Cecīļi Nature Trail: A Walk Through Ancient Landscapes
Discover Latvia's natural beauty on the Cecīļi Nature Trail: ancient cliffs, caves, and legends await in Gauja National Park.
The Cecīļi Nature Trail, located in the Gauja National Park near Ieriķi, offers a captivating journey through Latvia's ancient landscapes. This well-maintained trail winds along the banks of the Kumada, Dančupīte, and Amata rivers, showcasing a variety of natural wonders. The trail's highlights include the impressive Cecīļi Cliff, a sandstone formation reaching approximately 10 meters in height and 100 meters in length, best viewed from the Kumada River's right bank. Explore the Dančupīte Cave, a small sandstone cave with a length of 5.7 meters, and marvel at the miniature waterfall nearby. The Cecīļi Pine, one of Latvia's notable trees, also stands proudly along the trail. According to local legend, the Cecīļi Cliff caves were once inhabited by a devil and two witches who danced in front of the rock every midnight. Annoyed by the locals, the devil attempted to fill the Kumada River with sand but was scared away by a rooster's crow, leaving the sand scattered and forming a hillock. The trail offers different routes, including a small circle of approximately 2 km and a longer route of 12 km, marked with green arrows and blue dots, respectively. The trail is accessible year-round, though it can be slippery and muddy in wet weather, so appropriate footwear is recommended. Visitors can also explore the remnants of a former Soviet army complex, adding a historical layer to the natural experience. Keep an eye out for the animal feeder at the beginning of the trail, where you might spot local wildlife. Fossils of armadillos, dating back to the Devonian period when Latvia was covered by a shallow sea, have been found near the Kumada and Dančupīte confluence and are displayed at the trail's visitor center.
Local tips
- Wear comfortable hiking shoes, as the trail can be muddy and slippery, especially after rain.
- Bring a small treat to leave at the animal feeder located at the beginning of the trail.
- Visit the trail during the darker months to see Cecīļi Cliff and Dančupīte illuminated on Saturday evenings; advance booking is required.
- Check out the fossils of ancient armadillos found in the area, displayed at the Cecīļi Nature Trail visitor center.
A brief summary to Cecīļi Nature Trail
- Cecīļu iela 12, Ieriķi, Drabeši parish, Cēsis Municipality, 4139, LV
- +37129477700
Getting There
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Walking
From the Ieriķi petrol station or the Cecīļi Nature Trail Tourist Information Point, head east on Cecīļu iela. Continue for approximately 1 km until you reach the 'Lejas Cecīļi' house, where the trail begins. The walk is straightforward and well-marked.
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Public Transport
Take an intercity bus running along the E77/A2 highway to the Augšlīgatne bus stop. From there, transfer to the local bus towards Līgatne; the closest stop to the trail is Gaujasmala. From the Gaujasmala bus stop, follow the signs to the Cecīļi Nature Trail, approximately 1 km away. A single bus fare within Cēsis Municipality typically costs around €1-2.
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Taxi
From Cēsis, a taxi to Cecīļi Nature Trail will cost approximately €15-€25, depending on the taxi service and traffic conditions. The journey takes around 20-30 minutes. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting the trip.
