those inhabitants of Kandava, who were deported to Siberia in year 1941 and
1949.
Sabiles Street, Kandava. GPS 57.03524112 22.7707564
108. The sculpture "Acorn-kid on a boat trip"
The sculpture is located in Kandava next to the old Stone Bridge. Kandava is an old town
encircled with ancient oak-trees. The trees were there before the town itself. Also the coat
of arms of the town depicts acorns and oak-tree leaves, and the open-air stage in Kandava
has long been called "Ozolāji" (in Latvian – an oak-tree grove). The townspeople have
restarted the tradition of making acorn coffee, which, if prepared correctly, is rather
delicious. That is how the character "Acorn-kid" came about, inviting the travellers to go
on a trip in the area of Kandava and in the ancient river valley of Abava.
Lielā Street, Kandava. GPS 57.0349185 22.7741947
Page 31
ACTIVITIES
Kandava
Race Park "Kandava", Kandava parish, Kandava
parish. Ph.: +371 221891120,
www.mxparks.lv. GPS 57.0633019 22.7900138
Off-road trips, guest house "Pils", Pils Street 7,
Kandava. Ph.: +371 29107596, www.pils.viss.lv
GPS 57.0361487 22.7796417
Rodeli track "Zviedru cepure", 3.5 km from Sabile,
Matkule parish, Kandava region. Ph.: +371 26405405,
Paitball "Veldzes", near Imula river, Matkule parish,
GPS 57.0152895 22.614888
Off-road jeep tours at the leisure centre "Plosti",
9th km of the Kandava-Sabile road, Kandava parish,
www.plosti.lv. GPS 57.0245285 22.6539470
Horses
Recreational base "Zviedru cepure", "Piltiņi",
Country house "Indāni", Kandava parish,
www.indani.viss.lv. GPS 56.9683272 22.7543245
Stud farm "Ivetas zirgi", Valdeķi, Kandava parish,
GPS 57.0000967 22.7707139
Pleasure flights
Flights on paragliders, "Rājumi", Matkule parish,
GPS 57.0167937 22.5959527
Air balloon flights withs polits Gints and Kristīne,
Tukums. Ph.: +371 26117853,
www.balticballoon.lv,
www.gaisabaloni.info
Air balloon flights with Aircargo Ltd., Tukums.
Ph.: +371 29240461, www.airkargo.lv
"RĀJUMI"
ZVIEDRU CEPURE
Guest house "Pils"
Race Park "Kandava"
109. The Stone bridge across Abava river in Kandava
It is the oldest rubble-stone bridge in Latvia, built in year 1873. Before the bridge was
constructed, a ferry was arranged to get across the river, but plank-bridges were made
for the pedestrians. The bridge was renovated in year 1997.
Lielā and Jelgavas Streets, Kandava. GPS 57.0343401 22.7849081
110. Sculpture "Whirlpool"
The central image of the sculpture "Whirlpool" is a fish emerging out of the water, made in
granite. The circular cobblestone surface is delimited with wooden benches, imitating wood
branches pulled into the whirlpool. The sculpture "Whirlpool" excellently supplements the
well-arranged square situated right next to the Kandava bridge and the old riverbed of
Abava. The sculpture was unveiled in January 2012. Its author is Ojārs Feldbergs.
106
Jelgavas Street, Kandava. GPS 57.0343179 22.7872487
111. The Old Elementary School Building of Kandava
School is located on the Northern end of the Riebiķi hillock, and it is now also referred to
as the School Hill. The building was constructed during the time frame from year 1929 until
1936 and it was named in honour of the linguist Kārlis Mīlenbahs, because he started his
path to education in Kandava.
112
Zīļu Street 2, Kandava. GPS 57.0339624 22.7756433
112. The Open-air Stage "Ozolāji"
Open-air Stage is not just a popular place for holding events. With its nature, it is a peculiar
point of interest in the town of Kandava, because the stage is enclosed with an old oak-tree
wood. Various concerts and other events are held here. During the holidays, the nature
lovers can walk along the Love Path, which starts at Ozolāji. Here, you can enjoy the
nightingale singing and quench your thirst with water from the spring.
Kūrortu Street, Kandava. GPS 57.0309447 22.7739136
109
Page 32
Points of interest
Switzerland of Kurzeme
Kandava – Valdeķi – Matkule – Sabile
160
172. The Sulphur Spring Bog with the Shrubby Cinquefoil habitat
The bog is a natural preserve on the left bank of Abava River, approximately 1 km away from
Kandava. Here, growing is a very rare post-glacial period plant – the shrubby cinquefoil
(Pentaphylloides fruticosa) – a small shrub, which blooms during the months of June and
July with yellow blossoms. Some day, the sulphur water flowing out of the bog and the mud
were used in the local medical institutions. The nature trail through the bog is 2 km long.
At the end of Zemītes Street, Kandava. Ph.: +371 63181150, 28356520, www.visitkandava.lv
GPS 56.0269343 22.7855616
155. The country house "Indāni"
At the country house the visitors can look at and learn about ancient household objects, for
example, machinery pulled by horses, a collection of axes, various tools used by blacksmiths,
foresters, and fire-fighters, as well as look at, pet, and learn to take care of various farm
animals. In 2008, the movie "Little robbers" ("Mazie laupītāji") was shot here.
174
220
"Indāni", Kandava parish, Kandava region. Ph.: +371 29259272, www.indani.viss.lv
GPS 56.9683272 22.7543245
220. The Devil’s Rock and Devil’s Cave of Abava
This place is rich with legends and stories. One legend tells that once there was the Devil,
who wanted to make a dam on river Abava. But he could not succeed, because the cockcrow took him by surprise. So, the rock had fallen down in the middle of a field, on the
hilltop. The Devil’s Cave can be found in the Devil’s Cave Ravine only some metres away from
the rock. The cave can be entered by crawling. It is approximately 8.5 m deep. The cave in its
broadest place is 1.5 m high and 1.2 m wide. The ravine, where the cave is situated, is
approximately 10 m deep. On the banks of the river, you can see the grey sandstone and
dolomite outcrops. During the spring time and in wet conditions, you should be very careful,
because the walls of the ravine are very steep and slippery.
Kandava parish, Kandava region. GPS 57.0181451 22.6856708
220
ABAVA
165
161. Čāpuļi Hillfort
A. Bīlenšteins included this mound with fortifications built historically, because, having
studied the site, he concluded that it is "a rough and hastily done job".
"Čāpuļi", Kandava parish, Kandava region. GPS 57.0253880 22.6926639
174. Fairytale forest of guest house "Imulas"
Fairytale forest is a forest trail with exciting games for younger and older visitors alike. Here
you will find well-known fairytale characters reproduced in wood – three little pigs and the
wolf, a hare bathhouse with hares, Pinocchio and Carabas-Barabas, and others. All together
there are nine surprise sites in the forest, collectively creating one game. After playing this
game, one visitor gains the right to climb the wooden tower and become the king of the
Fairytale Forest.
172
"Imulas", 9th kilometre on the Kandava-Sabile road, Sabile parish, Talsi region.
Ph.: +371 29196494, www.imulas.lv. GPS 57.0211834 22.6453538
173. Nature Trail along Imula River
Imula is one of tributaries of Abava – winding and at places with steep banks. The trail
starts at the place where Imula flows into Abava. It is about 5 km long and leads up to
the Buse castle mound.
"Vītiņi", Matkule parish, Kandava region. Ph.: +371 63181150, 28356520, www.visitkandava.lv
GPS 57.0126641 22.6245833
160. Buses Hillfort
From to the found ceramic chippings, it was concluded that the settlers lived on the castle
mound already during the 1st millennium B.C. and at the beginning of our era, and in the
10th and 14th century. It is believed that during the final stage, Couronians lived there, and
the castle mound together with the ancient town formed one of the biggest Couronian
centres.
"Buses", Matkule parish, Kandava region. Ph.: +371 29133272, 29939866, 26374996
GPS 56.9921022 22.6038451
Page 33.
Boat rental and fishing
Camping "Laipas", 89th km on Rīga-Ventspils
Ph.: +371 28232301, www.kempingslaipas.lv
GPS 57.0532527 22.8684043
Motel "Sumbrs", 92nd km of Rīga-Ventspils
Ph.: +371 63181070, 29166751, www.sumbrs.viss.lv
GPS 57.0601386 22.8432627
Guest house "Meļķerti", Kandava parish, Kandava
region. Ph.: +371 29332080, 28380618
www.melkerti.viss.lv. GPS 57.0743814 22.7680933
Tourism and leisure centre "Plosti", 9th km of the
Kandava-Sabile road, Kandava parish, Kandava
region. Ph.: +371 63123237 , 26310303, www.plosti.lv
GPS 57.0245285 22.6539470
"Jūras laivas", "Avoti", Renda parish, Kuldīga region.
Ph.: +371 29464901, 29283765, www.juraslaivas.lv
GPS 57.0711658 22.3191023
Boats in Kandava, Kandava. Ph.: +371 29199834 "Anša laivas" (Ansis’ boats), Kandava.
Ph.: +371 26520410 Route: Pūces – Vāne – Aizupe – Zante – Zemīte
Kazukalna pond, Zante parish, Kandava region.
Ph.: +371 29165796
GPS 56.8158438 22.6983319
Downhill skiing
Recreational base "Zviedru cepure", "Piltiņi",
GPS 57.0245777 22.5930398
155
ABAVA
155
ZVIEDRU CEPURE
Places for Swimming
Kandava Sports Complex – open-air pools
and jumping tower, tent spot "Nāriņa", Kandava.
GPS 57.0337840 22.8017831
Abava River – tourism and leisure centre "Plosti",
Kandava parish, Kandava region.
GPS 57.0239643 22.6541156
165. The Swedish Cap (Zviedru cepure) or Piltiņkalns Hill
It is a triangular shaped mound with steep sides. It is believed that a certain Swedish
general was buried here, and the mound was made by bringing soil in hats. Hence the
name – the Swedish Cap. In the wintertime, downhill skiing slopes are set up here, but
in the summer – the activists can go down a fun toboggan ride.
"Zviedru cepure", 3.5 km from Sabile, Matkule parish, Kandava region.
GPS 57.0245777 22.5930398
175. Nature Trail of "Swedish Cap"
The nature trail is nearly 1 km long and runs from the recreation centre "Swedish Cap"
through a forest up a hill to the very top, to see the beautiful Abava ancient river valley
in all its beauty.
"Zviedru cepure", 3.5 km from Sabile, Matkule parish, Kandava region.
GPS 57.0245777 22.5930398
172
Page 34
Points of interest
History on the Banks of Amula and Imula
Pūces – Vāne – Aizupe – Zante – Zemīte
143. and 149. Pūces Watermill and museum of General L. Bolstein
The mill was operating already at the end of the 19 th century, and besides milling the grain,
also fur was processed and a sawmill was operating here. The dynasty of General Ludwig
Bolstein at some point rented the mill, and for that reason the museum has been created
here.
175
"Pūces dzirnavas", Matkule parish, Kandava region.
Ph.: +371 63154098, 26354871.
GPS 56.9629370 22.6134880
ZVIEDRU CEPURE
ABAVA
152
223
228. Sculpture of a Girl
In the rural municipality of Vāne, at the bend near "Pūces", a sculpture has been standing for
many years now – it is a girl with a summer solstice crown on one arm and three tulips held in
the other hand. The author of the sculpture (1951) is the sculptor Lea Davidova-Medene. This
work was commissioned in the soviet times by the Highway and Dirt Road Administration.
"Smēde", Vāne parish, Kandava region.
GPS 56.9610882 22.6201523
140. Vāne Lutheran Church
Vāne Lutheran Church was built during the time period from 1654 to 1663, and renovated in
year 1789. In Latvia it is well known for its fancy baroque style frescos of the 17th century,
which were hidden from people for a long time, because many renovations had been done
to the church. They are unique for the history of Latvian art, because they have preserved
relatively satisfactory and can be seen to a rather great extent.
Vāne, Vāne parish, Kandava region.
GPS 56.9230742 22.5587671
217
124. The Vāne Manor House
The Vāne Manor House (19th century) is now occupied by the Vāne elementary school,
however during the times of the barons, together with Aizupe, it was one of the biggest
estates in the area.
Vāne, Vāne parish, Kandava region.
GPS 56.9241422 22.5626802
152
223. Pharmacy in the Vāne Municipal Council
In the old Vāne Municipal Council, Mārīte will show and tell, how drugs were made back
in the day. Please, arrange the visit in advance.
"Vānes Aptieka", Vāne parish, Kandava region.
Ph.: +371 63155056.
GPS 56.9149781 22.5541459
202. Aizupe Manor Park
The Aizupe Manor next to the river Imula was built from 1820 until 1823 during the times
of Adolf Georg Hahn. Around 1830, a scenic park with the total area of about 14 hectares
was set up around the Aizupe manor; local and exotic tree and shrub species were
planted there.
127
Aizupe, Vāne parish, Kandava region.
GPS 56.9210619 22.587446
171. Venteri Hillfort
This hillfort was first described in 1868 by A. Bīlenšteins, who had even made a clay model
of the castle mound and displayed it at the Kurzeme Province Museum in Jelgava. However,
E.Brastiņš, having studied the castle mound in 1922, came to a conclusion that it is merely
"a castlet" or a fortification site. The hillfort is surrounded by a swamp – remains of an
ancient water fortification, which is possibly why the castle mound was used temporarily
or only in case of danger.
124
Zante parish, Kandava region.
GPS 56.8565479 22.6721708
126. Zante Manor
The master house of the Zante Manor was constructed in the 19th century Classicism style.
Now in Zantes Manor is elementary school.
Skolas Street 14, Zante, Zante parish, Kandava region.
GPS 56.8365162 22.7322332
152. Kurzeme Fortress Museum
The Kurzeme Fortress Museum generously and interestingly tells about the operations of
the World War II in the Kurzeme fortress and about further fates of Latvian soldiers. Here,
the guests can see the historical exposition of World War I and II with regional history
features and collection of items of military character, and renovated entrenchments and
bunkers of the times.
141
Skolas Street 8a, Zante, Zante parish, Kandava region.
GPS 56.8355971 22.7346245
159. Zante Voluntary Firemen Association Museum
At the museum, the visitors will see fire-fighting equipment and will have a chance to enter
into the spirit of fire fighters.
Ph.: +371 26416458
GPS 56.8397070 22.7447968
217. Smiltiņkalns Hill
Smiltiņkalns hill is earlier Tukums district the highest point in the highlands of Eastern hill of
Saldus and the altitude is 153 m above sea level. It is definitely worth visiting with the aim
to observe and learn about nature, because you can learn to the very details both – the
Imula valley and Venteri hillfort.
Zante parish, Kandava region
GPS 56.8554741 22.7491724
127. Zemītes Manor
It is believed that the current castle or the master building was built around year 1850.
Nowadays, the manor house of Zemīte hosts the elementary school.
Zemīte, Zemīte parish, Kandava region
GPS 56.9283449 22.7954708
141. Zemīte Lutheran Church
Zemīte Lutheran Church is one of the churches built during the times of duchy of Kurzeme
in the district of Tukums. After year 1963, the church was gradually destroyed.
Zemīte, Zemīte parish, Kandava region.
Ph.: +371 29154017
GPS 56.9270971 22.8049421
124
Page 35.
Page 36
Points of interest
Over the Hills to the Sea
Tukums – Vecmokas – Sēme – Brizule – Kaive – Lamiņi –
Zentene – Dzirciems – Rideļu dzirnavas – Engure
T
TOP
Sites
of the Route
1. The Oak-tree in Kaive
2. Pastariņš Museum
3.Rideļi Mill
4.Nature at guest house "Ružciems"
5.Rose nursery "Rozītes"
Trip Planning
TIC Recommends
• The route does not contain many objects
of cultural history, however the nature’s
landscapes are unforgettable.
• Unfortunately, 2/3 of the road is not
covered with asphalt pavement, therefore,
if you decide to travel with a bicycle, be
prepared for a challenge of endurance!
he Northern part of the Tukums district, where the roads take you towards the sea,
the visitors will be greeted with traditional scenery of the Northern Kurzeme: hilly
slopes, winding roads, unique nature’s objects, and interesting places of cultural history.
When going over the hills to the sea, you will come across the biggest oak-tree of the
Baltics – the Kaive oak-tree, as well as see the smallest Northern Kurzeme country houses
at the Pastariņš Museum; however the Rideļi mill can offer the best and yummiest
pancakes.
218. Vecmokas Manor Park Alleys
The former Vecmokas Manor park stands out with several particularly beautiful and long lime
alleys. Three lime tree alleys lead to the manor. One of them is the longest common lime tree
alley in Latvia (approx., 1 km).
Vecmokas, Tume parish, Tukums region. GPS 57.0009755 23.0839940
294. Wood-carver Juris JurŠevics
The wood-carver offers the visitors to observe the process of carving spoons and other
kitchen utensils, as well as to buy various wooden articles for the grown-ups and children
alike. Visits must be arranged in advance.
Lauku Street 5, Tume, Tume parish, Tukums region. Ph.: +371 63193287, 26495302.
GPS 56.9381251 23.0794378
138. The Lutheran Church of Sēme
The Lutheran Church of Sēme was built in year 1892 in place of the old wooden church. The
congregation reinstated its operations in 1990, when it slowly started the church renovation
works. Along with the new altar, the altarpiece painted in 1932 by P. Štelmahers "Christ blesses
the fields" was recovered from the Tukums Church.
Sēme parish, Tukums region. Ph.: +371 26624345, 29139173. GPS 57.0530052 23.1118767
211
226
138
218
271
Trip
Highlights
A gardener can wake up in each one of us when
visiting the rose farm "Rozītes"!
271. Rose Nursery "Rozītes"
The rose nursery "Rozītes" in the rural municipality of Sēme is the result of Daila and Bruno
Trubiņš family work. At the nursery, Trubiņš family grows, examines, and selects the most
beautiful and sturdy rose varieties for the collection; they buy the most recently developed
brands of roses from the biggest European and best Latvian rose nurseries. Visits must be
arranged in advance.
"Rozītes", Sēme parish, Tukums region. Ph.: +371 26469604, www.dailasrozes.lv
GPS 57.0516977 23.1264478
271
226. The Cemetery and Chapel of the Lambsorf Family
The Cemetery and Chapel were renovated in year 1994, owing thanks to cooperation of the
local school and the descendants of the Lambsdorf dynasty. During the time period from 1802
until year 1914, 13 people of the owners of Brizule Manor from the Lambsdorf dynasty have
been buried here.
Brizule, Sēme parish, Tukums region. Ph.: +371 63181754, 26287380. GPS 57.0864930 23.0937012
Page 37.
Pastariņš Museum, "Bisnieki", Dzirciems,
Zentene parish, Tukums region.
Ph.: +371 63154518, 28651091,
Rideļi Mill, Engure parish, Engure region.
Ph.: +371 22440094, 26536532,
www.rideludzirnavas.lv. GPS 57.1518795 23.1026820
271
271
Creative workshops
Workshop of Laila Kelle, guest house "Ružciems",
near Lamiņi, Pūre parish, Tukums region.
Ph.: +371 26353032, www.ruzciems.lv
GPS 57.1025440 23.0032923
Nature trails
Nature trail of Ružciems, guest house "Ružciems",
near Lamiņi, Pūre parish, Tukums region.
