What stories do the Baldone Story Trails have to tell? Well, they proudly speak of Baldone’s famous swamps and sulfur springs, whisper about forests that conceal hidden artwork and an observatory. And, of course, they call out from the top of the Riekstu Hill observation tower.
Continuing our series of day trips from Riga, easily accessible by public transport, today we’re heading to Baldone to explore its scenic trails and fascinating landmarks.
Location: Baldone, Latvia
Cost: Free
Length: Up to 20 km, but has variety of different length options
How to get there: Public transport or driving.
Decisions, Decisions: Which of the Baldone Story Trail Routes Should You Take?
Now, I’m not exactly a military history buff, so the “Military Heritage” route was immediately scratched off my list (I’ll have to leave that story for someone else). But the Small Loop, Mercendarbe Trail, and Riekstu Hill Trail are all part of the Baldone Story Trails’ Grand Loop. So, hold your horses—before you make your decision, let me take you on a virtual tour. By the end, I’m sure you’ll be able to figure out whether you prefer the “mother,” the “daughter,” or the “dress.”
The Grand Loop of the Baldone Story Trails
The “proper” way to begin would be from the first stop near the Baldone Sports Complex, but since I always seem to mix things up with directions, let’s write our own story and start at the (officially) second stop of the trail.
Baldone’s Pride and Joy– The Lizard Sulfur Spring (and Friends)
Part of the: Baldone story trails Big loop and Small loop
Let’s head to Lilac Park to say hi to the Lizard – a statue, or perhaps more accurately, a fountain, from which Baldone’s famed sulfur water gently flows.
At first, you might not notice any smell, but dip your hand in and… oh my, that unmistakable old egg aroma makes its presence known!
While we’re taking in the sights, a local wanders over to fill a bottle and to share some insider tips about Baldone. Your hiking Baldone storytrails? When you get to the swamp, stick to the trail. It’s full of hidden sinkholes. Oh, and did you know there’s now a 5G tower on the shop roof? Plus, we get to know that Baldone is apparently home to some very friendly cats. Local wisdom collected – check!
But the Lizard isn’t alone in this park. You’ll also find its charming companions: the Squirrel, proudly featured on Baldone’s coat of arms, and Saint Māra, the guardian of these healing waters.
Now then, are you ready to embark on a 20-kilometer adventure through Baldone’s enchanting forests?
Wait, just one more thing before we get going…
No Need to Make Up Stories – Free Audio Guide Got You Covered
The Baldone Story Trails come with a free audio guide to bring the journey to life.
Excited, you whip out our smartphones, scan the QR code, and… drumroll… nothing! No recording, no map, no support. What now? Is the audio guide just a myth?
Not so fast! This is one of those moments where persistence pays off. A quick glance at the nearby information stand reveals another QR code. We scan it, and voilà! The audio guide springs to life, offering fascinating tidbits about each stop along the trail, plus a detailed map to keep us on track. Crisis averted!
Finally, we’re ready to set off.
The red footprints lead us first along the main road, where we can admire Baldone’s charming wooden architecture. But soon, they guide us into the enchanting forests, where the real magic of the journey begins.
Mud Swamp – Baldone’s First Mud Deposit
Part of the: Baldone story trails Big loop, Small loop and Mercendarbes trail
After a short walk, a small detour invites us to explore the swamp.
Ahead, patches of water gleam through the dense forest, with trees appearing to sink into the dark, tranquil pools.
But that’s where the path ends – a dead end.
We were warned not to stray off the trail in the swamp, but where exactly could one wander off to here? Certainly not into the water! That would be far from wise.
We turn around and resume our journey along the main trail, soon reaching a crossroads.
Should we follow the blue footprints along the Small Loop, or take the red ones on the Grand Loop?
As promised, we’re sticking with the Grand Loop of Baldone’s Story Trails to soak in as much of the town’s beauty as we can. Let’s go!
Mercendarbe Manor Picnic Spot
Part of the: Baldone story trails Big loop and Mercendarbes trail
After a solid stretch of the trail, it’s time to give our legs a break and enjoy the snack I’ve packed for the hike. It seems we’re not the only ones with this idea! Just ahead, near Mercendarbe Manor, there’s a perfect picnic spot waiting. Two inviting tables with chairs offer a cozy spot to relax. On one side, the soothing croak of frogs rises from a tranquil pond, while on the other, the elegant manor house stands proudly—now home to the Baldone Museum.
With our hunger satisfied and spirits lifted, we’re ready to hit the trail again. The path ahead winds through a beautiful, tree-lined avenue, leading us toward our next stop—something serene, peaceful, and utterly captivating awaits!
The Picturesque Lilac Lake
Part of the: Baldone story trails Big loop
The tranquil waters of the lake mirror the trees on the opposite shore, creating a scene so perfect it could be straight out of a painting.
Naturally, the iconic Instagram-worthy dock is packed with visitors. Though one end is slightly submerged, and you might need to get your sneakers wet to reach it, it doesn’t seem to faze the avid photographers eager to snap the perfect shot.
