Get the best of both worlds in Latvia by combining a city break in Riga with a relaxing country holiday. Explore the Old Town of Riga on foot, taking in the fabulous architecture and trendy shops and restaurants.
Then head off to the country side and explore the forests, hills and rivers by boat, on horseback, foot or bike. Quietly paddle along on the Gauja River and you’ll come across beaver dams, sandstone cliffs and deer.
Package price from £435pp based on availability and two people sharing a twin or double room. Package includes:
- Direct flights from London to Riga
- Airport transfers in Riga
- 3 nights accommodation in centrally located 4* hotel in Riga such as the Gutenbergs
- 4 nights accommodation in 3* Hotel Kolonna in Cesis or Marciena Manor
Day 1 - Depart the UK and arrive at Riga airport. A private car will drive you to your four star hotel in the city centre, where you'll have a chance to do a bit of exploring in the Old Town.
Day 2 - Take a guided sightseeing tour of Riga (£50 for a private guide for 2 hours) and it’s wonderful Old Town and learn about the City's rich history. Take a break from history lessons and visit LIDO recreation centre – one of the biggest log buildings in Europe. It’s the place where Latvian culture and old cooking traditions go hand in hand. You’ll be able to enjoy traditional Latvian food and get a real taste of Latvia! There is also a special play area for kids.
Day 3 – Take the train from Riga and enjoy the scenery on your trip to Cesis, a beautiful, historic town located 55 miles from Riga or Madona (85 miles from Riga). Check in to your hotel or guest house. Rental cars or a private transfer by car can also be arranged.
Here are some suggested activities for your stay at Cesis. We can book most activities in advance for you, but if you want more flexibility, you can book most things through your hotel or the local tourist centre.
- Take a guided sightseeing walk in Cesis and visit the old stone castle of the Livonian Order, as well as the cathedral, castle park and many historic squares of the town. Enjoy the stories about the medieval history of the town.
- Enjoy horseback ridding on scenic trails for very affordable prices – 1 hour will cost you approximately £6.
- Take a guided raft trip down the Gauja River and view the scenic landscapes and unspoiled nature of the Gauja Valley.
- Take a guided walk through one of the many nature trails in Gauja National Park.
- Picnic in the flowery meadows or on the banks of the river.
Here are some suggested activities for your stay in Madona.
- Enjoy year round relaxation at Marciena Manor spa facilities and fitness hall. The spa classical chocolate as well as hot stone massages and face and body care procedures, which use only natural products or bio cosmetics
- Fishing on the lake of the manor (for guests of the manor only; on the lake of the manor – £3 / fish, which the cook will prepare for your lunch, on Arona River – free of charge. Rental of fishing-rods and hooks - £1)
- Golf range - hire of balls and clubs £2/hour
- Boating
- Bicycle rental (£3/hour)
- Tale country walks in the forests around the manor and also around the lakes, to the springs, to Arona, to Marciena Parish Centre, castle ruins and the Orthodox Church under restoration - maps available
Winter activities:
- Lighted ice skating rink
- Sledges
- Cross country skiing tracks in the forests of the manor, about 2 miles;
- Ski hire for cross country and downhill skiing.
- Lighted cross country track near Madona (7 miles);
- Lighted downhill skiing with equipment hire at Gaizinkalns and Lido Hill
Day 7 – Return to Riga by train (or private car) and check in to a centrally located four star hotel. Evening in Riga at your leisure.
Day 8 – Private transfer to Riga airport and depart for UK