Discover Līgatne: A holiday guide
Līgatne isn’t a town you just pass through. Those who have visited here usually come back, because there’s truly so much to explore. Līgatne will surprise anyone with its architecture, details, and rock outcrops. Here, the beauty of Gauja National Park meets historical industrial heritage, sandstone cliffs will greet you across the rivers, and the locals will welcome you warmly like one of their own. One day isn’t enough here – Līgatne invites you to stay longer!
On August 8th, the historic Līgatne Paper Mill will host the Paper Mill Festival for the fifth time, filling the factory courtyard with music, art, creative workshops, and a truly festive atmosphere.
But Līgatne is more than just an event. It’s a place where time flows differently – slower, more intensely, with stories you won’t find in books or on social media. Check out the guide that will make sure that after your holidays in Līgatne, you don’t just have photos in a gallery, but also real memories and emotions!
Paper Mill Festival 2026
August 8, Līgatne Paper Mill
The Paper Mill Festival will take place for the fifth time this year and has become one of the most interesting summer events in Līgatne. The heart of the festival is the historic area of the Līgatne paper mill – a place that is usually not open to visitors, but on festival day opens its doors to everyone.
This year, there’s a special focus on watercolor paper – at the Līgatne Paper Mill, premium watercolor paper is currently being made, and during the festival, you’ll have the chance to get to know this material up close, join creative workshops, and peek into the production areas that are usually closed. Artists, craftsmen, music, homemade treats, and conversations – you can enjoy a rich program here all day long.
Līgatne Paper Factory Workers’ Flat
Brīvības iela 5, Līgatne (300 m from the Paper Factory gates). Tel. +371 29189707
In one of Līgatne’s wooden row houses, there is an apartment that once belonged to the workers of the Līgatne paper mill, restored to its early 20th-century historic appearance. The apartment features a video about the daily lives of the paper mill workers’ families, with the story based on the account of a witness from that time.
On the day of the festival, admission is free from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Tours of the Historical Center of Līgatne
Meeting place: Spriņģu iela 2.
Participation: 5,00 EUR per person. Free of charge for preschool-aged children.
On August 8 at the Līgatne Tourist Information Center, two experienced guides invite you to meet:
At 1:00 PM guide Ramona Vasiļjeva (+371 29819765)
At 4:00 PM guide Natālija Kaula (+371 26450294)
In about an hour and a half you will visit the Paper Factory Workers’ Flat and the historic Culture House, climb the cliffs above the Līgatne River, explore the fishway, and peek into the caves where locals still store vegetables – just like their ancestors. Spots are limited, so sign up early.
The Treasures of the Līgatne Area
Līgatne Winery
Spriņģu iela 3, Līgatne (1 km from the Paper Factory). Tel. +371 26521467 / +371 28602642
More than 20 berry and fruit wines, liqueurs, and infusions, made from berries, flowers, and fruits growing in the Gauja National Park area. Naturally fermented, aged for about a year. And if you want something special – a romantic wine tasting by candlelight in a sandstone cave. Book in advance!
Black Ceramics “Mākoņi un māls”
“Mākoņi”, Līgatnes pagasts. Tel. +371 29428404
Discover black pottery traditions at the Tourism and Art Center – with a tour or a clay-making workshop where you create your own unique vessel. You can take your finished piece home or have it sent by mail. Prior booking is required.
Electric bike rental ”Lazy Bikes”
Tel. +371 29255860
Wide tires, shock absorbers, an electric motor, and the surroundings of Līgatne from a unique perspective. Suitable for activities both for families with children (a child seat is available) and for those who wish to explore further without unnecessary effort.
Ratnieku lake
Coordinates: 57.16472, 25.02389
9 km from the town of Līgatne
A well-equipped swimming area – an excellent activity for a warm summer afternoon.
Nature trails and cliffs
When traveling to Līgatne from the Cēsis direction, there is an opportunity to visit the magnificent Zvārtas Rock by the rapid Amata River and the Ķūķi Cliffs on the banks of the Gauja River. This is an exciting part of the journey through the valley of one of the Baltic’s most impressive rivers, located in Gauja National Park, featuring Devonian sandstone outcrops. The route and more detailed information are available at entergauja.com.
Līgatne Nature Trails offer five-kilometer routes with the chance to see Latvia’s wild animals in almost natural surroundings. A 10-minute walk from the entrance are the Gūdu Cliffs and Katrīna’s Rock.
Stay in Līgatne for one more day – “Rakstivāls” Zeit
On August 9, at the nearby creative quarter Zeit (Gaujas Street 4), the event “Rakstivāls” will take place – featuring talks by professionals from various fields, workshops for children and adults, writing-stimulating activities, and excursions. The event will conclude with artistry and music.
Accommodations in Līgatne fill up quickly in the summer, especially during events. If you plan to stay both days – book early!
More about Līgatne and Cēsis region: visit.cesis.lv