Ph.: +371 26353032, www.ruzciems.lv
GPS 57.1025440 23.0032923
The nature trail of Jāņupīte, country house "Kaziņas",
Dzirciems, Zentene parish, Tukums region.
Ph.: +371 26386611. GPS 57.1090415 23.0380712
271
271
241. The monument dedicated to Z.A.Meierovics
The first Latvian Minister of Foreign Affairs Zigfrīds Anna Meierovics is one of the brightest
stars in the whole history of Latvian politics – is set up at the very place, where he died in
year 1925 in a car accident. In year 1926, a grey memorial rock was set up here, but in
August 21, 1927, a bas-relief of Z.A.Meierovics made by the sculptor A.Dzenis was infixed
into the memorial rock.
Brizule, Sēme parish, Tukums region. Ph.: +371 63181754, 26287380. GPS 57.0941787 23.1043074
210. The Ancestor Oak-tree in Kaive (Kaives Senču ozols)
The Ancestor Oak-tree in Kaive is the biggest oak tree in the Baltics (circumference – 10 m).
Today, its magnitude is not as impressive anymore, because in the 20-ties of the 20 th
century, lightning bolt struck its tip, but in year 1990, a half of the branches broke off. Now,
only one branch remains, but the oak keeps growing. The researchers think that the tree is
approximately 1000 years old.
Accommodation
Guest house "Meņģeļi", Sēme parish, Tukums region.
Ph.: +371 29473831, www.mengeli.lv
GPS 57.0424666 23.1519951
Leisure complex-camping near Lake Mucenieki,
Brizule, Sēme parish, Tukums region.
Ph.: +371 27617678. GPS 57.0976031 23.0809354
Recreational base "Mucenieki", near Lake
Mucenieki, Brizule, Sēme parish, Tukums region.
Ph.: +371 26240434, www.atputamucenieki.viss.lv
GPS 57.0983689 23.0873868
Country house "Kaziņas", Dzirciems, Zentene parish,
Tukums region. Ph.: +371 26386611.
GPS 57.1090415 23.0380712
Guest house "Ružciems", near Lamiņi, Pūre parish,
Tukums region. Ph.: +371 26353032, www.ruzciems.lv
GPS 57.1025440 23.0032923
Guest house "Rideļu dzirnavas", Engure parish,
Engure region. Ph.: +371 26536532, 22440094,
Kaive, Sēme parish, Tukums region. GPS 57.0627326 23.0245930
216. Nature trail of Ružciems
Nature trail of Ružciems near the guest house "Ružciems" boasts of oak tress that are
hundreds of years old, as well as other trees, forest meadows, picturesque scenery and
water ponds. This is a beaver and wild boar paradise. Relaxation and picnic area are
available here.
"Ružciems", Lamiņi, Pūre parish, Tukums region. Ph.: +371 26353032, www.ruzciems.lv
GPS 57.1025440 23.0032923
134. The Roman Catholic Church of Lamiņi
The Roman Catholic Church of Lamiņi was built in year 1865. The church is worth
mentioning due to the reason that it is one of the rare churches built for a catholic
congregation in this section of Kurzeme.
Lamiņi, Pūre parish, Tukums region. Ph.: +371 63182321. GPS 57.0992739 22.9612554
210
216
271
Page 38
Points of interest
117. Lamiņi Manor
Construction of the Lamiņi Manor dates back to the 18th and 19th century, however the current
appearance was obtained in mid-19th century, when it was purchased by a merchant from
Riga – Fermann, who ordered to build a new master house here. Along with construction of
the new castle, also a park with decorative trimmed trees, along with little pathways,
flowerbeds and a pond was created. The description of the manor dated with year 1912 tells
that this park is a rare example of old-French and rococo style in the whole Baltics. Currently,
the manor is used as the premises by the Dzirciems boarding school for children with special
needs.
Lamiņi, Pūre parish, Tukums region. GPS 57.0994444 22.9601447
130
211. The largest yew-tree of Latvia
The Zentene Palace was built around year 1850 and is a prototype of the late classicism style.
In the front of the building of palace, there is the largest yew-tree (Taksus baccata) of Latvia.
The circumference of its trunk is 2,35 m.
Zentene, Zentene parish, Tukums region. GPS 57.1352794 22.9795455
157
130. Dzirciems Lutheran Church
The Lutheran Church of Dzirciems was constructed in year 1879. It is one of the rare churches
in Latvia with entrance facing northwards. Inside, the interior equipment, which was brought
from the Ventspils Order Castle chapel in year 1827, is set up. However the organ prospect and
the organs were made by Kārlis Hermanis in year 1851, but in year 1878 it was additionally
improved by his son. The author of the altar piece "Appearance of Christ to St. Maria
Magdalena" (1895) is A.Baumanis.
Dzirciems, Zentene parish, Tukums region. Ph.: +371 63154548, 26248688
GPS 57.1201984 23.0113403
144
157. The Pastariņš Museum
Museum invites its visitors to learn about the life of a farm in Northern Kurzeme at the end of
the 19th century and in the first half of the 20th century. The farm of "Bisenieki" is a country
house, where the Latvian writer Ernests Birznieks-Ūpītis was born. The museum is dedicated
to the popular literary character – Pastariņš (lit. the youngest child), because the writer was
called by that name in his childhood. In the garden there is a model of the old "Bisenieki"
farm – a farmstead of the Northern Kurzeme in the 19th century. The size of the houses is
big enough for fictional thumb-sized characters to live in.
"Bisnieki" Dzirciems, Zentene parish, Tukums region. Ph.: +371 63154518, 28651091,
134
157
117
157
157
209. The Nature Trail of Jāņupītes stream
The Nature Trail of Jāņupītes stream is a relaxing, 1.1 km long walking route, in a forest with
several stairs and bridges. Visitors walking along the trail can observe the force of the 2005
storm, witch resulted in trees of respectable age being brown down. You will also have the
option to measure the circumference of trees that are 170-1780 years old.
206
"Kaziņas", Dzirciems, Zentene parish, Tukums region. Ph.: +371 26386611
GPS 57.1090415 23.0380712
Page 39.
Activities
Paintball in the territory of guest house "Meņģeļi",
Sēme parish, Tukums region.
Ph.: +371 29473831, 29354917,
www.mengeli.lv. GPS 57.0424666 23.1519951
Places for Swimming
Lake Seklis, Tume parish, Tukums region.
GPS 57.0057265 23.1265047
Lake Mucenieki, recreational base "Mucenieki",
Brizule, Sēme parish, Tukums region.
GPS 57.0983689 23.0873868
Lake Mucenieki, leisure complex-camping "Lake
Mucenieku", Brizule, Sēme parish, Tukums region.
GPS 57.0976031 23.0809354
Lake Rideļi, "Rideļu dzirnavas", Engure parish,
Engure region. GPS 57.1518795 23.1026820
DOWNHILL AND CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING
"Jēkaba grava", 4 km from Tukums direction
to Engure, Sēme parish, Tukums region.
Ph.: +371 29551182, www.grava.lv
GPS 57.0156036 23.1505486
144
144
144
251. Memorial site of Viktor Coj (1962-1990)
Viktor Coj was the famous Russian rock musician and poet, who died at age of 28 in a car
crash on August 15, 1990, by crashing his personal vehicle into a bus. It happened in Latvia,
in the 35th kilometre of the Sloka-Talsi highway, while he was vacationing at the shore.
Sloka-Talsi highway, Engure parish, Engures region. GPS 57.1158924 23.1859551
206. Yellow pines
Possibly, these two western yellow pines (Pinus ponderosa var. Scopulorum) (the third has
perished) are the largest and oldest trees or possibly even the progenitors of the species in
Latvia. Their needles are approximately 20 cm long. The pines are the only adult specimen
in the Baltic States with big and beautiful pinecones. They have received the nickname of
cedar-pines because of the long needles and large pinecones.
"Bērzmuiža", near Slokas-Talsi highway, Engure parish, Engure region.
GPS 57.1317851 23.1587768
144. The Rideli Mill
The Rideli Mill is situated approximately 80 kilometres away from Riga, on the right side of
the Riga-Talsi highway. The mill has been situated in this place for a very long time. During
the beginning of World War I, the mill burnt down, but after the agrarian reform of year
1920, it was acquired by the Kambali family and its operations were reinstated. There are
premises for milling the rye flour, grits, and pearl-barley. In the mid thirties of the 20 th
century, a steam engine was installed there, along with qualitative grinding machinery.
For the second time, the mill reinstated its operations under management of Kambali
family in year 1992, and 2 years later they started grinding fine flour and make farina, but
in year 1996 – pearl barley and grits.
Already back in the day, when the mill was constructed, the millpond of Rideļi was formed.
Around it, resting places and spots for organizing small events have been set up, also
welcome are the fishermen. If you find this place to be appealing, you can also arrange a
picnic there at any time and rent a boat to go boating in the millpond.
The mill is not anymore used for processing vast amounts of grain. On the excursion at the
mill, the visitors can see the equipment of mills and then try out the pancakes at the café
"Cope", which is right across the road.
Good to know...
• Be friendly and curious!
• Be nature friendly and careful with
everything around you, otherwise the
issued protocols and imposed fines will
only deteriorate your holiday adventures.
• From the trip, take along only memories
and photographs.
"Rideļu dzirnavas", Engure parish, Engure region.
Ph.: +371 22440094, 26536532, www.rideludzirnavas.lv
GPS 57.1518795 23.1026820
157
Page 40
Points of interest
Along the Shore
Bigauņciems – Lapmežciems – Ragaciems – Klapkalnciems – Apšuciems –
Plieņciems – Ķesterciems – Engure – Abragciems – Bērzciems
O
nly within one hour of driving distance from Riga is the Kurzeme seashore of the
Gulf of Riga. In this section of the trip, the quiet and peculiar fishermen’s villages
will welcome you with the old fishermen’s cots, as well as with the modern summer
houses, but the sandy beaches will interchange with rocky shores. Here you can enjoy
the vacation idleness in the white seaside sand, enjoy the fresh seaside air, feel the wind
on a yacht trip, and taste freshly smoked fish.
TOP
Sites
of the Route
1. Sandy beach with length 60 km
2. Kaņieris Lake, bird watching tower, and
a plank-way across the lake
3. Lāčupīte’s tree-nursery in May
186. The Nature Trail of Kupskalni
The Nature Trail of Kupskalni was created in year 2005. It is situated on the border of
Lapmežciems and Bigauņciems and looks like a wooden plank-way along the Siliņupe
brook, which leads to the sea, where you can see the old pier of Lapmežciems.
On the border between Bigauņciems and Lapmežciems, Lapmežciems parish, Engure region.
GPS 56.9920647 23.5235558
167. The Settlement of Siliņupe
The Settlement of Siliņupe dates back to the 3rd to 2nd millennium before Christ. This area was
inhabited after the sea receded, and the ancient residents were hunters and fishermen.
Ancient tools made of stone, hornstone, bone, amber and wood, as well as ancient fishing
and hunting tools have been found here. Clay pottery had also been once used at the
settlement. A memorial was open in year 2000 on the edge of the settlement territory.
Lapmežciems, Lapmežciems parish, Engure region. GPS 56.9942192 23.5184259
Trip Planning
TIC Recommends
• If summer is hot and sunny, then book
your accommodation well ahead of time!
• The best way to enjoy the shore would be
going by bicycle in a good company.
214
153. Lapmežciems Museum
At the Lapmežciems Museum the visitors can see an extensive volume of valuable historical
evidence about origination and development of Lapmežciems parish, as well as about work
and life of the fishermen back in the day. The museum also organizes tour-guided excursions
to the Kaņieris hillfort and other points of interest.
Liepu Street 4, Lapmežciems, Lapmežciems parish, Engure region. Ph.: +371 63163240
GPS 57.0012031 23.5123928
187. Lapmežciems seashore near Starpiņupīte stream
This part of the shore is one of the most popular and versatile bird-watching sites in Latvia.
Birds are the richest place is at the mouth of Starpiņupe the Gulf of Riga and about 1 km of the
north of it. Spring and autumn migration during the autumn and this is a great waders, gulls
and ducks of various species of watching. 2007th here was a new bird species recorded in
Latvian – desert Plover Charadrius leschenaultii.During the spring migration, the birds stay
here for a relatively short period of time, therefore the best season for visiting the site is the
second part of summer (end of July – August).
Lapmežciems parish, Engure region. Ph.: +371 67730078, www.daba.gov.lv/kemeri
GPS 57.0116780 23.5123381
287. Fish Market in Ragaciems
Fish Market in Ragaciems has become renown across Latvia as a place to purchase fish caught
in the Riga sea bay, in the Baltic Sea and more. Usually, you can also buy tasty bread and
honey, as well as fruits and vegetables from farms of the area. It is a sort of a local natural
market.
Ragaciems, Lapmežciems parish, Engure region. GPS 57.0247125 23.4917908
230. Ragaciema fishermen’s wharfs – "sedumi"
The fishermen’s wharfs – "sedumi" are the former fishing boat stations, where the fishermen
used to set up net cots. In the cots, nets, anchors, buoys and other fishing inventory was
stored. The wharfs also used to be the place for getting together and discussing the
collective work: making dragnets, setting up creels, purchasing inventory. The wives and
children of the fishermen fixed up the nets.
Ragaciems, Lapmežciems parish, Engure region. Ph.: +371 63163552, 26451024
GPS 57.0271397 23.4944099
198.–201. Pedestrians Paths to the Sea
Walking trails to the sea made by "Latvijas Valsts meži" wooden planchette trail start from
highway and go to the sea shore 4 trails: "Lāčupītes Trail" – between Apšuciems and
Plieņciems, "Plieņciema Trail" Plieņciems, "Engures Trail" Engure and "Vecupes Trail" –
between Engure and Abragciems.
Lāčupītes Trail GPS 57.0481835 23.3423968, Plieņciema Trail GPS 57.0869751 23.2601484,
Engures Trail GPS 57.1723288 23.2228696, Vecupes Trail GPS 57.1845025 23.2129027
212. Tree Nursery of Lāčupīte
The protected dendrology plantations "Dendrology plantations of Lāčupīte by Igors
Mednis" were created as a particularly protected natural territory. The plantations (7.2 ha)
were initiated in 1959 with the purpose to introduce foreign trees and bushes, to observe
the interaction of brands with the local biotopes. Around 60 conifers and 350 leaf tree
kinds are registered in the area. The most beautiful sights can be observed in May and
June, when the rhododendrons are blooming.
Apšuciems, Engure parish, Engure region. Ph.: +371 29393605. GPS 57.0481835 23.3423968
292. Pottery Workshop of Ivars and Ieva Grasis
At the pottery workshop of Ivars and Ieva Grasis, by drawing the power of nature and the
universe, works are created in Apšuciems on a pottery lathe. Later the works are hardened
and darkened in flame and smoke – in the open fire kiln. Each of the works includes and
stores information not merely about how it came to be but also about a much more ancient
experience, therefore they equally finely depict the ancient and modern air. Visits must be
arranged in advance. We’re sorry, but the workshop closed in 2014.
"Gulbji", Apšuciems, Engure parish, Engure region. Ph.: +371 26369362. GPS 57.0590635 23.3156751
186
212
Page 41.
Accommodation
Vacation house "Kamenes", Smilšu Road 3,
Lapmežciems, Engure region. Ph.: +371 22008108,
www.kamenes.lv. GPS 57.0110268 22.6588153
Guest house "Jūras mols", Bigauņciems,
Lapmežciems parish, Engure region.
Ph.: +371 27099099, www.jurasmols.lv
GPS 56.9895072 23.5266824
Caravan park "Baltijas kempings" (Baltic Camping),
"Kalnapriedes", Lapmežciems, Lapmežciems parish,
www.latcamping.lv. GPS 56.9949655 23.5209510
Guest house "Monikas", Lapmežciems, Lapmežciems
parish, Engure region. Ph.: +371 26161247
GPS 56.9972900 23.5156697
Guest house "AAK Service", Kuģukalna Street 1,
Ragaciems, Lapmežciems parish, Engure region.
Ph.: +371 63163736, 29118812, www.kanski.lv
GPS 57.0189081 23.4982604
Vacation house "Stērstītes", Ragaciems,
Ph.: +371 29283162. GPS 57.0185569 23.4980018
Guest house "Smaidas", Ragaciems, Lapmežciems
parish, Engure region. Ph.: +371 29265552,
www.smaidas.lv. GPS 57.0234413 23.4906551
Guest house and camping "Ronīši", Klapkalnciems,
Engure parish, Engure region. Ph.: +371 63161442,
26305551, 28486085, www.ronisi.lv
GPS 57.0426779 23.3670998
Hotel SPA Arkadia, Apšuciems, Engure parish,
Engure region. Ph.: +371 63143130, 29132765,
www.hotelarkadia.lv. GPS 57.0571372 23.3133364
Hotel "Villa Anna", "Airītes", Apšuciems, Engure
www.villaanna.lv. GPS 57.0618254 23.3114525
Hostel "Apšuciema skola" (Apšuciems School),
Apšuciems, Engure parish, Engure region.
Ph.: +371 29544650. GPS 57.0618451 23.3101330
Guest house "Pļava", "Jaunkunči", Plieņciems,
Engure parish, Engure region. Ph.: +371 26593394
GPS 57.0789694 23.2630133
Guest house "Riekstnieki", Plieņciems, Engure
www.riekstnieki.lv. GPS 57.0821184 23.2638088
Youth accommodation "Albatross", Ķesterciems,
Engure parish, Engure region.
Ph.: +371 28233193, 67416635, www.albatross.lv
GPS 57.1084286 23.2318024
Guest house "Rīteņi", Ķesterciems, Engure parish,
Engure region. Ph.: +371 26820245.
GPS 57.1168223 23.2278800
Hostel in Ķesterciems, "Mūrnieki", Kesterciems,
Engure parish, Engure region. Ph.: +371 29287271.
GPS 57.1181664 23.2331697
Guest house "Piejūras nams", Lauku Street 2a,
Ķesterciems, Engure parish, Engure region.
Ph.: +371 26435515, 29456073, www.piejurasnams.lv
GPS 57.12520044 23.2250132
Guest house "Klāņas", Jūras Street 47, Engure,
Engure parish, Engure region. Ph.: +371 26444123,
www.klanas.lv. GPS 57.1532629 23.2297493
Guest house "Stagars", Jūras Street 62, Engure,
GPS 57.1633070 23.2283334
Guest house "Villa Elizabete", Jūras Street 88,
Engure, Engure parish, Engure region.
Ph.: +371 29117510 , www.villaelizabete.lv
GPS 57.1656854 23.2250429
Youth accommodation at Engure secondary
school, Skolas Street 9, Engure, Engure parish,
Engure region. Ph.: +371 29544650.
GPS 57.1631227 23.2217731
Youth accommodation "Sadancis",
Kr. Valdemāra Street 1, Engure, Engure parish,
Engure region. Ph.: +371 63161318, 29409723.
GPS 57.1711243 23.2198519
Camping "Vecupe", Engure parish, Engure region.
Ph.: +371 26342848. GPS 57.1795468 23.2034469
Camping "Abragciems",
Abragciems, Engure parish, Engure region.
Ph.: +371 63161668, 26110738, www.abragciems.lv
GPS 57.1970298 23.2063970
Page 42
Points of interest
Trip
Highlights
No resort invites you to go to the sea, equipped
with binoculars and a book for recognising the
birds, but the seashore of the Engure region
does. Before migrating South in late summer,
many birds gather here.
