Saulkrasti Municipality: Coastal Trails, Dunes and History

Saulkrasti lies on the eastern coast of the Gulf of Riga, about 50 km from Riga. The Saulkrasti coastline is 17 km long. There are different ways to focus a trip to Saulkrasti Municipality: coastal scenery, nature trails, cycling and historic buildings. As a broad point of reference, the internationally important VIA Baltica highway runs through Saulkrasti Municipality.

Coast, dunes and protected nature

The 18 m-high White Dune lies on the right bank of the Inčupe, near its mouth at the sea. From there, it offers a particularly beautiful view of the Gulf of Riga. Other stretches of coast have their own distinctive features: Lilaste has singing sand, while the coast at Zvejniekciems is stony. The places described therefore differ not only in name, but also in their coastal landscapes.

Founded in 1962, Piejūra Nature Park protects coastal ecosystems, habitats and species. It has a high proportion of protected habitats and great biodiversity, while also supporting educational and recreational opportunities. Trails and rest areas have been set up for walkers and cyclists, and there are also parking areas and information boards. Those wishing to combine nature and activity will find a different point of reference here than at the individual coastal spots.

Trails for different outings

The approximately 4 km-long Sunset Trail leads from White Dune towards the centre of Saulkrasti. Along the way, the landscape is shaped by a wide sandy beach, coastal dunes, the Pēterupe and tall pines. The Ķirezera Trail is shorter, at 1.2 km, and runs around Ķirezers; blue markings on the trees identify the nature trail. The length, route and surroundings give you concrete points of reference when choosing between a trail with coastal views and a loop around the lake.

There are also various options for cycling. The Velozinis course at the Saulkrasti bicycle track recreates typical conditions and obstacles of the urban traffic environment and is designed for children learning to ride a bike. Saulkrasti Forest Park has wide, paved paths considered safe and easy to ride. Water sports and other recreational activities on the water are possible at Lake Pabaži; be sure to check again before your trip whether suitable equipment is available to rent.

Discover places and stories

The Saulkrasti Bicycle Museum houses Latvia’s only collection of vintage bicycles. It includes technically interesting examples from the history of bicycle development that were found in Latvia. Guided tours are offered in Latvian, English and Russian and last between 20 minutes and 1.5 hours. It is recommended to arrange your visit in advance by phone.

The history of the buildings also reflects different eras. Sēja Manor Water Tower was built in 1903, is considered a rare example of a Neo-Gothic engineering structure in Latvian manor architecture, and has the status of an industrial monument of regional importance. Sēja Manor House dates from the turn of the 18th and 19th centuries; it received Neo-Gothic decorative elements during renovations from 1883 to 1885. The construction phases of Pēterupe Lutheran Church are further apart: the first church building was erected in 1641, while the fourth, which still stands today, dates from 1856.

The history of the seaside resort goes back to the early 19th century. Baron Karl von Reutern of Lēdurga had the first summer houses built and established a new seaside resort called Neubad (Neibāde). By the middle of the century, Neibāde had developed into a health resort. Zvejniekciems originated in the 19th century as a fishing village on the coast of Skulte. These historical origins add a second perspective on the area to its nature experiences.

Planning your stay

In summer, open-air concerts and film screenings are held in the evenings at Saules Square in the centre of Saulkrasti. As the seasonal programme may change, check the dates for your travel period. The Saulkrasti Tourist Information Centre is located at Ainažu 13b in Saulkrasti; these details may also change, so check them before your visit. If you are looking for a hotel, tailor your search to the main focus of your stay—such as coastal trails, nature, cycling or architectural history.

Discover more destinations: Zvejniekciems, Saulkrasti, Mārupe, Amata Municipality, Kocēni Municipality, Pārgauja Municipality, Skrunda Municipality, Daugavpils Municipality.

Go to the main travel overview: Latvia.