Exploring the Delights of Latvia

In June, Operations Assistant, Holly Wheeler, had the pleasure of joining a select group of travel specialists and journalists on a trip to Latvia, nestled between Estonia and Lithuania. Holly writes: 'Preparing to re-launch our spring and autumn birding tours, this allowed me to familiarise myself with the areas featured in these itineraries and gain a deeper understanding of this unique Baltic destination...'

‘We arrived in Riga on an afternoon flight from Gatwick and immediately immersed ourselves in the city's charm. We explored the capital via a delightful canoe tour along the scenic canal, weaving through manicured gardens and spectacular water fountains. As someone who calls the coast home, my canoeing partner and I were more than prepared for this challenge!

Our journey continued along the shores of the Gulf of Riga, where we visited Kemeri National Park, a key location in both our spring and autumn itineraries. Renowned for its rich biodiversity and unique landscapes, the park is a haven for nesting and migrating birds; its most impressive bird sightings being White-tailed Eagle, Black Stork, Great Spotted Woodpecker, Marsh Harrier, and Eurasian Bittern. The park also boasts diverse ecosystems, including ancient forests, fens, and coastal lakes. A highlight of our visit was experiencing bogshoe hiking, a unique activity that allowed us to walk on the spongy, waterlogged terrain with specially designed footwear.

The next day, our guide led us to Kuldiga, a 13th-century town recently awarded UNESCO World Heritage status. With its wooden buildings and western feel, Kuldiga is home to Europe’s widest waterfall, about 249 metres wide and 2.2 metres high. Standing on the stone bridge overlooking this picturesque site, we were treated to bird sightings including Kingfisher, Grey Heron, and White Stork.

Another highlight on our spring and autumn itineraries is Slitere National Park, leading to Cape Kolka at the northern tip of the Kurzeme Peninsula. This premier birdwatching destination is crucial for observing diverse avian populations during migration seasons. The tip of Cape Kolka offers a strategic vantage point for watching migratory seabirds and coastal birds as they pass to or from southern Europe, Africa, and Asia. Even though it was slightly out of migratory season, we saw Arctic Tern, Cormorant, Black-winged Tern, and Common Eider along the coast.

Our final night was spent in Jūrmala, a charming beach town known for its wooden Art Nouveau houses. The Latvian tourist board hosted us for a delightful farewell dinner at the beachfront 36line restaurant. As I enjoyed grilled chicken with white wine sauce and a glass of New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc, the scenic sea provided a stunning backdrop.

Before my flight back to London, I had some free time. Discovering that it only took 36 minutes and cost 2 Euros to return to Riga, I eagerly explored more of this vibrant city. Riga is perfect for an extended visit, blending old and new elements seamlessly. I admired its many Art Nouveau buildings, visited the ‘Freedom Monument’, enjoyed a coffee in an open square, and appreciated the city's relaxed and safe atmosphere.'

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