214. The White Dune of Plieņciems
The White Dune of Plieņciems protects the village from the sea winds. This is not only a very
old fishermen’s village, but it has also been a renowned resort. The landlords of the times of
duchy of Kurzeme selected Plieņciems to be their resort grounds, but in year 1810, Elisabeth,
the wife of Russian Tsar Alexander I stayed here for six weeks. Since then, the locals have been
telling numerous juicy stories about the bathing sessions of the tsarina.
Plieņciems, Engure parish, Engure region. GPS 57.0804521 23.2692035
132. Engure Lutheran Church
The Lutheran Church of Engure is one of the rare wooden churches, the only remaining in
Tukums district, which has not been destroyed or rebuilt into a masonry church. It was built
in year 1804, but later has been reconstructed and repaired several times. The altar, the pulpit
(1835) and the organ, which was built in year 1853-1854 by the organ-master Karl Bittner, who
travelled to Latvia from Germany, are some of the noteworthy objects to be found in the
church. After World War I, the church and the organ had been seriously damaged. After the
final reconstruction, the 7-stop organ was open on January 6, 1932.
Engure, Engure parish, Engure region. Ph.: +371 29177920. GPS 57.1602994 23.2301155
240. A monument dedicated to J.P.Brandt
A monument dedicated to Johan Peter Brandt at the Engure church cemetery was set up in
year 1853. J.P.Brandt (1776-1835) started his service in Engure’s congregation in year 1804. He
was also a teacher and the author of "Chronicles of Engure", as well as the keeper of historical
materials, therefore the inhabitants of Engure consider him as the local and call him the Old
Stender.
Good to know...
• Be friendly and caring with the nature – do
not light fires and park cars in dunes at the
undesignated places.
• Remember, moving around with a
mechanical transportation vehicle,
standing or stopping in the protected
dune area is permitted only at specifically
designated places – it is forbidden to
organize public sporting, entertainment or
leisure events in the dune zone without a
proper consent from the relevant
municipalities.
• The rules on the coast are rough – just like
life itself, but we still have one of the most
beautiful beaches.
• Take along only memories and
photographs!
Engure, Engure parish, Engure region. Ph.: +371 29177920. GPS 57.1602994 23.2301155
162. Engure Hillfort or Maria’s Mound
The Maria’s Mound is considered a castle mound, even though no cultural layer or fortification
signs have been found. It is located on the shore of the Riga Bay near Vecupe. Its appearance
does not resemble a castle mound, rather an elevated dune.
Undas Street, Engure, Engure parish, Engure region. GPS 57.1650506 23.2284625
224. The former Engure Naval School building
The former Engure Naval School building now hosts a Meeting House. Back in the day, the
Engure Naval School was one of the 10 naval schools established following a suggestion of
Krišjānis Valdemārs (a prominent public figure in the 19 th century). The school was founded on
2 May 1875. According to the Law on Naval Schools of 1867, it was of the 1st (the lowest)
category, then according to the law of 1880 – the 2nd category naval school, and according to
the law of 1902, it stopped its operations as a professional naval school and was categorised as
a preparatory naval school. From 1875 till 1898, 413 studied at the naval school. The Engure
Naval School operated up until the World War I and in 1915 it was evacuated to Russia. It is
planned that in the near future a history exhibition about the naval school and about the
history of Engure will be created here.
"Saieta nams", Jūras Street 114, Engure, Engure parish, Engure region. Ph.: +371 63161701
GPS 57.1711578 23.2209096
Page 43.
Vacation house "Mikas", Abragciems, Engure parish,
Engure region. Ph.: +371 29244198, 29243197,
www.viesumaja.lv. GPS 57.2013113 23.2044017
Youth accommodation at the 1st Boat Station of
Lake Engure, Bērzciems, Engure parish, Engure
region. Ph.: +371 29113439
GPS 57.2150361 23.1478927
Guest house "Mazā kaija", "Cīrulīši", Bērzciems,
Ph.: +371 28349258. GPS 57.2449700 23.1748595
Country house "Dieniņas", Bērzciems, Engure parish,
Engure region. Ph.: +371 63154331, 26676283,
www.dieninas.com. GPS 57.2453282 23.1733104
Guest house "Tauriņi", Bērzciems, Engure parish,
Engure region. Ph.: +371 63154370, 29119855,
www.taurini.viss.lv. GPS 57.2548574 23.1729478
Vacation house "Branguļi", Bērzciems, Engure
GPS 57.2562901 23.1722361
176
179
176.–182. The Nature Park "Engures ezers" (Lake Engures)
The Nature Park includes Lake Engure and the lands appurtenant to it, as well as the seashore
of the Gulf of Riga from Mērsrags to Engure and the forests between the shore and the lake.
By means of versatility and number of endangered species of plants and birds, the
ornithological preserve of Lake Engure (1957) is one of the richest territories in Latvia.
187 bird species nest in the preserve, amongst them the white tailed eagle and corncrake,
existence whereof is endangered everywhere in the world. However the shore of the Gulf of
Riga near Engure is one of the main molt spots for the golden-eye birds. During the spring
and autumn migrations, here you might see around 900 cranes, and in spring – about 250 of
the whooper swans and 170 of the Bewick’s swans, and in autumn – about 800 tundra bean
geese and 1000 greater white-fronted geese.
In respect to biotopes, the greatest value of Lake Engure is the vast areas of fresh-water
biotopes and the calcareous grass bogs. Mērsrags is one of the few places of Latvia, where
the seashore meadows characteristic for briny soil can be seen. The surroundings of Lake
Engure are the floristically one of the richest territories in Latvia – it stands out with great
versatility of species (860 vascular plant species), as well as with a very important criterion
for the value of the plant kingdom – with its natural qualities. It means that the forests and
meadows have only such species of plants, which are characteristic to the circumstances,
and very few plants, which have appeared as a result from intensive activities by humans.
Lake Engure is a habitat mainly for rudd fish and tenches, less of the perches and pikes. In
the 90-ties of the 20th century 14 species of fish were registered: pike, bream, silver bream,
roach, rudd fish, tench, crucian carp, golden carp, orfe, bleak, moderlieschen, perch, ruff,
and the three-spined stickleback. However, there are 14 species of amphibians and reptiles,
including, common spadefoot, running toad, copperhead, and sand lizard, which are on
the list of Latvian Red Book.
For more than 40 years now, the Field Base of Ornithological Laboratory of the Institute
of Biology has been operating next to Lake Engure. For convenience of the travellers and
others, bird watching towers and animal enclosures have been set up; there is also the
Trail of Orchids.
The Foundation of Nature Park Lake Engure, Bērzciems, Engure parish, Engure region.
Ph.: +371 29474420, www.eedp.lv. GPS 57.2144651 23.1484854
132
179
132
179
132
178
179
Tent spots
Tent ground "Čiekuri", Apšuciems, Engure parish,
GPS 57.0662950 23.2929325
Tent ground "Zīvartiņš", Apšuciems, Engure parish,
GPS 57.0731539 23.2826250
Activities
Water entertainment events at the guest house
"Smaidas", Ragaciems, Lapmežciems parish, Engure
region. Ph.: +371 29265552, www.smaidas.lv
GPS 57.0234413 23.4906551
Water entertainment by the sea, 15th kilometre
of Riga-Talsi highway, 2 km from Ragaciems,
Ph.: +371 63163732, 29189951
GPS 57.0341158 23.4569128
Billiard at Hotel SPA Arkadia, Apšuciems, Engure
parish, Engure region. Ph.: +371 63143130, 29132765,
www.hotelarkadia.lv. GPS 57.0571372 23.3133364
Tennis and biliard at the guest house "Tauriņi",
Bērzciems, Engure parish, Engure region..
Ph.: +371 63154370, 29153392, www.taurini.viss.lv
GPS 57.2548574 23.1729478
Coastal fishing
Engure region. Ph.: +371 63154331, 26676283,
Hostel of Ķesterciems, "Mūrnieki", Ķesterciems,
GPS 57.1181664 23.2331697
Yachts
Yacht "Bolero", Engure port, Engure, Engures
GPS 57.1624441 23.2311953
Yacht "La Rouge", Engure port, Engure,
GPS 57.1624441 23.2311953
Boat Station at Lake Kaņieris, Lapmežciems parish,
GPS 57.0014596 23.4888647
1st boat station of Lake Engure, Bērzciems, Engure
GPS 57.2150361 23.1478927
Guest house "Jūras mols", Bigauņciems,
GPS 56.9895072 23.5266824
Camping "Abragciems", Abragciems, Engure parish,
Engure region. Ph.: +371 63161668, 26110738,
www.abragciems.lv. GPS 57.1970298 23.2063970
Engure region. Ph.: +371 63154370, 29153392,
Hunting
Water bird hunting at the 1st boat station of Lake
Engure, Bērzciems, Engure parish, Engure region.
Ph.: +371 29113439. GPS 57.2150361 23.1478927
Page 44
Points of interest
Around Lake Engure
Engure – Abragciems – Bērzciems – Mērsrags – Ķūļciems –
Jaunpļavas – Rideļu dzirnavas – Engure
It
is worth going on a trip around Lake Engure, if you enjoy observing the nature –
birds and animals, calmness of waters, sunsets, see rare species of plants or pick a
basket full of berries or mushrooms. By watching the birds from the watchtowers and by
walking along the trails of nature, you will have an opportunity to better understand the
things going on in the nature and discover many new and interesting things.
Engure
TOP
Sites
of the Route
1. Bird watch tower and the animal
pasture grounds
2. Conversations with ornithologists
3. Rideļi mill
The name of Engure was first mentioned in historical sources in the 13th century, but in the
16th century, Engure had already developed into a village of considerable size. The farmers
living in the area were mostly engaged in fishing, but not as much in agriculture due to the
sandy soil.
176. Lake Engure
Lake Engure is the third largest lake in Latvia. It had formed approximately 4000 years age, as
the Littorina Sea receded, therefore can be categorised as a lagoon type lake. The lake is
overgrown and the banks have become boogged up, therefore are difficult to access, which is
way many species of water birds have settled there, and in year 1957, the peninsual of Grebji
and the appurtenant territory were made into an ornithological preserve
GPS 57.2144651 23.1484854
Trip Planning
TIC Recommends
• Definitely visit both coasts of the lake –
the nature is so diverse there!
• Visit the park during various seasons –
you will not regret it!
177. Centre of Ornithological Researches of Engure
For more than 40 years, the Field Base of the Ornithological Laboratory of the Biology Institute
has been operating at Lake Engure. Ornithologists are engaged in research and ringing the
birds nesting in Lake Engure. This lake is one of the places, where the Latvian Ornithological
Society organizes the bird-watching days.
GPS 57.2144651 23.1484854
176
178
Trip
Highlights
During the daytime, you can be a nature explorer near Lake Engure, by studying and comparing what you see in nature with what is written
in nature observers’ books, but at night time –
be a guest at the Rideļi mill, enjoying the pancakes made by the owner and the tranquillity of
the mill pond.
178. The Orchid Trail
The flood-land meadows, the grassy bogs, and the damp forests of the country park “Lake
Engure" can boast with the versatility of the orchid species – in the area of Engure, there are
22 of the 32 orchid species growing in Latvia. At the country park, you can also see lavish
presence of the fly orchids – it is a very rare orchid, which can be found only in Kurzeme. In
order for the visitors of the country park to have an opportunity to see these rare species of
plants, the Orchid Trail has been set up. We’re sorry, but the trail closed in 2014.
GPS 57.2144651 23.1484854
179. Enclosures for Domestic Animals Adapted to Wildlife
During the implementation project of natural protection plan of the nature park "Lake
Engure", 140 ha of coastal meadows were reinstated, where more than 68 cattle specimens
are pasturing – Latvian Blue breed, Highlander, Charole, Alpengrey cows, and more than 19
Polskie Konik breed horses. The animals can be spotted on both sides of the lake: next to the
Ornithological Research Centre of Engure (Eastern coast of the lake, near Bērzciems) and
between the boat stations of Krievrags and Briežrags (Western coast of the lake, Ķūļciems).
179
Centre of Ornithological Researches of Engure, GPS 57.2144651 23.1484854
Krievrags, GPS 57.2881264 23.0307618
Page 45.
Information
Lake Engure Nature Park Foundation,
Bērzciems, Engure parish, Engure region.
Ph.: +371 29474420, www.eedp.lv
GPS 57.2144651 23.1484854
Ph.: +371 22440094, 26536532,
176
179
180.–182. Bird watching towers
In order for the birds dwelling at the lake and for the beautiful scenery to be better
observed, three bird watching towers have been set up next to Lake Engure, but on the sea
coast – one bird watching tower has been set up. There are also information signs about
the most frequently seen and the most interesting bird species, which can be found in the
country park. The locations of the watchtowers – next to teh Centre of Ornithological
Researches (the eastern coast of the lake, next to Bērzciems), at Laides boat station in the
camping "Bebri" (northern coast of the lake, Mērsrags), at the boat station of Mazsaliņas
(the eastern coast of the lake, Ķūļciems), and in the seashore meadows in Mērsrags.
Centre of Ornithological Researches of Engure GPS 57.2144651 23.1484854
Laide GPS 57.3178348 23.0900246, Mazsaliņas GPS 57.2712353 23.0750720
Seashore meadows in Mērsrags GPS 57.3448386 23.1227888
Places to go in Mērsrags?
1. Mērsrags Harbour. Ph.: +371 63235696
2. Mērsrags canal
3. Mērsrags Baptist Church. Ph.: +371 67113616
4. Coastal meadow and bird-watching tower
5. Museum "Saieta nams" (Community centre).
Ph.: +371 63235995
6. Mērsrags Lutheran Church. Ph.: +371 29584788
7. Fisherman household "Klintis".
8. Mērsrags Lighthouse. Ph.: +371 28325803
9. Devil’s rock.
Places to see on the western coast
of Lake Engure?
1. Wild horses and cows in Krievrags
2. Decorative birds and rabbits at the "Apsīši" farm.
Ph.: +371 29421081
3. Dzedri Lutheran Church Ph.: +371 28783552
4. Boat station "Mazsaliņas"
Accomodation
Guest house "Rideļu dzirnavas", Engure parish,
Engure region. Ph.: +371 26536532, 22440094,
Guest house "Klāņas", Jūras Street 47, Engure,
Ph.: +371 26444123, www.klanas.lv
GPS 57.1532629 23.2297493
Guest house "Stagars", Jūras Street 62, Engure,
Ph.: +371 29628101. GPS 57.1633070 23.2283334
Guest house "Villa Elizabete", Jūras Street 88,
Engure, Engures parish, Engure region.
Ph.: +371 29117510 , www.villaelizabete.lv
GPS 57.1656854 23.2250429
Youth accommodation at Engure secondary
school, Skolas iela 9, Engure, Engure parish,
GPS 57.1631227 23.2217731
Youth accommodation "Sadancis", Kr. Valdemāra
Street 1, Engure, Engure parish, Engure region.
Ph.: +371 63161318, 29409723
GPS 57.1711243 23.2198519
Camping "Vecupe", Engure parish,
GPS 57.1795468 23.2034469
Engure region. Ph.: +371 63161668, 26110738,
www.abragciems.lv
GPS 57.1970298 23.2063970
Vacation house "Mikas", Abragciems, Engure parish,
Engure region. Ph.: +371 29244198, 29243197,
www.viesumaja.lv
GPS 57.2013113 23.2044017
1st boat station of Lake Engure, Bērzciems,
GPS 57.2150361 23.1478927
Guest house "Mazā kaija", "Cīrulīši", Bērzciems,
Ph.: +371 28349258. GPS 57.2449700 23.1748595
Engure region. Ph.: +371 63154331, 26676283,
Engure region. Ph.: +371 63154370, 29119855,
Vacation house "Branguļi", Bērzciems, Engure
parish, Engure region. Ph.: +371 29676126.
GPS 57.2562901 23.1722361
1st boat station of Lake Engure, Bērzciems,
GPS 57.2150361 23.1478927
Engure region. Ph.: +371 63161668, 26110738,
www.abragciems.lv
GPS 57.1970298 23.2063970
Guest house "Tauriņi", Bērzciems,
Ph.: +371 63154370, 29153392, www.taurini.viss.lv
GPS 57.2548574 23.1729478
Coastal fishing
Engure region. Ph.: +371 63154331, 26676283,
Hunting
Water bird hunting at the 1st boat station of Lake
Engure, Bērzciems, Engure parish, Engure region.
Ph.: +371 29113439.
GPS 57.2150361 23.1478927
Page 46
Points of interest
A Day in Ķemeri
National Park
Ķemeri – Lake Kaņieris – Lustužkalns Mound – Lake Valgums –
Dunduru meadows – Lancenieki – the Big ķemeri Bog
Ķ
TOP
Sites
of the Route
1. The Great Ķemeri Bog Trail
2. Barefoot trail and maze in “Valguma
pasaule"
3. Lake Kaņieris, bird watching tower,
and a plank-way on the lake
Trip Planning
TIC Recommends
• Visit the park in all seasons –
you won't regret it!
• Use bicycle to explore the ķemeri national
park! Think green!
emeri National Park – it is a very versatile territory of 38 165 hectares. Human activity
has had relatively small influence on this territory, mainly just in the fishermen’s
villages and in the agricultural lands in the area of Slampe, therefore the park is the
dwelling place for many rare and protected plant and animal species in Latvia and in
Europe. Ķemeri National Park offers specifically created routes, and the tourists can visit
the park with a tour-guide from ĶNP or individually.
Ķemeri National Park was established in year 1997. The vast biological diversity at the
Ķemeri National Park is created by the versatile mother soil and the favourable humidity
level. 25% of the plants of the Red Book of the list of protected plants, including marsh
spurge, lonicera pallasii, yellow lady’s slipper, great fen sedge, cyperaceae, and
sweetgale, grow here. In the grass bogs, flourishing are orchids of various breeds –
dactylorhiza, early-marsh orchid, Dactylorhiza cruenta and the spotted orchid, as well
as the fen orchid. Representatives of the bird kingdom are the white tailed eagle
specimens, eagle-owl, and whimbrel found in Latvia and in Europe. Particularly
beneficial circumstances for feeding and nesting are for the black stork, cranes and
lesser spotted eagle, as well as corncrake and the rare woodpecker species – the threetoed woodpecker, middle spotted woodpecker and the white-backed woodpecker.
A permanent resident here is the beaver. The big swamps are also a good refuge for
mosses, but in the big forests living are elks, wild boars, does, and wolves.
Trip
Highlights
The plank-way of the Great Ķemeri Bog
surprises with its nature and colours. It is
still the most popular nature trail in the park.
183
188
183. Forest House (Meža māja)
The park centre is located in Ķemeri, in the "Forest House" at the administration and
information centre of ĶNP. The history of the "Tree House" dates back to the summer of 1933,
when in the newly constructed building, a centre for sports and recreation (arch. Fridrihs
Skujiņš) was opened, pleasing the visitors with "a exemplary shooting range, various American
sport type apparatus, ping-pong, bowling alley, billiards, chess and bridge premises, good
beer, delicious tea and coffee". Later the sport centre was changed into a restaurant "Fun
mosquito", which was operating up until World War II and offered fine meals for the resort
guests, and the dinner entertainment included dancing and cabaret. During the Soviet era,
it hosted a children’s sanatorium. Now, it is the ĶNP administration and information centre,
as well as Nature School organizing various events of nature education activities.
