Latgale Travel Guide

Explore the best of Latgale, Latvia with this comprehensive travel guide covering attractions, activities, accommodations, and more!


Introduction to Latgale

Latgale is a beautiful region located in the eastern part of Latvia, one of the three Baltic states in Europe. It is known for its rich culture, breathtaking scenery, and outdoor adventures. With its numerous lakes, rivers, and forests, Latgale has become a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

List of Places to Visit in Latgale

Latgale offers a plethora of attractions for travelers of all interests. Here are some must-visit places in the region:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Aglona Basilica - a famous pilgrimage site that attracts thousands of visitors each year;
  2. Daugavpils Fortress - a historic fortress initially built in the 19th century that today functions as an open-air museum;
  3. Latgale Culture and History Museum - dedicated to the history and culture of the region;
  4. Mark Rothko Art Center - a contemporary art museum showcasing works of Mark Rothko, a famous American painter of Latvian origin.

Natural Attractions of Latgale: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Lake Lubāns - the largest lake in Latvia that offers a variety of outdoor activities, including fishing, boating, and camping;
  2. Rāznas National Park - a beautiful natural reserve with diverse flora and fauna and numerous hiking trails;
  3. Aglona Hill - a stunning viewpoint that offers panoramic views of the surrounding area;
  4. Veclaicene Hillfort - an ancient fortress with a unique geological formation of quartz boulders that create cave-like spaces.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Latgale

Latgale is an excellent place for outdoor enthusiasts, with a variety of hiking and biking routes suitable for all levels. Here are some top picks:

  1. The Trail of Ancient Livs - a 110 km-long hiking trail that takes you through scenic landscapes and ancient Livonian settlements;
  2. Rāznas National Park Trails - several well-marked hiking trails of varying lengths and difficulty levels that showcase the park’s natural beauty;
  3. Veclaicene Hillfort Hiking Trail - a 5 km-long trail that takes you through the scenic forest and offers breathtaking views from the top of the hill.

Best Things to Do in Latgale: Activities and Tours

Latgale offers numerous activities and tours for travelers of all interests. Here are some top picks:

  1. Horseback Riding - experience the beautiful countryside and forests of Latgale on horseback with various tour companies in the region;
  2. Canoeing/Kayaking - explore the many lakes and rivers of Latgale by canoe or kayak with various tour companies in the region;
  3. Culinary Tours - taste the local cuisine and learn about the culinary traditions of Latgale with various tours offered in the region;
  4. Winter Sports - go skiing, snowboarding, or snowshoeing in one of the many ski resorts in Latgale.

Week-Long Itinerary for Latgale

Here is a sample itinerary for a week-long trip to Latgale:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit Aglona Basilica and explore the town of Aglona
Day 2 Explore Daugavpils Fortress and visit Mark Rothko Art Center
Day 3 Hike the Trail of Ancient Livs and visit the Kraslava castle
Day 4 Canoe/kayak on Lake Lubāns and visit the nearby village of Rēzekne
Day 5 Visit Rāznas National Park and hike one of the many trails in the park
Day 6 Experience horseback riding or a winter sport activity at one of the ski resorts in Latgale
Day 7 Visit the Latgale Culture and History Museum and taste the local cuisine on a culinary tour

Food and Drink Scene of Latgale

Latgale is known for its hearty cuisine, influenced by its strong rural traditions. Here are some must-try dishes:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Sklandrausis - a traditional Latvian dessert made from rye dough, carrots, and cottage cheese;
  2. Rasols - a cold salad made with potatoes, pickles, carrots, and mayonnaise;
  3. Meltiņi - a popular Latgalian dish made from boiled potatoes, bacon, and onions;
  4. Speķa Pīrādziņi - pastry filled with bacon, onions, and sour cream.

Local Beverages

  1. Riga Black Balsam - a herbal liqueur made from a secret recipe of 24 natural ingredients;
  2. Latvian Beer - Latvia has a long tradition of brewing beer, and some of the best breweries are located in Latgale.

