About Cēsis Municipality

Amata

The Natural Charm of Amata

Steeped in legends and rich in history, the Amata region captivates visitors with its scenic diversity. Whether you step into ancient roots at the reconstructed Āraiši Lake Fortress or grind grain by hand at a historic windmill, Amata offers unforgettable, hands-on experiences. Flowing through the landscape are both small streams and mighty rivers – including the Gauja and the Amata, the most rapid-filled river in Latvia.

Interesting facts

Ainavu Cliffs

is one of the viens biggest rocks in Latvia

Āraiši ezerpils

is the only reconstruction of a 9th–10th-century settlement in Europe

Melānija Vanaga’s

lifelong work includes a dozen volumes dedicated to the river of her ancestors

The name `aa - mad ` (Amada) - "mother river"

could be considered the river’s original name

The territory is dominated by lush forests, open farmland, and wildflower meadows. The landscape is shaped by deep ravines and rolling hills, with several marked nature trails winding through the area.

Many hiking routes lead to breathtaking riverbanks where ancient sandstone outcrops reveal the passage of time.

Āraiši ezerpils Archaeological Park

Āraiši lake settlement is one of the oldest and most vivid witnesses of Latvia’s historical legacy. The Āraiši Archaeological Park offers a unique opportunity to explore reconstructed wooden dwellings from the 9th–10th centuries, bringing to life the ancient lake settlement that once stood here. The park also includes the ruins of a 14th–17th century medieval stone castle and an open-air exhibition of Stone and Bronze Age dwellings on Meitu Island, making it a remarkable place where multiple layers of history come together in one scenic lakeside location.

Learn more

Āraišu ezerpils, Drabeši

Zvārtes Rock

Zvārtes Rock is one of the most beautiful red Devonian sandstone outcrops in Latvia, nestled along the banks of the Amata River and surrounded by forests and meadows.

Learn more

Zvārtes iezis, Drabešu pagasts

Rakši Zoo

Camel Park is located just 7 km from Cēsis and is home to over 150 animals, including camels, llamas, alpacas, lemurs, Australian kangaroos, zebras, Poitou donkeys, Valais Blackneck goats, Valais Blacknose sheep, Highland cattle, colorful macaw parrots, emus, ostriches, meerkats, guinea pigs, and rabbits.

Learn more

"Rakši", Drabešu pagasts

Amata Nature Trail

The trail runs along the right bank of the river, winding through both the lower and upper parts of its valley, which means that in some sections hikers must overcome elevation differences of more than 40 meters. This route can be considered a form of geotourism, as it introduces visitors to Devonian-period dolomite and sandstone outcrops found in the glacially formed ancient Amata valley.

Learn more

Drabešu pagasts

Spāres Manor Writers’ Park

Spāre Manor Writers’ Park is a unique natural and cultural monument that preserves the touch and memory of its planters - well-known Latvian writers.

Learn more

Āraiši Windmill

The windmill was originally built as part of the Drabeši Manor mills around the mid-19th century. During the reconstruction of the windmill, a stone engraved with "ANNO 1852" was found in the wall of the building, which is likely the year the windmill was constructed.

Learn more

"Vējdzirnavas", Drabeši

What to visit

See all

The Natural Charm of Amata

Interesting facts

The territory is dominated by lush forests, open farmland, and wildflower meadows. The landscape is shaped by deep ravines and rolling hills, with several marked nature trails winding through the area.

What to visit

Thank you!