Hiking in Three Baltic Nations

Typical Itinerary

1. Day 1: Arrive in Lithuania

   Upon arrival travel to your hotel in Vilnius and check in to your hotel.

2. Day 2: Pavilniai Park & Užupis

   Begin your Baltic hiking adventure with a scenic train ride from Vilnius to Pavilniai. Followed by a picturesque hike along the Vilnia River, winding through enchanting forests and past a historic dam, before exploring the artistic neighbourhood of Užupis, one of the world’s smallest republics. After soaking in its charm, return to your hotel by foot or public transport.

   Walking distance: 10 kilometres

3. Day 3: Medieval Trakai & Varnikai Reserve

   Today's hike starts in the medieval town of Trakai after a short train ride, home to the stunning Trakai Castle and historic churches. Venture into the lush Varnikai Reserve, walking through serene forests and alongside Bevardis Lake. For those preferring a shorter trek, you can skip the reserve. After your hike, choose to return to Vilnius or linger in Trakai, exploring its charming streets and cosy cafés, while discovering the cultural heritage of the local Karaim community. 

   Walking distance: 15 kilometres

4. Day 4: Dunes & beaches of Karkle

   Start with a train journey to Klaipeda, drop off your luggage at the hotel before heading to Giruliai. Hike through the stunning Baltic Seaside Regional Park, featuring the majestic Duchman’s Cap cliff and the scenic Litorina Nature Trail. Marvel at serene forests and the historic WWII beach fortification, Memel Nord, before exploring a fascinating glacial boulder field—a remnant from the last Ice Age. 

   Walking distance: 7 kilometres

5. Day 5: Dunes of Nagliai Reserve to Preila

   In the morning, transfer to the Curonian Spit for the start of the trek while your luggage is sent ahead to your hotel in Nida. The hike takes you through the impressive dunes of the Nagliai Reserve, passing the Curonian Lagoon, and continues on marked trails through Pervalka before reaching Preila. From Preila, you can either take a bus to Nida or extend your hike by an additional 12 kilometres to reach Nida on foot.

   Walking distance: 16 kilometres

6. Day 6: Exploring Nida & surroundings

   Hike from Nida through stunning natural scenery and past historical landmarks. Starting with views of the Parnidis Dune, the trail leads to the Throne of Neringa, the sundial, and the Windward sculpture, before continuing through the forest to the Baltic Beach. On the way back to Nida, you pass the Evangelical Lutheran Church and the Thomas Mann Museum. 

   Walking distance: 12 kilometres

7. Day 7: Travel to Riga

   This morning, a private transfer takes you to the bus station in Klaipeda for a 5-hour bus journey to Riga. Upon arrival, proceed to your hotel and, after checking in, enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure. Riga, the capital of Latvia, is known for its UNESCO-listed Old Town, featuring landmarks such as the Riga Cathedral and the House of the Blackheads. 

8. Day 8: Highlights of Riga

   Discover Riga during this walk takes you to the main architectural and historical landmarks of the Old Town, starting at St. Peter's Church and passing sites like the Freedom Monument, Livu Square, the Swedish Gate, and Riga Castle, ending near Town Hall Square. 

   Afterwards, you can relax in the city, join a local excursion, or explore more of Riga's attractions.

   Walking distance: 4 kilometres

9. Day 9: Sigulda, Krimulda & Turaida

   Take the train from Riga to Sigulda and drop your luggage at the hotel. The hike starts in Sigulda, passing medieval castle ruins, Krimulda Manor, and Gutman's Cave, while showcasing the region's rolling hills, forests, and the Gauja River. The route continues across the Gauja Bridge to Turaida Castle, where you can choose to explore the castle or continue along the river. To finish, either take a gondola ride across the river or walk back to Sigulda. 

   Walking distance: 14 kilometres

10. Day 10: Gauja National Park

    Hike from Sigulda train station towards Sigulda Castle, with stunning views of Gauja National Park and Paradise Hill, where views overlook the Gauja River and the distant Turaida Castle. Along the way, visit Petera Ala, a red sandstone cave tied to local legend, and hike through steep valley walls, ravines and forested creeks. The trail ends at Raganu Katls, a striking sand-rock formation on the Dauda River’s left bank. 

    Walking distance: 11 kilometres

11. Day 11: Journey to Tallinn

    Today, you journey into Estonia, heading toward its capital, Tallinn. First, take a train from Sigulda to Valga/Valka, a unique twin town straddling the border between Estonia and Latvia. Spend a few hours exploring its mix of cultures and history before continuing by train to Tallinn. 

12. Day 12: Explore Tallinn

    Embark on a walk through Tallinn’s vibrant, historic Old Town, known for its well-preserved medieval architecture. The route takes you along the ancient city walls and past landmarks like Toompea Castle, the Dome Church, Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, and the Old Town Hall. Each step uncovers Tallinn’s rich architectural heritage. After the walk, enjoy free time to explore more of the city or relax.

    Walking distance: 4 kilometres

13. Day 13: Käsmu Peninsula

    A private transfer takes you from Tallinn to your accommodation in Käsmu, a small town within the Lahemaa National Park. The hike begins in Käsmu village, known for its maritime history and unique boulder fields left by glacial drift. The trail loops around the Käsmu Peninsula, offering stunning views of beaches dotted with boulders and endless pine forests. 

    Walking distance: 16 kilometres

14. Day 14: Depart Estonia

    Today a transfer either takes you to Tallinn city centre or the airport depending on your preference and onward plans.   

    If time permits, there is a 4-kilometre, Kasmu Nature and Culture Historical trail which can be walked before your onward plans.