In the Smiltene Municipality tourism calendar, August is designated as the month of Bilska Parish. To get to know the area better, we invite you to the “Bilska Sandwich” hike, taking place on August 16th.

Participants can choose between two routes of different lengths to discover the village’s stories and natural highlights. On both routes, walkers have the option to hike individually or join a group and listen to local tales.

The short loop covers 4 kilometers, leading through the streets of Bilska village and around the lake via a boardwalk, finally ending with a visit to a local beekeeper.

The long loop winds through the village streets before continuing along roads through meadows to the BeTRITON amphibious vehicle demo park in Zeltiņi. Along the way, hikers will hear stories about hillforts, sacred trees, and other unique locations. The route is 19 kilometers long.

The hike begins at 10:00 AM by Lake Bilska.

The event concludes with a picnic and campfire by the lakeshore. The recreation area features a barefoot path, a well-equipped beach with a pier, a gazebo, swings, and an obstacle course that the youngest participants will especially enjoy.

Advance registration is required for the hike. You can register via the online form at https://ej.uz/bilskas-sviestmaize or by calling or sending a message to +37129395200.

Prepared by: Rūta Brakovska, Tourism Coordinator, Business and Tourism Department