Kurzeme, Latvia

Kurzeme, a region in Latvia, is a place where the past and present blend seamlessly. Known for its pristine landscapes and vibrant culture, Kurzeme offers a unique experience for every visitor.

Kurzeme’s diverse natural beauty is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The region boasts expansive forests, tranquil rivers, and a stunning coastline along the Baltic Sea. For those who love water activities, the coast provides excellent opportunities for sailing, windsurfing, and hiking. Inland, the lush forests and serene rivers are perfect for kayaking, fishing, and nature walks. One of the highlights is the Slītere National Park, renowned for its rich biodiversity and picturesque trails.

The cultural heritage of Kurzeme is as rich as its natural beauty. The region is dotted with charming villages and historical sites. The town of Kuldīga is famous for its medieval architecture and the breathtaking Venta Rapid, Europe’s widest waterfall. Ventspils, another significant town, offers a blend of history and modernity, featuring a well-preserved medieval castle and contemporary attractions like the Seaside Open-Air Museum.

Visitors to Kurzeme can immerse themselves in the local culture through various unique experiences. Traditional Latvian festivals, such as Jāņi (Midsummer), are celebrated with great enthusiasm, offering a glimpse into the region’s vibrant traditions. The local cuisine, featuring fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, provides a culinary journey through the flavors of Latvia. From smoked fish to hearty stews, the food in Kurzeme is a reflection of its rich agricultural heritage.

For the food lover there are plenty of opportunities to spoil your tastebuds year round with restaurants from fine dining to homestay experiences. The focus is on local ingredients with fish and seasonal vegetables being staples in the archipelago cuisine.

Kurzeme is rich with important cultural and historical areas and unique architecture and art monuments. The region is characterized by ancient ethnographic territories such as Bārta, Nīca, Rucava, and Alsunga, known for their rich non-material cultural heritage. These areas are well-known and highly evaluated not only in Latvia but also worldwide, with many included in UNESCO’s World Heritage Latvia national list. Popular tourist sites include the Abava River Valley, diverse seaside areas, Cape Kolka, Lake Usma, the cities of Ventspils and Liepāja, Venta Waterfall, the old town of Kuldīga, and the impressive military heritage site of the Irbene radio telescope. Natural and scenic values are found in nature parks like Talsi Hills, Riežupe, Embūte Hills, Lake Engure, Pape Nature Park, Bernāti, and Slītere National Park, which are also popular destinations for travelers.

Located in the western part of Latvia, Kurzeme has a 365 km long Baltic Sea and Riga Bay coastline with big and small ports, sandy beaches, steep coasts, protected dunes, and picturesque fishermen villages and towns. In the south, the region borders the Lithuanian historical cultural region Žemaitija, and in the east, it borders the Zemgale and Riga planning regions. The furthest point of Kurzeme is Cape Kolka, included in the Slītere National Park area.

Kurzeme is a year-round destination. In summer, the long, sunny days are perfect for exploring the outdoors. Autumn brings a riot of colors as the forests turn golden, making it an ideal time for hiking and mushroom picking. Winter transforms Kurzeme into a snowy wonderland, perfect for cross-country skiing and cozying up by the fire in a traditional guesthouse. Spring breathes new life into the region, with blooming flowers and budding trees heralding the start of a new season.

Kurzeme is a region that captivates with its natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Whether you’re seeking adventure, tranquility, or a cultural journey, Kurzeme has something to offer. Welcome to Kurzeme, where every visit is a new story waiting to be told.