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And while Jūrmala may seem like a suburb of Riga filled with Soviet nostalgia, we quickly became convinced that this is a past beyond the horizon.
Jurmala. Source: DELFI / Modesta Bear
Of course, it is natural that for some people this place is associated with Soviet luxury; after all, our parents and grandparents used to rest here. And not without reason, the main figures of the Communist Party were also on vacation here, which means that the place was prestigious.
Jurmala. Source: DELFI / Modesta Bear
It has remained prestigious even now, just civilized western, full of preserved and up-to-date originals Art nouveau, the wooden architecture of the complex and surrounded by a very clean nature: endless pine forests, white sand beaches and the quiet bays of Riga.
Jurmala. Source: DELFI / Modesta Bear
Jurmala. Source: DELFI / Modesta Bear
Where are we in Tuscany?
We reached Jūrmala by car from the Kuldiga side, through the Kemeri National Park. And here we stop at Kemeri (latv. belt) The highlight of the settlement is the water tower (Tukuma iela 38, Jūrmala). As soon as we get out of the car, we yell, “Where are we in Tuscany?”
It is the tallest building in Kemeri, built in 1929. Its architect is Friedrich Skujins. This 42-meter water tower, reminiscent of a lighthouse, was previously used for its intended purpose: its reservoir was filled with water from sulfur springs.
Although it is not Tuscany, nor is it the Leaning Tower of Pisa, but the sight seen really pleasantly surprised and reminded of Italy: the beautiful, recently renovated and magnificently imposing Water Tower of Kemeri is now the main attraction here. True, not inclined, standing.
Jurmala. Source: DELFI / Modesta Bear
Here in the tower we also met our guide in Jūrmala – Aleksandras. “Is it possible to climb to the roof of the tower?”, I asked Alejandro. “Of course! The tower should be open to visitors from August this year,” invited the guide, touching the keys to the door of the tower, which still smelled of paint.
The tower, located right next to the sea, surrounded by pine forests, promised that the view from its roof would be dazzling.
Jurmala. Source: DELFI / Modesta Bear
After climbing the narrow stairs to the gazebo, emotions flooded us for an instant, which we expected: “Oh, here it is above all!”
At a 360-degree angle, you can see the surroundings of Jūrmala, at the bottom where the roofs of hotels, wellness centers, churches and church towers protrude and Riga Bay in the distance.
The rays of the sun shining through the masses of the then storm were drawing the cloud to attract the photograph, a moment of rare beauty.
Jurmala. Source: DELFI / Modesta Bear
From the top of the tower you can see the nearby Kemeri Historical Health Park, a wonderful place to walk or enjoy active leisure in nature. And here are the popular spots for wedding photography: a small but very romantic “Island of Love” and the monumental Kemeri Hotel-Sanatorium “White Steamboat”, built in the early 20th century, though not currently in operation.
Jurmala. Source: DELFI / Modesta Bear
33 kilometers of white quartz sand
The sea coast of this length stretches west of Riga and is loved by tourists who long to sunbathe. The “Blue” flag is also flown here, announcing the beaches that meet the highest quality requirements. In total, 24 km of coastline has been adapted for swimming in the sea in Jūrmala, so there is a lot of space here, so nudists will find a quiet rest and a close connection with nature on this coast, and that place is near Lielupe. .
Jurmala. Source: DELFI / Modesta Bear
And wherever you are in Jūrmala, it always merges with nature, so you don’t want to rush here. However, new experiences await us in the very heart of Jūrmala.
Jurmala. Source: DELFI / Modesta Bear
After getting acquainted with the coast, we headed to the Jurmala city area. Entry to this complex costs EUR 2. After paying, we headed towards the central part of this resort, towards Jūrmala’s main promenade, Jomas Street, intended for pedestrians only. Even if you are not willing to compare, this place still looks like J. Basanavičiaus street in Palanga, only in Jūrmala this place is much quieter and more cultural. It is true that even the Lithuanians themselves have longed for a holiday in Jūrmala more than in Palanga. Perhaps because of the calmer atmosphere, the culture and the wider beaches.
Jurmala. Source: DELFI / Modesta Bear
From the ornate and novel church, this boulevard, full of cafes, restaurants, summer terraces, hotels and shops, leads to the sea, where it is very close to the sandy beach, and the famous Jūrmala “Dzintari” concert hall and the summer. stage. One of the most fascinating attractions is the observation of the architecture of the complex and Art nouveau style cabins, renovated or subtly integrated in pine forests.
