The Baltic region is a treasure trove of hidden gems that are just waiting to be discovered. It is characterized by its untouched forests, tranquil lakes, and vast historical heritage. The flexibility to explore these off-the-beaten-path areas is unrivaled for those with an adventurous spirit who are traveling in a campervan. Here are five places that you absolutely must go to if you want to have a summer in the Baltic to remember. With our campervan rental, you can visit all these places in couple of days.
The Curonian Spit: A Natural and Cultural Marvel
Discover the Curonian Spit, a breathtaking 98-kilometer-long sand-dune peninsula that stands as a testament to nature’s grandeur and human perseverance. With its dynamic landscapes and rich history, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers a unique blend of ecological diversity and cultural heritage.
Embracing the Beauty of the Spit
Experience the Parnidis Dune with its stunning views, explore ancient forests, relax on secluded beaches, and witness the awe-inspiring bird migration paths. The Curonian Spit is not just a destination; it’s a living landscape that invites campervan adventurers to connect deeply with the Baltic’s natural and historical tapestry.
Gauja National Park: Latvia’s Natural Sanctuary
Explore the Gauja National Park, Latvia’s largest and oldest national park, renowned for its spectacular sandstone outcrops, diverse wildlife, and rich historical tapestry. Spanning over 90,000 hectares, this natural sanctuary offers a picturesque landscape that includes the stunning Gauja River Valley, perfect for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
Journey Through Time and Nature
Delve into the heart of Latvia’s natural beauty with a visit to the Gauja National Park. With over 500 cultural and historical monuments, including medieval castles, manor houses, and ancient settlements, the park is a living museum set amidst a lush backdrop of forests, cliffs, and caves. It’s an ideal destination for campervan travelers seeking a blend of adventure and tranquility.
Soomaa National Park, Estonia
The ‘Land of Bogs’: A Journey Through the Terrain
One of the most spectacular natural wonders in Estonia is Soomaa National Park, which is famous for the immense peat bogs and floodplain grasslands that it contains. The park is home to a wide range of vegetation and animals, including a number of bird species that are not commonly found elsewhere. Guests get the opportunity to explore the park’s five huge bogs by means of boardwalks that wind their way through the wetland areas, providing them with a fresh viewpoint on this vulnerable ecology.
Taking Advantage of the ‘Fifth Season’
A trip to Soomaa during the springtime flood, sometimes referred to as the “fifth season” in the local language, is among the most spectacular times to visit the town. The occurrence of this natural phenomenon takes place as the snow melts and the waterways rise, resulting in the flooding of the meadows and woodlands. Being able to paddle through the submerged terrain is a magical experience that can be had during this time of year, which is an ideal time for canoeing.
Hiiumaa Island, Estonia
Lighthouses and Local Legends on the Island of Hiiumaa in Estonia
On Hiiumaa Island, you will find a spot that exudes a timeless charm and peacefulness. The lighthouses on the island, including the famous Kõpu Lighthouse, serve not only as navigating aids but also as fabled landmarks that are steeped in tradition. Visitors have the opportunity to climb the lighthouses, which offer breathtaking vistas, or visit the nature reserves that are located in the surrounding area, which are ideal for birdwatching and trekking.
Beaches and the quiet of the Baltic Sea
Many of the beaches on the island are considered to be among the most peaceful and quiet in the Baltic region. Kassari and Tõrvanina Beach, which are characterized by their expansive stretches of white sand and crystal clear waters, provide a serene and tranquil refuge. The natural beauty of the island, combined with the island’s moderate pace of life, makes it a great location for rest and introspection.
Rundāle Palace, Latvia
Baroque Splendor in the Baltics
The Rundāle Palace is a magnificent embodiment of baroque architecture, and it is widely regarded as one of the most stunning palaces anywhere in Latvia. Francesco Bartolomeo Rastrelli, a well-known Italian architect, was responsible for the design of the palace, which is characterized by its elaborate stucco embellishments, sumptuous tapestries, and a collection of contemporary art from the 18th century. Insights into the lives of the Latvian aristocracy can be gained through the museum that is on the palace grounds.
A Garden of Royal Elegance and Reputation
In addition to decorative parterres, sculpted hedges, and a wide range of flowering plants, the palace is encircled by a magnificent garden designed in the French style. The Rose Garden, which contains more than 2,400 roses, serves as the focal point of the backyard garden. As a result of the grandeur of the garden, which compliments the elegance of the palace, it is an essential destination for any tourist.
