Best autumn in Latvia: Kuldiga

Kuldiga is known as the city of all the best things in Latvia. Here, in particular, there are two of the largest waterfalls in the country. Ventas rumba is the widest not only in Latvia, but also in the whole Europe: in high water its width can reach about 270 meters with a height of only 1.6–2.2 meters. And another one — Alekšupītes — is considered to be the highest in the country: 4.15 meters with a small width of 8 meters. It is located in the very center of the city and it is definitely not to be missed: the waterfall gives off a strong noise of falling water.

Walking from Alekšupītes a few meters towards the viewing platform on the Venta River, you will get a view of the main man-made attraction of Kuldīga — the arch bridge built in 1873–1874. It is considered to be one of the longest bridges in Europe with brick vaults.

Ancient heritage

The first thing that catches your eye when you arrive in Kuldiga is the large number of preserved old houses. By the way, the old town of Kuldiga is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

The town has a special charm due to the half-timbered buildings: the voids inside the wooden frame are filled with light-colored clay mortar, which creates an expressive contrasting appearance.

These houses are especially good to admire on the banks of the winding Alekšupīte River, which flows through many beautiful locations. Be sure to take a stroll along its embankments or go to the bridge at 5 Pasta Street. Dazzling autumn scenery can be seen on this very river: from the bridge at 31 Baznīcas Street you can enjoy a beautiful panorama of willows and St. Catherine’s Lutheran Church.

Fascinating nature

Check out the city garden near the regional museum. There are wooden paths and bridges over a small pond with a fountain. Among the tall trees and flowerbeds you will notice many sculptures by Latvian artists.

If you follow the wooden eco-trail, you will easily find your way to the Ventas rumba waterfall viewing platform. From there you can simply enjoy the unique view, and the bravest can go down and try to cross the river barefoot on the water. It is worth bearing in mind that this will not be possible at all times: assess the flow rate, the amount and temperature of water in the river and make your decision.

Strange sculptures

While strolling along the main pedestrian street, don’t be lazy to stop by Baltijas skolotāju semināra parks. In its center stands the eclectic 1871 Church of the Protection of the Blessed Virgin Mary, and around it are many wooden sculptures. Very nearby is a woodworking workshop and an arts district. There’s a freaky dog and a funny hedgehog next to a colorful Bart Simpson figure.

Where to drink coffee?

It is more pleasant to meet the beautiful but cool autumn in a cozy atmosphere. And it’s even better when you have a delicious coffee and a fresh bun next to you. You can have a tasty and inexpensive snack without leaving the main tourist street.

At Liepājas 7, check out the small cafe Krikumiņš with a large selection of cakes and pastries: from the classic Vecrīga and a local variation of the iconic Melnais princis to eclairs and rhubarb pie.

Where to eat

Perhaps the best views of the old brick bridge are from the Venta Café on Pils 2/2. Its building is adjacent to the very beginning of the bridge, and the terrace offers views of the massive arched spans and the waterfall. With the pleasant sound of falling water you can have a hearty meal here or just a glass of wine. The cost of dishes is average for the country and fully justifies the picturesque location.

Where to try beer

Kuldiga is home to one of the most beautiful breweries in Latvia — Duna. It appeared in 2021 and occupies a small building in the cultural and entertainment space at Kaļķu Street 14. Everything here is filled with containers with different kinds of beer: from classic pilsner to herbal ipa, gose and fruit ale.

The selection of non-alcoholic beverages is also very large, as well as eight-degree fortified drinks. A few meters away from the brewery, good coffee is sold, there is a restaurant and a store with interesting local products.

Where to swim

If you like to swim before the first frost and are able to take a dip in the river even in mid-October, the city’s central beach will suit your taste. Right by Europe’s longest waterfall, you can take a few swims surrounded by intrepid birds or simply walk barefoot along the banks of the Venta. And be sure to walk barefoot to the edge of the waterfall to feel the full force of the falling water. Lovers of architecture on the beach should definitely see the lifeguard tower with a built-in toilet. Its shape resembles a mixture of a cylinder and a snail shell with a wooden triangle sticking out of it.

Where to spend the night

In the very center of the city, on Pasta Street 5A, there is an unusual hotel called Noliktava No. 5 (Warehouse No. 5). The former warehouse building was converted into a conceptual hotel with loft-style interiors. One of the walls of the building adjoins a small river Alekšupīte, which only adds to the romanticism of the place. A room for two people will cost around 80 euros per night.