Day 1
Departure from Riga at 8:30. Starting our tour, we head to Valmiera (known as Wolmar until 1917) — one of the oldest cities in Latvia. In the very center, we will see the Valmiera St. Simon's Evangelical Lutheran Church, the most valuable historical and architectural monument of the city. Construction of the cathedral began in 1283.
We continue further to the north of Latvia. An excursion to the Könu Mill, built about 210 years ago by Baron James von Menzenkampff. Today, the Könu Mill has gained recognition for its unique authentic equipment and the opportunity to see the mill in action. During the excursion, you can follow the path of the grain as it turns into white flour, as well as the wool processing cycle, where scutching, carding, and spinning are performed by machines purchased in Germany in the 19th century (they have no analogues anywhere else in Latvia!).
Visit the craft workshop where you can not only see but also purchase blankets, pillows, hats, toys, and other products filled with sheep's wool made by local seamstresses. Sheep's wool blankets are a universal item that has high heat exchange properties and keeps you warm in winter and prevents overheating in summer. It's time for lunch: a meal at the Könu Mill — we offer the mill's specialty: goulash soup served in bread!
We continue our tour to Taagepera Castle Park — a picturesque castle park with well-kept alleys and amazing views. Taagepera Castle, built in the early 20th century, is considered one of the most romantic in Estonia. Wagenküll Winter Wonderland offers thousands of light installations, laser shows, and sculptures, creating a magical atmosphere throughout the castle park. A new deer park has been created, where real Romanian noble deer roam freely, and a light show is staged on the roof of the castle. "Mountain of a Thousand Lights" and glowing animals on the alleys turn every step into an unforgettable event.
Relaxation in the castle spa center is something special, as there are no other similar spa centers in Estonia or Scandinavia. Five different saunas await you, including a smoke sauna, aroma sauna, amber sauna, salt sauna, and a pool with a panoramic view. A warm and soothing water world all year round.
Continuing the journey to the twin towns of Valka/Valga. Sightseeing of the Valga Border Crossing Monument — a symbolic place on the border of Estonia and Latvia. Do not miss the opportunity to walk along the "zero line" between Valka and Valga. We will visit the Estonian supermarket "Valga Selver". Return to Riga at approximately 21:30.