"Meža māja", Ķemeri, Jūrmala. Ph.: +371 67730078, www.daba.gov.lv/kemeri. GPS 56.9528358 23.5127449
185
184. The Green Dune (Zaļā kāpa)
The Green Dune is one of the most interesting dune formations in the Ķemeri National Park.
It separates the Green Bog (Zaļais purvs), which at places can be seen to the West from the
Dune, from the Witches’ Bog (Raganu purvs). The Green Bog is the source of inspiration for the
name of the dune. In 2012, a tourist trail will be set up here to help the hikers stay on the track
and not get lost in the forests and bogs.
Smārde parish, Engure region. Ph.: +371 67730078, www.daba.gov.lv/kemeri. GPS 56.9452762 23.4739850
188
188
185. Walking Trail of Lake Sloka
The trail of Lake Sloka (3.1 km) curls along the coast of the lake rich with diverse water fowl
through various forests and offers wide opportunities for varying routes. The trail begins
and ends at Lake Sloka, where the visitors are welcomed in the improved parking lot, picnic
grounds, and bird watching tower.
Lake Sloka, Jūrmala. Ph.: +371 67730078, www.daba.gov.lv/kemeri
GPS 56.9579309 23.5465185
188. Lake Kaņieris with bird-waching tower and trail
Lake Kaņieris with bird-watching tower is one of the best bird watching sites Kemeri
National Park. The lake has 14 islands, and there found a total of 237 species of birds (with
Latvian registered 342 species of birds). Lake since 1989. included on the important bird
sites list. Since the lake is closely overgrown with reeds and other plants, birds had access
to far more difficult. Now the entire lake is able to readily from bird-watching tower. It
allows seeing the birds on Lake Kaņieris from above.
Lapmežciems parish, Engure region. Ph.: +371 29253514, www.daba.gov.lv/kemeri
GPS 57.0011791 23.4710728
190. Kaņieris Lake Reed Plank-way
From this plank-way, the visitors of the Ķemeri National Park will be able to get to know the
reed maze of Lake Kaņieris from a completely different viewpoint. It will connect Andersala
islet with Rieksti peninsula, on which there is a bird-watching tower.
Boat station at Lake Kaņieris, Lapmežciems parish, Engure region.
Ph.: +371 29253514, www.daba.gov.lv/kemeri. GPS 57.0014596 23.4888647
191. Kaņieris Hillfort and Nature Trail
The Kaņieris Lake hillfort was discovered in 1867 by V. Dērings. It has been much written
about; however it has not been explored archaeologically. E. Brastiņš recognised this castle
mound to be a peculiar one, because it is the only castle mound that is situated so close to
the sea, in a swampy and uninhabited place. Kaņieris hillfort trail leads to the Kaņieris
hillfort and the stone ramparts.
8th km of the Antiņciems-Jāņkrogs road, Lapmežciems parish, Engure region.
GPS 56.9916485 23.4343583
192. Lustūzis Mound or Lustūžkalns
In written records, Lustūžkalns was mentioned as a fortified site, where ancient burial
grounds are also found. Other sources say that in 1494–1535, the hunting castle of the
Livonian Order master Wolter von Plettenberg was situated here, and it was later
reconstructed to meet the needs of the Duke of Courland.
Lustužkalns Hill with its 72 m above the sea level is the highest place in the Ķemeri National
Park. The name of the hill (lit. the Jolly Hill), possibly, originated from legends that back in
the day the Russian tsarina had a jolly time in this area. Here, she is said to have had a castle
of fun and a golden chariot, which she allegedly drowned in Lake Valgums so that nobody
else would get it.
Lustūžkalns, Smārde parish, Engure region.
GPS 56.9966815 23.2854303
Page 47.
Nature trails
The Great Ķemeri Bog, "Tīreļi", Slampe parish,
www.daba.gov.lv/kemeri. GPS 56.9114537 23.4596638
The Green Dune, Smārde parish, Engure region.
Ph.: +371 67730078, www.daba.gov.lv/kemeri
GPS 56.9452762 23.4739850
Walking Trail at Lake Slokas, Jūrmala.
GPS 56.9579309 23.5465185
Kaņieris Lake Reed Plank-way, Boat station at
Lake Kaņieris, Lapmežciems parish, Engure region.
GPS 57.0014596 23.4888647
The Nature Trail of Kupskalni, on the border
between Bigauņciems and Lapmežciems,
GPS 56.9920647 23.5235558
The Barefoot Trail, leisure complex
"Valguma pasaule", Smārde parish, Engure region.
Ph.: +371 63181222, 29414022,
Nature’s Paintings Trail, leisure complex
Ph.: +371 63181222, 29414022,
Board Games’ Trail, leisure complex
Ph.: +371 63181222, 29414022,
"Wind garden" in Smārde, Smārde, Smārde parish,
Engure region. GPS 56.9566918 23.3406544
Bird-Watching Tower
Bird-watching tower at the Lake Kaņieris,
GPS 57.0011791 23.4710728
Dunduri (Gadfly) Meadows, Slampe parish,
Animals watching
Watchtower in the Dunduri (Gadfly) Meadows,
Attractions for kids
Attractions and swings at "Wind garden",
Smārde, Smārde parish, Engure region
GPS 56.9566918 23.3406544
Accommodation
Leisure complex "Valguma pasaule", Smārde parish,
Engure region. Ph.: +371 63181222, 29414022,
Vacation house "Līdakas", Smārde parish,
GPS 56.9852424 23.3073542
Hostel "Ezermalas", Smārde parish,
Engure region. Ph.: +371 63154227, 29103789
GPS 56.9849590 23.2888472
Leisure complex "Milzkalns", Smārde parish,
Vacation house "Rūši", Smārde parish, Engure
region. Ph.: +371 28637513, http://rusi.viesumajas.lv
GPS 57.0058879 23.2218155
Guest house "Milzkalne.lv", Dambkalni-3, Milzkalne,
Smārde parish, Engure region.
Ph.: +371 26545521, 29574890, www.milzkalne.lv
GPS 56.9814878 23.2364255
Guest house "Jaunrūķi", Šlokenbeka Street 26,
Ph.: +371 63182143, 29142764,
www.jaunruki.ciemos.lv
GPS 56.9752643 23.2179137
Guest house "Upesloki", Milzkalne, Smārde parish,
GPS 56.9787329 23.2340140
Guest house "Kalnažagari", Smārde parish, Engure
region. Ph.: +371 29414584, www.kalnazagari.lv
GPS 56.9474385 23.2679939
Page 48
Points of interest
193. Lake Valguma
Lake Valgums is 3 km long and 0.2 km wide, and in the deepest place, it is 30 metres deep.
The legend says that when the bishop Albert was driving along the lake, some robbers had
attacked him, robbed him of everything, and taken people in captivity. Only bishop himself
had gotten away, but the golden chariot was pulled into the lake by the six white horses,
where it could be seen in clear weather even today. The legends also tell that the Kurzeme’s
Duke Jacob had often spent time next to the lake and hunted in the nearby forests. In the area
of the lake have been created 3 bicycle routes (16 km, 17 km un 22 km) and nature learning
and Nordic Walking Trail (3.5 km).
193
193
Ph.: +371 63181222, 29414022, www.valgumapasaule.lv. GPS 56.9898684 23.3153818
194. Barefoot Trail, Nature’s Paintings, and Board Games’ Trail
The recreational centre “Valguma pasaule" has set up several walking trails for visitors. The most
popular right now is the Barefoot Trail (1.3 km), which during the warmer time of the year
offers everybody to liberate their feet from the embraces of footwear and invites to experience
various different surfaces: bigger and smaller pebbles, boulders and grindstones, moss, pinecones, sea sand, reed, woodchips, coarse pine bark, clay, refreshing river water or rain drenched
grass and sun soaked gravel, among surfaces of other materials. The Nature’s Paintings (4.5 km)
is a trail that invites the walkers to look into the nature through screenshots created in the forest
and fitted in bright coloured frames like paintings to show the secular oak-tree, a knot on a
birch tree, the Alpine currant, dolomite outcrops on the bank of the picturesque Slocene river,
a spruce pecked by woodpeckers and eaten by bark beetles, a beaver slide, trenches dating back
to WWII, three whirlpools at the same spot, a spruce and a birch tree growing together,
among other nature’s wonders, urging you to slow down, stop, observe, notice, and discover
your own wonders. Whereas, the Board Games’ trail will captivate the grownups and children alike, offering to play 21 popular board games of varying difficulty right there in nature.
185
193
196
194
194
195. Maze
Since the ancient times, people have believed that mazes have a healing power. It is one of
the most ancient symbols of humanity with a history of at least 3000 years. Each year new
mazes are built around the world – we are seeking and creating strong places. In May 2010,
the gothic maze was created at the recreation centre "Valguma pasaule". To create the maze,
the same drawing was used as the one found on the floor in the 13th century Chartres
Cathedral in the Northern France. The only difference is the central design: in Chartres it is a
sort of flower, but in the maze of "Valguma pasaule", sometimes the sky can be seen! There is
only one way to get to the centre of the maze, and it takes you there by itself. The maze is
deceptively short: 11 circles, 28 bends, which a change of the direction once in a while, but
never crossing paths, 390 metres in and the same going out. Spare some time for yourself!
This is the place, where you can calm your mind and get closer to yourself.
232
293. Pottery Workshop "Saules ceplis" (Sun kiln)
The designer – potter Madara Bartkeviča – is working at the pottery workshop. She will
introduce the visitors with the very beginnings of pottery, creation of pots and the specifics of
burning the black kiln. The visits of the pottery workshop are free of charge. Everybody is
welcome to master-classes. The works are created under the guidance of the potter and after
burning them in the kiln, the works are returned to their makers. The pottery workshop is
open to visitors from April until December.
"Margrietas", Smārde parish, Engure region. Ph.: +371 26072594. GPS 56.9744986 23.3042799
Page 49.
Guest house "Sanders", 57th km of Rīga-Ventspils
highway, Ozolpils, Smārde parish, Engure region.
Ph.: +371 26434448, www.sanders.viss.lv
GPS 56.9209373 23.2621554
Leisure complex "Ozolpils", Ozolpils, 57th km of
Rīga-Ventspils highway, Smārde parish, Engure region.
Ph.: +371 26445528, www.ozolpils.lv
GPS 56.9215777 23.2641141
Guest house "Līkumi", Slampe parish, Tukums region.
Ph.: +371 26524126. GPS 56.9168373 23.2201707
Tent ground – sauna house "Ķīvītes", near Ozolpils,
26413774. GPS 56.9049022 23.2950820
Tent spots
Tent ground "Guntiņas", Lancenieki, Džūkste parish,
Tukums region. Ph.: +371 29454508, 28336456
GPS 56.8162457 23.3425496
Tent ground "Lejiņas", Smārde parish, Engure region.
Ph.: +371 63192300, 29559767
GPS 56.9783768 23.3135197
195
232. "Wind garden" in Smārde
The "Wind garden" is not far from the Smārde railroad station, next to the monument created by the prominent Latvian sculptor Kārlis Zāle. It is a park – a tree nursery created in line
with the design by the landscape designer Dace Lukševica. More than 100 varieties of plants,
trees, and shrubs are planted at the scenic park – altogether about 550 units in an area of
1.9 hectares. Each plant group has its unique name. The "Wind garden" was planted by the
local residents of Smārde with their very own hands, and that is why in the park, which was
opened in fall of 2012, you will encounter the good thoughts, positive energy, and love of
diligent people. The pleasant aura of the park is fortified with ancient Latvian fertility, harmony, and love songs performed by folklore groups. The park is a wonderful place for relaxation
together with children. A view opens up from the artificially created hillock down to the big
swing and the sports trail and pathways with many fun activities for spending your time.
Smārde, Smārde parish, Engure region. GPS 56.9566918 23.3406544
196. Dunduri (Gadfly) Meadows
A walk along the pasture grounds of auroch cows and horses on the banks of reinstated
stream of Slampe in the meadows of Dunduri is possible owing thanks to the support
provided by the World Wildlife Fund and the Large Herbivorous Foundation fund; the
organizations purchased 15 auroch cows from Belgium to be introduced to Ķemeri National
Park and 10 specimens of Konik Polski breed horses were acquired in Pape. The most heartwarming the herds of these large animals are during the summer time, when the newly born
foals and calves join the pack. In the beginning of 2013 there were 29 cows and 48 horses.
For the convenience of visitors, a parking lot has been built next to the meadows of Dunduri.
A 5 metre tall watchtowers has also been erected, and information stands have been set up.
Slampe parish, Tukums region. Ph.: +371 67730078, www.daba.gov.lv/kemeri. GPS 56.8303924 23.4008212
147. Fairytale Museum of Džūkste
The Fairytale Museum of Džūkste introduces with the fairytale father Ansis Lerhis-Puškaitis
(1859.-1903.), the stories, and their explorers, as well as about prominent cultural and state
persons of Džūkste region. In the museum, each and every one of the guests can meet the
enchanted fairytale characters and play in a puppet theatre.
Lancenieki, Džūkste parish, Tukums region.
Ph.: +371 63154691, 26513314, www.tukumamuzejs.lv. GPS 56.8124903 23.3476930
248. Commemorative plate for melioration works
Commemorative plate for the last meliorated hectare of arable land in the village of Slampe.
Established on 19 September 1975.
Slampe, Slampe parish, Tukums region. GPS 56.8496556 23.3089098
197. The GREAT Ķemeri bog and trail
The Great Ķemeri Bog is one of the high swamps, were over the course of last 8000 years,
the sphagnos moss has formed. The moss has formed 8 metres of turf layer, and on the top,
the moss is still alive and growing. The foodbridge will lead you to the kingdom of mosses,
bog pine-trees, peaty pools, murky little lakes and scent of Marsh tea. By taling a careful
look, you will be able to see insectivorous plant – sundew, and various birds – wood
sandpiper, white wagtail and tree pipit. Fabulous walk accros wooden foodbridges in the
intact raised bog!
"Tīreļi", Slampe parish, Tukums region. Ph.: +371 67730078, www.daba.gov.lv/kemeri
GPS 56.9114537 23.4596638
Activities
Nordic walking at the leisure complex
Ph.: +371 63181222, 29414022,
Billiard, novus and table-tennis at the leisure
complex "Valguma pasaule", Smārde parish,
Engure region. Ph.: +371 63181222, 29414022,
Paintball and wakeboard at the leisure complex
"Milzkalns", Smārde parish, Engure region.
GPS 56.9993251 23.2081739
Water entertainment events at the guest house
"Smaidas", Ragaciems, Lapmežciems parish, Engure
region. Ph.: +371 29265552, www.smaidas.lv
GPS 57.0234413 23.4906551
Water entertainment by the sea, 15th kilometre of
Riga-Talsi highway, 2 km from Ragaciems, Lapmež
ciems parish, Engure region. Ph.: +371 63163732,
29189951. GPS 57.0341158 23.4569128
Adventure game "Spy adventures", Ķemeri
National Park. Ph.: +371 22057669, www.orangeric.lv
Bicycle Rental
Ķemeri bicycle rental, Ķemeri railroad station,
Ķemeri. Ph.: +371 29239273, www.velonoma.lv
GPS 56.9389536 23.4896707
Engure region. Ph.: +371 63181222, 29414022 ,
Guest house "Jūras mols", "Stelpes", Bigauņciems,
GPS 56.9895072 23.5266824
Guest house "Smaidas", Ragaciems, Lapmežciems
www.smaidas.lv. GPS 57.0234413 23.4906551
Boat station at Lake Kaņieris, Lapmežciems
GPS 57.0014596 23.4888647
Engure region. Ph.: +371 63181222, 29414022 ,
Vacation house "Līdakas", Smārde parish, Engure
region. Ph.: +371 29448118
GPS 56.9852424 23.3073542
Guest house "Kalnažagari", Smārde parish, Engure
region. Ph.: +371 29414584,
www.kalnazagari.lv. GPS 56.9474385 23.2679939
Guest house "Jūras mols", Bigauņciems, Engure
www.jurasmols.lv. GPS 56.9895072 23.5266824
Farmstead and tent ground "Guntiņas", Lancenieki,
Džūkste parish, Tukums region. Ph.: +371 29454508,
28336456. GPS 56.8156422 23.3422653
Page 50
Points of interest
Along the foothpath
of military history
Lapmežciems – Milzkalns – Vecmokas – Ozolpils – Smārde –
Lancenieki – Džūkste – Lestene – Jaunpils – Zante – Vāne
T
he area of Tukums suffered severely during WWI and WWII. It is due to these wars that
many monuments and commemorative plaques have been set up within the Tukums
district territory – they tell about the tragic events that took place here. Few of us
remember from the school history lessons that the ancient Latvian castle mounds were
not merely ancient settlements but also fortification sites. For all that, this route will be
a sort of mosaic of various eras of military history.
TOP
Sites
of the Route
1. Kurzeme fortress museum in Zante
2. Lestene Warrior’s Cemetery Complex
3. Monument by K. Zāle at the Smārde
station
4. Monument by K. Zemdega in Džūkste
centre
5. Flight with a "bee" with BalticBees Jet
Team at Tukums Airport
Trip Planning
TIC Recommends
• Before heading out, to make sure that the
trip is more interesting and wholesome,
definitely look into the events that took
place during the both world wars of the
20th century in Latvia and Kurzeme.
• If you are interested in military history of
this area, look for the tourism and cultural
history map "Military Heritage. In and
around Tukums".
252. Memorial plaque dedicated to the officer
of the Order of Lāčplēsis A. Muižulis
The lieutenant colonel Augusts Muižulis (1893-1941) was one of the prominent residents of
Lapmežciems, who fought in World War I in the 7th riflemen battalion of Bauska and during
the Liberty Battles.
Lapmežciems, Lapmežciems parish, Engures region. GPS 56.9950507 23.5220856
244. Memorial stone in dunes dedicated to
the Finnish jaegers who died in World War I
Memorial to Finnish Jaegers Killed during World War I is situated in the dunes by the sea.
It was open in December 9, 1997. The memorial rock was transported here from the southeastern part of Finland, where in year 1940 there was antitank hedgehog. The monument
bears the following inscription: "Here, the Finnish Jaegers fought during World War I from
August till December of year 1916."
The highway of Sloka-Talsi, between Ragaciems and Klapkalnciems, Lapmežciems parish, Engure region.
GPS 57.0398512 23.3950147
Soviet Fighter Jets at
the Tukums Airport. 1967
221
Trip
Highlights
Together with a knowing guide, this tour will
unveil many new things about the fates of the
Latvian soldiers of the 20th century.
237
245. The memorial dedicated to the Finnish Jaegers killed during World War
The memorial dedicated to the Finnish Jaegers killed during World War in Klapkalnciems is set
up at a place, where buried are five of the Finnish soldiers, who were killed in battles of World
War I. In May of 2004, the monument initially set up in year 1929 and destroyed during the
Soviet occupation was formally open. The desire of the Finns to liberate from the Russian rule
increased with the beginning of World War I in year 1914. Germany, which was fighting against
Russia, agreed to train 200 volunteers. The training began on February 25, 1915 in Lockstadt
near Hamburg. In May of 1916 the Finns were arranged into the Royal Prussian Jaeger
battalion No. 27 and in order for the battalion to gain some front experience, it was sent to
the Eastern front in Kurzeme, to the territory of today’s Latvia. The battalion participated in
battles between River Misa and Gulf of Riga. A monument dedicated to 9 German soldiers is
found nearby.