Where to Stay in Latgale: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Latgale offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and needs. Here are some top picks:

  1. Dubulti - a cozy guesthouse located in the countryside near Rēzekne, offering comfortable rooms and traditional Latvian hospitality;
  2. Park Hotel Latgola - a modern hotel located in the center of Daugavpils, offering excellent facilities and a convenient location;
  3. Latgale Zoo Apartments - unique apartments located in the Latgale Zoo, offering a one-of-a-kind experience.

What to Buy in Latgale: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Latgale offers a diverse range of local products and souvenirs that make for excellent gifts and mementos. Here are some top picks:

  1. Latvian Handicrafts - traditional handicrafts such as woolen mittens, knitwear, wooden toys, and pottery are widely available in Latgale;
  2. Honey - Latgale is home to many beekeepers, and local honey is renowned for its exceptional quality;
  3. Artisanal Spirits - local distilleries offer a variety of artisanal spirits, including vodka, gin, and fruit brandies.

Local Culture and Customs of Latgale

Latgale has a rich and distinct culture that has been shaped by its rural traditions and history. Here are some interesting customs and traditions:

  1. Ancient Livonian Culture - Latgale is home to many ancient Livonian settlements, and their unique culture and traditions are still prevalent in the region today;
  2. Traditional Festivals - Latgale hosts many traditional festivals throughout the year, including Aglona Pilgrimage, Rāzna National Park Days, and Latgale Potato Festival.

Best Time to Visit Latgale

The best time to visit Latgale is during the warm months of May to September, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities. However, the winter season also offers many opportunities for winter sports and cultural events.

Do’s and Don’ts of Latgale

Do:

  1. Respect Local Customs and Traditions - Latgale has a rich culture that should be respected by visitors;
  2. Dress Appropriately - avoid wearing revealing or provocative clothing, especially when visiting religious sites;
  3. Try the Local Cuisine - Latgale’s cuisine is an essential part of its culture and should be enjoyed by visitors.

Don’t:

  1. Disrespect the Natural Environment - Latgale’s natural beauty is precious and should be preserved by visitors;
  2. Be Loud and Disruptive - be considerate to others, especially in public spaces and accommodations;
  3. Ignore Local Rules and Regulations - always abide by local laws and regulations to avoid any legal issues.

Safety and Health

Safety in Latgale

Latgale is a safe region to visit, with low crime rates and a friendly local population. However, visitors should exercise caution and follow basic safety practices, such as keeping an eye on valuables and avoiding areas known for criminal activity.

Health in Latgale

Latgale has a good healthcare system, with many hospitals and clinics located in the region. Visitors are advised to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, as treatment costs can be high.

Getting to Latgale: Transportation Options and Logistics

Latgale is accessible by various transportation options, including air, bus, and train. Here are some top options:

Airports Near Latgale

  1. Riga International Airport - the largest airport in Latvia, located approximately 200 km from Latgale;
  2. Kaunas International Airport - located approximately 200 km from Latgale.

Bus Stations Near Latgale

  1. Daugavpils Bus Station - a major bus station in the region with connections to other parts of Latvia and neighboring countries;
  2. Rēzekne Bus Station - another significant bus station in the region with connections to other parts of Latvia and neighboring countries.

Other Options

Visitors can also travel to Latgale by train or car, though this requires a longer travel time.

How to Get Around in Latgale

Latgale is easily accessible by car, and visitors can rent a car at one of the many rental companies in the region. Buses and trains are also available and offer a convenient way to explore the area.

Where to Go Next from Latgale: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Latgale’s location in the eastern part of Latvia makes it an excellent starting point for exploring other parts of the Baltic states. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions:

  1. Riga, Latvia - the capital city of Latvia, located approximately 200 km from Latgale;
  2. Vilnius, Lithuania - the capital city of Lithuania, located approximately 250 km from Latgale;
  3. Pärnu, Estonia - a beautiful seaside town located approximately 250 km from Latgale.

Conclusion

Latgale is a must-visit destination in Latvia, offering visitors an authentic experience of the country’s natural beauty and rich culture. Whether you are interested in outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or relaxing getaways, Latgale has something to offer for everyone. Plan your trip today, and explore the best of Latgale, Latvia!

Castle ruins, Ludza Castle ruins, Ludza Aglona Basilica Aglona Basilica


    Daugavpils
    Rēzekne