Cycling tours
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The medieval castles and estates of VidzemeLatvia (6 days, ~213 km)This route will allow you to see Latvia's most impressive medieval castles or their ruins, as well as outstanding manor houses from aristocratic estates dating back th the 18th and 19th century. The mansion of the Ungurmuiža Estate is one of the only wooden palaces left in Latvia from those that were built in the early 18th century. The ruins of the Cēsis Castle are among the most impressive Medieval ruins in the country. The tower of the Turaida Castle offers panoramic view of the ancient Gauja River Valley. About one-half of the route passes through the Gauja National Park. You will arrive at the place where the oldest crossing of the Baltic rivers exists - the rafts which transport people across the river are still powered by the stream itself. Accommodations is organized at baronial estates and castles wherever its possible. Suggested meals are organized at the upper class restaurants or places where traditional Latvian atmosphere and dishes can be tried. |
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General information:
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1st day / RīgaArrival in RigaFree time in Riga. Overnight in a 4* hotel in Riga. |
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2nd day / Ride: Sigulda – Turaida-Ragana -Bīriņi ( 29 km) Breakfast.Pick-up your bike at the hotel. Cycling: hotel - train station (0,5 h) Take a train from the Riga Central Railway Station to Sigulda. (55 km, ~1.60 LVL per person, ~0.70 LVL per bicycle, ~1h) Sites and attractions en route: -Sigulda medieval castle ruins and baronial estate -Turaida museum reserve with Livonia Order castle. There is an observation tower and a sculpture garden on the banks of the Gauja river. Also working estate support buildings (smithy, stables etc.) -Bīriņi Manor (built 1857-1860) located near a lake and surrounded by wonderful park good for leisurely walk. Overnight at Manor in Birini. |
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3rd day / Ride: Bīriņi- Igate -Limbaži–Pociems- Ozolmuižas pils-Dikļi (69 km).Breakfast.Sites and attractions en route: -Igate Manor (1880) – built in the style of Renaissance, at the castle there is a romantic park and an old water mill, which grains flour for next door pub serving traditional Latvian dishes. Good place for lunch. -Ozolmuiža Manor built in 18th century, partly survived 19th century' s park. Early classicism. -Dikļi Manor (1896) – built in the style of baroque. There are collection of valuable antique furniture, fireplaces and interior articles inside the manor, good restaurant. Overnight at Manor in Dikli. |
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4th day / Ride Dikļi – Valmiera - Cesis (65 km)Breakfast.-Sightseeing of the centre of Valmiera with its St.Simon Church, castle ruines where city's history museum is located with nice views to the river Gauja. -The route goes through peacful forests along the banks of the river Gauja with beautiful sandstone outcrops. -Sightseeing in the town Cēsis – charming old town, the ruins of mighty Livonian Order Castle and the new castle. In the garden of the castle there is a workshop of a traditional jeweller, which can be also visited. Overnight in hotel in Cēsis. |
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5th day / Ride: Cesis-Ungurmuiža-Straupe -Lielstraupe-Ligatne-Augšlīgatne (50 km)Breakfast.-Lielstraupe castle (13. century) – combination of different styles while rebuilt through the centuries. The building is united with a church. -Ungurmuiža manor – the oldest wooden baroque manor in Latvia with well preserved wall paintings and surrounded by centuries old oaks. -Old fashioned Ligatne ferry operated by the power of stream -Līgatne village- distictive log houses from 19th century built for workers at Ligatne Paper Factory. Optional: Soviet Secret Bunker – if you have an interest in Cold War history then this is a place to visit. Well preserved retreat for leading elite on the occasion of a nuclear war. Take a train from Ligatne to Riga. Cycle from train station to hotel. Overnight in a 4* hotel in Riga. |
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6th day / Breakfast.Free time to explore Riga. Departure. |
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Rate per person in a double room: from 280.00 EUR** Minimum number of persons - 2.* A price of the tour can change in case the planned guest houses/hotels are fully booked and we have to choose other accommodation sites. * Prices may change due to changes in national tax legislation or other independent reasons. Services included:
Extra costs:
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| Information & booking - tel: +371 67617600, e-mail: lauku@celotajs.lv | |