The highway Sloka-Talsi, Klapkalnciems, Engure parish, Engure region.
GPS 57.0426089 23.3641180
Džūkste Church
during the 1930-ties
247. Commemorative Stone to the Latvian Legionary Nikolajs Straume
In the summer of 1945, a group of legionaries led by Nikolajs Straume had based to the
southeast of Lake Engure in the forests of Engure-Zentene. N. Straume was one of the leaders
of the united Talsi and Tukums national partisan groups.
Near Sloka-Talsi road, Engure parish, Engure region. GPS 57.1376561 23.1265884
234. World War I Soldiers’ Cemetery near the Klapkalnciems Road
The German soldiers’ cemetery at the former Dubļi (Mud) tavern is the final resting place
of 33 fallen German soldiers and of 36 Russian soldiers.
Near Tukums-Klapkalnciems road, Smārde parish, Engure region.
GPS 57.0080556 23.3366667
235. World War I Soldiers’ Cemetery near Jāņukrogs
A memorial plaque has been set up near the former Jāņukrogs dedicated to the soldiers
who died in World War I. The plaque bears an inscription in German, heralding that
2 German soldiers and 13 Russian soldiers died and were buried here in 1916.
Jāņukrogs, Smārde parish, Engure region
GPS 56.9772222 23.3097222
164. Milzukalns Mound or Giant Hill
Milzukalns or Milzkalns was a settlement, which owing to its fine natural features was well
protected against intruders. The discovered pieces of pottery and animal remains, as well
as coal and amber indicate to the settlement that used to be on the mound.
Recreation centre "Milzkalns", Smārde parish, Engure region.
GPS 56.9993251 23.2081739
221. Miķeļakmens or Michael`s rock
Michael`s rock is situated between Tukums and Milzkalns Mound. In 2003 on Michal`s Day,
167 people stood on this boulder at one time.
Near Milzkalne, Smārde parish, Engure region
GPS 56.9864511 23.1941140
169. Vecmokas Hillfort
The hillfort was first described in 1900 by E. Šmits. At the beginning of the 20th century,
various artefacts have been found when ploughing the fields, among them – iron collars,
decorative bronze needles, grindstones, iron caps for spears and other items dating back
to the 6th century, as well as scorched timber, stone pavement, and iron slag.
Vecmokas, Tume parish, Tukums region. GPS 56.9943624 23.0668572
231. Tukums Airport
It seems that nowadays it is one of the Soviet army territories that is the richest in legends.
During the Soviet time, a backup airport and nuclear weapon warehouses were set up here,
along with barracks, headquarters, soldier club, and a range of administrative buildings.
"Jurmala Airport", Smārde parish, Engure region.
Ph.: +371 20202165, www.jurmalaairport.com
GPS 56.9359024 23.2261000
236. A monument by K. Zāle dedicated to
the Latvian riflemen who died in World War I
The monument by K. Zāle dedicated to the Latvian riflemen who died in World War I near
the Smārde railroad station is a memorial plate dedicated to the Latvian riflemen, who
fought and died in the area in 1916. The front line went through this area from 1915 until
1917, and in the fall of 1916, the Latvian riflemen won several difficult battles here. The
monument by K. Zāle was unveiled here on 21 June 1936.
Smārde, Smārde parish, Engure region
GPS 56.9557253 23.3413621
131. Džūkste Church Ruin
The church dates back to 1567. It has been renovated and reconstructed a number of times,
however at the end of World War II, during the Christmas Battles, it was destroyed.
Džūkste, Džūkste parish, Tukums region. GPS 56.7909353 23.2453437
237. A monument by K.Zemdega dedicated to
the sons of the Džūkste and Slampe
A monument dedicated to the sons of the Džūkste and Slampe congregation who died in
World War I and during the Latvian Liberation Battles was unveiled on 17 November 1935.
In the centre of it – a gigantic Finnish granite urn, which symbolises the souls of the fallen
soldiers, who do not have a dwelling place in their motherland, on the steps standing is a
grieving mother and a soldier with a spear and an oak-tree branch. In year 1964, the
monument was added to the list of national cultural monument protection as an art
monument, because it is considered to be one of the best artworks by K.Zemdega.
Page 51
Memorial room of Lestene Warrior’s Cemetery,
Lestene, Lestene parish, Tukums region.
Ph.: +371 26247095, 29442311
GPS 56.7726809 23.1374721
Kurzeme Fortress Museum, Skolas Street 8a,
Zante, Zante parish, Kandava region.
GPS 56.8355971 22.7346245
General L. Bolsteins’ Museum, "Pūces dzirnavas",
Ph.: +371 63154098, 26354871
GPS 56.9629370 22.6134880
Accommodation
Tukums region. Ph.: +371 29497272, 25444949,
Guest house "Eglieni", Jaunbērze parish, Dobele
region. Ph.: +371 63723601, 29537991, www.eglieni.lv
GPS 56.7800521 23.3661761
Guest house "Kliģi", Džūkste parish, Tukums
region. Ph.: +371 29228454, www.kligi.lv
GPS 56.7224872 23.1096655
Guest house "Hotel Cinevilla", "Vidusvecvagari",
28606677, www.cinevillastudio.com
GPS 56.8789620 23.2204344
Youth accommodation at Cinevilla,
"Vidusvecvagari", Slampe parish, Tukums region.
Ph.: +371 28606677, www.cinevillastudio.com
GPS 56.8789620 23.2204344
Youth accommodation "Dzīvā skola", Praviņas,
Degole parish, Tukums region.
Ph.: +371 26447800, 29493033
GPS 56.8775771 23.1700078
Tent grounds
Tent ground "Guntiņas", Lancenieki, Džūkste parish,
Tukums region. Ph.: +371 29454508, 28336456
GPS 56.8162457 23.3425496
Activities
Adventure game "Spy adventures", Ķemeri National
Park. Ph.: +371 22057669, www.orangeric.lv
Urban climbing and Military games "X-Unit",
Tukums and vicinity. Ph.: +371 29969613
Airsoft "Airsoftizklaide.lv", Zemgales street 9,
Ozolnieki, Ozolnieki region. Ph.: +371 29415744,
29597772, www.airsoftizklaide.lv
Paintball in the territory of guest house "Meņģeļi",
Sēme parish, Tukums region. Ph.: +371 29354917,
www.mengeli.lv. GPS 57.0424666 23.1519951
Paintball "Veldzes", near Imula river, Matkule parish,
GPS 57.0152895 22.614888
Off-road jeep tours at the leisure centre "Plosti",
9th km of the Kandava-Sabile road, Kandava parish,
www.plosti.lv. GPS 57.0245285 22.6539470
Off-road trips, guest house Pils", Pils Street 7,
Kandava. Ph.: +371 29107596, www.pils.viss.lv
GPS 57.0361487 22.7796417
Orienteering, hikes and team building games
at the camping "Sveikuļi", near Lake Jumprava,
Tume parish, Tukums region. Ph.: +371 29232026,
The Medieval Household "Niedru lija", over the
Swedish wall in Jaunpils, Jaunpils parish, Jaunpils
region. Ph.: +371 26336513, www.niedrulija.viss.lv
GPS 56.7298631 23.0220992
Džūkste, Džūkste parish, Tukums region
GPS 56.790402 23.2447978
131
Page 52
Good to know...
• When visiting museums, be friendly
and willing to learn!
• When going out to the nature –
be caring towards it!
Points of interest
242. Monument of the Christmas Battles in Džūkste
The author of the monument dedicated to the Latvian legionaries of the 19th division, who
died in the 1944 Christmas battles, is the sculptor Igors Dobičins, but the architect – Ruta
Dobičina. It was first unveiled in 1990, however it was blown up in an act of vandalism the
same year. A year later in 1991, by preserving what had remained from the previous
monument; the authors set the monument up again.
Džūkste, Džūkste parish, Tukums region. GPS 56.7900415 23.2446086
250. Memorial dedicated to G.Zemgals
Memorial is situated at the "Brātiņi" house, where the Latvian President Gustavs Zemgals
(1871-1939) was born. The commemorative rock was set up in year 1990 (artist A.Krievāns).
"Brātiņi", Džūkste, Džūkste parish, Tukums region. GPS 56.7901275 23.2742365
243. Monument to Victims of the Christmas Battles in Pienava
The monument dedicated to remembrance of the Latvian legion soldiers who died in the
Christmas Battles, which took place in 23–31 December 1944 near Džūkste, is set up on the
side of Riga–Liepāja highway, 1.3 km past Pienava in the direction of Liepāja.
Riga-Liepāja highway, Pienava, Džūkste parish, Tukums region. GPS 56.7360887 23.2281186
237
246. Memorial Stone to Defenders of the Kurzeme Fortification
The memorial stone is dedicated to the Kurzeme Fortification defenders – the Latvian
legionaries, who in 1944, being overpowered by the Soviet army tenfold, did not give up.
Thanks to about 300 000 Latvian refugees, who were in Kurzeme at that time, they had an
opportunity to emigrate. The memorial stone was set up in 1991 at a place, where the farm
"Rumbas" once stood. Its author is the prominent Latvian sculptor O. Feldbergs.
Riga-Liepāja highway, before the turn to Lestene, Džūkste parish, Tukums region
GPS 56.7133101 23.1866326
135
Lestene Church interior
in Rundale Palace Museum
238
242
BALTICBEES JET TEAM
152
246
152
135. Lestene Lutheran Church
The interior of Lestene Lutheran Church (1703) has entered the Latvian art history as the
greatest ensemble of baroque era wood-carvings. It was made by the wood-carver from
Ventspils – Nikolajs Sefrenss Junior. During World War II, the church had suffered a lot, and
later it was vandalised, therefore today only the simple and slightly rough exterior of the
church can be seen.
Lestene, Lestene parish, Tukums region. Ph.: +371 26247095, 26369925, www.lestenesbaznica.lv
GPS 56.7732839 23.1376219
238. Lestene Soldiers' Cemetery
The Lestene Soldiers’ Cemetery with a monument by the sculptor Arta Dumpe "Motherland –
Latvia" is dedicated to the Latvian legionaries who died in World War II. Over several years,
the soldiers were reburied here from a number of wartime burial sites. As of now, 934 Latvian
soldiers have found their final resting place in the Lestene Soldiers’ Cemetery.
Lestene, Lestene parish, Tukums region. Ph.: +371 26247095. GPS 56.7726809 23.1374721
156. Memorial Exposition of Lestene Soldiers’ Cemetery
The exposition tells about the municipalities of Džūkste and Lestene before World War II,
about the events in Lestene during the war, and about the history of establishing the
soldiers’ cemetery.
Lestene, Lestene parish, Tukums region. Ph.: +371 26247095, 29442311
GPS 56.7726809 23.1374721
225. Jaunpils Cannons
Next to the entrance to the Jaunpils Castle, there are two cannons dating back to the
17th century, or rather – two cannon gun tubes. Possibly, they were brought here after the
1625 Swedish attack, when the castle had suffered a lot, or they were brought here together
with the war prisoners by Baron Matthias von der Recke after the battle of Salaspils.
GPS 56.7306996 23.0210642
152
152
Airsoftizklaide.lv
254. Saulīši Mound
This is the final resting place of about 800 Latvian legionaries and German troops who
died at the Laukmuiža Hospital. The memorial stone was first set up in 1989, but it was
blown up. It was remade and set up anew in 1990.
Horses
Tukums. Ph.: +371 26170318, 29212644
GPS 56.9732805 23.1885421
Stud farm "Skudru staļļi", "Skudras", Džūkste
GPS 56.7847399 23.2474322
Pleasure flights
Airplane flights with "Balticbees Jet Team",
Tukums Airport, Smārde parish, Engure region.
Ph.: +371 67621450, www.balticbees.com
GPS 56.9359024 23.2261000
Bicycle Rental
Ķemeri bicycle rental, Ķemeri railroad station,
Ķemeri. Ph.: +371 29239273, www.velonoma.lv
GPS 56.9389536 23.4896707
Guest house "Pilsētnieki", Slampe, Slampe
parish, Tukums region. Ph.: +37129497272,
Guest house "Pilsētnieki", Slampe, Slampe
Guest house "Kliģi", Džūkste parish, Tukums
region. Ph.: +371 29228454, www.kligi.lv
GPS 56.7224872 23.1096655
Farmstead "Guntiņas", Lancenieki, Džūkste parish,
Tukums region. Ph.: +371 29454508, 28336456
GPS 56.8156422 23.3422653
Kazukalna Pond, Zante parish, Kandava region.
Ph.: +371 29165796. GPS 56.8158438 22.6983319
Places for Swimming
Jaunsāti Quarry Reservoir, Jaunsāti parish, Tukums
region. GPS 56.9672116 22.9499985
Praviņas Quarry Reservoir, Slampe parish, Tukums
region. GPS 56.9091047 23.1922994
Lancenieki Millpond, tent ground "Guntiņas",
Džūkste parish, Tukums region
GPS 56.8156422 23.3422653
Lake Kliģi, guest house "Kliģi", Džūkste parish,
Tukums region. GPS 56.7224872 23.1096655
Veclauki, Jaunpils parish, Jaunpils region. GPS 56.7588605 22.9572105
152. The Museum of Kurzeme Fortress
The Museum of Kurzeme Fortress excitingly tells about the warfare during World War II at
the Kurzeme fortress and about the fates of Latvian soldiers. Here, the visitors can see the
exposition dedicated to World War I & II with a collection of regional history and military
item collection, AN-2 aircraft, armoured personal carrier, a Red Army tank, and renovated
entrenchments and bunkers of the times.
Skolas Street 8a, Zante, Zante parish, Kandava region. Ph.: +371 29442311,
www.kurzemescietoksnis.viss.lv. GPS 56.8355971 22.7346245
135
238
119. Plāņi Manor
Plāņi Manor appeared on the map in 1459 as the von Stromberg family fief. It has found
its way into the military history with the fact that on 8 May 1945, in the master house of
the manor, the 24th German infantry division General von Schulz signed a capitulation act,
whereby the Kurzeme Fortification ceased to exist.
Plāņi, Zante parish, Kandava region. GPS 56.8449717 22.6671506
249. Memorial Stone near "Trūbas"
The memorial stone near the former "Trūbas" farm was unveiled in May 1970. Here, the 121st
guard regiment of the 10th Latvian riflemen corps of the 42nd army (43rd guard division) on
9 May 1945 accepted the capitulation of the 19 th SS division and 24th Saxon infantry division.
Airsoftizklaide.lv
"Trūbas", Vāne parish, Kandava region. GPS 56.8809610 22.6095343
253. Memorial Plaque Dedicated to National Partisans in Vāne
In 2008, a memorial plaque was unveiled in the centre of Vāne dedicated to the national
partisans, who after the end of World War II went to the forests to fight against the Soviet
power. It is a white cross bearing a plate with the fighters’ names.
Vāne, Vāne parish, Kandava region. GPS 56.9231559 22.5589557
Page 53
152
Page 54
Points of interest
The grand museum route
TOP
Sites
of the Route
1. Chocolate Museum of Pure Chocolate
2. Pastariņš Museum
3. Durbes Manor
4. Jaunpils Castle Museum
5. Kurzeme Fortress Museum in Zante
6. Zante Voluntary Firemen Association
Museum
7. Memorial Exposition of Lestene
Soldiers’ Cemetery
8. Tukums town history museum
Southern Circle
Tukums – Cinevilla – Džūkste – Jaunpils – Zante
Tukums – Šlokenbeka – Lapmežciems – Dzirciems
Tukums – Jaunmokas – Kandava – Valdeķi – Vāne
T
hese routes will introduce with the riches, gathered in real museums as well as in private collections. It will be exciting for those travellers, who can appreciate authentic
cultural values, historical facts, valuable art works, exciting stories, and enthusiastic
people, who have devoted a great deal of their lives for collecting these items. While visi
ting the museums, you will have an opportunity to go to the "real museums", where the
enthusiasts deal not just with collections, but also with researches of cultural history and
discovering new historical facts, but you can also see such collections, which are set up
for permanent expositions for enjoyment of each interested party. The museums in
Tukums district are fit for any generation – both, the adults, and the very youngest ones.
Northern Circle
Western Circle
Southern Circle:
Tukums – Cinevilla – Džūkste – Jaunpils – Zante
12
41
Trip
Highlights
The Zante Volunteer Fire-fighter Union (VFU)
Museum is the most recent addition to the list
of museums and collections of the area, and
hence – it is particularly interesting.
152
This route will take the traveller to the southern part of the district of Tukums, visiting the
Museum of History of Tukums – the Castle Tower (12) telling about the town’s history since
the 12th century up until the modern day. You will be offered to visit also other museums
of the town – the gallery "Durvis" (13), which is a place for exhibiting junior artists and for
buying souvenirs of Tukums, and the Museum of Art (19) with a unique collection of Latvian
art of the first half of the 20th century, while in the Weaver’s Workshop (23) in the Tukums
museum, you will have the opportunity to learn about the national folk costume of the
region of Tukums and to try out the ancient craft.
From Tukums, you carry on your trip to the Fairytale Museum in Džūkste (147), which is
dedicated to A. Lerhis-Puškaitis and to the fairytales of Džūkste, as well as to preserving the
material and non-material cultural heritage of the area. The visitors are invited to listen to
fairytales of Džūkste and to tell fairytales that they have heard, to watch a puppet show
and participate in it, to visit exhibitions and to create very own fairytale characters.
In the centre of village Džūkste is located the Wood Carving Collection of Erotic Themes
(148). At the foundation of the collection by the carpenter-wood sculptor Modris Bargais is
a collection of erotic furniture and wood-carvings. The created collection contains – phallic
shaped items, feminine and masculine genitals carved in wood. The interior design of the
sauna also is designed with a pinch of eroticism – along the edge of the bunk, on the benches,
hooks for hanging clothes, and door handles. The collection has already gained the reputation of Latvian Eroticism or Sex Museum. The collection is open for visiting only for adults,
upon making prior arrangements with the collection owner.
Next stop you will have in Lestene where is located the Memorial Room of Lestene Warriors'
Cemetery (156). It is an exposition formed at the same time as the Warriors’ Cemetery in
Lestene and it tells about the areas of Džūkste and Lestene before the World War II, about the
events taking place in Lestene during the war and about the background of forming the
Warriors’ Cemetery.
At the exhibition halls of Jaunpils Castle Museum (151), you can see the models of Livonian
order castles in Jaunpils and Dobele, replicas of weapons and armour, archaeological findings,
a coin collection, as well as find out interesting information about the castle and about the
fates of its inhabitants.
The Kurzeme Fortress Museum (152) in Zante gives a lot of interesting information about the
military activities during the World War II in the Kurzeme Fortress and about the destinies of
Latvian soldiers. Here, you can see a historical exhibition of World War I & II with a collection
of items of regional history and of a military character, Yl-2 airplane, an APC, a Red Army tank,
and restored entrenchments and bunkers can be checked out.
In 2012, another museum was opened in Zante – the Zante Voluntary Firemen Association
Museum (159) created by the local resident Aivars Fībigs. At the museum, the visitors will see
fire-fighting equipment and will have a chance to enter into the spirit of fire fighters.
Northern Circle:
Tukums – Šlokenbeka – Lapmežciems – Dzirciems
The Northern circle of museums starts in Tukums – at the Durbe Manor (41). In the renovated part of the castle, the visitors can learn about the interior design of residential homes of
masters at the end of the 19th century. In special events or in case if asked, museum workers
dressed in special dresses of the castle inhabitants will show you around and tell about 700
year of history of the castle and manors. In one of the auxiliary buildings, an ethnographic
exposition "Latvian and his Master" is set up telling about the lives of farmers and craftsmen
on manor lands.
