What to see in Kraslava? | Visit Kraslava

The Tourism Information point offers:

• free tourist information about Dagda, county and other tourist objects;
• guide services individually and for groups around the city objects, for groups of different age and interests;
• suvenir;
• bicycle, helmet, nordic walking sticks, distance skis with ski boots rent.

Working hours:

During the summer season (May 15 – September 15)

M. 8:00-12:00, T.- Fr. 8:00- 16:40,  Saturday 9.00- 13:00, Sunday: -

Outside the summer season (September 16 – May 14)

Weekdays:  8.30 – 12:30, 13:00-17:00

A picturesque place that has a connection with a romantic legend about a big and devoted love between Count Plater’s daughter Emilia and a Polish officer Joseph Karnicky. A fascinating event which had a tragic end happened in 1838 in Kraslava.
At one of the dancing parties Count Plater’s daughter Emilia got acquainted with the owner of Eversmuiža, a military officer Joseph Karnicky. The young people fell in love with each other. Count Plater was against that love, he had planned to marry Emilia off to a wealthier man and a notable representative of their family circle. Emilia and Joseph decided to kill themselves on one day: Joseph had to shoot himself on one of Kraslava’s hills, but Emilia had to jump out of the window of the third floor of Kraslava castle. After seeing the sign Joseph shot himself, but Emilia was saved by a servant at the last moment. Joseph was buried on the place of his death. The monument was built. The inscription on the tombstone said: “Don’t judge and you won’t be judged as well”. Next day a spring sprung out from the mountain. It is said that whoever drinks the water from the spring on the night of Jaņi with his loved one will be happy and loved till the end of his life.
After some years his remains were reburied in Eversmuiža, but the monument remained in Kraslava. The beautiful story of the big and faithful love is told from generation to generation. That place is named Karnicky’s Hill or the Hill of Love.

In 2020, a viewing telescope was installed on the top of the Karnicka hill, which currently allows to enjoy a wonderful view of the Daugava bends and the architecture of Krāslava.

Exists since the 18th century.The complex of Kraslava Town Hall square had a shape of a rectangular stretched in the east and the west directions. The square had one and two-storeyed wooden and stone buildings with outbuildings. Those were merchant and craftsmen dwellings, stables and trade buildings.
The main building was the Town Hall in the eastern part of the square. It was a two-storeyed stone building with a custom-house on the first floor, the room for measuring and weighting and later on - commercial premises as well.
Along the Market square there was the main highway, a post road from Riga to Moscow. In the corner of the Market square there was a chemist’s shop that was built in the thirties in the 18th century, during Jans Ludvigs Platers’ time in 1729-1737. The chemist’s shop was in the corner of the town square, it was typical for towns of Western Europe that had Magdeburg rights. The most exact information belongs to 1810 when the owner of the chemist’s shop Martiņš Bonins arrived in Kraslava and bought the building of the chemist’s shop from Jakovs fon Šimanskis. Bonins' chemist’s shop was called “The Lion’s Chemist's shop” in 1924. Its latest owner was Arveds Bonins, who closed the chemist’s shop on November 14, 1939 when his family moved to Germany, but it was soon opened again on April 16, 1940 and it runs today. The House of the Latvian society was situated in the central town square, too.

Kraslava Ecclesiastical Seminary was the first higher educational institution in Latvia. It was opened in an old building close to the church on June 15, 1757, where Jesuits were living. Soon the opening of the seminary and the reception of new students began. A new building was built close to the Church. It was the residence of the Bishop and the premises for the Ecclesiastical seminary.
In 1754 the Bishop Antonijs Ostrovskis invited fathers – sick quarters, the Priests’ congregation that was founded by St.Vincent de Pole in the 17th century in Paris at St.Lazare’s church. The purpose of the invitation was the organization of Kraslava Ecclesiastical seminary and the preparation of new priests for Latgale and Belarus. The money for the seminary was given by Roman curia, Minsk Bishop, local Bishop, as well as by local landowners. After semina­rians coming to Krāslava, the Jesuits left the building and moved to Indrica.
Thanks to support from Roman Curia, it was called Pope’s Seminary in Kraslava. After graduating the seminary students could continue studying in Vilnius ecclesiastical seminary. The learning process was organized strictly, the students` knowledge was regularly tested and the exams had to be passed every month. The length of the studies was 4 years.

Opened on November 11, 2003. It is dedicated to the memory of all victims of Kraslava municipality during the terror of occupational regime. The sculptors are Indulis and Ivo Folkmaņi from Daugavpils. The monument is erected thanks to the initiative of Kraslava department of politically repressed and with the support of the Latvian fund.

In Dagda historical center you can find red brick houses or the so-called “Jewish seller houses”, TIP, monuments, Dagda former cinema  “Komjaunietis/ Komsomol member” and historical wall painting.

In 1874 68% of all Dagda residents were Jews. Here, in Dagda, were 77 Jews' houses and 3 synagogues. Currently saved red brick houses are being managed and some of them nowadays serves as stores. 

In the center of the Dagda city you can see an eye-catching monument - “The grieving mother”. Sculpture was installed in 1996 and is dedicated to the memory of the victims of communist terror. Author- sculptor Alvine Veinbaha (02.09.1923.-04.02.2011.) was born in Zirni, Saldus county.

