Kalsnava: Arboretum, Walking Trail and Cultural History

The Kalsnava Arboretum includes a collection of woody plants and a rhododendron collection garden. Jaunkalsnava is home to Jura Alunāns Park and Jaunkalsnava railway station.

A Variety of Woody Plants at the Kalsnava Arboretum

The LVM Kalsnava Arboretum covers 143 hectares and is home to more than 2,000 different woody plants. About 150 rhododendron varieties grow in the collection garden. The rhododendrons form part of the larger collection of woody plants. Collection figures may change as the plantings develop. The grounds were established from 1975 onward for dendrological and forestry research, as well as for planting non-native woody plants. Dendrology is the scientific study of trees and other woody plants; forestry concerns the use and care of forests.

Walking Trail and Park in Jaunkalsnava

Jaunkalsnava has a four-kilometre walking trail called “Pastaiga pa Jaunkalsnavu.” Its length gives you a clear indication for planning a walk; how much time you should allow depends on your own pace. Check local conditions before setting out. Jura Alunāns Park offers a different focus: its features include paths, ornamental shrubs, and information boards with stories from Kalsnava. A small open-air stage adds to the park grounds.

During the summer season, the park is used for events; dates vary from one event to another. If you want to plan your stay around an event, check its date in advance. There is also a bathing area on the Veseta in the park. The stream is shallow, and the bathing area is seasonal. Take this limitation into account when planning, and check local conditions before swimming. Park features may also change gradually, so it is a good idea to check the current conditions on site.

Manor History and Surviving Buildings

Jaunkalsnava developed in the 19th century around the historic centre of Jaunkalsnava Manor. The Kālenu family farmed there for a long time. The main building belonged to the family from the late 18th century until the land reform.

The former uses of individual buildings are also part of the manor’s history. The historic stable now houses the local cultural centre; historic red brickwork survives on its façade. The manor’s former brewery building, “Trimpulas,” has preserved vaulted cellars. A stable was a manor’s horse stable; a vaulted cellar is a basement room with a curved ceiling, often built of masonry.

Rail Services at Jaunkalsnava Railway Station

Jaunkalsnava railway station is also a useful landmark when planning your journey. It has limited passenger and freight traffic; diesel trains stop on the Riga–Madona route. As rail connections and timetables may change, check the current services before travelling.

Discover more destinations: Sarkaņi, Lautere, Madona, Ozoli, Tīrumskanuļi, Bērzaune, Prauliena, Jaunlubāna

For the wider travel overview: Madonas Novads.