5 must visit lakes in Latvia

Lake Kaņieris
(Kaņieru ezers)

/ Birds Paradise /

Lake Kaņeiris is located in the amazing Ķemeri National Park. It is known primarily for its variety of birds with 237 species living here. The number is significant, considering that there are a total of 342 bird species in Latvia.

On the shores of Kaņieris is a boat dock: rent a boat, you can go explore the lake to visit all of its 14 islands and, if you’re lucky, their feathered residents.

And if you are interested in bird watching from height, there’s an option for climbing up a specially constructed wooden tower. It can be reached by following a forest path, barely visible behind the juniper bushes.

In addition, there is a camping area, picnic tables and campfire sites in the Ķemeri Park for a cozy weekend on lake.

Distance from Riga: 53 км.

Lake Usmas
(Usmas ezers)

/ Lake with the cleanest waters /

Lake Engures is not the best place to freshen up on a sweltering summer day: from June 1^st to August 15^th, swimming and boating here are prohibited.

This is because during this time a very rare flower – Lobelia Dortmann blooms. This delicate and tender plant can only survive in very clear waters, so access to the lake is restricted at the time of its blooming. One can only imagine how clean and clear the water in Lake Usmas is during this time!

This lake is located close to Riga so getting there to admire the blossoming of Lobelia Dortmann is quite simple.

Distance from Riga: 35 км.

Devil’s Lake
(Velnezers)

/ The most mystical lake in Latvia /

There are all kinds of rumors around Devil’s Lake. The locals say that at the bottom of it there is a cursed treasure, which no one has ever been able to get. And those who dared to try grasping it, disappeared without a trace.

Another legend about Devil’s Lake is related to its origin. It’s believed to have formed as a result of a meteorite collision. This meteorite left such a deep trace that the lake is considered bottomless.

This lake is not easy to find since there are no signs guiding to the area. However, if you take a chance and are lucky enough, the reward is a blueberry-colored lake glistening in the sunlight with a bluish-green shimmer.

Since Devil’s Lake is literally in the middle of the forest, you won’t find any entertainment, except for a few viewpoint platforms, huts and benches. But the scenery is absolutely fabulous!

And if you want more, visit Aglona nearby, where the famous Aglona Basilica is located.

Distance from Riga: 240 км.

Lake Lāčkrogs
(Lačkroga ezers)

/ Blue Lagoon of Latvia /

This secluded spot is close to the village of Renda. If you have come here by car, it is easy to find Lāčkrogs Lake: take the exit approximately 200 meters from the main road and you’ll be there.

Lake Lāčkrogs was formed on the site of a lime quarry. That is why its water is not just transparent, but crystal clear. Lake is considered to be the cleanest of all known bodies of water in the Baltic States and the water here has been approved for drinking purposes.

And after a walk around Lake Lāčkrogs, you may visit Kuldīga as well. This city is only 28 kilometers away.

Distance from Riga: 128 км.

Lake Engures
(Engures ezers)

/ Where the orchids bloom /

Lake Engures is found in all the tops and travel guides in Latvia, and no wonder – it’s truly special.

Lake Engures is known for being called the largest seaside lake but, in fact, it’s the third largest lake in Latvia. National Park by the same name, one of the richest in number of animal and bird species in the country, is located there. However, what makes this lake truly unique is the Orchid Trail.

The Orchid Trail stretches for 3.5 km, crossing the forest, swamp and lake shore. At the end of June and through first half of July, orchids begin to bloom – they color the trail with bright, delicate floral glow. This is something worth seeing with your own eyes.

Distance from Riga: 94 км.