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From Līgatne to Cēsis

The route takes you from Līgatne to Cēsis, with sightseeing objects on the way (check PDF file for descpription and map of the objects!). Suitable for active hikers or cyclists interested in nature, heritage and history.

This is a trip through the most impressive primeval valley of a river in the Baltics with lots of sandstone outcrops on the slopes of ravines of the River Gauja and its tributaries from the Devonian Period. The route runs through Gauja National Park.

Best time to go

April–September.

Route

Līgatne Tourism Information Centre – Spriņģu iela – Cēsu iela – Skaļupes – Krustkalni – Rakši – “Ozolkalns” – Līgatnes iela – Gaujas iela – Lielā Līvu iela – Katrīnas iela – Torņa iela – Cēsis Castle Ruins – Cēsis Tourism Information Centre.

Distance

~28 km

Duration

1–2 days.

Difficulty level

Moderate.

Road pavement

Līgatne–Skaļupe and Cēsis — asphalt; gravel roads and unpaved roads elsewhere.

Starting point/Destination

Līgatne Tourism Information Centre/ Cēsis Tourism Information Centre.

Way marking

None on site.

Distance to Riga

Starting point 70 km, destination 90 km.

Getting there and away

Linear route with public transportation access at the starting point and destination thereof. A bus runs from Augšlīgatne (railway station) to Līgatne (check the timetable beforehand). Approximately 1 km of the Cēsis Castle Ruins, there is the Cēsis Bus Station and Railway Station.

Worth knowing!

Suitable footwear and a local map are needed. Navigation devices would be useful. Please check the public transportation timetable beforehand. Observe traffic rules while on the road. The section from Līgatne runs alternatively through forest paths. Respect the placed information signs! Walking outdoors is at one’s own risk. Emergency services: 112.

Recommendation

The route can be continued with a hiking trip from Sigulda to Līgatne (30 km) or along the banks of the River Amata (Amata trail) and head to Zvārte Rock, Melturi, and Amatciems. Book accommodation beforehand.

 



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