Baldone: Walking Routes, Springs and Spa Town History

Routes and trip planning

When comparing route lengths, it is important to understand how they relate: the Riekstukalns Trail is approximately 5 kilometres long and forms part of the long loop, which has a total length of around 20 kilometres. The short loop of the Baldones Stāstu takas is suitable for cycling. The choice therefore depends both on the desired length of the long loop and on whether cycling is your preferred way to get around.

Another route with a specified distance is the “Baldones militārā mantojuma digitālais maršruts”: it is 10 kilometres long and includes 13 information stops. Its name indicates its focus on military heritage. Its length and the number of stops help you consider this route as a separate option when planning your trip.

A starting point is also specified for the forest walk “Baldones mežu stāsti”: the Baldone Sports Complex can serve as the starting point, and convenient parking is available there. For this outing, the starting location is therefore another useful point of reference alongside the route itself.

Springs, scenery and winter sports

Baldone’s most notable natural feature, a sulphur spring, is located in Ceriņu Park. The park has also been a popular place for walks since the spa town era. A natural attraction and a long tradition of walking come together here in one place. The “Ķirzaciņa” spring is also located in the Sanatorium Park. For views of the wider area, the observation tower on Riekstukalns, in the area around Baldone, offers views of Riga’s main high-rise buildings.

The Riekstukalns ski slopes are also in the area around Baldone. They are suitable for experienced and beginner skiers as well as snowboarders, subject to seasonal conditions. The slopes offer an activity different from the walking routes and walks described above, and the season should be taken into account.

History and culture in Baldone

Since 2018, the Baldone Museum has been housed in Mercendarbes muiža, four kilometres from the centre of Baldone. A 130-year-old lime-tree avenue leads there. The museum features the exhibition “Ceļš uz Baldones kūrortu” as well as changing exhibitions. The exhibition title has a specific focus on the history of Baldone as a spa town; the changing exhibitions add other topics.

Baldone’s Evangelical Lutheran St. Michael’s Church has been mentioned in written records since 1567. A life-size model of a horse-drawn tram is also on display in Baldone. The Vanagkalni open-air stage adds another kind of cultural venue: it has 4,000 seats and a roof over the stage area.

Special activities in the surrounding area

In the area around Baldone, Baldone Observatory offers a creative workshop and a visit to the mini-planetarium “Count the stars, don't count the time”. A lesson entitled “The Miracle of Space” is available on request. Astronomy enthusiasts can choose between a workshop, a planetarium visit and a lesson arranged on request.

A municipal tourism map published in 2022 lists excursions for private visitors at the “Atēna” equestrian club, by prior arrangement. Visitors can see horses, ponies and other animals and learn about equestrian sports. Please check before travelling whether the offer is currently available.

Discover more destinations: Riga, Mārupe.

For the main travel overview: Rīga.