Estonia · Latvia · Lithuania

Baltic States - Hiking on the Curonian Spit and in national parks

13 days · Group · from €2,799.00
‹ Adventure Europe
Duration
13 days
Start/End
Vilnius/Tallinn
Tour type
Group
Accommodation
Hotels
Price from · per person
€2,799.00
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Price from · per person
€2,799.00
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Baltic States - Hiking on the Curonian Spit and in national parks

Duration

13 days

Start/End

Vilnius/Tallinn

Tour type

Group

Level

Simple

Accommodation

Hotels

Overview

On this hiking trip you get to know Baltic nature: dune landscapes, lakes and natural rivers, pine and birch forests and the wild Baltic coast. You hike on the Curonian Spit, in several nature parks, in the Amata valley of Gauja National Park and through the Viru bog in Lahemaa National Park.

On this 13-day hiking trip, you'll discover the unique natural beauty of the Baltic region: breathtaking dune landscapes, picturesque lakes and pristine rivers, fragrant pine and birch forests, and the rugged Baltic coast. You'll hike in Varnikai Nature Park, Pajūris Nature Park, on the Curonian Spit, in Pape Nature Park, in Gauja National Park (Amata Valley and Ērgļu Rock), and in Lahemaa National Park on the Beaver Trail and through the Viru Bog. The trip also includes visits to the traditional seaside resorts of Palanga, Liepāja, and Jūrmala, as well as the three capital cities of Vilnius, Riga, and Tallinn.

Hiking
Culture
Round trip

Tour Code

LTVNO008

Tour language

GermanGerman

Itinerary

  • Day 1
    Germany – Vilnius

    You're flying to Vilnius. From the airport, you'll take public transport to your hotel; you can book an optional transfer if needed. Arrive relaxed and get ready for your trip. 2 nights in Vilnius.

    Germany – Vilnius

    Day 1

    You're flying to Vilnius. From the airport, you'll take public transport to your hotel; you can book an optional transfer if needed. Arrive relaxed and get ready for your trip. 2 nights in Vilnius.

  • Day 2
    Vilnius

    Today the program begins. At 9:00 a.m., you will meet your tour guide and fellow travelers at reception. Afterwards, you will be captivated by Vilnius' Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its narrow streets. A guided tour will introduce you to the most important architectural monuments: the Gate of Dawn, a city gate since the 16th century and now a place of pilgrimage; Pilies Street with its architectural monuments from the 16th to 18th centuries; the University, one of the oldest in Eastern Europe; and the Gothic St. Anne's Church. During the lunch break, you can sample traditional Lithuanian dishes at a local restaurant. On a hike through Varnikai Nature Park, you'll experience a stunning landscape of lakes and bogs (easy, 3.5 km, walking time approx. 1–1.5 hours, +/- 10 meters elevation gain/loss). In Trakai, a short walking tour will teach you more about the history of the Karaite people. The only island castle in Eastern Europe is one of the most photographed castles in the country and is considered a national treasure. Afterwards, you'll admire the 14th-century red island castle from the water during a relaxing boat trip and sample the regional specialty, Kibinai, with broth. (B/L) (Distance traveled: approx. 30 km; travel time: approx. 30 min.)

    Vilnius

    Day 2

    Today the program begins. At 9:00 a.m., you will meet your tour guide and fellow travelers at reception. Afterwards, you will be captivated by Vilnius' Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its narrow streets. A guided tour will introduce you to the most important architectural monuments: the Gate of Dawn, a city gate since the 16th century and now a place of pilgrimage; Pilies Street with its architectural monuments from the 16th to 18th centuries; the University, one of the oldest in Eastern Europe; and the Gothic St. Anne's Church. During the lunch break, you can sample traditional Lithuanian dishes at a local restaurant. On a hike through Varnikai Nature Park, you'll experience a stunning landscape of lakes and bogs (easy, 3.5 km, walking time approx. 1–1.5 hours, +/- 10 meters elevation gain/loss). In Trakai, a short walking tour will teach you more about the history of the Karaite people. The only island castle in Eastern Europe is one of the most photographed castles in the country and is considered a national treasure. Afterwards, you'll admire the 14th-century red island castle from the water during a relaxing boat trip and sample the regional specialty, Kibinai, with broth. (B/L) (Distance traveled: approx. 30 km; travel time: approx. 30 min.)

