On March 19, 2026, the spring seminar-general meeting of the Latvian Rural Tourism Association “Lauku ceļotājs” took place at Bīriņi Castle, bringing together industry entrepreneurs from all over Latvia. The day's program discussed important industry development issues, current legislative changes, as well as practical solutions for strengthening entrepreneurship.
The seminar provided an insight into the activities and current events of "Lauku ceļotājs" in 2025, with special attention to tax regulations. The presentation by a hospitality marketing expert outlined a systematic approach to attracting guests.
In turn, practical examples from the development of the Forest Trail and the Sea Trail were presented in discussions about accessible rural tourism and hiking infrastructure.
An important part of the seminar was the experience stories of members, in which entrepreneurs shared innovative solutions – digital walking routes, circular economy approaches, sustainable catering and the daily behind-the-scenes of accommodation. The event was complemented by discussions, informal conversations and networking, which facilitated the exchange of ideas and opportunities for collaboration.
The seminar concluded with a tour of Birini Castle and its surroundings, creating an opportunity to get to know one of Latvia's tourism offerings through practical experience.
>>> Program
>>> Photo gallery
| Presentation | |
|---|---|
| LLTA "Rural Traveler" 2025 review | Asnāte Zieme, LLTA "Lauku ceļotājs" |
| Hospitality marketing for rural tourism businesses - a systematic approach to attracting more guests | Justīne Kalēja — Hospitality Marketing Consultant |
| Accessible rural tourism and hiking trail infrastructure: practical solutions from Mežtaka and Jūrtaka | Juris Smaļinskis, LLTA "Rural Traveler" |
| Digital educational walking routes – games for exploring nature and the surrounding area for adults and children | Dace Dinsdorfa, Restaurant & Camping "Neptūns" |
| Circular economy principles in rural tourism | Liene Andersone, "Katrina Summer House" |
| Sustainable catering in rural tourism: how to reduce meat consumption without losing satiety and tradition | Inga Dikmane, Guest house "Mīlmaņi" |
Insights from creating the podcast "Behind the Scenes: Lodging Stories" Video: Behind the Scenes: Lodging Stories / Short Videos / Rural Traveler - Spring Meeting | Katrīne Krūmiņa, recreation center "Ods" |