One of the oldest wooden churches in Latgale had been situated on the lakeside of Aulejas lake. It had been built in 1530. The old church had been destroyed during the war. The current stone church was built in baroque style in 1709. Old wooden statues are placed in the niches of the church in the facade at the entrance. In the church there are a lot of old things that are art objects of national significance. The organ music concerts can be ordered on request. Book your visit in advance.

In former times Balbinova (Indra) had been in Piedruja congregation. In 1801 Nitoslavsku family asked Tsar Alexander I the permission to build their wooden chapel on the family cemetery. In 1803 chapel was built. In 1940 the new church building was almost completed, it was consecrated by Bishop Jazeps Rancans. Improvement works continued also after the consecration. Book your visit in advance.
 

Borovkas church was built in 1811 by Vaclovs and Kasimir Plateri. Borovka was Kraslavas congregation branch. Book your visit in advance.
 

Unique wooden architectural monument (1655–1658). It is the oldest wooden church in Latgale. Indrica catholic church was built even before reformation. With the spread of Lutheranism in Indrica, Protestants took possesion of the church. In 1695 landlord Jānis Andrejs Platers accepted Christianity and in 1698 the church was rebuilt and handed over to Catolics. In the choir room there is an old-fashioned organ with peculiar woodcarvings. There are 4 altars with woodcarvings and ancient paintings. Book your visit in advance.

The first wooden church in Izvalta was built in 1625. In the 18th century it was rebuil and the bishop of Livonia Antons Ostrovskis sanctified it in honour to St. Michael archangel. In 1896 the present church of Izvalta was built. Book your visit in advance.
 

When in 1767 a new stone church had been built in Kraslava, the old had been demolished and transferred to Kombuli. This church in Kombuli existed for about 60 years. In 1818 the old wooden church was demolished and a stone chapel was built, it was dedicated to St. Janis honour. It was Kraslavas church branch. The improvement and reconstruction works of the church continued until the 40s in the 20th century. Book your visit in advance.

The first church in Piedruja was a wooden building, had been built in 1632. It had been built by the Lithuanian State Chancellor Prince Leons Sapieha. This church had burned down, but in 1759 the current stone church was built. There is an illusive altar in Piedrujas Catholic church. Book your visit in advance.

This is the newest church in the county. In 2007 it was consecrated in the honour of European guardians St. Brigita and St. Katrina. Mother's of God grotto and the statue is placed in the garden of Priedaines Church.
 

The first Pustinas church had been built in 1737, it was a wooden building. In 1817 the new church construction had begun. It was built of red bricks; the foundations were from hewed stones. In 1899 church construction was completed; it was consecrated in the honour of the Virgin Mary's Ascension. Book your visit in advance.

The first wooden church had been built in 1822 as Elernes branch. In 1929 canon J. Borodzics built the current stone church in Varnavici, which is located 3 km from the former church site. Book your visit in advance.
 

Built in 1789 as a catholic chapel of St. Vincent hospital. In 1856 a piece of land was bought from count Platers in order to begin construction of a new church. The old St. Yuri church was torn down and a cross was put in the place of the demolished altar. Construction of the new church was finished in 08.09.1859 and it was consecrated in honor of Our Lady’s patronage. It was meant originally for both Orthodox and Old-believers. In 1867 it was consecrated as an Orthodox church.

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Among the few Kraslavas region Orthodox churches, only one - Piedrujas Orthodox Church - can be proud of its six domes. This is one of the most beautiful and the most architecturally interesting churches in our region. It had been built in 1885, when the old little wooden church could no longer serve all the Orthodox believer. Book your visit in advance!

Kaplava congregation had been founded and the church had been built on the bank of Daugava in 1794. In 1889 it was decided to build a new stone church, which was completed. Church was consecrated in honor of Mother of God Guardian. Book your visit in advance!

 

The Lutheran Church, partly surrounded by old trees, is situated in Krāslava, in the corner of Counts Platers park. The first foundation stone had been placed in 1935; the church had been consecrated in 1938. The church had worked until 1944. In the 1950s, the church tower had been pulled down. In 1984 the museum exhibition hall was established here, it was located here until 1996, when the congregation regained the church. Services in Kraslava Lutheran congregation are held on the 1st and 3r Sundays of the month.

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The history of Vecbornes church is extremely interesting, because there are two Vecbornes churches in Latvia. One is located in the Latvian Ethnographic Open Air Museum, second - in Kraslavas region, Kaplavas rural municipality. The wooden church of Old Bornes, which is now situated in the Latvian Ethnographic Open Air Museum, presumably, had been built in 1537. In 1936 at the suggestion of Monument Board and Ethnographic Open Air Museum Vecbornes church was dismantled and transferred to Riga. New church design and construction is being held on the initiative of Monument Board in Borne. The current church of Borne was built and consecrated in 1939. Book your visit in advance!

Russian Old-Believers have been living on the territory of Latgale for more than three hundred years. According to the information received, one of the Old-Believers’ church was on the Daugava’s bank in Ratuža Street. The Parish was offi­cially registered in 1850. A local merchant gave up his outbuildings to rebuild and make an Old-Believers church approximately in 1859. It was sanctified to the honour under the shelter of God-Mother. The Church caught fire on December 7, 2002; it damaged the building and some valuable icons. The construction of a new Old- Believers church was begun on the place of the burnt down old chapel. The sanctification of the building was on October 26, 2008.