At the Latvian Road Museum (154) in Šlokenbeka manor the visitors can learn about
development of Latvian road industry. The visitors can see the road machinery exhibition,
a collection of horse gear and carriage, as well as an exposition of household items placed
in the basement floor, telling about the life of a manor and a farmstead of the 19 th century
and beginning of the 20th century.
Meanwhile, in the Museum of Lapmežciems (153) a vast amount of valuable historical
depositions are included telling about the formation and development of Lapmežciems
parish and about the work and daily life of the ancient fishermen.
Pastariņš Museum (157) in Dzirciems is dedicated to the popular fictional character "Pasta
riņš" (the youngest son), because that is the nickname of the author of the book "Pastariņš’
diaries" – the writer Ernests Birznieks-Upīts. A model of the old "Bisenieku" household is set
up in the garden – it is a household in the Northern Kurzeme at the end of the 19 th century,
but for rural learning and for fun, small expositions of the cultural history and ethnography
have been set up, to call back to life the more than 1000 year old games and toys.
115
157
147
151
41
41
Western Circle:
Tukums – Jaunmokas – Kandava – Valdeķi – Vāne
After visiting the Tukums Museum, the road will lead you to the nearby Jaunmoku Castle
(114), where the guests can see early 20th century interior design items, as well as visit the
Castle Forest Museum. The exhibition tells about forest management and hunting.
However, if you move on further in the direction of Kandava, you must stop by at the
Chocolate Museum (158) in Pure. Here, everybody can learn about the sweet story of chocolate Pure Chocolate, actively participate in the process of learning about the production and
creation of chocolate, visit the truffle room, and make various interesting chocolate sweets,
taste and also buy them.
The Kandava Regional Museum (100) situated in Kandava tells the visitors about the
town’s history from the most ancient times up to the modern day.
When going from Kandava in the direction of Zemīte, you can stop by at the Valdeķi
Manor (123), where you can check out the photograph collection depicting its former
owners – the Benjamiņi family, who bought the manor in the 30-ties of the 20 th century
and made it into a model farm.
If you are not too fond of manor history, then you can go on to see the collection of
ancient farm tools and fire-fighter tools at the country home "Indāni" (155.). Here, you
can learn not only about tools, but also see all possible domestic animals and fowl of Latvia.
Meanwhile, at the Pūces (Owl) millpond, not far from Buse hillfort, the museum of the
general L. Bolšteins (149).
Page 55.
Tukums
Tukums Livonian Order Castle Tower, Brīvības
laukums (Liberty Square) 19a, Tukums.
Ph.: +371 63124348, 25622131, www.tukumamuzejs.lv
GPS 56.9646445 23.1556064
Gallery "Durvis", Brīvības laukums (Liberty Square)
21, Tukums. Ph.: +371 63124312, 28391437,
The Art Museum, Harmonijas Street 7, Tukums.
Ph.: +371 63182392, 27843190,
Weavers Workshop of Tukums Museum, Tidaholmas
Street 3, Tukums. Ph.: +371 63125539, 25622267,
Durbe Manor, Mazā Parka Street 7, Tukums.
Ph.: +371 63122744, 63122633, 26305946,
Southern Circle
Džūkstes Fairytail Museum, Lancenieki, Džūkste
Wood Carving Collection of Erotic Themes, "Modri",
Džūkste, Džūkste parish, Tukums region.
Ph.: +371 29711992. GPS 56.7900263 23.2450672
Memorial room of Lestene Warrior’s Cemetery,
Lestene, Lestene parish, Tukums region.
Ph.: +371 26247095, 29442311
GPS 56.7726809 23.1374721
Kurzeme Fortress Museum, Skolas Street 8a, Zante,
Zante parish, Kandava region. Ph.: +371 29442311,
www.kurzemescietoksnis.viss.lv
GPS 56.8355971 22.7346245
Zante Voluntary Firemen Association Museum,
Ph.: +371 26416458. GPS 56.8397070 22.7447968
Irlava local history exhibition hall, "Svēteļi", Irlava,
Irlava parish, Tukums region. Ph.: +371 26176893,
26477526, www.irlava.lv. GPS 56.8757938 22.9922861
Northern Circle
Winter Sport Inventory and Compass Collection
in "Sveikuļi", Tume parish, Tukums region.
GPS 56.9944215 23.1364314
GPS 56.9760160 23.2261073
Lapmežciems Museum, Liepu Street 4,
Lapmežciems, Lapmežciems parish, Engure region.
Ph.: +371 63163240. GPS 57.0012031 23.5123928
Pastariņš Museum, "Bisnieki", Dzirciems, Zentene
Ph.: +371 22440094, 26536532,
Western Circle
Forest Museum of Jaunmokas palace,
Jaunmokas, Tume parish, Tukums region.
Ph.: +371 63107125, 26187442, www.jaunmokupils.lv
GPS 56.9827809 23.0535717
"Pūre Chocolate" Chocolate Museum, Pūre - 9, Pūre,
Pūre parish, Tukums region. Ph.: +371 29100161,
www.purechocolate.lv. GPS 57.0361450 22.9035791
Kukšu Manor, Kukšas, Jaunsāti parish, Tukums region.
Ph.: +371 63181545, 29205188, 25980910,
Kandava Regional Museum, Talsu Street 11,
Kandava. Ph.: +371 63182064,
www.kandavasmuzejs.viss.lv
GPS 57.0387717 22.7704092
Art Gallery Kandava, Kandava Regional Museum,
Talsu Street 11, Kandava. Ph.: +371 26369421,
www.vejsparns.lv. GPS 57.0387717 22.7704092
Valdeķi Manor, Valdeķi, Kandava parish, Kandava
region. Ph.: +371 26452948. GPS 56.9977333 22.7730471
Exposition of ancient tools at the country house
"Indāni", Kandava parish, Kandava region.
Ph.: +371 29259272, www.indani.viss.lv
GPS 56.9683272 22.7543245
General L.Bolstein’s Museum, the Watermill of Pūces,
26354871. GPS 56.9629370 22.6134880
Page 56
Points of interest
Cinema in and around
Tukums
Tukums and vicinity, Cinevilla, Jaunpils, Abava River Valley, fishing villages
T
he charm of small-town in Tukums and the hilly surroundings has tempted not just the
artists, but also the cinematographers to come to this place. The small buildings of the
town with their courtyards and narrow, winding cobblestone pavement streets have been
made immortal in several Latvian feature movies. When you look at the map, it seems
that the whole territory of the district is one big movie set. And now, here, just on the
outskirts of Tukums, is the most important cinema centre – the movie town Cinevilla,
where visitors can see the props of the movies and if they are lucky enough – also the
process of shooting.
128. The
128
TOP
Sites
of the Route
1. Movie town Cinevilla
2. Old town of Tukums
3. Country house "Indāni"
Trip Planning
TIC Recommends
Before going on the trip to follow in the
footsteps of cinema in the area of Tukums,
first definitely watch the Latvian movies
that were shot there! It will be interesting
to compare what you have seen.
128
128
Movie-town Cinevilla
The Movie-town Cinevilla is situated in a distance of 15 km from Tukums in Praviņas of
the rural municipality of Slampe, going in the direction of Jelgava. It was originally created for
shooting the historic movie "Guards of Riga" ("Rīgas sargi"). The decoration foundations were
set up in May of 2004 in the place, where once only meadows were, along with several 20 th
century houses and a destroyed house wall.
The City parts of the decorations are made in a way to depict the bank of River Daugava on
the side of Old Riga – with its buzzing life, market, and piers. In order to better depict the life
of the beginning of the 20 th century, in the City part a tram line with an actual tram is set up.
Now, this part of the movie-town hosts such objects as costume workshop of the movie
town and a warehouse with a photo salon and shops. The City part is also the place of the
shooting pavilion.
The Town part of Cinevilla is set up so as to show the West Bank of the River Daugava at the
beginning of the 20th century, which plays an important role in the movie "Guards of Riga",
because that is where the most important battle takes place – a handful of brave Rigans
against the much bigger Bermont’s army. This part includes wooden buildings characteristic
in suburban areas with cobble-stone squares and a rural market.
At the movie-town, the visitors can see fragments of three historical bridges, which visually
appear similar to their originals – the bridges of Riga up to the beginning of the 20 th century.
All bridges of the movie-town are constructed based on archive materials and historical
photographs. The Wooden Bridge is one of the central objects in Cinevilla. Many frames
of the movie "Guards of Riga" were shot here on the Wooden Bridge – this is the place of the
barricades, bombardment, and victories. This bridge was constructed as a replica of the old
Luebeck Bridge. The Iron Bridge of the movie-town is constructed as a visual replica of the
old iron bridge in Riga, only one fifth shorter. Just like the original bridge, it has a separate
part for driving and for pedestrians.
In order to make the ambience as close as possible to what it was in Riga at the beginning of
the 20th century, a riverfront having characteristic features was created, including a firewood
market and ship piers. There are also two ships, one of which is a dummy while the other is an
actual river boat that was brought here to the movie town.
The railroad is one of the most interesting objects in the movie town, because this part
of the decorations is made of authentic railroad fittings. In collaboration with the state stock
company "Latvijas Dzelzceļš", actual railroad tracks, switch point, and historical railroad
carriages have been set up in the movie-town. Just like other objects in the movie-town, also
the railroad has been constructed with historical precision, taking into account, for instance,
the width of tracks of the time or the so-called Russian width. Also the locomotive is a
legendary object, because it was destined to be cut up and recast, but with the care of
"Latvijas Dzelzceļš" it ended up on the railroad tracks in the movie-town. Since the locomotive
weighs 140 tons, a special vehicle was chartered from Finland to transport the locomotive to
the movie town.
Rudolph’s farmstead is the new complex of open-air decorations at the movie-town used
for shooting the movie "Rudolph’s legacy" ("Rūdolfa mantojums") by the director Jānis Streičs.
The set portrays a Latvian farm as it was at the end of the 19th century with a dwelling house,
granary, shed, sauna next to a pond, and an ornate flower bed in the yard. Now, this is a great
place for organising various thematic events and festivities. The dwelling house is suitable for
organising actual Latvian wedding or for organising seminars or conferences in
unconventional environment.
"Vidusvecvagari", Slampe parish, Tukums region. Ph.: +371 28606677, www.cinevillastudio.com
GPS 56.8782941 23.2199397
128
128
128
Tukums and Vicinity
Before setting out on your trip in the footsteps of the cinema in the area of Tukums, we
suggest that you take time first to watch the Latvian oldies. Then, if you go on a walk in the
winding little streets of Tukums, the attentive observer will easily recognize the Lielā,
Talsu and Dārza streets from the movie "Rita" (1957), also familiar will seem the Tukums 3rd
Secondary School, where the German army in the movie had set up their hospital.
However, when you go into the courtyard behind the gallery "Durvis", you will
remember the episode from the movie "Devil’s Servants" ("Vella kalpi") (1970), where the
character played by Eduards Pāvuls went to the tavern to challenge the German baron to the
eating competition.
One of the all times favourite, is the Latvian epic movie "The Long Walk in Dunes" ("Ilgais ceļš
kāpās") (1981). One of the most romantic episodes in it is considered the meeting of Marta
(Lilita Ozoliņa) and Artūrs (Juozas Kiselius) at the pharmacy. This episode was shot at the
former Old Pharmacy of Tukums (Lielā Street 7).
The Lielā Street, as well as other streets (Dārza, Harmonijas, etc.) of the old town have
appeared in several works of the cinematographers, also in the new, historic movie
"Guardians of Riga" ( "Rīgas saergi") (2007).
The Durbe Manor of Tukums, as well as the Lutheran Church of Tukums and the
Church of Sāti are places, where many frames from the most recent Latvian movie
"Rudolph’s legacy" ("Rūdolfa mantojums") by the director Jānis Streičs were shot.
The courtyard of Jaunpils Castle is well known with the episodes shot in the 1974 movie
– "In Claws of the black Crab" ("Melnā vēža spīlēs"), where a German baron expressed his
dissatisfaction with the awful behaviour of the local Latvian farmers, by stealing the baron’s
previously stolen Latvian girl; also the castle was featured in the movie before escape from
the manor, because "living" as a heir of a poor German craftsman in Latvia was not
something he could succeed in. In 1981, the master house scenes for the movie "Laikmetu
griežos" (Turns of Ages) were shot at the Jaunpils Castle.
The Jaunpils Castle and church was the site where the lesser-known movie "Pieviltie"
(The Deceived) (1961) was shot as well. But the most recent movie that has been made in
and around Jaunpils Castle is "Dancis pa trim" (A Dance for Three) – a war-time story about a
love triangle taking place during the latter part of WW II; the movie was created in line with
the theme of the exile writer Voldemārs Kārkliņš "Tikai mīlestība" (Only love) (1959).
Lapmežciems, Ragaciems, Plieņciems, Engure, and Bērzciems are places, where
movies dedicated to the maritime topic or featuring episodes with sea have been shot. Best
known are "The fisherman’s Son" ("Zvejnieka dēļs") (1939-1940) and "In shadow of death"
("Nāves ēnā") (1971). In Lapmežciems, such classic Latvian cinema pieces as "Svešiniece
ciemā" (A Stranger in the Village) (1958.) and "Vētra" (The Storm) (1960.) were made.
Pūre Church and Zemīte Church are places, where in year 1967 important episodes in
the movie "When rain and wind beat the window" ("Kad lietus un vēji sitas logā") were made.
In the Zemīte church, a Moldovan feature film "Woman in white" (1981) was shot.
Ancient Abava River Valley has always been a very popular place for shooting Latvian
movies. In 1940, the Latvian movie "Aizsprosts" (The Dam) was shot in the area of Kandava
and Sabile. The entire action of the movie took place around Kalnamuiža mill and on the
beautiful banks of Amula and Imula. During the shooting, the milldam was destroyed, but
the Latvian army field engineers built it anew. The movie was shown in cinemas only a few
times.
In 1959, the feature film "Atbalss" (The Echo) was shot in line with the theme of the trilogy
"Aija" by Jānis Jaunsudrabiņš. Among the shooting sites were the Devil’s Rock, "Rēdnieki"
mound and the entire Abava ancient river valley. The scene "The toppled hay cart"
took a long time and effort to shoot, because the hay cart refused to topple over as
expected.
Also Pūce’s Watermill is magical place of Latvia, where the 1997 movie "The Mill of Fate"
("Likteņdzirnas") about recent history of Latvia and the social morale was made."
While on the other hand, the country house "Indāni" was the venue for shooting the
family movie "Little robbers" ("Mazie laupītāji") back in 2008–2009. It was "Indāni", where the
five year old Robis and his older sister, the seven year old Luīze, moved to stay with their
grandparents after their father lost his job and could not pay the mortgage, and the bank is
dispossessing the family of its new apartment in the city.
137
114
277
Good to know...
• Only the observant ones will recognise
the places seen in Latvian movies right
away!
• We would like to apologize ahead of
time, because we will not have managed
to set up information stands prior to your
journey about the places and objects,
and movies made there – but we are
going to do that in a near future.
"Rita" (1957.)
Page 58
Points of interest
Pastariņa
muzejs
Indāni
Durbe
Cinevilla
Trip
Highlights
The most luxurious chariot and stateliest steed
for newlyweds can be found in the stud farm
"Skudru staļī".
In the search
for 7 bridges
S
ummer time and autumn has since the old days been the wedding time in Latvia. And
that’s when it all begins! Where to get married, where to celebrate, where to find the
7 bridges… Everybody wants their wedding to be the best, the most interesting, and
magnificent. So, why not choose the area of Tukums for the official event of creating your
family? Here we have plenty of beautiful sites, small and romantic churches, plenty of
bridges and ways to spend the time between the vows and the feast. Therefore, to avoid
anxiety and stress ruining this special moment, we can help with advice about wedding
organizers and planning information managers.
41. Welcoming Newlyweds at Durbe Palace
The newlyweds are welcome to the Durbe Palace after the wedding ceremony of their
wedding day to mark a new beginning of the married life. Depending on the couple’s wishes,
they can engage in traditional Latvian activities in the ethnographic exposition "The Latvian
people and their master" or visit the Durbe Palace baroness. The newlyweds will have an
opportunity to write a letter with a plume pen to the beloved one, to dance the first waltz or
polonaise in the grand hall, make a future home together, by investing all the good thoughts
and hopes. Each program is individually discussed with the best man and bride of honour of
the young couple!
Durbe Manor, M.Parka Street 7, Tukums. Ph.: +371 63122633, 63122744, 26305946, www.tukumamuzejs.lv
GPS 56.9669719 23.1938273
Kukšu Manor and Stud Farm "Skudru staļļi"
115
41
122. Wedding Offer for Newlyweds at the Šlokenbeka Manor – “On the road"
The young couple will be welcomed at the manor by the manor administrator and on the very
first wedding day, when starting a life together, the young couple will stop in their tracks, get
to know each other, and forecast their course of life, learn to read signs in the path of life, lay
the foundations of a solid and smooth route through the life. Every young couple will receive
special Šlokenbeka Manor glasses to be used also at the Small Hall of the Šlokenbeka Manor,
when trying the wine made by vintners of Kurzeme.
Šlokenbeka Manor, Milzkalne, Smārde parish, Engure region.
Ph.: +371 63182354, 29904147, www.slokenbeka.lv. GPS 56.9760160 23.2261073
122. Fire and Water Rituals for Newlyweds at the Šlokenbeka Manor
The event takes from half an hour to an hour and a half and creates an air of ethnography. The
wedding guests are received at the impressive gates of the manor. Then, the new couple goes
to a place, where the evil eye cannot get to them, fire and water rituals are performed, as well
as games and dancing together with the folklore group "Milzkalnieki".
115
Ph.: +371 28301020, www.slokenbeka.lv. GPS 56.9760160 23.2261073
Page 59
114. Wedding at Jaunmokas Palace
The First Trip Together in Jaunmokas Palace..
The wedding trip will be announced by ringing a bell, which more than a century ago
announced all of the most important events. The palace has its own Lucky Coin, but you
have to know how to get it. If you can get it – it means that the young couple is compatible
and the marriage will shape out to be a happy and harmonious one.. the ancient scripts of
the palace say so. Living together can be challenging at times, and some mysterious
challenges will be waiting for you at the Jaunmokas Palace museum. The young couple can
dance their first wedding waltz in one of the palace halls.
The First Trip Together in Jaunmokas Palace Park..
A romantic walk by the palace pond, the magic lime tree alleys, the secrets of the Bridge of
Happiness, planting the Love Rhododendron. The program duration ~ 1 hour.
Wedding Ceremonies
The newlyweds have grown to love the special amorous air of this place – in the park
gazebo, listening to the sounds of birds singing and water flowing in the fountain, to
connect the hearts by saying "yes". We offer a marriage ceremony place for the newlyweds
in the palace gazebo next to the palace pond or in the White Hall of the castle. We
additionally offer decorating the ceremony venue, rent of gazebo draperies, holding the
ceremony, planting a rhododendron, driving around in a horse carriage, a light fountain,
decoration of the area, wedding excursions, florist services, rent of chair covers, various halls
and salons for wedding banquets for up to 400 guests.
