Shall we release our inner child, embracing the joy of play and exploration, or pause for a bittersweet reflection on how something once grand and mighty can fade and crumble with time? These are the captivating contrasts awaiting you at one of Kurzeme’s lesser-known gems: Cīrava.
Prepare to be surprised – I certainly was, and in the most delightful way, during my visit to Cīrava.
Location: Cīrava, Latvia
Cost: Free
How to get there: By car
Wooden Sculptures Along the Trail of Legends
Every good story has an intro. On your way to Cīrava Forest Park, where fun-filled discoveries await, start by warming up your imagination with the “Trail of Legends,” featuring intricately carved wooden sculptures along the path.
Look out for a wooden figure of a mighty man holding a sword – who could he be? Nearby, you’ll spot women wearing crowns who appear a little sad – could there be a story behind their expressions? And don’t miss the giant wooden sword, like something out of a storybook, waiting for a brave soul to claim it. With no explanations provided, it’s the perfect opportunity for a fun guessing game with your travel companions.
Let’s Play Some Games in Whimsical Cīrava Forest Park
Many trails wind through Cīrava forest park. Which one will you explore first?
On the Sound Trail, you’ll discover enchanting musical installations – a metal harp that sings when struck with mallets, massive trumpets that call to the forest, and melodic metal drums that echo through the trees. It’s a journey for the ears as much as the eyes.
For those seeking adventure, the Beaver Trail awaits with fun activities. There are climbing structures, a ball-in-the-hole game, outdoor Twister, and more, all inviting you to play and explore.
But if you prefer a quieter experience, the park has plenty to offer. A meandering stream follows parts of the trail. Along the way, you’ll find several swings, each offering a perfect view of the little river below, inviting you to sit back and take it all in.
The forest itself is a stunning mix of nature’s contrasts. One moment you’ll find yourself surrounded by towering evergreens, and the next, you’ll step into a grove of birch trees, their branches bare and delicate in the winter air. Some areas of the forest floor are bare, while others are lush with green moss, creating a variety of textures beneath your feet. As long as you keep your eyes open there is something to see.
As you wander along the Straight Passage, keep an eye out for whimsical wooden sculptures. One of my favorites is the fisherman, who dreams of catching a giant fish but instead reels in a frog – a playful and charming sight hoping to make you smile even in the depths of the winter.
The Fading Glory of Cīrava Manor
We’re exploring Cīrava’s attractions a bit out of order. The first thing that likely caught your eye upon arrival was the towering Cīrava Manor. It stands as a haunting reminder of its past, with windows boarded up and its façade slowly crumbling. It must have been hard to resist the urge to explore it immediately – and now, we finally will.
The side of the manor facing the road has withstood the test of time the best. But as you circle around this former beauty, you’ll notice the decay: one of the towers is half-collapsed, and the colonnade that once held a portico has lost its roof. Yet, it’s easy to imagine how magnificent Cīrava Manor once was, proudly displaying its unique shape in its prime. It’s a beauty fading away, lost to neglect, which feels heartbreaking.
Not far from the manor, you’ll find another grand, abandoned building with a massive colonnade at the front. You might be surprised to learn that this was once a horse stable. Like the manor, it’s locked up and off-limits, but its sheer scale and grandeur hint at the stories it holds from its past.
What Else to See in Cīrava? Kaleidoscope and Swings With a View of the Manor
After visiting the manor, a restless traveler can follow signs around the pond to Grasshopper Park, where whimsical wooden sculptures and an outdoor kaleidoscope awaits. I’m always enchanted by the creativity that transforms ordinary objects into unique outdoor attractions.
The highlight of this walk, however, was a two-person swing with a breathtaking view across the lake to the manor. It’s a magical spot for sitting shoulder-to-shoulder with your travel companions, soaking in the serene beauty.
Thoughts?
I truly believe Cīrava Forest Park is a wonderful place for families with kids. But even as adults, we found plenty of magic and fun in the park’s unique installations. The creativity behind each one is truly inspiring. On the other hand, the grand old buildings offer their own type of intrigue, pulling you into their mysterious past. It’s a perfect blend of playful discovery and historical charm.
Attractions near Cīrava, Latvia
Kazdangas lake and castle (23km)
Other things to see and do in Latvia