Mid-June at Kalsnava Arboretum is a truly magical experience. As rhododendrons burst into full bloom and the first peonies delicately unfurl, the arboretum transforms into a vibrant haven of color and fragrance. You can immerse yourself in clouds of rhododendrons, climb a towering lookout for sweeping views, wander through tunnels draped in pipe vines, or retreat beneath the sprawling, protective canopies of majestic thuja trees.
Location: Kalsnavas arborētum
Cost: Have to pay for entrance, check prices and working hours
How to get there: By car
Similar experiences: Lāčupītes arboretum
What is Kalsnavas Arboretum?
Managed by Latvia’s State Forests, Kalsnava Arboretum was originally established as a scientific collection of woody plants. Today, it has evolved into a serene sanctuary where guests can connect with nature, draw inspiration, and rejuvenate their spirits.
Rhododendrons, Rhododendrons and MORE Rhododendrons
Wandering into the rhododendron grove feels like stepping into a storybook forest, a place where you can easily lose yourself. The bushes, in full bloom, resemble soft clouds, and you’re surrounded by a dazzling array of vibrant colors. Shades of orange, pink, yellow, and violet create a dreamlike atmosphere. With each step, new varieties of plants unfold before you, and the outside world fades into oblivion. You become fully immersed in the serene, otherworldly beauty of this rhododendron paradise.
Timing your visit to coincide with their flowering season is key to fully experiencing this enchanted oasis. It offers a rare opportunity to capture a treasure trove of stunning photographs and create unforgettable memories that will stay with you long after you leave.
If you are wondering, these pictures were taken on June 12, 2022.
Kalsnava Arboretum Peony Extravaganza
In addition to the rhododendrons, Kalsnava Arboretum also boasts a stunning collection of peonies, featuring early, mid-season, and late-blooming varieties. Today, only a few of the peonies had begun to bloom, but the promise of vibrant blossoms throughout June is unmistakable.
With over 300 varieties carefully planted in thoughtfully arranged clusters, the peonies form a breathtaking kaleidoscope of colors that will make your heart skip a beat. Is it even legal to have this much beauty in one place?
Trees that Grow Downwards, Tunnels, and Other Wonders of Kalsnava Arboretum
The blooms are absolutely stunning, but there’s so much more to explore in Kalsnava Arboretum. Next, you’ll encounter enchanting tunnels overgrown with a variety of climbing plants. Clematis vines twist through the air, while other fascinating plants, like those with leaves shaped like tiny pipes, drape over the tunnels like large blankets. Though I can’t name most of them, they create a stunning green tapestry that’s simply mesmerizing.
Then comes a delightful surprise. Did you know there are trees that grow upside down? In front of you, you’ll find several “Inversa” spruces, carefully cultivated to grow downward rather than upward after the grafting point. These unique trees take on shapes that resemble clouds, and just like with cloud gazing, you might spot “animals” or “magical creatures” hidden within their whimsical forms.
And there’s the little Thuja maze, inviting you to get lost in its twists and turns.
But it’s the towering Thujas that truly captivate. These giant trees have grown so massive that you can slip beneath them and discover a cozy nook, like a tiny woodland hideaway nestled within their branches. Surrounded by their protective canopy, it feels safe and peaceful, with the earthy scent of the forest filling the air. This is probably how bunnies and other little creatures feel when they hide beneath the trees.
While the flowering plants have to be timed just right to fully experience their beauty, these evergreens are a year-round delight. And, of course, there are countless other tree species to explore and enjoy.
Kalsnavas arborētumā vajadzētu augt arī ūdensrozēm, bet gadā kad es arborētumu apmeklēju, diemžēl, esot veikta dīķu tīrīšana un ūdensrozes pilnā godībā atkal varēšot redzēt tikai nākamgad. Kas nozīmē, ja tu šo rakstu lasi 2023. gadā vai vēlāk – tev veicas – redzēsi vairāk par mani.
Kalsnava Arboretum Observation Tower
And as if the arboretum’s ground-level beauty weren’t enough, Kalsnava arboretum also boasts a 25-meter-high lookout tower. From this elevated vantage point, you can take in a sweeping panoramic view of the surrounding landscape, explore the intricate patterns of the flowerbeds, and admire the thuja trees, standing like soldiers in perfectly ordered lines, all from a completely new perspective.
What a perfect way to cap off an unforgettable day.
What are your thoughts?
As someone diving into the world of gardening for the first time (this year marks my attempt to create my own garden), my visit to Kalsnava Arboretum was pure joy and inspiration. Even my grandmother, a seasoned gardener, was utterly enchanted.
But this is not just a haven for gardening enthusiasts—it’s a treasure for anyone who appreciates the artistry of nature, loves discovering peaceful landscapes, or seeks a perfect photo backdrop.
Attractions Near Kalsnava Arboretum
Koknese (~50km)
Other things to see and do in Latvia