Kaltenes Kalvas – another mystery of stones of Latvia

Tucked away in the forests of Kurzeme lies Kaltenes Kalvas Trail, a place shrouded in mystery and legends. Often compared to Pokaiņi Forest for its enigmatic stone formations, this natur trail is dotted with moss-covered rocks said to have been brought here by the devil himself. There are even rumours of magic and tales that this was once a sacred site. Today, it feels like a tranquil, almost otherworldly forest. While the trail is shorter than Pokaiņi, it offers a beautiful, peaceful stroll under the shade of towering trees.

---

---

---

---

---

An enchanting Nature Trail of Stones and Trees in Kaltenes Kalvas

At the trailhead, the first steps are straightforward, though you must watch for roots underfoot. Curiously, there aren’t many stones here yet. You wonder, is this truly the site of Latvia’s largest stone formation? The iconic wooden walkways you saw in photos of Kaltenes Kalvas are also absent, leaving you uneasy. Are we on the right path?

Luckily, we spot other tourists coming from the opposite direction and I ask them: Is there anything remarkable further along?

Their answer is encouraging: “Yes. And it’s beautiful!”

Ok. Let’s head further then!

Soon, we realise there was no reason for worries as Kaltenes Kalvas finaly reveals its treasures. Stones of all sizes—some solitary, others clustered—begin emerging from the earth like little, mossy troll heads peeking out of tranches. 

And the first wooden walkway appears as well. It turns out that the trail is actually a mix between bare earth and newly restored wooden walkways, complete with steps. But that’s alright. The real spectacle is off the path anyways. The forest floor, on both sides, is generously scattered with stones, creating a scene that feels almost magical.

Highlights of Kaltenes Kalvas Nature Trail

As you wander deeper into the trail, a few particularly large boulders emerge from the forest floor, each one demanding your attention. Legends say there were once many more of these stones—some even larger and more varied—but much of this natural treasure was taken in the past for road construction. Thankfully, the remaining stones are now protected, ensuring their mystical presence will endure for generations to come.

One of the more curious sights along the trail is a small pyramid of stones. When I first spotted it, I thought, “Ah, here’s where the stone piles begin!” I had been expecting to see numerous carefully arranged stone formations, similar to those at Pokaiņi. Imagine my surprise when I learned this is the only deliberately made stone pile here. It turns out that the entirety of Kaltenes Kalvas Trail is considered one enormous natural stone formation—hence the frequent mention of stone piles in descriptions of the area.

A little further on, you come across a flat stone scattered with coins left by previous visitors. It sparks a sense of curiosity: Are these offerings? Wishes? Could leaving a coin here bring good fortune?

It’s at this point you realize, with a smile, that you’ve arrived on the summer solstice—a delightful coincidence, given the mysterious reputation of Kaltene’s “cousin,” Pokaiņi Forest. There, the solstice is often associated with tales of supernatural occurrences. But here, despite the significance of the day, the forest feels calm, serene, and entirely grounded—no unusual phenomena, just nature at its most peaceful.

Adding to the charm of the trail are small, thoughtfully placed signs providing insights into the local flora and fauna. These little educational touches enrich the experience, making the walk not only beautiful but also informative.

---

Thoughts?

Kaltenes Kalvas Trail is wonderfully quiet. Aside from our group, we only encounter one other small party, leaving the trail to be enjoyed in peace. Its tranquility is a defining feature, but at just 1.7 kilometers, the path feels too short to make it a standalone destination for a long journey.