  • Day 3
    Vilnius – Klaipėda – Seaside Nature Park

    hike

    After breakfast, you'll travel to Klaipėda, the country's only port city. The old town is characterized by cobblestone streets, charming squares, historic churches, and remnants of the old city walls. You'll stroll through the historic center of this former fishing village with its pretty half-timbered houses and the beautiful theater. In the afternoon, you'll hike along the cliffs in Pajūris Nature Park, accompanied by fragrant pine trees (easy, 4 km, approx. 1.5 hours, +/- 50 m elevation gain/loss). 2 nights in Klaipėda. (B) (Distance traveled: approx. 315 km; travel time: approx. 3.5 hours)

    Vilnius – Klaipėda – Seaside Nature Park

    Day 3

    hike

    After breakfast, you'll travel to Klaipėda, the country's only port city. The old town is characterized by cobblestone streets, charming squares, historic churches, and remnants of the old city walls. You'll stroll through the historic center of this former fishing village with its pretty half-timbered houses and the beautiful theater. In the afternoon, you'll hike along the cliffs in Pajūris Nature Park, accompanied by fragrant pine trees (easy, 4 km, approx. 1.5 hours, +/- 50 m elevation gain/loss). 2 nights in Klaipėda. (B) (Distance traveled: approx. 315 km; travel time: approx. 3.5 hours)

  • Day 4
    Juodkrante – Nida

    The Curonian Spit, which separates the Curonian Lagoon from the Baltic Sea, will enchant you today with its scenic beauty and the picturesque fishing and artists' village of Nida. From Klaipėda, you'll cross to the Curonian Spit, whose towering dunes have earned it UNESCO World Heritage status. You'll visit the village of Juodkrantė, one of the oldest settlements on the Spit, first mentioned in the 15th century, as well as the mystical Hill of Witches. Since 1979, over 80 wooden statues of Lithuanian legends and fairy tale characters have stood atop this hill. Afterwards, you'll hike up to the spectacular "Dead Dune" in the Nagliai Nature Reserve, the longest dune in Lithuania (easy, approx. 1.8 km, approx. 1 hour, +/- 50 m elevation gain/loss). Afterwards, you'll stroll through Nida with its streets lined with colorful wooden houses and visit the Thomas Mann House, the writer's former holiday home, now a museum about his life. Then you'll hike up the steps to the top of the Parnidis Dune, one of the highest sand dunes in Europe, and enjoy the unique view of the "High Dune" and the Curonian Spit. You'll return to Klaipėda in the evening. (F) (Distance traveled: approx. 100 km; travel time: approx. 3 hours)

    Juodkrante – Nida

    Day 4

    The Curonian Spit, which separates the Curonian Lagoon from the Baltic Sea, will enchant you today with its scenic beauty and the picturesque fishing and artists' village of Nida. From Klaipėda, you'll cross to the Curonian Spit, whose towering dunes have earned it UNESCO World Heritage status. You'll visit the village of Juodkrantė, one of the oldest settlements on the Spit, first mentioned in the 15th century, as well as the mystical Hill of Witches. Since 1979, over 80 wooden statues of Lithuanian legends and fairy tale characters have stood atop this hill. Afterwards, you'll hike up to the spectacular "Dead Dune" in the Nagliai Nature Reserve, the longest dune in Lithuania (easy, approx. 1.8 km, approx. 1 hour, +/- 50 m elevation gain/loss). Afterwards, you'll stroll through Nida with its streets lined with colorful wooden houses and visit the Thomas Mann House, the writer's former holiday home, now a museum about his life. Then you'll hike up the steps to the top of the Parnidis Dune, one of the highest sand dunes in Europe, and enjoy the unique view of the "High Dune" and the Curonian Spit. You'll return to Klaipėda in the evening. (F) (Distance traveled: approx. 100 km; travel time: approx. 3 hours)