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Dagda Holy Trinity Roman Catholic Church is an architectural monument of national significance. It was built in 1741 in the Corinthian Baroque style. The church was founded by nobleman Jan August Hilzen (1702–1767). It features six magnificent altars, including three splendid masonry altars with cornices and pilasters. The main altar contains two paintings — one dedicated to the Holy Trinity and the other to the Immaculate Conception of the Virgin Mary. The church also has a baptistery decorated with gypsum figures.

Under the underground vaults of the church lie the burials of members of the Hilzen family — Jan August Hilzen himself, his son Justinian (a knight of the Maltese (Hospitaller) Order), and his grandson Idzi, as well as notable Dagda and Kaunata Jesuits Michał Rot (1721–1785) and Columban Pfeifer (1747–1798).

On the 11th day of each month at 11:00 a.m., a Holy Mass for the sick is held, praying for the health of soul and body. Water, salt, and medicines are blessed during the service.

Museum has been opened in 2013, April. The museum has four exhibition halls, where visitors can get acquainted with the household tools and agricultural techniques from different time periods which reflects the life of local people. The museum offers possibility to see fragments from old maps from 15th century till nowadays. Visitors will be able to get acquinted with with thematic photo exhibition.

Before visiting the Piedruja Parish Museum, please contact us at +371 28703566.

On the 3rd floor of Krāslava Region Tourism Information Center (Pils iela 2) is the opportunity to see an exclusive exhibition of porcelain dolls "When the childhood dream comes true". The exclusive collection includes dolls from many world-famous artists (Franklin Mint, Franklin Heirloom, Maryse Nicole, Ashton Dark, Alberon, Leonardo, Vanity Fair, Golden Keepsakes). The collection has almost 2000 dolls and  also handmade dolls' carriages.

Working time:
During the summer season (May 15 - September 15)
Monday - Sunday: 9.30 - 18.00
Outside the summer season (September 16 - May 14)
On working days: 8.45 - 17.15
Saturday: 10.00 - 15.00

Sunday: day off

Entrance fee: 4 EUR, for children under 7 years old - free of charge, from 7 to 14 years old - 2 EUR.

The Museum of Happiness is created in Indra as a gift to Latvia anniversary. Its interactive exposition invites everyone to feel, think and look in the future, not in the past. The museum’s task is not to give an answer to the question “What is happiness?”, but stimulate people to be positive, creative, inspirational and to show the diversity of happiness.

Indra attracts more and more travelers, so Indra's guests will be surprised - Indra's craftsmen's room is opened. Here you will be able to get acquainted with the products of local craftsmen and buy unique souvenirs! A team of parish masters has worked on the creation of the craftsmen's room.

The Museum of Happiness developed a new program for museum visitors - "My grandmother's dish cabinet", located in Indra (at Krāslavas iela 3). During the tour, visitors will get acquainted with a unique collection of Riga porcelain dishes - more than 1000 items.

The manager of the Museum will tell about the history of Riga porcelain, the popular tableware sets, factory ceramics, the history of acquiring collection exhibits. A practical lesson will also be offered - guests will have the opportunity to choose their favorite teapot and, using the offered herbs (about 20 varieties), make tea that will improve the feeling of happiness and health. At the end of the program – a tasting of tea. Duration of the program: approximately 1 hour.

Before visiting the Museum of Happiness  in Indra, please contact the manager of the Museum of Happiness by phone. +371 20266514.

The museum contains materials about the history of Kalniesi from ancient to present days. The photo-exposure "Teachers and students of Kalniešu School", presents large format photographs of the years 2006 - 2016. In the exposition "Findings of Kalniesi", are represented objects found during excavations - monetary coins, rings, medallions, vintage buttons, jewellery for clothes, ancient crosses and others.In the museum room, not only evidence of antiquity, but also modern materials are exhibited. The exhibition "Skillful hands" consists of handicrafts made during vocational training and home economics lessons. But the photo exhibition "Hardest Farmers of Kalniešu Parish" is dedicated to farmers, who work diligently on their farms these days.

Before going to the Kalniešu regional research room, please contact by phone +371 656 22464.

The “Andrupene  Homestead” Museum is a place where traditions, crafts, culinary heritage, folklore, and nature come together. The museum began its activity in the year 2000, located at the highest point of Andrupene village — 211 meters above sea level.

Visiting the museum, you will find yourself in the Latgalian countryside of the early 20th century. The hostesses of the homestead greet every guest with an open heart — here, everyone is treated as a long-awaited visitor.

At the museum, you can explore a century-old farmhouse, a granary, a black sauna, various tools, and household items. By prior arrangement, visitors can enjoy unique dishes of Latgale’s culinary heritage, specific to this region — kuģelis, guļbešņīki, pancaka ar cymusu, asuškas, homemade cheese, butter, herbal tea, and šmakovka (traditional local spirit). The hostesses here are known for baking exceptionally delicious homemade bread.

A cheerful atmosphere is created by the folklore group “Sovvaļnīki”, inviting everyone to sing lively songs, dance traditional dances, and immerse themselves in the sound of the Latgalian language.

With the goal of preserving ancient crafts, the museum territory includes a functioning smithy where visitors can observe real forging, and a pottery workshop with a kiln. The firing of the kiln is always a significant event, and everyone is invited to attend the grand “Andrupene Kiln Festival.”

This place is also very popular among newlyweds. Newly married couples are welcomed with a special program based on local traditions and customs.

In the granary, there is a cozy and comfortable seminar hall. Behind the museum lies an 800-meter-long boardwalk through the bog — filled with the intoxicating scent of wild rosemary, red cranberry carpets, and the songs of forest birds.

