Pārgauja - Cesis

The Three Pearls of Pārgauja – Straupe, Stalbe, and Raiskums

Nestled in the heart of Vidzeme, Pārgauja invites with a rich tapestry of history and a landscape that beckons to be explored. Here, the legacy of generations lingers in the air, offering a glimpse into centuries-old traditions. Every step in Pārgauja reveals a unique experience and breathtaking views, where winding rivers like the Brasla and Gauja carve through scenic vistas, uncovering the hidden treasures of nature and awakening the spirit of adventure.

Līgatne Pārgauja Priekuļi Vecpiebalga Jaunpiebalga Amata Cēsis

Interesting facts

Straupe
is the smallest Hanseatic town in the world.
28,5%
of the territory is covered by bogs
Ungurmuiža
the oldest surviving wooden manor house in Latvia
Red Cliffs
The Red Cliffs, also known as Raiskums Rock, rise on the massive right bank of the River Gauja, about 0.5 km upstream from the old Raiskums (Lieplejas) tavern building. Stretching several hundred metres, the cliffs stand out with their striking reddish hue—hence the name Red Cliffs. Deep cracks split the sandstone, creating a dramatic natural artwork carved by time.
Learn more
Pārgaujas iela, Cēsis
Pārgaujas iela, Cēsis
Vējiņi Underground Lakes
The only underground lakes in Latvia, the Vējiņi lakes captivate with their crystal-clear, ice-cold waters. Carved by underground springs flowing into the scenic Brasla River, these natural wonders include Ezerala, home to two underground lakes, and the mysterious Upes Cave. Around the caves lie large sinkholes formed by subterranean erosion, adding an enchanting air of mystery to the landscape.
Learn more
Vējiņu alas, Straupes pagasts
Vējiņu alas, Straupes pagasts
Lielstraupe Castle
Lielstraupe Castle is one of the few medieval castles in Latvia that has survived through the centuries with various reconstructions. It is also the only castle in Latvia that includes a church within the same structure.
Learn more
Lielstraupes pils, Straupe
Lielstraupes pils, Straupe
Riebiņu lake
A naturally formed walking route winds around the nearby lake - a circular trail of about 6 km. Along the way, you can climb Ērgļi Hillfort, a cultural monument nestled between Riebiņi and Eiķēni lakes. The hillfort features two distinct terraces, revealing clues to its historical role in ancient times.
Learn more
Straupes pagasts, Cēsu novads
Straupes pagasts, Cēsu novads
Kvēpene Nature Trails
Most historians of antiquity have suggested that the Kvēpene hillfort is the Satekles castle mentioned in the Chronicle of Henry, which was the residence of the famous Latgalian feudal lord Rūsiņš. There are sources indicating that the oak tree is the prototype for the image on the Latvian five-lat banknote.
Learn more
Kvēpenes Pilskalns, Raiskuma pagasts
Kvēpenes Pilskalns, Raiskuma pagasts

What to visit

See all