Gauja is the largest national park in Latvia with an area of almost 1000 square kilometers. Bizarre cliffs up to 100 meters high rise along the picturesque riverbanks. The first travelers arrived here in the 19th century. And today the park has become one of the most visited tourist attractions in Latvia.
Some people travel hundreds of kilometers to see the medieval Turaida Castle, some come to visit an ancient church, and others just want to spend an unforgettable vacation on the shore of a wonderful lake surrounded by virgin forests. But what is really worth doing in the natural park is to walk along the most popular route, the Cirulisi nature trails.
The Cirulisi trails provide a great opportunity to learn the history of the valley of the ancient Gauja River, from the Ice Age to the present day. Find out how the river was born, what relict plants grow on its banks, and who were the first settlers in these fabulous Latvian lands.
On the 6-kilometer route, travelers can meet Mother Nature's amazing creatures, like the Cirulisi mirror rocks, which are reflected in the river, the ringing Dzidravots spring with crystal clear water, the Bride's Cave with an incredible legend about love, and the Cirulisi Cave, nicknamed the "deep abyss" by the locals.
Tourists can take a leisurely walk or ride a bike along the trails, and then return to the campsite to share their impressions, have a picnic, and plan their next trip. After all, travelers can spend all summer visiting the numerous treasures of the national park. In addition, Zagarkalns Camping always offers travelers fishing boats for rent so that they can go on a river trip along the old Gauja River, enjoy the view of endangered plants, amazing natural landscapes, and unique monuments of Latvian wooden architecture.