The “Andrupene Country Homestead” Museum is also a venue for various open-air events. Among the most popular are the Midsummer (Jāņi) celebrations, when the homestead courtyard transforms into a stage for local and visiting amateur theater performances.

The museum offers:
• guided tours and exhibition visits;
• tasting of Latgale’s culinary heritage dishes;
• musical performances;
• wedding guest receptions;
• halls for seminars and celebrations;
• workshops in pottery, culinary arts, and straw decoration.

Built in the early 19th century, the Jaundome manor is located on the territory of the Razna National Park, in Jaundome, Ezernieki parish. The Jaundome manor environmental education center and Exhibition Hall has been created in a restored barn building with stone walls.

Jaundome environmental education center offers:

• view one of the largest collections of freshwater fish mules in Latvia and get acquainted with the diversity of waterfowl in Latgale, as well as view other exhibitis related to the role of fishing and hunting in human life.
• visit the territory of the Jaundomes manor and the nature trail. Where you can familiarize yourself with fascinating evidence of the history of the manor and enjoy the diversity of Latgales nature. Jaundomes nature trail leads to Ežezers – the lake with the most islands in the Baltics.
• to taste the delicious meal from to hostesses of the Jaundome manor (by applying in advance).
• rental of premises for the organization of conferences and festive events.

Working hours: by applying in advance                                                                  

He life and literary activity of the poet Marija Andzane is connected with Skaune. In Skaune parish library you can view authors literary works, manuscripts and memorial items written by the poets hand.

Marija Andzane was born in 1909 in Skaune parish. Writers childhood was not rich, she was the forth child in the family, but did not feel deprived. After graduating from the Landskron parish school, she goes to Rezekne to study at the Rezekne Teachers Institute.

In 1933 her first and only collection of poems “Reits” was published in Latvia. M. Andzane started her career as teacher at Porecjas elementary school in Bukmuiza parish.

./ In 1934 M. Andzane and the Latgalian poet Konstantin Strod- Plepcenik became spouses. During war, she spent her time in Varaklani with her husband and 3 children. Later the Strode family leaves their homeland and flees to Germany. In1951 poet traveled to USA.

Working hours: upon request.

The tourist object is located in the border area thats why passport and pass are required.

The Dagda local history society "Patria" under the leadership of Aivars Arnicans has established the history museum of Dagda.

The historical exposition with six exhibition halls, is located in the parish house of Holy Trinity Roman Catholic Church of Dagda. In each hall you can find many interesting things wrapped in the history of Dagda region. Museum has become a visiting card of the city of Dagda.

Working hours: upon request.

Four regional history rooms with the history of the parish population (with photo albums and household items) were opened in 2009. It’s a joint work of folk house and library staff. 

Ilmārs Vecelis is one of the “Pudnīku skūla” (Potters’ School) founders and participants. An interesting technology of clay processing. Watching and participation in the process of manufacturing of pottery. Purchase of souvenirs. Book your visit in advance.

Weavers, working according to an ancient Latgalian tradition - "skalu deku" technique, keep it for future generations. Articles made by workshop weavers, as well as by our grandmothers, can be seen in the exhibition hall "Indra puralade". Work of art of Indras music and art school students are also presented. It is possible to taste the jam from the berries which were cultivated in Indra gardens. Book your visit in advance.

Maija is a professional artisan who creates handicrafts in various handicraft techniques. Manufactures works of art to individual order. Creative workshops by prior arrangement. Book your visit in advance.

Before going to the workshop, please contact us by phone +371 26925821.

Painter, potter, textile artist. Prior booking required.

 

The farm raises sheeps. Blankets and pillows are made out of wool. Book your visit in advance.

Textile artist offers various types of linen works: table cloths, cosmetic bags, gift bags, pencil boxes. Some works can be bought in Kraslava Tourism Information Centre souvenirs shop.

Artist manufactures various musical instruments from natural materials – rattles, wind bells and others, as well as teaches children to make reed pipes. Aleksandrs demonstrates the collection containing more than 100 different instruments and plays them. It is possible to participate in instruments` production, as well as playing music. Purchase or ordering of instruments also possible.

Aleksandrs Maijeris also offers off-site workshops at a location chosen by the client, where he shares insights into the process of creating sound instruments and demonstrates the ones he has crafted himself.

Please, book your visit in advance!

Textile artist, designer using crochet technique makes a variety of children's clothes, decorations, toys, elements of interior design, wall decorations with the words and letters. Offers decoration service for various events. Working upon preorder.
 

Various techniques are used to create jewelry and accessories from genuine leather and semi-precious stones (agate, jasper, turquoise, ammonite). Jewelry is made according to individual orders. Jewelry can be purchased in person, by prior arrangement by visiting +371 28284191, as well as at the Krāslava Region Tourism Information Center.

Manufactures forged, welded, riveted and soldered souvenirs, fences, railings, grilles, dishes, furniture, etc. Forger works with ferrous metal, stainless steel, aluminum, etc. metals. 
Individual approach to each client.

Kraslava Craft Center was established in 2021. There are seven craft workshops where everyone can get to know about ancient trades as well as make a whistle from clay, work in the woodworking workshop, feel the color of yarn in the weaving workshop, try making glass mosaic souvenirs in the glass decor workshop, create your own leather accessory and attend a lecture at an aroma workshop. Lastly, visitors can also taste the products of local homemakers in the culinary heritage workshop.