  • Day 5
    Klaipėda – Palanga – Pape Nature Park – Liepaja

    hike

    In the morning you stroll through the spa town of Palanga, which entices visitors with its 8 km long beach and small, green town center with villas and spa buildings. The route then takes you across the border into Latvia, where you'll enjoy an afternoon hike through Pape Nature Park. You'll walk through pristine forests and pastures. The park is home to a rich diversity of flora and fauna, which you'll discover during a visit to a reserve for wild horses and aurochs (easy, 2–3 km, approx. 1 hour, flat). At a suitable spot, a small picnic lunch with local specialties, provided by your guide, awaits you. You will spend the night in the port city of Liepāja. (F/P) (Distance traveled: approx. 200 km; travel time: approx. 3.5 hours)

    Klaipėda – Palanga – Pape Nature Park – Liepaja

    Day 5

    hike

    In the morning you stroll through the spa town of Palanga, which entices visitors with its 8 km long beach and small, green town center with villas and spa buildings. The route then takes you across the border into Latvia, where you'll enjoy an afternoon hike through Pape Nature Park. You'll walk through pristine forests and pastures. The park is home to a rich diversity of flora and fauna, which you'll discover during a visit to a reserve for wild horses and aurochs (easy, 2–3 km, approx. 1 hour, flat). At a suitable spot, a small picnic lunch with local specialties, provided by your guide, awaits you. You will spend the night in the port city of Liepāja. (F/P) (Distance traveled: approx. 200 km; travel time: approx. 3.5 hours)

  • Day 6
    Liepaja – Jurmala – Riga

    Liepāja, along with Ventspils, is the only Latvian city located directly on the open sea. It stretches for 20 km along the Baltic coast, but is remarkably narrow, only 2 to 4 kilometers wide. A city tour will take you through the historic center with its wooden houses and the Rose Square adorned with colorful flowerbeds. You'll stroll through the large beach park and then through the Karosta district. The magnificent St. Nicholas Naval Cathedral, with its golden onion domes and richly decorated interior, is sure to impress – a vibrant contrast to the neighboring apartment blocks. On your journey, you'll stop in Kuldīga, a small town with historic architecture, half-timbered houses, and old mills. Here you can also catch a glimpse of the widest waterfall in Europe. Afterwards, you'll continue to the resort town of Jūrmala, which consists of several interconnected villages right on the sea and is characterized by a long sandy beach and a mix of magnificent villas and simple houses. You will reach Riga in the evening, where you will spend the next two nights. (F) (Distance traveled: approx. 230 km; travel time: approx. 3 hours)

    Liepaja – Jurmala – Riga

    Day 6

    Liepāja, along with Ventspils, is the only Latvian city located directly on the open sea. It stretches for 20 km along the Baltic coast, but is remarkably narrow, only 2 to 4 kilometers wide. A city tour will take you through the historic center with its wooden houses and the Rose Square adorned with colorful flowerbeds. You'll stroll through the large beach park and then through the Karosta district. The magnificent St. Nicholas Naval Cathedral, with its golden onion domes and richly decorated interior, is sure to impress – a vibrant contrast to the neighboring apartment blocks. On your journey, you'll stop in Kuldīga, a small town with historic architecture, half-timbered houses, and old mills. Here you can also catch a glimpse of the widest waterfall in Europe. Afterwards, you'll continue to the resort town of Jūrmala, which consists of several interconnected villages right on the sea and is characterized by a long sandy beach and a mix of magnificent villas and simple houses. You will reach Riga in the evening, where you will spend the next two nights. (F) (Distance traveled: approx. 230 km; travel time: approx. 3 hours)

