What’s worth seeing in Rauna? You could spend hours at Rauna Staburags, watching tiny streams of water trickle down its moss-covered surface. But this natural wonder is just the beginning. Rauna offers so much more—impressive castle ruins, the mysterious Rauna Devil’s Cave, scenic nature trails, and other charming surprises.
And the town itself? It’s a hidden gem of Latvia—pristine, thoughtfully maintained, and a pure delight to stroll through.
So, lace up your walking shoes and join me on an adventure to uncover the treasures of this captivating town!
Location: Rauna, Latvia
Cost: Free
Length: ~1 day
How to get there: By car
Take a Look Inside Rauna’s Devil’s Cave’s Belly
Rauna, like many Latvian towns, boasts its own Devil’s Cave, and this one carries a sense of intrigue. According to a nearby information sign, the cave was once buried and later excavated, which might explain why it isn’t as well-known as others. And true to its mischievous name, this cave enjoys playing tricks on unsuspecting visitors like you! At first glance, it appears small and unassuming.
But take a few steps in, round the corner, and a hidden chamber suddenly opens up—larger and more enchanting than you’d expect.
The Nature Trail Winds Further
Actually, the Devil’s Cave is part of the Health Trail, a scenic path that winds through the forest and leads to another intriguing spot—the Old Water Mill. Unfortunately, we’ve arrived during the height of summer, after weeks of relentless +30°C heat, and it seems the water levels have suffered. A modest trickle flows through one corner of the mill, leaving the rest bone-dry. It’s easy to imagine how much more impressive this spot would be during wetter seasons like spring, with the mill brought back to life by gushing streams.
From here, the trail is said to continue all the way to Rauna’s center, offering even more to explore. But, as we haven’t done our research, we decide to turn back here. What lies further down the path? Perhaps that’s a mystery for your adventure to uncover!
Rauna’s White Cliffs by the River
Had we followed the Health Trail, the White Cliffs would undoubtedly have been one of the highlights along the way. But lucky for us, these charming cliffs are also easily accessible from Rauna’s town center. Near the arched bridge over the Rauna River, the pale sandstone formations rise elegantly on the opposite bank. Their soft, milky hue makes them stand out among Latvia’s more common sandstone cliffs.
And the area near the arched bridge, where the river meanders peacefully, holds its own quiet charm. It’s the kind of spot that practically invites you to pause for a quick photo—or simply soak in the serene beauty. Whether you’re exploring the trail or just passing through the town, this is a stop well worth making.
Rauna Castle Ruins and a View from the Hill
I’ve explored my fair share of medieval castle ruins, but the Rauna Castle Ruins truly stand out. Their size and height are remarkable, setting them apart from many of the Livonian castles scattered across Latvia. Unlike other ruins, which often feel more like outlines of what once stood, these retain significant portions of their towering walls, offering a vivid glimpse into their former grandeur. While entry into the ruins is prohibited for safety reasons, they are undeniably impressive, even from the outside.
Nearby, informative signs bring history to life, detailing the layout of historical structures like the old dairy house and the original cobblestone paths. As you take it all in, you’re treated to a picturesque view of the white Rauna Lutheran Church and the charming town below.
The castle’s surroundings are just as enjoyable. The well-maintained area includes a playground, skatepark, football field, and a serene pond with a fountain at its center. A whimsical road sign warns of ducks, and if you’re lucky, you might spot a family of them paddling happily around—or catch a glimpse of the large fish gliding beneath the surface. It’s a delightful mix of history and modern-day charm.
Rauna Staburags: A Unique Place of Peac
Rauna Staburags immediately captivates anyone who sees it. Water cascades over the moss-covered rock in countless delicate streams, creating a mesmerizing, almost otherworldly scene. At first glance, it seems as if the water flows through tiny holes in the rock, but on closer inspection, you realize it’s an optical illusion—the water glides effortlessly over the lush, green surface of the moss.
This is a place that soothes the soul. It’s easy to lose track of time here, meditating on the tranquil flow of water or focusing your attention on stacking stones to create a tower that would accompany many of its kind made by other travelers. Building these towers is no easy feat—it demands patience and balance, with each stone carefully placed to keep the tower standing strong.
However, let’s all do our part to protect this natural treasure. Admire its beauty with your eyes, but resist the urge to climb or touch the rock. Preserving its delicate ecosystem ensures this unique wonder remains just as breathtaking for future visitors to enjoy.
What are your thoughts?
Oh, It has been a couple of years but I can’t stop thinking about magical Staburags. It may be my favourite waterfall. And it turns out that there are many more hidden gems here. So I truly and wholeheartedly recommend visiting Rauna.
More Attractions Near Rauna
Līču-Laņgu cliffs (~19km)
Kazu grava waterfall (~19km)
Other things to see and do in Latvia