Sigulda town - Latvia's Switzerland

In this excursion, we get to know the history and natural beauty of Sigulda and Latvia in a short and focused way. The first stop is at the New Castle of Sigulda and the castle ruins of the Livonian Order. Then a short walk to Gutmanala (Goodman's Cave). This will be followed by a visit to Turaida Castle, which we will spend about an hour. before driving back to Riga, short stop at the Krimulda Palace and those who are interested in local drinks will be able to taste the drinks of the Cremon winery (by advanced request). More frequent questions from my tourists:
How far is Sigulda and Turaida Castles from Riga? About 50 km from Riga. Good road, guide and car makes driving shorter. On the way typical rural territories and forests, forests, forests.
How long is excursion? The classical one is about 5 hours totally.
Why to visit Sigulda city and Turaida Castle?
- Turaida museum reserve (wooden 18th century church, medieval castle, Folk song Park, Song Garden).
- Gutmana Cave, the most visited cave in the Baltic States, where you will hear the legend of the Rose of Turaida.
- Sigulda Castle, which was built in 1207 by crusaders as a “Castellum”- type fortress with a chapel.
- Sigulda New Castle, which was built for Grand Duke Kropotkin in the 19th century and is now the seat of the regional government.
- Sigulda Bobsleigh and Luge track.
Is it worth to visit Sigulda and Gauja National park in Winter? Yes, my answer is Yes, because every Season discovering something new. Four Seasons, four reasons to visit!
What is included in the price?
Comfortable, air conditioned car or minivan,
Guide service,
Entrance ticket to the Turaida Castle,
Sigulda New and Livonian Castle stories,
Children friendly guide,
Gutman's Cave visit,
Wood workshop visit in Sigulda.

This tour is recommended for those who like to enjoy life - the best enjoyed slowly. Combination of Sigulda for first time visitors tour including Sigulda New palace and Old Castle, Gutman"s Cave and Turaida Castle Museum with lunch at restaurant "Aparjods" or restaurant "Kungu Rija". Not always Michelin stars needed to be happy about the meals.
Recommended places for a Coffee break:
Mr.Biskvīts -  The story began ten years ago when a cosy tea room was founded. Traditions of tea, cake, gifts, and welcoming service in Sigulda. ` Mr. Biskvīts is a place that has become a favourite cafe for many Sigulda residents and guests of the city. The menu of Mr. Biskvīts has also soups, salads and the main dishes.
Doma Cafe - The cosy courtyard of Doma cafe and a combination of excellent coffee, tasty burritos, burgers, soups, salads and desserts make this place one of the most beloved by locals and guests from Riga.

Recommended places for a Lunch:
Aparjods - `Aparjods` has been operating in Sigulda since 1991 when a small tavern was opened in an authentic log cabin. It quickly became a popular destination outside of Riga. Over time, the pub has become a favourite restaurant with a special, unique atmosphere that not only offers delicious food but also a wide range of wines.
Kungu Rija - the restaurant’s chef tries to combine Latvian traditions with impressions of the world. `Kungu Rija` restaurant has always been among TOP 3 restaurants of Sigulda
Melnais Pipars (`Black Pepper`) – lovers of steaks and meat are thrilled because a grill bar `Melnais Pipars` has opened at the `Jāņa Tirgus` market in Sigulda. Enjoy a perfectly cooked steak of your choice on-site or buy it for home cooking. You can order strip fillet and entrecote as well as ribs, shashlik, and other types of meat. Everything is available fresh so you can host a BBQ party or order a well prepared to enjoy on-site.

Wineries for a wine tasting:
Krimulda (Cremon) Manor winery -  In Krimulda manor house the wine is made of local forest and garden berries - red bilberries, cranberries, raspberries, black currants, gooseberries, sea buckthorn berries, as well as from dandelion and lilac blooms.
Zilver winery - Zilver house wines are made from homegrown fruits and berries. You have the chance to visit the wine shop. Tasting is also available for groups.

If weather is good for hiking and You love Nature, this is an option. Gauja National park in Sigulda is popular hiking destination in Latvia. We are driving by car to Sigulda and that there is about 15-16 km walking tour in Gauja National park with beautiful for sandstone outcrops, ravines and creeks. We will visit the Krimulda Palace with a rest break in the "Milly" cafe, as well as visit the Sigulda Castle complex.
What is a price for this hiking trip?
Price depends of number of clients and stating from 50 eiro per person.
How long is this hiking tour?
Including transfer from and two Riga it is about 5-6 hours.
Why this hiking tour is so special?
Gauja River valley is natural and beautiful at any Season
No high hills or boring plain landscapes
Not fare from civilisation - towns and villages
Wild Nature - flora and fauna arround
Sendstone outcrops and caves
Value for Instagram pictures.

A stay of two or more days in Sigulda is recommended. You can book accommodation yourself through www.booking.com or www.airbnb.com. I will take you to Sigulda and introduce you to it, tell you where and what is better to see and enjoy, and after rest I will take you back to Riga. Recommended for Romantic breaks.
Why two or more days needed in Sigulda?

• Hiking forest trails of Gauja River valley and sandstone cliffs
• Exploring caves like Gutman's Cave
• Turaida Castle – a full complex with museums and gardens
• Krimulda Manor – quieter and less touristy
• Ride the Sigulda Cable car or Ziplining
• Try bobsleigh at the Sigulda Bobsleigh Track (unique experience!)
• Sky diving in Aerodium. (If Jackie Chan did it, You can as well)
• Play golf
• Discover Cesis city.

What is included in this package?

• Assistance with accommodation if needed
• Transfer to and from Sigulda
• Advise and assistance for attraction reservations and tickets.