Kraslava Craft Center offers:

• visits of the Craft center (free of charge);
• tours with demonstrations: approximately 30 minutes in each workshop;
• excursions with master classes: approximately 1 h in each workshop;
• the opportunity to buy local handicrafts.

In Kraslava Craft Center there are:

1. Ceramics workshop with Olga and Valdis Pauliņi (+371 26869346). In this workshop can participate up to 40 people. Visitors get to know the craft and get involved in making a ceramic souvenir under the guidance of potters.
2. Woodworking workshop with Aivars Andžāns (+371 27062780). In this workshop can participate up to 15 people. Visitors get to know about the basics of woodworking and get involved in making a wooden souvenir under the guidance of woodworker.
3. Weaving workshop with Aina Guba (+371 29255396). In this workshop can participate up to 12 people. Visitors get to know about the craft and make a woven or braided souvenir under the guidance of weaver.
4. Glass decor workshop with Elvīra Škutāne (+371 28368537). In this workshop can participate up to 20 people. Visitors learn how to make stained glass in the Tiffany technique and create a glass mosaic souvenir under the guidance of master.
5. Latgale culinary heritage workshop (+371 26395176) can host up to 40 people. Visitors enjoy the culinary heritage of Kraslava region, or products of local home producers (smoked goods, bread, Kraslava cucumbers, cheese, tea). Price: for groups (from 10 people): 10 EUR/pers.
6. Leather Jewelry Workshop with Ludmila Morozova (+371 28284191). In this workshop can participate up to 9 people. Visitors learn about the process of creating leather jewelry and master the basics of the craft. Under the guidance of craftmaster, participants also create a leather jewelry souvenir. Price: 10 EUR/pers. 
7.  Aroma workshop with Marina Beļajeva (+371 20181002). In this workshop can participate up to 20 people. Visitors get acquainted with the variety of aromatic raw materials and the use of herbs, oils and perfumes. Lecturer offers practical master classes or lectures about preparation of an aromatic product.

Price:

Tours with demonstrations: (~30 min.)

• for families and individual visitors (up to 6 people): by agreement;
• for groups (from 7 people): 2.50 EUR/pers.

Excursions with master classes: (~1,5 h)

• for families and individual visitors (up to 6 people): by agreement;
• for groups (from 7 people): 5,00 EUR/pers.

The visit to the workshops must be booked in advance!

Reconstructed wooden castle of Latgalian tribes (9th-13th century), that offers specially organized experimental archaeological events and stories about the life of Latgalians in bygone palaces of southern Latgale.

The Brotherhood of Krom Mount organizes many events of “alive history”, demonstrates unique and glorious ancient jewelry and clothing, equipment of soldiers, weapons, martial art, and everyday life happenings.

Working hours: on request.

The weaving workshop started working in 2010. Visitors have access to 2 weaving rooms and 1 needlework room, which offers such master classes as weaving on a loom, weaving scarves on frames.

Visitors can see the Clock Gallery, the Patriotic and Sweete rooms, the Santas living room.

Is situated in Kraslava at number 12 Augusta street. The length is 2,8 m, the width is 2,2 m, the heigth is 0,7 m. It is told that the stone was much bigger, but its third part was chopped off long ago. About 5 cm deep and 130 cm wide rectangular is carved at the stone where a kin coat of arms of the Counts Broel-Platers and the date 1729 is marked. The legend says, that once in that spot there was a big wood, where a Polish king August II liked hunting. The king stopped at the stone to have some food and in honour of that case the date 1729 was carved on the stone that is being called Augusta’s stone till today. Maybe there is the element of truth, as August II really was the king of Poland from 1697 to 1733 and in 1729 Kraslava was included into the territory of Poland. The year 1729 has as well another meaning for Kraslava history. Counts Platers bought that estate and at the same time Kraslava got the status of a village. There is a supposition that those events became the main cause of carving the patrimony Platers’ coat of arms. By the way, Augusta’s stone was as well the border mark of the village.
 

From there a beautiful nature look to the river Daugava can be viewed. In 1909 by this secular stone Latvian writer Antons Austriņš was creating his works.
 

Dridzis is the deepest lake in the Baltic States. The lake has characteristic elongated shape, many bays, nine islands; the biggest of them is the island Bernatu sala (13,9 ha). Lake is curving like a river. It makes many creeks and peninsulas. Maximum depth reaches 65,1 m. The length of the shore reaches 11 km. The widest place is 1 km. From the hills the great panorama of many lakes is seen. Dridzis is in the territory of a protected nature park.

Daugavas loki (bends) is a nature park in Daugava river valley between Kraslava and Naujene in Augsdaugavas protected landscape area. The territory of park is 129.9 km2, 76 km2 of which are located in Daugavpils and 53.9 km2 in Kraslavas region. It had been founded in 1990 to preserve the unique and peculiar Daugavas river valley landscape, its valuable natural complexes, its biodiversity of plant and animal species, as well as its cultural-historic monuments. The most characteristic nature feature of "Daugavas loki" is 9 big Daugavas river bends (meanders) between Kraslava and Naujene. Each of this river bend's length reaches up to 4 - 6 km, but the distance between the bends on the straightaway is only 2 - 3 km. Each of these bends has its own name. In 2011, it was included in the Latvian national list of the UNESCO World Heritage.

