Gauja National Park · Travel guide · Updated 2026

Enchanting Wilderness: Gauja National Park

Discover the natural beauty and historical richness of Gauja National Park, Latvia's largest and oldest national park, perfect for nature lovers and history buffs.

Gauja National Park, the largest national park in Latvia, is a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Spanning over 917 square kilometers, the park is a lush tapestry of forests, rivers, and valleys. Established in 1973, it offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and historical landmarks. The park is famous for its diverse flora and fauna, including over 900 plant species and numerous rare animals. Visitors can explore the scenic Gauja River, which winds through the park, offering opportunities for canoeing and fishing. The sandstone cliffs along the river are a sight to behold, with their intricate patterns and colors. History enthusiasts will find much to admire in Gauja National Park. The area is dotted with medieval castles, ancient churches, and archaeological sites. Turaida Castle, one of the park's highlights, offers breathtaking views from its tower. Nearby, the charming town of Sigulda serves as a gateway to the park, with its own array of attractions and amenities. Whether you're hiking through dense forests, exploring historical ruins, or simply soaking in the natural beauty, Gauja National Park promises a memorable experience. Its well-marked trails and visitor-friendly facilities make it accessible to tourists of all ages and interests.

Piejūras dabas parks

Discover the natural beauty and historical richness of Gauja National Park, Latvia's largest and oldest national park, perfect for nature lovers and history buffs.

Līgatne

Līgatne Nature Trails

Discover the natural beauty and historical richness of Gauja National Park, Latvia's largest and oldest national park, perfect for nature lovers and history buffs.

Cēsis

Cirulisi Nature Trails

Discover the natural beauty and historical richness of Gauja National Park, Latvia's largest and oldest national park, perfect for nature lovers and history buffs.

Liepa

Devil's Oven

Discover the natural beauty and historical richness of Gauja National Park, Latvia's largest and oldest national park, perfect for nature lovers and history buffs.

Krustiņi

Rāmkalni

Discover the natural beauty and historical richness of Gauja National Park, Latvia's largest and oldest national park, perfect for nature lovers and history buffs.

Gaujas ieteka jūrā

Discover the natural beauty and historical richness of Gauja National Park, Latvia's largest and oldest national park, perfect for nature lovers and history buffs.

Sigulda

Sigulda New Castle

Discover the natural beauty and historical richness of Gauja National Park, Latvia's largest and oldest national park, perfect for nature lovers and history buffs.

Sigulda

Bridge over Gauja!

Discover the natural beauty and historical richness of Gauja National Park, Latvia's largest and oldest national park, perfect for nature lovers and history buffs.

Valmiera

Gauja River Steep banks

Discover the natural beauty and historical richness of Gauja National Park, Latvia's largest and oldest national park, perfect for nature lovers and history buffs.

When is the best time to go to Gauja National Park?

Weather at a glance

Use the monthly temperature and precipitation trends to compare typical conditions across the year before planning countryside walks, town visits, and heritage days.

Temperature

°C

Precipitation

mm
Warmest monthsJun–Aug
Longest daylightJun–Jul
Driest periodDec–Apr

Explore places in Gauja National Park

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    Unmissable attractions to see

    These cards mirror the attraction list in the map, while adding enough context to help users prioritise.

    Piejūras dabas parks

    Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Piejūras Dabas Parks, a national treasure filled with diverse ecosystems and serene coastlines.

    Piejūras dabas parks

    Līgatne Nature Trails

    Discover Līgatne Nature Trails, a stunning national park in Latvia perfect for nature lovers and outdoor adventures.

    Līgatne Nature Trails

    Rāmkalni

    Discover Rāmkalni: a thrilling amusement park in Latvia offering skiing, canoeing, and outdoor adventures surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.

    Rāmkalni

    Devil's Oven

    Explore the breathtaking landscapes and unique geological formations at the Devil's Oven, a hidden gem in Liepa, Cēsis Municipality, Latvia.

    Devil's Oven

    Cirulisi Nature Trails

    Discover the serene beauty of Cirulisi Nature Trails, a national park in Cēsi known for its lush landscapes and diverse wildlife, perfect for all nature enthusiasts.

    Cirulisi Nature Trails

    Bridge over Gauja!

    Experience stunning views and thrilling adventures at the Bridge over Gauja in Sigulda, a must-visit tourist attraction in Latvia's picturesque landscapes.

    Bridge over Gauja!

    Gaujas ieteka jūrā

    Explore the breathtaking beauty of Gaujas Ietekā Jūrā, where the Gauja River meets the Baltic Sea, offering nature lovers a serene retreat in Latvia.

    Gaujas ieteka jūrā

    Gauja River Steep banks

    Experience the stunning beauty of Gauja River Steep Banks in Valmiera, a natural paradise with breathtaking views, hiking trails, and rich biodiversity.

    Gauja River Steep banks

    Sigulda New Castle

    Explore the majestic Sigulda New Castle, a historical gem surrounded by breathtaking nature and rich Latvian heritage.

    Sigulda New Castle

    Essential places to dine

    The dining ideas below match the food pins above, making the map and editorial recommendations work together.

    Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

    Each shopping card aligns with a mapped browsing area, from major retail streets to market-led detours.

    Essential bars & hidden hideouts

    The evening cards below match the bars layer in the map, so browsing and orientation stay connected.

    File:Riga oldtown.jpg - Wikipedia
    Destination guide

    More about Latvia

    Explore Latvia: A Baltic treasure with rich history, stunning landscapes, vibrant festivals, and warm hospitality. Discover Riga's charm and Latvia's natural beauty.

    Tell me more about Latvia
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    Explore Gauja National Park in Photos

    A quick visual route through countryside views, towns, gardens, and regional day-trip atmosphere.

    File:Turaida Castle.JPG - Wikipedia
    Attēls:Gutmanis cave.jpg — Vikipēdija
    File:Gauja National Park 2.jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    File:Cesis Burgruine1.jpg - Wikipedia
    Attēls:Āraišu ezerpils (1).jpg — Vikipēdija
    File:Siguldas bobsleja un kamaniņu trase.jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    File:Zvartes rock top.JPG - Wikimedia Commons

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