Jaunmoku Palace, Tume parish, Tukums region. Ph.: +371 63107125, 26187442, www.jaunmokupils.lv
GPS 56.9827809 23.0535717
41
115
115
115. Medieval Wedding at Jaunpils Castle
For more than 700 years, the romantic medieval palace has been the witness of many love
stories and for several decades it has been the place where many new families have started
their journey together, by getting married in the castle tower or courtyard. The newlyweds
and wedding guests are offered to have a special wedding excursion and a medieval
wedding journey "Medieval wedding". During the wedding excursion, the Rose Lady and
Servant invite you to learn about the foundations of building your castle of love, to express
love as knights do, and to light your first rainbow candle fire for keeping the family home
warm.
The Castle Mistress, Chamberlain, and Minnesinger during the journey "Medieval wedding"
teach about the medieval customs, the knight’s manners, and rules of the young wife’s
management, and in conclusion the ancient oath is given and wine tasted from the royal
goblet. The old Swedish cannon fires to honour the newlyweds and their guests.
The people of the Jaunpils Castle offer organising romantic and unforgettable wedding
celebrations in a modern or medieval style, while enjoying the rich wedding feast, dancing
in the castle halls, and staying overnight in master and court suites.
GPS 56.7306762 23.0180901
41
41
Page 60
114
114
Points of interest
233. Medieval Challenges for Newlyweds
at Medieval Household "Niedru lija"
In order to make sure that life of the new family is happy, before the wedding night, the
newlyweds must go through all rituals to hold on to happiness: they must cast a happiness
horseshoe and "pour happiness". By doing it in the medieval farmstead, happiness will be kept
at the new family not only for decades, but for hundreds of years. The newlyweds must cast a
silver coin. The one, who casts a better coin, will be the money holder. And the one, who has a
better hand in shooting a bow or an arbalest, will be in charge of the refrigerator contents.
And more shows and challenges, which will all be certified with an ancient wax seal on a
parchment.
Household "Niedru lija", Jaunpils, Jaunpils parish, Jaunpils region. Ph.: +371 26336513,
www.niedrulija.viss.lv. GPS 56.7298631 23.0220992
157. Welcoming Wedding Guests at
a Northern Kurzeme Farm in the Pastariņš Museum
The young couple and wedding guests will be received and honoured at the Pastariņš
Museum according to the Latvian wedding traditions. The young husband will have an
opportunity to evaluate the virtues of his wife in the flourmill and with crafts. Meanwhile, the
young wife will have a chance to make sure of the beloved man’s power and skill in ancient
works. The wedding guests will be able to see whether the new relatives can sing and guess
riddles. The festive event will be accompanied by songs performed by the traditional
ensemble "Mežezers". The apple-tree planted by the young couple will delight the planters
with its foliage during the annual visits. Promises given next to the centenarian Pastariņš lime
tree come trueThe programme lasts from one hour to an hour and a half.
"Bisnieki" Dzirciems, Zentene parish, Tukums region.
Ph.: +371 63154518, 28651091, www.tukumamuzejs.lv. GPS 57.1246756 23.0174647
95
144. One of the Seven Bridges next to the Rideļi Mill
Decorated gates next to the milldam, learning about the mill. A challenge for the new wife –
to recognize various flour products. When the weather is warm and sunny – a ride in a
decorated boat in the millpond. Treats and champagne on the bank of Rideļi Lake. The
programme lasts for 40 minutes.
"Rideļu dzirnavas", Engure parish, Engure region. Ph.: +371 22440094, 26536532,
128
128
114
114
158. Chocolate Hearts and Golf of Happiness in the Chocolate Museum
The Chocolate Museum invites newlyweds and wedding guests to the Pure Chocolate
Republic, where the newlyweds will be welcomed through the Gate of Happiness leading to
the Chocolate Museum, where you can make a chocolate heart and play the Golf of
Happiness, get inside a truffles box, and learn everything about the sweetener of the married
life – chocolate. The wedding guests will have an opportunity to taste the chocolate, make
chocolate figurines and buy sweets to take along. A Pure Chocolate truffles collection bearing
photographs of the young couple can be ordered for the newlyweds.
Pure Chocolate, Pūre-9, Pūre parish, Tukums region. Ph.: +371 63180252, 29100161,
www.purechocolate.lv. GPS 57.0361450 22.9035791
Page 61
Marriage Police
128. A Wedding Day in Cinevilla
During a wedding day visit to the movie town Cinevilla, the young couple together with
guests can enter into the artistic spirit of the place. In the Costume workshop, the visitors
can dress up in cinema costumes; at the Photo salon – create a special wedding photo with
an air of history, and get photographs within a couple of minutes. Fragments of three
historic bridges are excellent objects for testing the love of the newlyweds.
You can go to Cinevilla for more than just a couple of hours on the wedding day. Cinevilla
has all that you might need for celebrating a wedding – a special, artistic environment for
fantastic memories and fun activities, premises for celebrating, accommodation, catering
opportunities, organised activities, and even its own church, where Rudolph and Emilia from
the movie "Rudolph’s Legacy" and Elza and Martins from the movie "Guards of Riga" got
married. A special offer for wedding events at the movie town will be unforgettable –
shooting a movie. The movie town offers to shoot the wedding celebration and ensures
filming equipment and operator services. In line with a special scenario, a movie is made in
the movie town with the main heroes being the newlyweds, but the rest of the cast – the
wedding guests: the maid of honour and the best man, relatives, and loved ones. The movie
is a nice memory not only for the young couple, but also for all "actors", who are involved. 157
Cinevilla, Praviņas, Slampe parish, Tukums region. Ph.: +371 28606677, www.cinevillastudio.com
GPS 56.8782941 23.2199397
277. Wedding at the farm "Indāni"
Challenges for newlyweds with typical countryside tasks, driving in a decorated carriage,
and taking photographs with the white horse – Nelson. The hostess will make every wish of
the newlyweds come true within limits of her possibilities. The offer also includes spending
a romantic wedding night country style. The prices – according to the chosen offers.
GPS 56.9683272 22.7543245
95. Wedding in Kandava
In the centre of Kandava old town, near the former Market Square, there is the Promenade.
A stream flows through it with rocky edges and 7 bridges inviting the newlyweds. The
residents of Kandava offer four theatrical shows for a more fun wedding celebration: "Fun
and mischievous walk with the Angel and Devil" will take you across all 7 bridges of the
Promenade, and there will be a fun task to perform at each bridge. "Visiting the Marriage
Fairy" will allow you to unveil the secret of happy life together. If you choose "Colourful
bridges, flowers, and lips", the walk in the Promenade will take you across 7 colour bridges,
while "Two loving hearts" will invite you to listen to love songs. Duration of each programme
is about 30–40 minutes.
Kandava TIC, Kūrorta Street 1b, Kandava. Ph.: +371 63181150, 28356520, www.visitkandava.lv
GPS 57.0336026 22.7802030
Marriage Police
The marriage police is an institution, whose task is to make sure that laws are observed and
obligations related to getting married are performed. The marriage police is a fun way to
surprise your friends, relatives, or acquaintances after the wedding ceremony, right after
they have gotten married.
Society "Laulību policija" (Marriage Police), Tukums. Ph.: +371 26799829, www.laulibupolicija.lv
277
Good to know...
• Arrange the newlywed challenges and
games in advance, because ever more
weddings are organised in Latvia.
• It is also useful to see the wedding venue
way before the wedding – perhaps the
owners can recommend the best time for
having the wedding celebration according
to the time of the year when the area is the
most beautiful.
• During the short wedding trip, stop at
intersections, next to homes, gates, trees,
rivers, and bridges, so that the newlyweds
could decorate them with ribbons or
flowers, or to scatter coins for harmony
and success in the marriage.
Page 62
Points of interest
Countryside bounty
T
he people you meet during a trip make your memories brighter. However, people you
meet and who offer to try out and buy healthy foodstuffs or other products, would
make our trip and further life more valuable. When you set out to find out about farmer’s
treats and countryside food, everyone will have an opportunity to meet the most diverse
fruit and berry, vegetable and plant farmers, be introduced with the biological farms and
visit museums telling about the traditional lifestyle.
Animals and birds
116
285
257. Biological farmstead "Birznieki"
Biological farmstead "Birznieki" deal with breeding goats and producing goat cheese. Here,
you can try and purchase fresh and smoked cheese. Visits must be arranged in advance.
"Birznieki", Vāne parish, Kandava region. Ph.: +371 26491838. GPS 56.9437394 22.5280293
Good to know...
• Meetings with the owners should be
• In some farmsteads you can participate in
harvesting.
• By making arrangements with the
landscape designer Dace Lukševica, you
can visit the most beautiful gardens in the
area of Tukums and learn to create a
garden at your house.
• Local smoked products on the sea coast is
a delicious souvenir coming from our area!
257
204
279
204
259. Biological farmstead "Geidas"
Biological farmstead is specializing in dairy cattle-breeding and the owners will gladly
introduce the travellers with the "milky way" – how and where milk is produced, how is cream,
butter and quark made. For children and for the grownups – a game of information. Visits
"Geidas", Džūkste parish, Tukums region. Ph.: +371 26529657. GPS 56.7776253 23.2027519
284
204. Deer-Garden "Rudiņi"
Deer Garden of guest house "Rudini" introduces the wildlife – deer, fallow deers and mouflons
in enclosed areas, which here launched in 2003. Currently fenced approximately 350 ha,
divided into a number of runs to make it possible to organize selection and the animals can
see and observe. Deer Park offers animal observation and photo hunting, recreation and
walking trails through the forest also.
"Rudiņi", Irlava parish, Tukums region. Ph.: +371 29191980, www.atputalaukos.lv
GPS 56.8148267 23.0894579
255
279. Snail Farm "Kangari"
Do you know how to tell the difference between a snail mom and snail dad? Do you know
what snails eat and do during winter? Do you know what is a snail SPA? You can learn all of
that and many more interesting things about the life of snails and see the snails, by visiting
the snail farm in "Kangari". There are about 1.5 tonnes of snails and they live in an area of
0.2 hectares. The snail farm was set up just this season and is interesting to visit and study
at any time, except from October until April, when the snails are sleeping. Visits must be
"Kangari", Cēre parish, Kandava region. Ph.: +371 29416000. GPS 57.1369579 22.8177014
261. Biological farm "Krikši" & "Uidas"
Biological farm offers to learn about livestock farming and hog-breeding for meat.
Visits must be arranged in advance.
259
"Uidas", near the turn to Kurzemnieki from the Kandava-Sabile road, Kandava parish, Kandava region.
Ph.: +371 29167293. GPS 57.0333793 22.6896150
Page 63
266. Farm in "Meņģeļi"
The guesthouse "Meņģeļi" offers not only to relax in the countryside, but also to meet the
Charoles meat cows bred in the farm. The guests can treat the cows with apples and pinetree branches. From December until May the cows stay close to the house, in spring, they
have white calves, but in summer and autumn, they can be seen pasturing. Besides the
cattle, those, who are interested in technologies, can learn about agricultural technologies
and sit in a tractor. Visits must be arranged in advance.
"Meņģeli", Sēme parish, Tukums region. Ph.: +371 29473831, www.mengeli.lv. GPS 57.0424666 23.1519951
255. Sheep farm "Mucenieki
Sheep farm "Mucenieki" offers observing sheep, goats, rabbits, and various domestic fowl. In
the spring time, the visitors can come to see lambs. Upon making arrangements, the visitors
can also participate in sheering the sheep and feeding. Visits must be arranged in advance.
"Mucenieki", near Lake Brizule, Brizule, Sēme parish, Tukums region.
Ph.: +371 26240434, www.atputamucenieki.viss.lv. GPS 57.0989523 23.0897824
284. Stud Farm "Ivetas zirgi"
The horse-breeder Iveta Pāže has been dealing with horse-breeding for many years now.
She has set up her stud farm near the Valdeķi Manor and she offers everybody to look at
and learn about the horses and their worldVisits must be arranged in advance.
Valdeķi, Kandava parish, Kandava region. Ph.: +371 29186169. GPS 57.0000967 22.7707139
284
285. Stud Farm "Skudru staļļi"
The stud farm "Skudru staļļi" offers a visit to the stables, to learn about horses and their
life, habits, horse-gear, and the daily life of stables. 10 horses – 4 for horseback riding and
6 sports horses – are receiving visits. Picnic sites and driving with horses are also offered.
Additionally, a country sauna (5-6 people) is available. The owners organise trips on
demand: for weddings, birthday parties, and other celebratory events outside Džūkste,
as well. Visits must be arranged in advance.
"Skudras", Džūkste parish, Tukums region. Ph.: +371 26307695. GPS 56.7847399 23.2474322
Fruits and Berries, Trees and Bushes,
Seed-plots and Nurseries
273. Farmstead "Eglāji"
Farmstead "Eglāji" is the finest apple tree garden in Latvia in area of 10 hectares, where
approximately 30 different kinds of apple-trees are cultivated. During the time of harvest,
here you can try and buy the fruit. The garden is located on a hilltop, from where you can
see the sea and ships in clear weather. Visits must be arranged in advance.
"Eglāji", Rauda, Smārde parish, Engure region. Ph.: +371 29250492. GPS 57.0103103 23.1993614
258. Biological farm "Gaiķi"
Biological farm "Gaiķi" in Ozolnieki cultivates strawberries and raspberries. Here, you can
receive consultations on berry cultivation, as well as buy berries and seedlings. Visits must
be arranged in advance.
266
"Gaiķi", Ozolnieki, Slampe parish, Tukums region. Ph.: +371 26264672. GPS 56.9214904 23.2143241
274. Farmstead "Grīvas"
Farmstead "Grīvas" visiting the cow her and learning about the farmstead, degustation of
countryside treats. Fishing in River Abava and picnic sites on the banks of the river. Visits
"Grīvas", on the banks of Abava, near the turn to Kandava from Riga-Ventspils highway, Kandava parish,
Kandava region. Ph.: +371 26511805, 63124473. GPS 57.0581933 22.8110880
275. Plant Nursery "Hederas"
The farmhouse deals with cultivating decorative plants. For 15 years now, various thujas,
junipers, decorative spruce, false cypresses, decorative shrubs, as well as wintergreens have
been cultivated there. Altogether – about 200 types. The owners offer to learn about the
farmhouse and share experience about cultivating decorative plants. Visits must be
"Hederas", Tume parish, Tukums region. Ph.: +371 26434558. GPS 569876449 23.0965983
276. Farmstead "Gulbji"
Farmstead "Gulbji" is the farm of Pēteris Heimanis, specializing in cultivating fruit trees,
berry producing shrubs, strawberry plants and berries: strawberries, blackberries, and
apples. You can see the produce and also buy it on the roadside of Rīga-Ventspils highway.
"Gulbji", Pūre parish, Tukums region. Ph.: +371 29126990, www.heimanis.lv
GPS 57.0347685 22.9261616
276
Page 64
Points of interest
278. Farmstead "Jaunlagzdiņi"
At the raspberry garden of the farmstead "Jaunlagzdiņi" growing are 13 kinds of red raspberries. The travellers can eat their bellies full and pick to take along home. You can also receive
consultations on how to care for and cultivate raspberries. Visits must be arranged in advance.
"Jaunlagzdiņi", Zentene parish, Tukums region. Ph.: +371 29137117. GPS 57.1369375 22.9379437
256
279. Snail Farm "Kangari"
Besides the snails, various delicious and healthy snacks are produced from the fruit and
berries grown at the farm, such as dried apples, pears, rhubarbs, pumpkins, quince,
cranberries, as well as syrups, jellies, and chutneys. A special snack – caramelised orange slices
with or without chocolate! You can taste and buy it all at the beautiful country house. Visits
"Kangari", Cēre parish, Kandava region. Ph.: +371 29416000. GPS 57.1369579 22.8177014
268
280. Farm "Kurciņi"
Farm "Kurciņi", in the area of 7 ha, deals with orcharding. Here, you can purchase fruit trees
and bushes, as well as berries – strawberries, raspberries, blackcurrant, plums, cherries,
blackberries, pears, and apples. The owners also deal with lawn cultivation, therefore each
new homeowner and landscaper can learn about various different lawns – for yards and
gardens, for sports fields and competition grounds, as well as order cultivation of such lawns.
"Kurciņi", Ozolpils, Smārde parish, Engure region. Ph.: +371 29837221. GPS 56.9236512 23.2562040
256. Individual biological farmstead "Liepa"
Individual biological farmstead "Liepa" offers to try out healthy countryside products – sea
buckthorn and their products. Hosts invite from 15 August to 15 September to participate in
picking buckthorn berries. Visits must be arranged in advance.
"Tumes Pičas", Tume parish, Tukums region. Ph.: +371 25969249, www.dabigsgardums.lv
GPS 56.9414917 23.0040751
278
267. Sea Buckthorn Products "Satori Alfa"
The company produces sea buckthorn nectar and offers the guests to visit the sea buckthorn
garden, learn about growing and processing the berries, as well as about the good properties
of the berries and the good impact that they have on the body. Visitors are offered to try a sea
buckthorn cocktail. It is also possible to buy the company’s products. Must arrange the visit in
advance.
“Santas", Tume parish, Tukums region. Ph.: +371 28677677, www,satorialfa.lv
GPS 56.8995988 23.0205578
268
268. "Pūres dārzi" (Gardens of Pūre)
"Pūres dārzi" are engaged in integrated fruit-growing, producing only high quality fruits and
berries. They produce strawberries, blackcurrant, raspberries, plums, apples, and pears. They
cultivate plants of apple, pear, plum, cherry and berry producing bushes that are fit for our
climate and market situation. Visits must be arranged in advance.
Pūre, Pūre parish, Tukums region. Ph.: +371 63191146, 29249450. GPS 57.0413104 22.9055695
269
269. Horticultural Experimental Station "Pūres DIS"
Horticultural Experimental Station at Pūre deals with research work in orcharding and
horticulture, research of brands; produce of fruits and vegetables, growing fruit trees, berryproducing shrubberies, and strawberry plants, as well as producing seedlings. They also sell
seedling plants of fruit trees and berry producing shrubberies. Visits must be arranged in
advance.
Pūre, Pūre parish, Tukums region. Ph.: +371 63191122, 29469793, www.puresdis.lv
GPS 57.0376988 22.9117566
268
262. Biological farm "Rogas"
Biological farm will offer the visitors and fans of healthy nutrition red currant, black currant,
apples and quince. Visits must be arranged in advance.
"Rogas", Zante parish, Kandava region. Ph.: +371 22016206. GPS 56.8877579 22.7502605
Page 65
281. Farmstead "Rūķīši"
Farmstead "Rūķīši" – owned by Juris Čarbarts, the great apple tree orchards, where you can
see the fruit trees and try the apples on your way to Tukums, on the roadside of RigaVentspils highway, as well as when going to Jaunpils. If you make prior arrangements, the
owner will show you the gardens, as well as consult you in the fruit-growing sphere. Visits
"Rūķīši", Degole parish, Tukums region. Ph.: +371 26335661. GPS 56.9041010 23.0878940
Near the Rīga-Ventspils highway, Smārde parish, Engure region. GPS 56.9289503 23.2220048
282. Farmstead "Sarmas"
This farmstead offers an opportunity to buy sea buckthorns, red currant, black currant,
raspberries, cherries, and strawberries. During the summer, the visitors can buy the berries
fresh, but during the harvest time – help in picking them. Frozen berries can be purchased
throughout the year. Visits must be arranged in advance.