  • Day 7
    Anticipate

    Discover the vibrant city on the banks of the Daugava River today. With an expert guide, you'll explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town, with its charming artisan streets and the impressive House of the Blackheads. You'll admire the famous Cathedral (exterior view only) and the Town Hall Square with its magnificent buildings. Afterwards, you'll visit the Central Market, the largest centrally located market in Eastern Europe, not far from the Old Town. In five enormous halls, former Zeppelin hangars, a wide variety of local products are offered. An included tasting allows you to sample typical Latvian specialties: various cheeses, pickled vegetables, regional fish delicacies, and smoked meats. In the afternoon, you can explore Riga on your own: for example, the Museum of City History and Maritime Affairs, the oldest museum in the Baltics, one of the beautiful parks in this green city, or a café where you can watch the hustle and bustle. The Art Nouveau district is particularly recommended. You can end your free evening in a traditional restaurant in the Old Town. (F/S)

    Anticipate

    Day 7

    Discover the vibrant city on the banks of the Daugava River today. With an expert guide, you'll explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town, with its charming artisan streets and the impressive House of the Blackheads. You'll admire the famous Cathedral (exterior view only) and the Town Hall Square with its magnificent buildings. Afterwards, you'll visit the Central Market, the largest centrally located market in Eastern Europe, not far from the Old Town. In five enormous halls, former Zeppelin hangars, a wide variety of local products are offered. An included tasting allows you to sample typical Latvian specialties: various cheeses, pickled vegetables, regional fish delicacies, and smoked meats. In the afternoon, you can explore Riga on your own: for example, the Museum of City History and Maritime Affairs, the oldest museum in the Baltics, one of the beautiful parks in this green city, or a café where you can watch the hustle and bustle. The Art Nouveau district is particularly recommended. You can end your free evening in a traditional restaurant in the Old Town. (F/S)

  • Day 8
    Riga – Gauja National Park – Cēsis

    hike

    Gauja National Park, often called the "Latvian Switzerland," entices visitors with its deeply carved glacial valleys through which the Gauja River meanders. Here you can enjoy a leisurely hike along densely wooded hills, golden sandstone cliffs, and ancient oak trees (easy, 6 km, approx. 2 hours, +/- 50 m elevation gain/loss). From Paradise Hill, you'll have a breathtaking view of the valley and Turaida Castle, which you'll visit afterward. It rises high above the river, and from its observation tower, you can enjoy a stunning panoramic view. The route then takes you to the old Hanseatic city of Cēsis in the highlands of the national park. During a walking tour, you'll be impressed by the traditional wooden houses. 2 nights in Cēsis. (B) (Distance traveled: approx. 110 km; travel time: approx. 2 hours)

    Riga – Gauja National Park – Cēsis

    Day 8

    hike

    Gauja National Park, often called the "Latvian Switzerland," entices visitors with its deeply carved glacial valleys through which the Gauja River meanders. Here you can enjoy a leisurely hike along densely wooded hills, golden sandstone cliffs, and ancient oak trees (easy, 6 km, approx. 2 hours, +/- 50 m elevation gain/loss). From Paradise Hill, you'll have a breathtaking view of the valley and Turaida Castle, which you'll visit afterward. It rises high above the river, and from its observation tower, you can enjoy a stunning panoramic view. The route then takes you to the old Hanseatic city of Cēsis in the highlands of the national park. During a walking tour, you'll be impressed by the traditional wooden houses. 2 nights in Cēsis. (B) (Distance traveled: approx. 110 km; travel time: approx. 2 hours)

  • Day 9
    Cesis

    hike

    The day begins with a hike along a nature trail by the Amata, one of the fastest and cleanest tributaries of the Gauja. Enjoy the views of the hilly landscape with its numerous grottos and caves in the largest national park in all the Baltic countries (easy, 4 km, approx. 1 hour, +/- 50 meters elevation gain/loss). Afterwards, you'll visit a sandstone cave in Līgatne. Here, a winemaking family will explain everything you need to know about the production of the local wine – and of course, a tasting is included. In the afternoon, you'll return to Cēsis. (F) (Distance traveled: approx. 110 km; travel time: approx. 2 hours)

