The most beautiful natural sites to discover Latvia

Marshes and bogs cover 4.9% of Latvia's territory, and 70% of them are intact. There are high marshes (peat bogs) and low marshes (swamps). Over 50 protected plant species are found here, including orchids and sedges. Marshes are also a prime habitat for many species of birds, including capercaillie, hoopoe, crane, etc. Many marshes are nationally protected, while others are part of reserves or national parks. The largest reserve is at Teiči, in Vidzeme. The reserve offers a 4-hour excursion to discover a wild landscape and admire rich flora and fauna. The only marshland right on the sea is in Nida.

Ķemeri National Park was created in 1997. The place is popular thanks to the hydrogen sulfide found in the marsh. For over a hundred years, Ķemeri has been a renowned spa resort. Its marshland is a fragile biotope that needs to be preserved. A preservation that allows visitors to observe many rare animals, such as great horned owls and eagles. The marsh loop was created in 2000, is 2.8 km long and takes around 2 hours to complete. A wooden path raised by about fifteen centimetres allows you to cross the marsh without risk or damage. The landscape is halfway between tundra and taiga. The trees, unable to grow on this soft soil, all become magnificent natural bonsai trees.

Lake Rāznas is the largest in the country, and is nicknamed the «Mer Sea». Many beaches are furnished and many of them are located in the vicinity.

Teiču Nature Reserve (190 km2) is the largest swamp in the Baltic States. Krustkalni Nature Reserve (30 km2) is a plant paradise. In order to preserve its unique and very fragile ecosystem, both reserves can be visited with guides. In this case, do not hesitate to ask the tourist office for the contact details of the guides. There are also paths that can be used for walks if you wish to visit on your own.

The 9-hectare park lies in the middle of the Ligatne forest and offers guided tours on forest trails, a wooden amusement park for children, picnic sites and a souvenir store selling wooden and knitted souvenirs made by local craftsmen. Favoring wood craftsmanship, you'll find scattered wooden sculptures, experimental organic dwellings and models of Latvian estates and castles in this unusual park.