Daugavas loki, Latgale Travel Guide

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Discover Latvia's ancient Daugava River valley, a UNESCO-recognized natural wonder with stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity.

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Daugavas loki

Daugavas Loki, or the Bends of the Daugava River, is a nature park renowned for its stunning river meanders cutting through the ancient Daugava Valley. This protected area showcases Latvia's natural beauty, with diverse flora, fauna, and cultural monuments dotting the landscape.

A brief summary to Daugavas loki

Vecpils, Naujene parish, Augšdaugava Municipality, 5462, LV

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Daugavas loki.

Visit during sunrise or sunset for the most spectacular photo opportunities over the Daugava River bends.
Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on natural trails to fully explore the park.
Bring binoculars for birdwatching, as the area is home to various protected bird species.
Pack a picnic to enjoy by the river while soaking in the serene views.
Check the weather forecast before your visit, as some areas may be less accessible during heavy rains.

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Explore Daugavas loki on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Daugavas loki, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

If you are already in Vecpils, Daugavas Loki is easily accessible by walking. The scenic area is about a 15-minute walk from the village center. Follow the signs towards the river to reach the park.
Public Transport

From Daugavpils city center, take bus route number 4 towards Daugavas Loki. Get off at the bus stop closest to the destination and walk the remaining distance. A single fare on the Daugavpils city bus is approximately €0.70.
Car

From Daugavpils, take the A6 highway towards Krāslava. After approximately 20 kilometers, take the exit towards Naujene (Route P68). Continue on Route P68 for about 10 kilometers until you reach Vecpils. Look for signs directing you to Daugavas Loki. Parking is available near the site. Parking is free.

Discover more about Daugavas loki

Daugavas Loki, established in 1990, protects the unique landscape of the Daugava River valley between Krāslava and Naujene. The park's main feature is its eight prominent bends, or meanders, some of the oldest geological formations in Latvia, where the river has maintained its natural course. These bends stretch 4-6 kilometers in length, with only 2-3 kilometers separating them.The park is not only a haven for nature enthusiasts but also holds significant cultural and historical value. Within its borders, visitors can explore archaeological monuments like Vecpils and Markovas castle mounds and the Slutišķi Old Believers' Village. Observation towers such as the Vasargelišķi Sightseeing Tower offer panoramic views of the river bends and surrounding forests.The area boasts a rich biodiversity, with forests covering 38% of the park. Pine, fir, and birch trees dominate the landscape, providing habitat for various plant and animal species, including many protected birds. Hiking and bicycle trails wind through the park, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the natural surroundings. Boating down the Daugava River is another popular activity, offering a unique perspective of the valley.Daugavas Loki is part of the Augšdaugava protected landscape area, recognized as a NATURA 2000 territory in 2004 and included in the Latvian National UNESCO World Heritage List in 2011. This recognition underscores the park's importance in preserving Latvia's natural and cultural heritage.