It is located in Piedruja, in the upper course valley of the river Daugava, in the territory of Augšdaugava protected landscape area, which is rich with rare and protected species of plants and animals, as well as with cultural landscape and historical monuments. Walking along Piedruja path, Stone of Daugava can be seen. On this stone the name of Daugava river is engraved in 7 languages – Estonian, Finnish, Russian, Polish, German, Livonian, and Latvian. 

The 300 years old Dagda manor park is the only one left from the 17th century established Dagda manor. A favorite place for walking. There is a hill in the center of the park, where nowadays is a stage, where Ligo, Annas day, etc. are celebrated every year.

There is also a small cave in the territory of the Dagda manor park- unlike the other caves in Latvia, which are made of sandstone or carved out of dolomite, the Dagda cave is considered a natural phenomenon because it was formed from gravel and pebbles. The cave is protected geological and geomorphological natural monument. It’s easily accessible though the territoty of Dagdas Youth Initiative Center.

The Dagda castle mound with settlement is an archaeological monument of national importance. A well equipped place for walking and resting. The height of the castle mound is about 20 m. It is said that a large amount of gold was buriet on this mountain during the war. This is one of the few castle mounds in Latgale, about which some information can be found in literature, which was given in 1882 by A. Bilenstein.

Lubāna castle mound (also known as “Lapsu” (Fox) or “Priežu” (Pine) mound) is located at the western border of Dagda, on the left of Dagda–Krāslava highway. There is a lake at the foot of the mound– Lubonensh (latv.Luboneņš). The castle mound has well-equipped trails and a place for rest. There is a sightseeing square, which offers a magnificent view of the city of Dagda and its surroundings. Relative height is about 30 m.

The Piloroak grove is one of the rare pure oak groves in Latvia, located on the shore of lake Ezezers (the lake with the most islands in Latvia and even inthe entire Baltic).

A small car parking area, a path, an information stand and a rest area with a boardwalk, WC have been created. In the national defense since 1928.

In case of infrastructue damage, please informē the Latgale regional administration of the Nature Protection Board +371 64605860

Formed in a funnel-shaped suffusion depression, Velnezers Lake is 17 meters deep, and its water is so clear that in some places it is possible to see depths of up to 12 meters. There is no stream or spring flowing into or out of the lake. The flora and fauna of the lake is not very abundant either.

Local residents know many legends associated with Čertoks or Velnezers Lake. People have never lived near this lake because they have not been able to stay there for a very long time. People often get lost in the area and cannot find the lake.

A 53-hectare-large protected area, “Čertoka ezers (Vеlnezers)”, was created around the lake in 1977. Most of the protected area is covered by pine forests. In some places there are small transitional bogs and coastal vegetation. The terrain is very uneven. The most valuable object of the protected area is Lake Čertoks, as the protected area has been created specifically with the aim to protect the lake’s ecosystem and the surrounding landscape.

It is located in Robežnieki, on the shore of the lake Lielais Gusena ezers, in picturesque neighbourhood with naturally preserved stages of survey, there are also two facilitated resting areas. The total length of the path is 1,3 km. There are 15 stops with information stands and attractive tasks along the path. The path made with a purpose for everybody to learn about nature objects, get aesthetic satisfaction and have a good rest.

“Odu taka” (The path of mosquitoes) acquaints with forest and bog landscapes, where one can see different plants: wild callas, cow-wheats, as well as meet wild bees. There is an opportunity to visit bog “concert hall”, spruce forest, to see ground dug-up by wild boar, peculiar trees (birches, fir and pine) grown together.

Length: 800 m

Next to the Museum of Happiness in Indra, which is a unique object not only in Latgale, but in whole Latvia, there is a road where you can feel the presence of happiness and watch nature. The trail consists of seven parts and each part has its own name.

Following the trail behind the Farmstead of Andrupene, going up the hill and then down the stairs, you come to little swamp, where you can see different kinds of moss, discover an amazing ability of  Sphingidae to absorb water, peacefully explore swamp world.

Information about the trail:

• Nature trail length: 800 m
• Trail difficulty: easy to pass/medium-heavy, but not available for people with disabilities
• Availability: all year round, the trail is marked.

Around the picturesque forest lake Asariņa, you can walk along the path in the pine forest. This will allow you to get acquainted with one of the very rare biotopes – a coniferous forest on an axial relief and a kind of forest lake – Asariņa, which is located on the territory of the National Park Rāzna. Many call it the younger brother of Lake Chertok. A bit mystical in appearance, surrounded by a pine forest. For vacationers, there is a well-maintained recreation area and a trail around the lake.

Nature trail information:

• nature trail length: 2 km.
• the difficulty of the trail: easily passable, but not accessible to people with disabilities.
• availability: all year round, not marked.

The main highlight of this resting place is the sculpture of a lovers couple and legendary boat with a drakons head. A beautiful place surrounded by an interesting legend. The path is approximatelt 300 m long.

While walking .... you can see several natural and historical objects, such as Ezezers, ice cellar and beer ruins, forest and a pond inhabited by beavers. A well equipped recreation area and a boat shed are available on the shore of the lake.

Tourists have the opportuunity to use the services of a guide who will tel interesting stories from the time f the manor and show us what we usually don’t see in nature. The Jaundome nature path is a great place for peaceful relaxation.

The path is linear. In dry weather it’s possible to walk the path in a circle, returning along the edge of the field (880m over a built footbridge and 3 km if you walk the entire path around).

Not suitable of people with movement disorders.

