Riga & Rural Latvia Short Break

Arrive in Riga, and transfer to the boutique Hotel Dome and check in for 2 nights. 

• Hotel Description

This morning meet with your local guide for a 3-hour walking tour of Riga's Old Town. Old Riga - including landmarks like the House of Blackheads, Riga Dome Cathedral, and the National Library. Free afternoon to explore the city or book addition excursions. (B)

• Hotel Description

Today, your private guide will pick you up from your hotel for the drive to Cēsis. Along the way, make a stop at Abuls, an artisan cider maker located near Smiltene. This small, pioneering cider brewery began its cider-making journey in 2000 by experimenting with local apples. Inspired by cider traditions in regions like Normandy and Asturias, the owner has been crafting cider on the farmstead since 2018, embracing a New World approach that uses white wine methods to preserve the freshness and aroma of local apples.
Afterwards, visit Birzi - Labanovski, a family-owned organic birch sap factory and cellar. Here, you can observe the meticulous process of collecting birch sap (usually in the Spring) and learn about their dedication to organic production. In their rustic cellar, there is the opportunity to sample and purchase some of their exquisite birch sap syrup. Finally, drive to Cēsis and check in to your hotel for a 2-night stay. (B)

• Hotel Description

This morning enjoy a walking tour of Cesis with your guide. Included is a visit to Cesis Castle, which is actually two castles in one. The first is the dark-stone towers of the old Wenden castle. Founded by Livonian knights in 1214, it was sacked by Russian tsar Ivan the Terrible in 1577, but only after its 300 defenders blew themselves up with gunpowder. The other is the more cheerful, castle-like, 18th-century manor house once inhabited by the dynasty of German counts von Sievers. It houses a museum that features original fin-de-siècle interiors. Take a walk through the landscaped castle park complete with a pond. 
In the afternoon take a drive out to one of two natural wonders in the region. You can choose to visit the picturesque Ergļu klints (Eagle Cliff) located along the Gauja River or explore Zvartes iezis (Zvartes Rock) along the Amata River. Both of these sites are renowned geological monuments, surrounded by lush forests and picturesque meadows. (B)

• Hotel Description

Drive to the picturesque Gauja National Park. Just outside the town of Sigulda explore the ancient Castle of the Livonian Order, an imposing testament to the past. See Gutmann Cave, where inscriptions were left by travellers of centuries gone by. The highlight of the day was undoubtedly a visit to Turaida Castle, perched majestically amidst rolling hills and providing breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. In the late afternoon,enjoy a Pirts ritual at the Glass pirts, a traditional Latvian bathhouse experience that rejuvenates both body and soul. (B)

• Hotel Description

Transfer to Riga Airport for flight back to the UK. (B)