    Cesis

    Day 9

    hike

    The day begins with a hike along a nature trail by the Amata, one of the fastest and cleanest tributaries of the Gauja. Enjoy the views of the hilly landscape with its numerous grottos and caves in the largest national park in all the Baltic countries (easy, 4 km, approx. 1 hour, +/- 50 meters elevation gain/loss). Afterwards, you'll visit a sandstone cave in Līgatne. Here, a winemaking family will explain everything you need to know about the production of the local wine – and of course, a tasting is included. In the afternoon, you'll return to Cēsis. (F) (Distance traveled: approx. 110 km; travel time: approx. 2 hours)

  • Day 10
    Cēsis – Gauja National Park – Tallinn

    Today you'll hike along the Ērgļu Cliffs, the most monolithic sandstone cliff in the Baltics, approximately 700 meters long and 22 meters high. It is considered one of the most significant natural features of Gauja National Park. Ērgļu means "organ": according to an old legend, the echoing sounds from the cliffs are said to be as loud as organ music. Enjoy the magnificent view of the Gauja River valley and listen to stories about the local flora and fauna (easy, 2.3 km, approx. 1 hour, +/- 200 m elevation gain/loss). After crossing the border into Estonia, you'll reach Tartu, the country's second-largest city and its intellectual center. For a break, you'll visit one of your tour guide's favorite cafés – your choice of coffee is on us. Before departure, you'll have time to stroll through the city on your own and pick up some provisions. You will reach Tallinn in the evening, where you will stay for three nights. (F) (Distance traveled: approx. 353 km; travel time: approx. 4.5 hours)

    Cēsis – Gauja National Park – Tallinn

    Day 10

    Today you'll hike along the Ērgļu Cliffs, the most monolithic sandstone cliff in the Baltics, approximately 700 meters long and 22 meters high. It is considered one of the most significant natural features of Gauja National Park. Ērgļu means "organ": according to an old legend, the echoing sounds from the cliffs are said to be as loud as organ music. Enjoy the magnificent view of the Gauja River valley and listen to stories about the local flora and fauna (easy, 2.3 km, approx. 1 hour, +/- 200 m elevation gain/loss). After crossing the border into Estonia, you'll reach Tartu, the country's second-largest city and its intellectual center. For a break, you'll visit one of your tour guide's favorite cafés – your choice of coffee is on us. Before departure, you'll have time to stroll through the city on your own and pick up some provisions. You will reach Tallinn in the evening, where you will stay for three nights. (F) (Distance traveled: approx. 353 km; travel time: approx. 4.5 hours)

  • Day 11
    Tallinn

    Today, under expert guidance, you will experience the unique beauty of Tallinn's medieval Old Town (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) for yourself. The completely preserved city walls, Toompea Castle, which houses the Estonian Parliament, the old cathedral (exterior view only), and the Town Hall Square with its impressive buildings will captivate you. Afterwards, you can explore the city on your own, especially the Kalamaja district with its artistic atmosphere, colorful wooden houses, and vibrant cultural scene. Start in Telliskivi Creative City, a former industrial area and now a center for creativity, design, and culture with shops, galleries, cafes, and studios – the street art is particularly worth seeing. Balti Jaama Turg is also worth a visit: fresh produce, local specialties, and handmade artwork. (F)

    Tallinn

    Day 11

    Today, under expert guidance, you will experience the unique beauty of Tallinn's medieval Old Town (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) for yourself. The completely preserved city walls, Toompea Castle, which houses the Estonian Parliament, the old cathedral (exterior view only), and the Town Hall Square with its impressive buildings will captivate you. Afterwards, you can explore the city on your own, especially the Kalamaja district with its artistic atmosphere, colorful wooden houses, and vibrant cultural scene. Start in Telliskivi Creative City, a former industrial area and now a center for creativity, design, and culture with shops, galleries, cafes, and studios – the street art is particularly worth seeing. Balti Jaama Turg is also worth a visit: fresh produce, local specialties, and handmade artwork. (F)

