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Sietiņiezis: Baltic's Largest White Sandstone Outcrop

Explore Latvia's natural beauty at Sietiņiezis, the largest white sandstone outcrop in the Baltics, featuring stunning views and unique rock formations.

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Sietiņiezis, located in Valmiera Municipality, is the largest white sandstone outcrop in the Baltics, offering stunning views of the Gauja River valley. This natural monument features unique formations, small caves, and scenic pine forests, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and photographers.

A brief summary to Sietiņiezis

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable walking shoes to explore the nature trails around Sietiņiezis.
  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting conditions for photography.
  • Pack a picnic to enjoy the tranquil surroundings and scenic views.
  • Keep an eye out for local wildlife, especially during dawn and dusk.
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Getting There

  • Car

    To reach Sietiņiezis by car, navigate towards Vaidava Parish in Valmiera Municipality. From the center of Valmiera, head east on Rīgas iela towards the A3 road. Take the A3 road for approximately 10 km, then turn right onto the road P9 (Vaidavas iela). Continue on P9 for about 5 km until you reach Sietiņiezis, which will be on your left side. There is a free parking area available near the site.

  • Public Transport

    While public transport options directly to Sietiņiezis are limited, you can take a bus from Valmiera to a closer location within Vaidava Parish and then walk or take a taxi for the final few kilometers. Buses within Valmiera typically cost around €0.60 for a single ticket. A taxi from Valmiera to Sietiņiezis would cost approximately €15-20, based on a rate of €1.00 per kilometer plus a base fee of €2.00.

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Discover more about Sietiņiezis

Sietiņiezis, situated in the Vaidava Parish of Valmiera Municipality, is a geological and geomorphological natural monument on the right bank of the Gauja River. It stands as the largest white sandstone outcrop in the Baltic region, stretching approximately 400 meters in length and reaching up to 15 meters in height. The name Sietiņiezis is believed to have originated either from the rock's surface being covered in small holes created by wild bees, resembling a sieve, or from the nearby Sietiņi houses. The site offers impressive views of the ancient Gauja River valley from its southern part, complemented by picturesque pine forests. Visitors can explore small caves, niches, and erosion ravines, as well as formations reminiscent of pillars. Historically, Sietiņiezis featured the largest natural arch in Latvia, which unfortunately collapsed in the summer of 1975. Nearby, you can find the Sietiņiezis Devil's Bay (“Velnala”), a cave open at both ends, and a 15-meter-high sandstone pillar known as the Devil's Heel (“Velna papēdis”). A well-maintained circular nature trail, taking about 45 minutes to explore, enhances the visitor experience. The site is equipped with visitor facilities, including picnic spots and information stands.

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