Private Tour Medieval Gems of Kuldīga, Sabile and Kandava
Courland, Latvia
Discover Kuldīga, Sabile, and Kandava, three of the best-preserved medieval towns in Latvia. Each town boasts a unique and cozy charm, making them unmissable destinations on your journey.
Highlights
- Visit Kuldiga, Latvia's best-preserved medieval town
- Explore the Abava River Valley, a notable natural area
- Discover Sabile and Kandava, two historic small towns
- See Sabile Wine Hill, the northernmost vineyard in the world
- Walk through the unique landscape of Čužu Mire Nature Reserve
Description
This guided tour starts with a roughly 2-hour drive from Riga to Western Latvia (Courland), with a coffee stop and scenic views. The first stop is Kuldiga, a UNESCO World Heritage medieval town known for its narrow streets and Ventas Rumba, Europe’s widest waterfall. In spring, you may observe local fish jumping upstream. In summer, swimming is possible in the waterfall area. Lunch can be enjoyed at one of Kuldiga’s restaurants.
You may optionally visit the Live Museum to learn about Kuldiga's history and the Courland Duchy; this adds about an hour and replaces one of the itinerary stops.
The next destination is Sabile, a small historic town with narrow streets and panoramic views from Sabile Hillfort over the Abava River Valley. Sabile holds the northernmost vineyard in the world, Sabile Wine Hill, recognized by Guinness World Records. Local wines and ciders are available for purchase.
The tour then proceeds to Kandava, a town with a history dating to 1230. Explore its tranquil streets in the late afternoon, visit Kandava church hill and castle ruins, and enjoy views of the Abava River Valley.
Before returning to Riga, take a hike in the Čužu purvs Nature Reserve along the Abava River. This area features rare wetland habitats and hidden sulfur springs. In summer (June to August), the bog blooms with yellow flowers known locally as 'krūmu čuža.'
The drive back to Riga takes about 1.5 hours after the day’s activities.
Includes
- Transfer from/to your hotel in Riga or Jūrmala (approximately 3.5 hours total transfer time)
- Approximately 6-hour guided tour covering Kuldiga, Sabile, and Kandava
- Professional tour leader
- Photos from the tour
- Improv-travel format for groups of two or more
- Insights into Latvian nature, culture, and traditions during the tour
Excludes
- Food and drinks
- Entry fee to the Live Museum – Ancient Kuldiga Story
- Entry fee to Sabile Wine Hill
- Insurance
- Any other items not specified as included
Important Information
- This tour involves outdoor activities and transfers that carry inherent risks. Participants are responsible for securing proper insurance coverage, including for adventure activities. The company and guides assume no liability for accidents.
Cancellation Policy
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
For the best experience, bring comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and consider visiting in spring or summer for natural highlights like fish migration and flowering wetlands. Booking in advance is recommended to secure your place on this popular tour.
