There are many hiking trails to choose from in Europe. Yet, there are not many places left in the Old World where nature still keeps much of its original, untouched beauty. Latvia is one of them. Hiking in Latvia is a great way to discover hidden nature gems.
Here are 5 reasons why hiking in Latvia will be the ultimate travel experience for every nature lover.
#1: Latvia Is One of the Greenest Countries in Europe
Latvia ranks among the top EU countries in forest coverage. More than half of the country is covered by forests. Latvia also has over 12,000 rivers and 3,000 lakes. Our bogs and wetlands are among the most untouched in Europe.
For nature lovers, hiking in Latvia means experiencing diverse natural landscapes that are still largely wild and preserved.
#2: Coastal Hiking in Latvia Is Breathtaking
The coastline of the Baltic Sea and the Gulf of Riga is one of the top reasons more hikers are discovering Latvia. Coastal hiking in Latvia offers sandy beaches, untouched nature, scenic views, fresh air, dunes, and lush pine forests.
The long-distance hiking trail “Jūrtaka” (Baltic Coastal Hiking Trail) is a must for coastal hikers. It’s more than 1,200 km (746 miles) long and stretches from the Latvian–Lithuanian border up to Tallinn, the capital of Estonia. The full trail takes about 60 days to complete. The best part? You can split it into 60 one-day hikes of around 20 km each and choose the ones that suit your time and interests.
Jūrtaka takes you through wild coastal areas, small fishing villages, and quiet beaches, offering a true off-the-beaten-path adventure. Find out more on the official site: Baltic Coastal Hiking.
Coastal hiking in Latvia is diverse and rewarding – perfect for both experienced hikers and curious beginners. Check out some of the most beautiful coastal hiking trails, or book a perfectly crafted intro coastal hiking tour not far from Riga with us to get started.
Ready for something even more adventurous? Discover the most beautiful sections for coastal hiking in Latvia by joining our small group or private tour to Cape Kolka or set off on a two- or three-day self-guided coastal hiking experience along the breathtaking western coastline.
#3: Forest Hiking in Latvia
One of the best ways to experience it is via the Baltic Forest Trail, or Mežtaka. This marked long-distance hiking route runs for about 1,060 km, connecting the forests of all three Baltic States in one amazing long-distance hiking experience. It’s part of the European hiking route E11 and is divided into about 50 daily sections, each roughly 20 km long. It connects forests, national parks, and cultural sites, including such famous natural gems as Gauja National Park and Ķemeri National Park. The trail is split into day hikes and is suitable for hikers of all levels. Check out more detailed information about this long-distance hiking trail here: Baltic Forest Hiking.
More than half of Latvia is forest, making it a top destination for forest hiking in Europe. These woodlands range from windswept coastal pine forests to dense inland oak and birch groves. Forest hiking in Latvia is peaceful, immersive, and full of natural surprises.
Still, Mežtaka isn’t your only option. Many great forest hikes can be found across all four national parks, in 42 nature parks, and in numerous other Natura 2000 areas. Popular forest trails are easily accessible in Gauja National Park, while lesser-known gems can be found in Ķemeri National Park, Rāzna National Park in Latgale, and the wild, remote Slītere National Park in Kurzeme.
Ready to start exploring Latvian forests? Book our most popular best of Gauja National Park tour or an even more immersive ultimate hiking experience in Gauja National Park.
#4: Explore Latvia’s Pristine Bogs and Wetlands
You haven’t truly experienced Latvia until you’ve explored its pristine bogs and wetlands. Raised bogs are rare across Europe but still thrive in Latvia and Estonia. Hiking in these areas reveals a landscape unlike any other.
Several beautiful bogs are just a short drive from Riga. The most popular are the Great Ķemeri Bog in Ķemeri National Park and Cena Mire Nature Reserve. Both are easily accessible thanks to wooden boardwalks—no special footwear needed. The Great Ķemeri Bog is the second-largest in Latvia, covering more than 6,000 hectares. Its vast, untouched landscape makes it one of the most impressive raised bog habitats you’ll see anywhere in the world.
Looking for more adventure? Try walking in the bog with special bog shoes. It’s a fun and unique experience you won’t forget! If you have more time, explore lesser-known bogs around the country. Great choices include Suda Mire in Gauja National Park, Tīrumnieku Mire in Latgale, Vasenieku Mire in Kurzeme, or the wild boglands of Slītere National Park and Ziemeļu Mire near the Latvian–Estonian border.
#5: Hiking in Latvia – Also Great in Riga & Jurmala
Riga is one of the greenest capital cities in Europe. The best place to hike here is Piejūra Nature Park (“Piejūra” means “seaside” in Latvian). The park features wild coastal trails, sandy beaches, pine forests, and historic spots.
Don’t miss Vakarbuļļi and Daugavgrīva beaches on the left bank of the Daugava River, or Mangaļsala and Vecāķi beaches on the right. These coastal spots are ideal for peaceful beach walks, scenic pine forest hikes, and even a touch of local history – all just a short ride from the city. You can easily explore them on your own or join a half-day hiking tour in Riga for a well-rounded experience.
In nearby Jūrmala, Latvia’s biggest seaside resort town, hiking trails blend seamlessly with wellness and culture. While known for its SPAs and hotels, Jūrmala also offers excellent trails through green pine forests and along the coast.
Summing-up
Latvia is an amazing off-the-beaten-path hiking destination. Hiking in Latvia gives you the chance to experience its pristine nature and enjoy authentic adventures away from tourist crowds.
It’s a healthy, safe, and fun way to discover secluded beaches, forests, bogs, and wild places – even in cities like Riga and Jurmala.
What do you think about hiking in Latvia? Would you try it? Leave a comment or write to us at info@balticnatureadventures.com. You can also book amazing hiking experiences in Latvia here.