Jukumu Grumuska hill- castle mound is a 500 m long hill overgrown with forest. The mound at the eastern end is traditionally called Jukumu Grumuska hill- castle mound I, but the mound at the western end is Jukumu Grumuska hill- castle mound II. Both ends of the mound are fortified with a system of ditches and ramparts.

Not accessible for people in wheelchairs and visitors with baby carriage.

Stalidzan castle mound or Stalidzan hill, in past calles the War Graves. The path leads through the spruce forest around Salidzan Svilus hill- mound.

Not accessible for people with movement and vison disorders and baby carriage.

“Ezertaka” or Lake trail is a long-distance hiking trail around the Latgale region in the East of Latvia. The total length of the Latgale long-distance hiking route “Ezertaka” is about 1070 km. The proportion of road surfaces along the route is 59% gravel roads, 21% rural roads, forest and meadow roads, and 20% asphalt roads. The route is divided into 49 routes, 13 of these routes are longer and will take several days to cover. 

More information: https://latgale.travel/latgale-lake-hiking-trail/

In 2017, Rēzekne businessman Artūrs Zeiļa, through the family and support of the artist Folkmanis, donated a special stone to the city of Krāslava. Part of the stone was cut off, resembling a chair in appearance and function. This is also why the object seemed to belong to Krāslava, as it fits in with one of the legends about the origin of Krāslava's name. Ivo Folkmanis created an in-depth inscription "Daugava" and an iron raft motif on the stone. From different angles, it seems that the raft is floating along the Daugava. You can play with the element successfully, constructing a long-gone reality, a time when the Daugava was an important part of the waterway from the Varga to the Greeks, namely from the Baltic to the Black Sea.

Piedruja is the first inhabited place entering Latvia from Belarus. It’s place where the Dvina flows into the Daugava and begins it’s course to the Baltic Sea. It’s place where Latvia begins. The village has long and eventful history.

Nowadays Piedruja invites tourists to get to know borderlines charm. At the very border, bank of the Daugava 7 big chairs have been installed, on which a fascinating view of Daugava and Belarus opens up. This is place where you can merge with nature, enjoy silence and get to know the diverse sounds of nature, which are hidden in the songs of birds, the rustle of trees and the breath of Daugava.

When you visit Piedruja it’s mandatory to bring an identity document and rezidence permission.

This is the place where the first monumental stone building in Kraslava - the town hall was located. Its construction began during the economic prosperity of Kraslava around 1752, thanks to the implementation of the town development plan by the owner of Kraslava Count Broel Plater. In the second half of the 18th century, Kraslava was already a successful trade center and boasted excellent quality local products - velvet, rugs, golden and silver products, which were successfully exported to Lithuania, Poland and Russia.

The main decoration of Kraslava Market Square - the town hall was built according to the Polish architecture and construction of the time, influenced by the late Baroque architecture. It was an impressive two-storey stone building with a high attic roof and a massive octagonal tower in the center of the building, crowned by a two-levels baroque spire - a clock, a bell and a weather vane. Traditionally, town halls had scales, customs, trade premises, a courtroom, a prison, an archive and offices for civil servants.

The market square with the town hall was compositionally connected with the Count Broel Plater palace and the church, the inclusion in the overall landscape of the city was significant.

At the beginning of the 19th century, the town hall, like most of the buildings in Kraslava, suffered a fire, as a result the tower and the second floor of the building were demolished, but the first floor was used as a culture house and later as a sports school. The basements of the building were filled after the Second World War. In 2016, the building was demolished.

The environmental object “Town Hall” was created in the summer 2021 by artists Mairita and Ivo Folkmaņi based on a drawing by K. Rēmers.

The establishment of the object was supported by the State Culture Capital Foundation within the framework of the Kraslava Municipality Council project “Establishment of the Environmental Object “Kraslava town hall”.

The idea of creating the painting came from the local history society "Patria". The photo taken in the 1930s came to its leader as a gift from the noblemen’s Kiborts grandson Rišards Labanovskis. The artist, Jans Bartkevičs, a resident of Dagda, turned an 8 x 11 cm photograph into an 18 m2 painting within a week.

Photo wall is located on the territory of the Jaundome manor. It’s dedicated to fishing/ fish theme. 

Graffiti artwork was created during a hip-hop culture event. Graffiti author Writer Kvāp painted the outbulding wall of the Dagda Cultre center. Interesting fact: the process of creating graffiti could be seen both in person and also in Facebook live stream.

The result of artwork will be visible in long term, as it’s located in the courtyard of the Culture center, making public space accesible to the publicē more pleasant as a touch of democratic art to the urban environment. 

Holiday house Mežābeles, is located in ecologically clean, natural protected area Dridzis Lake Nature Park. Place is located 17 km away from the city surrounded by forest, meadows, clear lake - rich in fish.
Guests are offered accommodation and holiday home with a romantic view of the sunset in the lake from the balcony of the room, as well as outdoor tents beside the lake. If you want to have a break from the everyday rush, the peaceful and quiet fishing lake in the middle of the backyard is waiting for you, where you will enjoy the melodic sounds of birds and watch fish underwater dance, you will find the right place for relaxation of the soul.
Holiday house owner is offering the lecture "Flower and tree therapy". Everyone has their own tree and flower, which can be treated and released from accumulated stress. Sometimes a simple walk in the open air - in the wood or meadow is the best medicine and peace of mind. After walk, fishing, swimming or other activity hostess offers to the guests the herbal tea and honey degustation. Offer for applying for the "Flower and tree therapy" lectures.
Season from May to September. Book your visit in advance.

