Latvia

Land in Riga and wander cobbled streets like a local. Stroll through the city’s peaceful UNESCO-listed Old Town, the striking Art Nouveau and Soviet Brutalism architecture and Riga’s vibrant Central Market. Stay in a beautifully restored 13th-century medieval house at Koventa Sēta or just around the corner at the modern Grand Hotel Kempinski. Just outside the capital, follow the coastline west to the country’s beloved seaside retreat Jūrmala, where 33 kilometres of golden sand meet fragrant pine forests – perfect for long walks and refreshing swims in the Baltic Sea. The lively Jomas Street is lined with cafés and beachside restaurants, plus the St. Prince Vladimir Russian Orthodox Church built in the late 1800s is worth a viewing. Spend the night at the elegant TB Palace Hotel & Spa, a boutique property inspired by 19th-century European aristocratic estates.

Leaving the coastal fishing villages behind, travel inland and discover a quieter side of Latvia as forests and lagoons give way to rolling farmland, quiet hamlets, and centuries-old German-built manor estates. Bike through “The Town of Roses,” near Tukums and explore the beautifully preserved Slokenbeka Manor, one of the oldest fortified manor houses in the Baltics. Stay at the lakeside Lielpīles country estate, a contemporary retreat offering private beach and sauna.

Continue to Abava Valley, considered one of Latvia’s most scenic regions, where gentle cycling routes wind between forests, meadows, vineyards, and rivers that create an unexpectedly diverse landscape. Historic towns such as Kandava, Sabile, and nearby Talsi are full of character with cobbled streets, wooden homes, art colonies, and local cafés offering a glimpse into rural Latvian life. In Talsi, discover local craftsmanship with traditional weaving, pottery, wool, and wood workshops. Visit a collection of restored Soviet military vehicles for a fascinating look back in time. The valley’s peaceful scenery makes it one of the country’s greatest offerings, whether explored on foot, by bike, or over a leisurely picnic. Our favorite stays include the 16^th century castle at Nurmuižas Pils, or the hidden Vanagu Muiza, a family-run retreat with just 5 rooms. Be sure to carve away time for their spa overlooking the private lake and forest.

A stunning ride from Talsi brings you to Kuldiga. Described as Latvia’s most beautiful town, Kuldīga charms visitors with its colourful heritage buildings, medieval streets, and romantic walkability, where parks and the Venta River seamlessly weave nature into the heart of town. Highlights include the Venta Rapid—the widest waterfall in Europe—and Kuldīga’s picturesque and iconic red-brick bridge. Despite its impressive width, the waterfall is remarkably gentle, making it the perfect spot for swimming and relaxing on long, warm summer days where the sun sets at 11pm. Round out your adventure with a stay at Virkas Muiža, a thoughtfully restored manor surrounded by peaceful gardens and parklands. For something more edgy and modern, we recommend the hip Hotel Noliktava No. 5, smack dab in the heart of Old Town. Top of Form

Continue towards the Baltic shoreline where Liepāja, the cultural capital of Latvia, brings you back to the sea with its lively port, distinctive architecture, and expansive Blue Flag beach. Wander the waterfront, browse independent galleries and boutiques, or enjoy Promenade Hotel, a stylish harbourside sanctuary.

From historic Riga to peaceful forests, rolling countryside, and the Baltic shoreline, Latvia is a destination that reveals something new with every step taken and every pedal turned.Bottom of Form