When thinking of Latvia, images of far-stretching woods; untouched nature where wild predators such as the lynx, wolf and bear still dwell around; come in mind. And that's exactly what this Baltic country is all about. With 42 percent of its territory covered by forest and home to some 2,2 million people, the pearl of the Baltics possesses a wide variety of fauna and flora. As more than half of it
s inhabitants are living in the country's three largest cities, Latvia's alluring environment stays mostly untouched. With a history of conservation for over a century, Latvia's wetlands and forests are well-preserved. Latvia's oldest nature reserve, the Moricsala Reserve, even dates back to 1912. Once you're walking through the woods during winter time and you're seeing heaps of fruits and vegetables left for the animals scattered throughout the snow, you know these people have a heart for its animals and respect their environment. Serving as a border region of Soviet Russia, Latvia's seashore was well-guarded and whole coastal areas were evacuated to ensure security. This lead to a unique biosphere with fascinating sand dunes where Latvia's wild woods meet the Baltic sea, one of Europe's last remaining wild shorelines. With 500 kilometers of unspoilt beaches, Latvia is also ideal as a beach destination. There is an abundance of white soft sandy beaches and charming little coastal towns where people are still living according to the old traditions. The smoked fish which is prepared the old-fashioned way is renown throughout the whole country and is at its best accompanied by a taste of vodka. It gets even better. Other than offering an alternative for Europe's over-crowded southern beaches, Latvia also has plenty of affordable spas, where you can relax in one of the many saunas after a rewarding walk on the beach. Amber still washes up on the beaches and is made into jewelery by local people and it makes the perfect souvenir to bring back home. Latvians are always close to water somehow. Besides the sea, rivers and small lakes are abundant. They're excellent for when you're out camping or adventuring and you would like some leisure time near or in the water. Latvia is one of the few European countries where wild camping is still allowed, except for some restricted protected areas. As long as you follow some basic guidelines to respect your environment, you can basically put your tent wherever you want. During the fishing season, fishing permits are easy to get and very cheap. Some species have a protected status, but there are plenty of fish which are allowed to be caught. All of these factors make Latvia an excellent destination for a camping trip with friends or family. If you prefer the comfort of a mattress there are plenty of cute towns across the country such as Kuldiga, with Europe's widest waterfall, or Liepāja, a hidden gem near the seaside, where according to ancient folklore, the wind was born. Other interesting destinations are Cesis with its castle, hidden in the deep forests of Latvia, or Sigulda, entry point of the Gauja National Park. Ranging from dormitories in hostels to spending the night in a castle or manor, or even an old Soviet prison, Latvia provides many possibilities when it comes to accommodation. There is a wide range of activities such as skiing, canoeing or bungee jumping. But the thrill-seeking adventurers who're always looking for new experiences will be delighted with the opportunity to go bob sleighing, shooting an AK-47 in a gun range or to fly like a bird in the aerodium. Wrapped between Estonia and Lithuania, Latvia is a fast-developing country in the north of Europe. Once a part of the USSR, this rapidly growing country serves as an example to the rest of the European Union as the number of unemployment has dropped tremendously after the financial crisis in 2007-2008. This mixture of western culture with a post-Soviet touch results in the fascinating culture which Latvia has today. That's why so many tourists are drawn to Latvia's capital, Riga, a World Heritage Site famous for it's art nouveau and charming old town. One could easily spend a few days in Riga, wandering in Old Town or discovering the hidden secrets of the Central Market and admiring the rich architecture of the city. Still not overrun by hordes of tourists, hotels are very affordable. Why not order a room at a hotel with a wellness-center? Riga is the perfect getaway for a romantic, relaxing vacation, whether it's just for a weekend or combined with trip across the country. Because of its small size, you can easily discover the country within one or two weeks. While enjoying one of the country's excellent beers you will meet friendly villagers in local pubs who will happily tell you about their country. While Nordic people might not have the same reputation as their South-European brothers and sisters, you will quickly notice how easy it is to make friends. Contrary to most of their northern neighbors Latvian cuisine is well varied and very tasty. Actually, it has to be said that Latvian food is a real hidden secret. Offering a wide range of yummy dishes, pastries, tasty bread, beers and liquors, Latvia surprises. There are plenty of hearty recipes including meat, sauerkraut, potatoes or locally picked mushrooms, but also fish such as salmon is well recommended. Why not also try some local specialties such as honey, smoked cheese, black bread or beetroot soup? A glass of local beer is ideal to wash away your meal. Besides the main brands there are also several special beers which are made in local small breweries. Black Balsam, an infusion of herbs, roots and spices is a very popular liquor for those looking for something stronger. Needless to say that with Russia at its doorstep, vodka is also a very popular drink. Latvia also offers a few wines and has the most northern vineyards in Europe. If you're in the mood for something sweet, you will be satisfied with the local Laima chocolate sweets. Latvia truly has it all. Still not discovered by the masses, Latvia has a lot to offer. Whether it is for a party weekend with friends in Riga, a romantic trip with your partner near the Baltic sea or an adventurous tour across the country or even bird watching or spotting wildlife, Latvia will amaze you. So, why not taking one of our tours?