Owners of the farm “Cīruļi” Inta and Pjotrs Babini invite you to explore the life of bees in the village “Lielie Muļķi”, which is situated in the nature park “Daugavas loki”. There is an opportunity to see the collection of stones and animal horns, also listen to legends and stories about the unusual village. It’s possible to observe and purchase oil paintings. Guests can visit the sacred spring, located in the farm area. In winter you can go skiing, sledging, snowboarding. During winter evenings you can be offered to taste mint tea with honey and find out what bees and beekeepers do in winter (groups up to 6 people). Degustation and purchase of the production.
Book your visit in advance.

Horse riding and tours in the nature park “Daugavas loki” and near LV/BY border. Horseback riding therapy . “Moscitus route”. Domestic animals. Accomondation.

 

Acquaintance with the secrets of growing of herbs and making teas. In year 2015 farm Kurmīši received honorary sign Latvian Heritage. Tasting of medical tea. A great opportunity to purchase more than 15 different types of organic tea. There is also an opportunity to buy tea, packed in tea bags. The farm “Kurmīši” offers calendula oil and night oil (Enotera), beeswax. A large selection of beeswax candles is available as well as  different types of hydrolates - blueberries (cornflowers, lavender, melissa, lofanta, beet, musk, sage, yarrow). Herbal distillates, also known as floral waters, hydrosols, hydrolates, herbal waters, and essential waters, are aqueous products of hydrodistillation.

 Special offer:

• „Mix your tea” – according to your birthday date or some other very special date – by the specific numbers it is possible to mix up your own, special tea!
• Beeswax cosmetics master classes.

Z / S "Kurmīši" products can also be purchased in the online store, on the website www.kurmisi.com

Book your visit in advance!

By ordering in advance, you can participate in the process of baking bread, playing music, various creative activities, as well as collecting herbal teas, mushrooms, finding peace of mind and joy of life! You will be able to get acquainted with the historical evidence and objects of the ancient village of Jaudzemu (year 1890). It is possible to ride a bike to the nearest lakes and villages, enjoying the beauty of Latgalian nature!

Tent places, caravan places with electricity connection and barn are available for overnight stays.

Brewery Murza - one of the very few small breweries in Latgale. Offers quality beer for lovers of both traditional taste and new flavors. Currently has 5 varieties of beer, but it is planned to expand the assortment as soon as possible. Beer is available for purchase at more than 10 points of sale in Latvia - Dagda, Daugavpils, Ogre, Jelgava, Riga.

Also offers a tour of the company, as well as tastings for groups of 10 - 30 people. We speak Latvian, Russian and English.  Possibility to enjoy several types of beer (per person-10 EUR). During the tasting, we also offer beer-matched snacks. Soft drinks are available too.  

Apply in advance!

Jaundome environmental education center offers: 

• view one of the largest collections of freshwater fish mules in Latvia and get acquainted with the diversity of waterfowl in Latgale, as well as view other exhibitis related to the role of fishing and hunting in human life.
• visit the territory of the Jaundomes manor and the nature trail. Where you can familiarize yourself with fascinating evidence of the history of the manor and enjoy the diversity of Latgales nature. Jaundomes nature trail leads to Ežezers – the lake with the most islands in the Baltics.
• to taste the delicious meal from to hostesses of the Jaundome manor (by applying in advance).
• rental of premises for the organization of conferences and festive events. 

Working hours: by applying in advance

ALPA is located by one of the deepest lakes in Latvia - on the shore of Gara lake (56 m), near the Museum of Happiness in Indra.

It is a place with a charming view of the lake, where you can completely merge with nature while spending time in silence, enjoying the peace of the surroundings.

Sergej, the owner of ALPAS, offers both individual travelers and tourist groups relaxation in an arbour on the shore of the lake, enjoying tea and listening to the sounds of the Jew's harp, didgeridoo and tambourine. Everyone will find something special here - someone will be able to relax from the daily routine, looking at the smooth surface of the water, and someone will be filled with energy by the sounds of ethnic instruments.

Possibility to take a bath in the sauna, as well as stay overnight (without special comfort) in tents/sauna/barn (up to 30 people in total). Parking for campers. Professional masseuse services.

Benefits: relief from stress, inner peace, new energy in the body, renewed life values and harmony with oneself. Apply in advance!

The company "GheorgheBirca" specializes in the production of spirits and wine. Tourists and guests are offered a tour of the production facility and product tasting. The company also offers room rental (up to 30 people), catering services and degustation of the products of home producers in Krāslava region.

It is a small, family-owned distillery of whiskey and other spirits. The owners of the factory, traveling and observing how the world's leading producers of alcoholic beverages work, and working in small companies themselves, came to the conclusion that good whiskey, first of all, needs quality water, as well as love for their work and the manufactured products. The owners of “De Kriek distillery” found a spring with completely clean and soft water in Kalnieši. Visitors of "De Kriek" can have an excursion and participate in the tasting of drinks, by applying in advance.

Offers frost-resistant walnut seedlings from Canada suitable for Latvia's climate. Seedlings are grown from the seeds of trees of the best Canadian varieties, which can better adapt to Latvia's climate, soil and light regime. The products of the nursery can also be purchased in the online store, on the website www.riekstkalni.lv. A tour of the farm is also offered. Book your visit in advance!