When I went to a small town in Latvia, I felt like I was in France: it is one of the most beautiful places I have ever seen.

The second part of the trip (read the first part HERE) is devoted to smaller and lesser-known Latvian places in Lithuania. In other words, to the invisible side of Latvia. I want to show what beauties and curiosities are hidden here.

I have specially designed the route so that all places can be skipped on a weekend, and even on a day if you are in a hurry. We will start from the sea side and end near the border with Lithuania, in Biržai.

Have you ever had to walk down the street and suddenly find yourself by the sea? Otherwise, head over to Paviloosta or Hook Cape, as it was once called. It is said that there are mostly sunny days in the year. The Saka River flows through Pavilosta, which is one of the shortest (only 6 km) and deepest rivers in Latvia (in some places the depth reaches up to 11 m).

The ancient fishing village in western Latvia is experiencing a true renaissance. Here new cafes, small hotels and guest houses are opened, and more and more water shows appear. Some catch the wind, others fly through the waves.

If you are hungry, it is worth visiting the small agricultural market in Paviluosta. Everything here comes from small local farms, many of the hosts make their own home and sell it here on weekends. It is interesting that you can find many products that are not seen in Lithuania, such as a special Latvian delicacy made from carrots, which is very popular in this region of Kurzeme.

And now I want to introduce you to another: a small but really exclusive Latvian city, Kuldiga. Many of those who come here for the first time say that this place is reminiscent of France. Kuldiga is located on the banks of the Venta River, 155 km from Riga. The historical center of the old town on the old bed of the Venta river is included in the UNESCO national list, and nature here is not only one of the most picturesque, but also one of the warmest in Latvia. Tourists especially like the Riežupė Natural Park with the mysterious sand caves of Duke Jacob and the picturesque bed of the Riežupė river. Due to the ancient and narrow streets of Kuldiga, many compare this city with France. It is also said to be one of the most photogenic places in Latvia.

In this city, be sure to visit the observation deck, from which you can see the most important object in Kuldiga: the Venta river waterfall, also called the Venta threshold. It is the widest natural waterfall in Europe (249 m), on which various legends and historical events revolve. Due to the fish fishing devices invented by Duke Jacob, Kuldiga was called the city where salmon is caught in the air.

I have noticed that local tourism is flourishing in Latvia, young people are traveling around their country and looking for interesting places. For example, the girls we know, in all the towns they visit, perform such improvised dances. Without any opportunity, without any purpose, just dance and enjoy life.

What other exclusive places to rest and adventure have you found in Orijus in Latvia? Watch the show “Viajes Orijus”.