PS: For those who missed the picnic spot at Mercendarbe Manor, here’s your second chance. But be warned—the competition for the tables here is a little fiercer!
Baldone Observatory
Part of the big loop of Baldone story trail and Riekstu kalns trail
The Baldone Observatory is nestled discreetly in the forest, hidden among the trees like a shy puffball mushroom.
Although we can’t step inside (visits must be booked in advance), knowing that it houses the largest telescope in the Baltics instantly gives the building a sense of grandeur and importance.
For those itching to see what it looks like inside, you’re in luck! A 3D virtual tour is available at baldonesobservatorija.lv.
From the Riekstu Hill Observation Tower in Baldone, You Can See All the Way to Riga!
Part of the: Baldone story trails Big loop and Riekstu kalns trail
If I were to ask you now, “Which direction is Riga?” could you point it out?
Don’t worry—once we climb the tower, you’ll know! Amid the panoramic views of treetops, you’ll spot the unmistakable silhouette of the Riga TV Tower and the outlines of the city’s buildings in the distance.
No Straying from the Path in Baldone’s Pladu Swamp!
Part of the: Baldone story trails Big loop and Riekstu kalns trail
Our journey now brings us to the swamp, where a murky, overgrown, river-like waterway meanders through the wild landscape. To navigate it, we step onto the wooden boardwalk that winds through this serene, yet untamed, environment. Ah, so this is the notorious swamp we were warned about—not a single step off the path!
Walking along, it’s clear that someone couldn’t resist temptation. Just beside the trail, a deep, boot-shaped hole in the muck tells the story of a daring (or unlucky) adventurer. Thankfully, it’s only the size of one boot, suggesting they escaped with just a muddy reminder of why the warning exists.
Take the advice seriously, stay on the path, and soak in the raw beauty of the swamp—safely!
Where’s the Baldone Story Trails Devil’s Stone?
(Unofficially?) part of the: Baldone story trails Big loop and Riekstu kalns trail
Further along the trail, there’s a sign pointing to the Velnakmens (Devil’s Stone) site. But wait—where’s the actual stone?
Spoiler alert: it’s not here. (Shrugs.) The infamous Devil’s Stone was blown to bits long ago, leaving behind nothing but a large hollow where it once stood.
Now, whether a place that once had something noteworthy but now doesn’t still qualifies as a sight worth visiting is up for debate. But hey, without that sign, I would never have known the Devil’s Stone had ever been here at all.
See the Places You visited in New Colors at Baldone’s Forest Gallery
(Unofficially?) part of the: Baldone story trails Big loop and Riekstu kalns trail
Ready to enjoy a touch of art?
There are some places that seem modest at first glance but keep surprising you the further you go. The Forest Gallery is one of them. As you step into this artistic hideaway, you’ll spot a few paintings tucked among the trees.
There’s one with tiny holes telling a story about the sky, another featuring a deer adorned with the four seasons… But as you continue, you’ll discover there are far more paintings than you first expected—hidden among the trees, just around the bends of the path.
The artwork spans a variety of styles, but soon you’ll notice a unifying thread: each piece portrays a scene from Baldone that you’ve likely already explored. The ski hill, Liliju Lake, Baldone’s forests—they’re all here, reimagined through the artist’s eyes.
It’s a beautiful and unexpected way to relive your journey through these trails.
Baldone Story Trails End by the White Palace
Part of the: Baldone story trails Big loop and Small loop
How fancy would it be to attend school in a palace?
As the cherry on top of our journey, we arrive at the charmingly petite yet elegant White Palace, now home to a music school.
Looking at the bright white walls and fairytale-like turrets, it’s hard to believe this lovely building has seen such somber days—serving as a wartime hospital and later a children’s shelter.
Somewhere nearby, there’s supposed to be a replica of the historic Horse Tram, but I can’t see it. So I guess we’ll have to skip it this time.
Baldone’s St. Michael’s Church and Cultural Center
Part of the: Baldone story trails Big loop and Small loop
I lied—the White Palace isn’t our final stop on our adventure. A few more fascinating buildings await!
One of them is the picturesque, golden-yellow St. Michael’s Church, standing gracefully amidst the serene surroundings.
Another is the intriguingly quirky Baldone Cultural Center. At first glance, one may only notice the bold “Cinema Baldone” sign across the façade. But if you look closer you may realise the upper part of the building is adorned with stylized cow skulls. A rather eccentric design choice, wouldn’t you say?
And with that, our stroll truly comes to an end. Until next time, Baldone!
So, did you figure out which Baldone Story Trail route suits you best?
Here’s my advice in a nutshell:
- If you’re up for a good, long walk and can appreciate the natural beauty of forests, lakes, and swamps, the Grand Loop might just be your perfect match.
- But if you’re more drawn to man-made landmarks, Instagram-worthy spots, or prefer a shorter distance, then the Small Loop or Riekstu Hill Trail could be just the ticket.
Whichever you choose, Baldone’s trails promise a story worth exploring!
Find full routes in Ķekava tourism page
Other things to see and do in Latvia