Telšiai by Lake Mastis: Sculptures, Museums and Trails

Telšiai brings together lakeside trails and sculptures by Lake Mastis, museums devoted to Žemaitija culture, and Jewish history. There are also practical activities and collections that differ considerably from one another. When planning your trip, you can focus on the themes that interest you most.

By Lake Mastis: Trails, Sculptures and Walks

A network of walking and cycling trails runs along the shore of Lake Mastis. The sculpture park of the Telšiai Faculty of the Vilnius Academy of Arts was also established by the lakeshore, on 21 October 2011. The park displays 21 sculptures. The collection may change as new works are added.

Zakso Hill, also known as Zakso Mountain, is also on the shore of Lake Mastis. It is a good spot to relax and go for a walk. The easy “Aplink Telšių miestą dviračiais” route is 14 km long and leads to a scenic educational trail in the Germantas Landscape Reserve in Telšiai District. Route details may change, so check them before setting out.

Museums devoted to Žemaitija culture

The Žemaičių Village Museum comprises 16 authentic buildings. Activities available there include traditional weaving on old looms, toy-making and wool felting. The focus is therefore not only on the buildings, but also on traditional crafts. If you would like to try one of these activities during your visit, please note that programme availability may vary.

The Žemaičių Museum “Alka” dedicates its historical exhibition to the material and spiritual culture of Žemaitija. The experience can go beyond viewing the exhibition: guided tours and educational activities can be booked. As booking arrangements may change, it is worth checking them before planning such a programme.

Jewish history and other museum themes

The Telšiai Yeshiva is housed in Telšiai’s historic Jewish school of higher learning. Through the memories of Holocaust survivors, its presentation tells the story of the yeshiva and Telšiai’s Jewish community. Educational programmes cover the history of Lithuania’s Jews, Litvak culture, Jewish traditions and everyday Jewish life. The different themes offer a way to tailor your visit to your interest in history, culture or traditions.

The Telšiai Bear Museum has a very different collection focus: it comprises more than 5,837 bears and teddy bears made from various materials and in a range of sizes and shapes. The number may change as the collection grows. For something different, Sūrio DŽIUGAS Namai at Respublikos g. 49-7 offers tastings of DŽIUGAS® cheese. If you plan to attend a tasting, check its availability before you go.

Discover more destinations: Gečaičiai, Plateliai, Varniai, Rapaliai, Plungė, Mažeikiai, Ubiškė, Luokės Seniūnija

For the broader travel overview: Telšiai District.