Jurmala. Source: DELFI / Modesta Bear
In the center of Jūrmala there is also one of the most famous recreational complexes of the Hotel Jūrmala SPA (Jomas street 47/49). The hotel rooms and balconies offer very romantic views of the sea with pine peaks. The August weekend night for two costs from 120 euros.
Jurmala. Source: DELFI / Modesta Bear
Near the hotel, according to our guide Aleksandra, and a great place to dine: the “Majorenhoff” restaurant (42 Jomas street).
In the atmosphere of the soft bustle of the resort, on the cozy summer terrace we ordered several dishes suitable for the spa: salad with hot smoked salmon (8.50 euros), octopus with fresh potatoes and grilled vegetables (13.50 euros) , scallops with chives and parmesan chips. and white wine sauce (€ 13.90).
Jurmala. Source: DELFI / Modesta Bear
For dessert – mango mousse with green tea biscuit (6 euros) and a serving of homemade ice cream – 4 euros.
Jurmala. Source: DELFI / Modesta Bear
After a gourmet style dinner, a little more friendship while walking in the heart of Jurmala is called Jomas Street and a quiet western resort. At dusk, we make our way to the hotel, where we hope to sleep comfortably in a hotel room overlooking the horizon. And in the morning, new adventures!
What else is interesting to do in the vicinity of Jūrmala?
The beginning of the second day was great: from the morning an intense entertainment in nature began: Jūrmala’s Tarzans Park, the observation tower, the butterfly museum and the elegant Jurmala Golf Club & Hotel.
But what is the best time to have a good time if you want to have fun with the kids? The answer lies in one of the five Tarzans attractions in Latvia, located in the Dzintari park in the center of Jurmala. This extreme, but extremely safe entertainment for a person, depending on age, costs from 8 to 20 euros, entertainment on nets stretched between trees: 10 euros / person.
Jurmala. Source: DELFI / Modesta Bear
For calmer entertainment with the whole family, in warm years you can visit the Exotic Butterfly Exhibition, which you will find in a special dome on Turaidas Street. 12/10, right next to the “Dzintari” park.
Here, the inhabitants of the tropics will be enchanted by the fragile wings of the wings and will caress their hearts, allowing them to see how they eat their nectar with their straw.
Jurmala. Source: DELFI / Modesta Bear
Do you know what is the most interesting task? Take a picture of a butterfly with outstretched wings, in its very beauty! The price of a visit to the Butterfly Dome for adults is 4.5 euros, for children – 2 euros.
In the Dzintari park you will also find an observation tower, which will require patience and stamina to climb, but once you reach the highest point, you will not regret the view.
Jurmala. Source: DELFI / Modesta Bear
Near Jūrmala – another attraction for nature lovers and a cognitive health trail for the whole family – “Valguma pasaule”. From May to October, you can enjoy wellness rituals, photography exhibitions, meditation labyrinths, and a barefoot trail in a nature reserve for € 4 per person.
The world of lighting. Source: DELFI / Modesta Bear
Although a short but effective stay in the vicinity of Jūrmala was crowned by a short golf lesson “Jurmala Golf Club & Hotel” (1 Golfa street, Piņķi). This place is highly valued by golf lovers for its impeccable quality courses, first-class equipment and professional service. So if you are looking for more chic entertainment, this place is ideal.
Jurmala Golf Club & Hotel. Source: DELFI / Modesta Bear
In addition, you can pamper your palate in the hotel restaurant and watch others play golf while enjoying a meal. We did the same: sitting comfortably on the outdoor terrace overlooking the well-kept golf courses, we watched the enthusiasts patiently hit the balls and ordered what was recommended to us by Iveta, the manager of this golf club, who turned deftly here.
Jurmala Golf Club & Hotel. Source: DELFI / Modesta Bear
The offer was as follows: restaurant brand hamburger (13.50 euros), avocado salad with prawns (12.50 euros), homemade exotic fruit puree, frozen soft drink – 6 euros. By the way, the restaurant prepares food with vegetables, fruits and spices grown in the territory of Jurmala Golf Club & Hotel.
And these are only a small part of the entertainment and experience that the legendary Baltic Sea resort offers. However, one thing is clear: Jūrmala is now undergoing a rebirth that he has been waiting for a long time. And no, it is no longer a seaside resort overwhelmed by Soviet nostalgia, now it is the Northern Riviera, raising emotions above all else.
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