272
"Sarmas-1", Slampe parish, Tukums region. Ph.: +371 29412051, 29489268. GPS 56.8905596 23.3524393
272. Nursery "Zaļais serviss" (Green Service)
Nursery "Zaļais serviss" for purchase a variety of decorative plants, dižstādi, thuya, leafy
shrubs, deciduous trees, Needles, zemcietes and other plants. Also here is delicious and the
greenest shop in Ventspils on the highway! Store available at various Latvian food producers!
"Upmalas", Riga-Ventspils highway 90.km, Kandava parish, Kandava region.
Ph.: +371 22411477, 29192742, www.zalaisserviss.lv. GPS 57.0608494 22.8385246
263
63
265
Flowers and Gardens
63. Decorative Garden of Dace Lukševica
The decorative garden created by the certified landscape designer Dace Lukševica is located in Tukums, near the Veļķi pines. It is an example of an-easy-to-care-for and economical
garden. The garden has a vast collection of plants, and a special surprise for the hostas
enthusiasts – 95 varieties. Potted perennial landscaping plants can be bought throughout
the season. Dace can be hired as a guide for a tour around the gardens and parks of Tukums
and the area. Visits must be arranged in advance.
Lejas Street 1, Tukums. Ph.: +371 29177195. GPS 56.9657623 23.1357635
265. Iris Garden
The Iris Garden in the area of Kandava belongs to the gladiola and iris breeder Laimonis
Zaķis, who has been breeding for more than 30 years. The bulbous plant species already
exceed several hundreds. Currently, he is the biggest Dwarf Bearded Iris collection owner.
During florescence, there are open door days in the garden.Visits must be arranged in
advance.
"Intes", Kandava parish, Kandava region. Ph.: +371 29286353, www.irisgarden.lv
GPS 57.0680123 22.8129016
263. Inta’s Garden
In the garden in Vāne local government, about 300 dahlia varieties are growing and
blossoming. What is interesting, is that there are about 150 various types of tomatoes,
as well as other unusual vegetables. Visits must be arranged in advance.
"Atiņi", Vāne parish, Kandava region. Ph.: +371 22192013. GPS 56.9464067 22.6192973
264. Jautrīte’s Garden
A retired teacher together with her family since the 80-ties is growing roses in big
greenhouses. During the summer season (May–September), greenhouses can be visited
and roses and rose plants can be purchased. Visits must be arranged in advance.
"Sarmas", Vāne parish, Kandava region. Ph.: +371 29324193, 26335583. GPS 56.9308069 22.5423262
265
Page 66
Points of interest
270. Rosary "Ar B Agro"
Rosary "Ar B Agro" Ltd. is the biggest rose grower in the Baltic States and dealing with rose
flowers and plants growing in the closed areas (1.5 ha), using modern technologies. The
company offers a growing new demand, persistent and interesting cut rose varieties, diverse
assortment of garden roses, beautiful and high-quality varieties of standard roses. Offered
tours for visitors. Excursion is possible only in groups of 20-45. It is possible to purchase
products. Visits must be arranged in advance.
"Rožlejas", Sēme parish, Tukums region. Ph.: +371 29410309, www.arbagro.lv
GPS 57.0641792 23.0586746
295
271. Rose Nursery "Rozītes"
The rose nursery "Rozītes" in the rural municipality of Sēme is the result of Daila and Bruno
Trubiņš family work. The family has been growing roses for three generations now. The first to
start the trade was Daila’s grandfather Pauls Salmiņš. During the First Free State of Latvia
period, he taught many gardeners and established his own plant nursery. Even though after
the World War II a lot of work contributed by the family was lost, love for the soil and flowers
remained unchanged. Trubiņš family grows, examines, and selects the most beautiful and
sturdy rose varieties for the collection; they buy the most recently developed brands of roses
from the biggest European and best Latvian rose nurseries. Those interested can visit the
nursery, as well as receive consultations regarding rose growing and buy rose plants.
"Rozītes", Sēme parish, Tukums region. Ph.: +371 26469604, www.dailasrozes.lv
GPS 57.0516977 23.1264478
271
295. The Garden of guest house "Ružciems"
The guest house is the property of the artist Laila Kelle. The artist’s works and her garden –
whether it is a decorative flower garden or a garden of spices and bushes – can compete in
brightness. The manor and its surroundings blend with the area around it.
The artist gladly agrees to hold drawing and painting classes for the visitors of the
guesthouse. If you don’t have the necessary materials for work with you, you can get them
right there. Good luck! Visits must be arranged in advance.
"Ružciems", Lamiņi, Pūre parish, Tukums region. Ph.: +371 26353032, www.ruzciems.lv
GPS 57.1025440 23.0032923
270
271
270
271
283. Farmstead "Stuči"
The owners of the farmstead grow flower plants and will happily show around their farm and
tell you about caring for and growing various flowers. The visitors can also buy flower
seedlings. Visits must be arranged in advance.
"Stuči", Slampe parish, Tukums region. Ph.: +371 29411016, 29375180. GPS 56.9093032 23.3582567
Country Holidays
277
260. Biological farm "Guntiņas"
Biological farm in Lancenieki offers its visitors fishing in the mill pond and relaxing in the
countryside.
"Guntiņas", Lancenieki, Džūkste parish, Tukums region. Ph.: +371 29454508. GPS 56.8162457 23.3425496
277. Farmstead "Indāni"
Farmstead "Indāni" offers to learn about the farm animals and try out some treats – milk,
honey, local style pies (Sklandu rauši), cakes made by the hostess of the farm, gifts from the
garden and herbal teas. Here, you can also see the exposition, which consists of ancient
agricultural, horse-pulled and fire-fighter's tools and instruments.
277
GPS 56.9683272 22.7543245
Page 67
Tasting
122. Tasting of Kurzeme Wines at the Šlokenbeka Manor
To learn about and taste the wines made by the vintners of Kurzeme, you no longer have to
visit all of the wine-makers of Kurzeme. Now, you can enjoy all these wines at one place – at
the Šlokenbeka Manor! The venue of the tasting is the 400-year old manor dungeon, where
everybody can learn about the wines of Kurzeme, wine-makers, the culture of wine drinking,
as well as try the Degole cheese and find out how it is made.
Ph.: +371 63182354, 29904147, www.slokenbeka.lv
GPS 56.9760160 23.2261073
ENGURE
286. Fish tasting at the cafe "Būda"
The cafe offers travellers an opportunity to try Baltic sea fish, prepared using 8 different
methods. They are prepared as traditional smoked fish, as well as in various versions of
dressing. Visits for tasting events must be arranged in advance.
ENGURE
Kafejnīca "Būda", Jūras Street 95, Engure, Engure parish, Engure region.
Ph.: +371 29179184, www.budakafejnica.lv. GPS 57.1646497 23.2243535
Trip
288
288
288
Highlights
Going to the sea in a small fishing boat
will be a real adventure.
Fish Selling and Coastal Fishing
287. Fish Market in Ragaciems
Fish Market in Ragaciems has become renown across Latvia as a place to purchase fish
caught in the Riga sea bay, in the Baltic Sea and more. Usually, you can also buy tasty bread
and honey, as well as fruits and vegetables from farms of the area. It is a sort of a local
natural market.
Ragaciems, Lapmežciems parish, Engure region. GPS 57.0246688 23.4920870
288. Reinis’ Fish
"Reiņa zivis" (Reinis’ Fish) deals with smoking and selling fish, as well as offers to participate
in the fish smoking process and try smoked fish. Depending on the season, the offer
includes flounders, eel, breams, carps, vimbas. Groups of up to 10 persons are welcome.
"Dzintarkrasti", Lapmežciems parish, Engure region. Ph.: +371 29219491, www.reinazivis.lv
GPS 56.9947214 23.5228964
289. Fish kiosk in "Skaras"
During the summer season (June-September), in the village of Bērzciems offers buying
smoked fish from Lake Engure and the from Baltic Sea: breams, pikes, tenches, perches,
flounders, eelpouts, and salmon, as well as mackerels, butterfish and other.
"Skaras", 35th km of Tukums-Kolka road, Bērzciems, Engure parish, Engure region.
Ph.: +371 20236636. GPS 57.2527673 23.1734090
290. Country house "Dieniņas"
Even if you don’t stop to stay and enjoy a longer time at the shore, offers to buy the locally
smoked fish from Lake Engure and from the Baltic Sea. By making the order in advance, the
smoked fish can be bought throughout the year, not only in the summer season. Those,
who are interested, are invited to participate in coastal fishing activity.
"Dieniņas", 34 th km of Tukums-Kolka road, Bērzciems, Engure parish, Engure region.
Ph.: +371 63154331, 26676283, www.dieninas.com. GPS 57.2453282 23.1733104
291. Hostel of Ķesterciems
The hostel owner, being a coastal fisherman, also goes fishing in the sea and invites those,
who are interested, to come along and experience the tough life of a Latvian fisherman.
After that also can take part in the fish smoking process.
"Mūrnieki", Ķesterciems, Engure parish, Engure region. Ph.: +371 29287271
GPS 57.1181664 23.2331697
ENGURE
Page 68
Travel in winter and ski
in the area of Tukums!
T
here are several popular ski slopes in the area of Tukums. Downhill and cross-country
skiers, as well as experienced snowboarders and those, whose skills in winter sports
are very limited, can find something to do here in winter. There are also several crosscountry skiing tracks set up.
SVEIKUĻI
Downhill Skiing
JĒKABA GRAVA
Downhill skiing slopes "Jēkaba grava" (Jacob’s Ravine)
A cosy skiing slope suitable for families with children and for experienced skiers alike.
The slope next to the café is particularly popular among families with children because it
is not too steep for beginners, while allows enjoying the descent also for more experienced
skiers and snowboarders.
The slope is equipped with two T-bar ski-lifts going at speeds of 2 m/s and 2.5 m/s. The slope
is 35 m tall and 250 m long. The big hill – the most recent slope situated behind the children’s
slope is a good choice for everybody, who wants to experience speed.
This steeper descent is popular among experienced skiers and snowboarders. The slope is
equipped with a comfortable and fast T-bar ski-lift going at a speed of 3.5 m/s. The slope is
45 m tall and 200 m long. Children’s slope – a gently sloping descent for learning the first
skiing and snowboarding skills and it is popular not only among the young visitors but among
all of those visitors, who are learning skiing and snowboarding for the first time. This slope is
available for all visitors free of charge. A lift with a rope. The slope is 16 m tall and 160 m long.
Close to cafe is made up a snowboard park. Its length is 200 m. Park jumps the line consists of
3 jumps.
All slopes are illuminated!
Additional services: equipment rental, equipment service, instructors, café.
ZVIEDRU CEPURE
ZVIEDRU CEPURE
"Jēkaba grava", 4 km from Tukums, direction to Engure, Sēme parish, Tukums region.
Ph.: +371 29551182, www.grava.lv. GPS 57.0156036 23.1505486
Recreation Centre "Milzkalns"
One of the most popular skiing sites for the most stylish enthusiasts of leisure activities. Nine
slalom slopes of various lengths (up to 320 m) and difficulty levels, where complete beginners
and true skiing gurus will feel at home. The slope is equipped with 8 modern ski-lifts – 3 T-bar
type lifts, 4 telescope type, and 1 tablet type lift. For snowboarders – a snowboarding part
with broad and comfy trampolines, challenging enough even for the craziest snowboarders.
For those enjoying particularly intensive sensations, the bordercross slope and the slope with
big-air trampolines are set up. For beginners – the children’s slope suitable not only for kids,
but for each and every one, who wants to learn how to ski. For non-skiers – there is sledge hill.
A great way to spend time for those, who prefer all types of sliding objects – sledges,
polythene, tyre tubes..
The recreation centre also offers a 700 m long cross-country skiing track in the area of
Milzkalns.
Additional services: equipment rental, equipment service, instructor services, cross-country
skiing, café, accommodation.
Leisure complex "Milzkalns", Smārde parish, Engure region. Ph.: +371 26222333, www.milzkalns.lv
GPS 56.9993251 23.2081739
Recreation Centre "Zviedru cepure" (Swedish Cap)
Beautiful scenery opens up from the skiing slope in the Kurzeme’s Switzerland. 4 slopes are
available: 300 m long with a 48 m elevation difference; 280 m long with a 47 m elevation
difference; 220 m long with a 45 m elevation difference, and a 50 m long children’s (training)
slope with a lift. Instructors are available for those, who want to start learning from the
beginning, and for those, who want to improve their skills. Instead of the usual horse-back
riding route, there is a cross-country skiing track now, but you have to take your own crosscountry skiing equipment with you.
Additional services: equipment rental, equipment service, café, camping accommodation.
Recreation Centre "Zviedru cepure", 3.5 km from Sabile, Matkule parish, Kandava region.
Ph.: +371 26405405, www.zviedrucepure.lv. GPS 57.0245777 22.5930398
MILZKALNS
Page 69
ZVIEDRU CEPURE
MILZKALNS
JĒKABA GRAVA
Cross-Country Skiing
Guest house and camping "Sveikuļi"
Offers a range of skiing tracks for various tastes and skiing skills. Skiing equipment rental
is available. For children – a playground and a slope. After skiing, you can warm next to a
bon-fire, drink hot tea, and have a picnic.
Camping "Sveikuļi", near Lake Jumprava, Tume parish, Tukums region.
Ph.: +371 29232026, www.sveikuli.lv. GPS 56.9944215 23.1364314
Cross-country Ski Track at “Jēkaba grava"
A cosy and comfortable track suitable for families with children and experienced skiers alike.
Cross-country ski tracks of 1 km and 3 km for classic and skate skiing.
“Jēkaba grava", 4km from Tukums, direction to Engure, Sēme parish, Tukums region.
Ph.: +371 29551182, www.grava.lv. GPS 57.0156036 23.1505486
JĒKABA GRAVA
Cross-country skiing track "Jaunūdri"
Offers cross-country skiing tracks of various lengths in the area of Milzkalns. A picturesque
area for nature lovers and fine relaxation, especially for those, who want to escape the city
buzz.
"Jaunūdri", 6 km from Tukums in vicinity of Hill Milzkalns, Smārde parish, Engure region.
Ph.: +371 29515283. GPS 56.9963309 23.2007151
Recreation Centre "Milzkalns"
One of the most popular skiing sites for the most stylish enthusiasts of leisure activities.
The recreation centre also offers a 700 m long cross-country skiing track in the area of
Milzkalns.
Leisure complex "Milzkalns", Smārde parish, Engure region.
Ph.: +371 26222333, www.milzkalns.lv. GPS 56.9993251 23.2081739
Cross-country skiing track "Ķīvītes"
The length of the cross-country skiing track is 1.2 km. The track is situated 14 km from
Tukums, near the Riga – Ventspils highway, direction of Riga. After skiing, an opportunity
to warm up in a sauna is offered. The skiers must have their own skiing equipment.
"Ķīvītes", Slampe parish, Tukums region.
Ph.: +371 26401330. GPS 56.9049022 23.2950820
MILZKALNS
JĒKABA GRAVA
MILZKALNS
Page 70
Points of interest
ABAVA
Jēkaba grava
TOP points of interest
Tukums region
• Cinevilla 128
• Chocolate Museum 158
• Durbe Manor41
• Jaunmoku Palace 114
• Kukšu Manor 116
• The Big Ķemeri bog trail at
Ķemeri national park 197
• Pastariņš Museum 157
• Straw workshop 35
• Weavers’ Workshop of Tukums Museum 23
• Lestene Lutheran Church 135 and
Latvian Soldiers' Cemetery 238
• Ancestor Oak-Tree in Kaive 210
• Nature Trail “River bends of Viesata" 205
• Downhill skiing slopes "Jēkaba grava"
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Jaunpils region
Jaunpils Castle 115
Swedish Wall and Medieval
Hausehold "Niedru lija" 233
Kartavu Hill and Nature Trail 163
Kandava region
• Historical Town Centre 92
and Promenade 95
• Kurzeme Fortress Museum 152
• Ancient Valley of Abava River and
the Sulphur Spring Bog with
Cinquefoil habitat 172
• Rodeli track and downhill skiing
slopes "Zviedru cepure"
Engure region
Nature park "Engures ezers"
(Lake Engure) 176–180
Rideļi Mill 144
Šlokenbeka Manor 122
Lake Kaņieris and Bird-Watching Tower 189
The Barefoot Trail 194
Downhill skiing slopes "Milzkalns"
How to get to Tukums?
122
By car
Rīga – Tukums 67 km main highway E22 (A10)
Kuldīga – Tukums 96 km motorway P120 and P130 and main highway E22 (A10)
Liepāja – Tukums 168 km highway A9 and motorway P104 or P98
Jelgava – Tukums 54 km motorway P98
By bus
The bus traffic from Rīga to Tukums is ensured almost every hour by buses of AS "Nordeka".
Information: Rīga International Bus Station (Prāgas Street 1, Ph.: +371 90000009, 90001111),
www.autoosta.lv
115
By train
The rail traffic from Rīga to Tukums is ensured almost every hour by AS "Pasažieru vilciens".
Information: AS "Pasažieru vilciens", Ph.: +371 67232135, www.pv.lv
By airplane
Low-flying players can use service of Tukums airport (location – 5 km from Tukums).
Special limitations on 1/1/2013: B1 day-flights by rule of VFR, runway reference code 4C.
Information: "Jurmala Airport" LTd., Ph.: +371 20202165, www.jurmalaairport.com
41
Useful information
Kaņieris Lake
Emergency in Tukums 113
Fire and rescue Service in Tukums 112
Fire and rescue Service in Kandava 112
Police in Tukums 110, +371 63104100
Municipal police in Tukums +371 63125050, 26125050
Police in Kandava 110, +371 63122045
Municipal police in Kandava +371 63122045, 63104100
Municipal police in Jaunpils +371 26183231
Municipal police in Engure +371 63180950, 28632417
Municipal police in Lapmežciems +371 29348883
Municipal police in Smārde +371 29193303
Tourist Hotline +371 22033000
Information 1188, 1180, 1189
www.latvia.travel
FINLAND
NORWAY
Tukums
district map
SWEDEN
ESTONIA
RUSSIA
GOTLAND
RIGA
DENMARK
LATVIA
LITHUANIA
RUSSIA
Belarus
GERMANY
POLAND
RIGA
TUKUMS
Gulf
of
Riga
Engure Region
Kandava Region
Tukums Region
Jaunpils
Region
Tukums Tourist Information Centre
Talsu Street 5, Tukums LV-3101 Latvia
GPS: 56.9666006 23.1525851
Ph.: +371 63124451, 28311557, Fax: +371 63132688
Skype: visittukums
Twitter: VisitTukums
www.visittukums.lv
Kandava Tourist Information Centre
Kūrortu Street 1b, Kandava LV-3120 Latvia
GPS 57.0336026 22.7802030
Ph.: +371 63181150, 28356520, Fax: +371 63181194
Twitter: tourismkandava
www.visitkandava.lv

ToPsiTEs

Transcription

Similar documents

Real-Time GPS Real-Time GPS with Student Tracking Mobile Data

May 15, 2016 - Immaculate Conception Catholic Church

! Johnette!Benkovic`s!popular!Catholic!women`s!program,!FULL!OF

What is a Regular GP?

Parish Registration Form - Saint Luke the Evangelist

January 8, 2006

brewbaker`s

Untitled - Cathedral of the Holy Cross

7 - St. Martin de Porres

iQue spec sheet REV0603