The Smiltene Municipality Tourism Information Centre invites you to enjoy the last beautiful days of summer in Smiltene Municipality and choose one of our destinations before school starts again.
Choose Smiltene for fun and entertainment, Ape for nature and outdoor adventures, or Rauna for history and heritage.
There is still time for one more summer adventure!

Smiltene as a destination for fun and entertainment

Family ride on the “Līvens” electric vehicle – enjoy an educational and entertaining ride aboard the “Līvens” electric vehicle. Discover the charming town and its history as you travel through the Old Park, the Kalnamuiža area, the Teperis promenade and other scenic spots.
The ride costs €7 per person. Reservations by phone: +371 29779224. The electric vehicle does not operate in rainy weather.

Outdoor equipment rental “Annes Laivas” – right on the shore of Lake Teperis, you can enjoy a ride on a SUP board, pedal boat or rowing boat. Electric bicycles, pedal go-karts and other recreational equipment are also available for rent.

Go-karting at the “Teperis” Sports and Recreation Complex – enjoy an exciting ride on the Smiltene go-kart track! Go-karts for adults and children, as well as two-seater go-karts, are available.
Rides are available from Thursday to Sunday. See the available ride times here.

Smiltene Bowling – located on the second floor of the “Centrs” shopping centre, the bowling alley offers four lanes, including bumpers for children. You can also enjoy a meal at the nearby “Pasēdnīca” café/bistro.

“Smiltiņš” Active Recreation Park – visitors can have fun on slides, swings, in the sandbox, on trampolines, the zip line, and various climbing and physical activity elements. You can also test your cycling skills on the pump track. Wearing a helmet is mandatory.

Picnic and relaxation by Lake Niedrājs – if you would like to get closer to nature after enjoying the town’s attractions, head just a few kilometres outside Smiltene for a walk along Lake Niedrājs, where several well-equipped picnic and recreation areas are available.
Children will especially enjoy a refreshing summer swim in the clear lake water and playing in the wooden playhouse.

“Zebra” Pizzeria – in addition to delicious pizzas, snacks and drinks, you can also enjoy a variety of fun games, including air hockey and a driving simulator.

“El Bodegon” café/shop – enjoy a delicious coffee or cocktail and browse a selection of local and international sweets and gifts. Here’s a little secret: this cosy shop is especially popular with local schoolchildren.

“Kalbakas” Country House – the building was constructed in the 18th century, following the building traditions of the time. Here you can enjoy the peace and tranquillity of the countryside, relax in a fragrant sauna, taste seasonal treats from nature, and meet the farm animals.
For larger groups of at least 10 people, the educational and entertaining programme “A River of Milk with Pancake Banks” is also available. In a fun and playful way, visitors learn about traditional milk processing in the countryside and then make and enjoy pancakes together.

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Ape as a nature destination

Vaidava Nature Trail – a 1.5-kilometre nature trail winds along the banks of the Vaidava River and is suitable for both adults and children. Along the trail, you will find various activities and informative displays. On the way, you can see the Witches’ Cliffs, as well as the Health Spring and Eye Spring. Several picnic and campfire areas are also available.

Raganu Cliffs – the 8–10-metre-high Witches’ Cliffs rise along the banks of the Vaidava River and are surrounded by various legends and local stories. Picnic tables and benches are available near the cliffs, as well as a designated campfire area.

Outdoor installation “Climb Up and Jump into the Vaidava Cup” – this colourful installation is dedicated to motorsport and the people of Ape. It invites everyone to climb onto the motorcycle and imagine themselves as a real motocross rider.

“Krodziņš” Café – “Krodziņš” Café – this cosy café offers a great selection of dishes. There is also a children’s play corner, and during the summer season guests can enjoy the outdoor terrace.

“Kalnarušķi” Guest House – located in a peaceful rural setting, the guest house offers five different cottages. Guests can enjoy well-equipped swimming and picnic areas, excellent fishing opportunities, a sauna, and the chance to see rabbits and sheep.

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Rauna as a history destination

Rauna Castle Ruins and Viewing Tower – built in the 14th century, Rauna Castle has some of the best-preserved castle ruins in Latvia. A viewing tower has been installed here, offering panoramic views over Rauna. The tower also features interactive exhibition displays and information panels.
The viewing tower is open from 8.00 to 19.00, while the castle ruins and surrounding area can be visited at any time. At the foot of the castle, visitors can also explore the Castle History Trail and an interactive educational trail.

Rauna Nature Trail – the 2-kilometre-long Rauna Nature Trail follows both the right and left banks of the Rauna River. Along the way, visitors can discover a variety of natural attractions as well as several reminders of Rauna’s local history. Along the trail, you will see Tanīsa Hill, Rauna Devil’s Cave, Rauna Mill and the hydroelectric power station. Younger visitors will also enjoy various physical activity elements along the way.

Rauna Staburags – just outside Rauna lies this unique freshwater limestone formation. Since the flooding of the Daugava Staburags in 1966, it has been the only natural monument of its kind in Latvia.

Cheese and Pasta Factory – be sure to stop by the self-service shop at the “Cheese and Pasta Factory” to pick up some delicious homemade pasta, noodles, cheeses or ghee.

“Leilas gardumi” Café – open on Tuesdays, Saturdays and Sundays, this café offers both warm meals and a variety of sweet treats, including macarons, cupcakes and more. You can also book hands–on workshops in making pizza, pasta and cupcakes.

“Puskalni” Holiday House – this recreation spot is located close to the centre of Rauna. Guests can swim in the pond, enjoy the water slide and go fishing. A hot tub and a designated campfire area are also available.

See you in Smiltene Municipality!

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Written by: Linda Kļava, Tourism Specialist at the Entrepreneurship and Tourism Department.