ĶEMERI NATIONAL PARK

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.