If you’re in Kazdanga, you absolutely have to stop at the Kazdanga Walkway, which stretches across the overgrown lake! It’s like Kaņieris’ little cousin living in Kurzeme. While the reeds at Kazdanga’s lake still need a bit more time to grow to the height of those in Kaņieris, it remains a stunning and unique spot to visit year-round. After taking in the view, if you’re feeling adventurous, you can wander through the forest that wraps around the lake or head over to Kazdanga Castle for another thrilling experience. That is, of course, if you’re not afraid of ghosts!
Location: Kazdanga, Latvia
Cost: Free
How to get there: By car.
Exploring the Wild Beauty of Kazdanga’s Overgrown Lake
In summer, the overgrown lake is green, lively, and sun-drenched, while in winter or early spring, the grasses turn a dry, grey-brown.
The most beautiful view unfolds either from the beginning of the wooden walkway, where it divides the lake into two parts, or from the observation platform in the middle of the lake. It’s not tall, but it offers a different perspective of the overgrown lake.
I must say, there’s probably no unphotogenic angle here!
To get to our next stop in Kazdanga you can either walk around the lake through the forest or return to your car and drive to Kazdanga Palace.
If Your Not Afraid of Ghosts – Stop at Kazdanga Palace
You can reach the castle via a stone bridge, which, as it turns out, has a rather uninviting name—”The Bridge of Moans.” Do I want to know? Probably not.
The castle itself is a beautiful example of classical architecture, hiding a tranquil park behind it.
Right in front of the castle, you’ll also find the “Tree of Love” adorned with locks. In Latvia there is a tradition for the newlyweds on their wedding day to put a lock somewhere special, typically on a bridge to lock in a long lasting marriage.
The castle itself is a lovely example of classical architecture, hiding a peaceful park behind it. Right in front of the castle, you’ll find the “Tree of Love,” draped in locks from couples who’ve participated in the Latvian tradition of locking their love in place—newlyweds often add a lock to a bridge or other special place to symbolize their lasting bond.
Make sure to take a moment to admire the wooden sculptures scattered throughout the park and learn about the legend of Kazdanga’s name. Here’s a little teaser: kaza means goat. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try to find the famous Grotto where the Baron is said to have sipped his tea. Unfortunately, I couldn’t track it down, but maybe you’ll have better luck!
Thoughts?
The Kazdanga lake is a hidden gem that is beautiful in any season. But if you wish to explore the Kazdanga Palace park I would recommend going in late spring or summer when the fields are green. It was a bit gloomy in early spring.
As there is a bit of a drive from Riga to Kazdanga, I would rather recommend combining these attractions with something else, for example exploring Aizpute or Cīrava Forest Park.
Other things to see and do in Latvia