  • Day 12
    Lahemaa National Park

    hike

    Lahemaa National Park in the north of the country boasts immense biodiversity with over 200 bird species and around 900 plant species. Hike along the "Beaver Trail" to the 400-year-old fishing village of Altja, built in the typical style of northern Estonia – you might even be lucky enough to spot a beaver (easy, 6 km, approx. 2 hours, +/- 50 m elevation gain/loss). In Altja, all the houses are lined up along a single village street, and there are also two typical coastal farms to see. Afterwards, you'll take a second short hike through the Viru raised bog. Along sturdy wooden boardwalks, you'll discover moor and marsh landscapes, and from the observation tower you can enjoy a fantastic view over the surrounding countryside (easy, 3.5 km, approx. 1 hour, no elevation gain). Afterwards, you'll return to Tallinn. To conclude your trip, you'll visit a local restaurant in the evening and reminisce about your journey over a memorable farewell dinner. (B/L/D) (Distance traveled: approx. 185 km; travel time: approx. 2.5 hours)

    Lahemaa National Park

    Day 12

    hike

    Lahemaa National Park in the north of the country boasts immense biodiversity with over 200 bird species and around 900 plant species. Hike along the "Beaver Trail" to the 400-year-old fishing village of Altja, built in the typical style of northern Estonia – you might even be lucky enough to spot a beaver (easy, 6 km, approx. 2 hours, +/- 50 m elevation gain/loss). In Altja, all the houses are lined up along a single village street, and there are also two typical coastal farms to see. Afterwards, you'll take a second short hike through the Viru raised bog. Along sturdy wooden boardwalks, you'll discover moor and marsh landscapes, and from the observation tower you can enjoy a fantastic view over the surrounding countryside (easy, 3.5 km, approx. 1 hour, no elevation gain). Afterwards, you'll return to Tallinn. To conclude your trip, you'll visit a local restaurant in the evening and reminisce about your journey over a memorable farewell dinner. (B/L/D) (Distance traveled: approx. 185 km; travel time: approx. 2.5 hours)

  • Day 13
    Tallinn – Germany

    You'll travel to Tallinn Airport by public transport; an optional transfer can be booked if needed. Then, return flight to Germany. (F)

    Tallinn – Germany

    Day 13

    You'll travel to Tallinn Airport by public transport; an optional transfer can be booked if needed. Then, return flight to Germany. (F)

Price

€2,799.00

Phone: +43 512 209071

Services

What's included

  • Economy flight to Vilnius (VNO) and return from Tallinn (TLL), subject to availability; flight surcharge may apply.

  • 12 nights in a double room with bath or shower/toilet

  • Daily breakfast (F), 2x snack (S), 1x picnic (P), 1x dinner (A)

  • Transport in air-conditioned vehicles and by public ferry

  • German-speaking, local tour guide and additional local guest guide in several cities

  • Entrance fees and national park fees

  • Varied hikes in unspoiled nature

  • Wine tasting in a sandstone cave

  • Environmental protection fee Curonian Spit

  • Climate protection contribution

  • Small group with a maximum of 16 guests

  • Guaranteed departure with a minimum of 6 guests

What's not included

  • Travel insurance (we are happy to put together an individual offer)

  • personal equipment

  • Tip

  • Feeder flights, other departure airports or Rail&Fly (we are happy to put together a suitable offer)

  • Airport-hotel transfer and return: for 2 people from €45 per person/one way (outbound) and from €40 per person/one way (return), we are happy to organize the transfer upon request.

  • Tourist tax of approximately €8 per person, payable locally.

Character of the trip

Fitness

Simple

Altitude

Low

Culture / nature

Nature-led

This hiking trip is easily manageable for healthy people in average fitness. The hikes are short to medium in length, approximately 2 to 8 km, with walking times of about 1 to 3 hours, and involve very little elevation gain. They lead through forests, moors, and dunes, and along the cliffs, sometimes on sandy terrain.

This also includes several days of travel of up to approximately 315 km.

Dates and prices

January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December

Group dates

  • Single room supplement from 490 euros