So you’ve ticked off all the must-see attractions in Sigulda. What now? We always knew there was another side of Sigulda—a hidden, untamed beauty—waiting for us to explore. Yet, somehow, time had never been on our side. Until now. This time, we’ve set out to uncover Sigulda’s lesser-known treasures: Kraukļu Hill Cave and Peter’s Cave, tucked away in the enchanting Vējupīte ravine. Imagine a lush forest valley with dramatic cliffs, babbling streams, and trails that twist and turn, leading you up, down, and deeper into nature’s embrace.
Put on your hiking shoes and let’s explore Siguldas hidden gems together!
Location: Sigulda, Latvia
Cost: Free
How to get there: By car.
Note: As there are a lot of stairs unfortunately this trail won’t be accessible to everyone
Our first hidden-gem in Sigulda is no other than Latvia’s 3rd tallest waterfall.
Dauda Waterfall in Sigulda: A Comedy of Errors
We park by the roadside, excitement already building as we spot the marker pointing us toward Dauda Waterfall. With the trail clearly laid out, we set off, anticipation growing with every step. Soon, the soft gurgle of water reaches your ears. This is it! So naturally, we veer off the path, following the sound with eager steps.
And there it… is?
In front of us is a little cascade, doing its best to impress. I pause, squinting at it. Sure, Latvia doesn’t have towering waterfalls like Croatia, but this? It looks more like a leaky water pipe. I can’t help but wonder if someone discovered the perfect angle to make this humble trickle seem grand in photos.
But something feels off. Out comes Google, and as I scroll through the pictures, the truth becomes clear. The real Dauda Waterfall is taller, grander, and… definitely not this.
This might actually be a broken water pipe!
Back on the trail, our determination is renewed. A few minutes later, the sound of water shifts—deeper, stronger. Our pace quickens, and then, just around a bend, we see it. The 2.4-meter-high Dauda Waterfall cascades gracefully down the rock wall, exactly as the pictures promised.
My only regret? Not seeing it in winter. When Jack Frost weaves his magic, these flowing streams are said to freeze into breathtaking icicles, turning the waterfall into a crystalline masterpiece.
Next, we need to hop in the car, as our next hidden gem in Sigulda is a quick drive away.
Into the Woods of Sigulda: The Sateseles Spring Trail
Our goal is to explore two caves, which we’ll reach soon enough, but honestly, I wasn’t expecting the journey to them to be this captivating. As we wander, you spot a sign for Sateseles Spring. Curiosity piqued, we glance down and are met with a long, twisting staircase descending deep into the earth, winding alongside a striking red-orange rock wall. At the bottom, a small pipe releases the spring’s fresh waters, trickling gently.
As we wander forward, the path opens up before us, revealing a breathtaking view of treetops stretching out below, a sea of green. And there, suspended from a sturdy tree branch, is a swing—perfectly placed, as if inviting us to sit and take in the beauty of the landscape.
From here, the trail continues into the forest, where more stairs wind their way through the trees, leading us toward Vējupīte river and more stunning natural wonders.
Kraukļu Hill Cave in Sigulda
While everyone knows Gūtmaņa Cave, few venture to Kraukļu Hill Cave in the Raven Gorge. Tucked into vibrant orange cliffs, this cave feels like a secret Sigulda keeps for its most curious explorers.
The cave is a striking sight, its cliffside resembling a half-haphazardly folded fabric, with deep folds and wrinkles marking its surface. The mix of orange and grayish-blue hues on the facade is absolutely stunning, though the walls bear the scars of countless visitors, each unable to resist carving their names or dates into the soft sandstone.
Just nearby, a set of stairs invites us to ascend toward Paradīze Hill, known for its sweeping views. Unfortunately, with the sun sinking low, we’ll have to cut our visit short. But we’re not done yet. We have one more of Siguldas less-known Sights waiting for us.
One More Cave? Peter’s Cave in Sigulda
Following the trail deeper into the ravine, we navigate wooden pathways, sandstone cliffs, and dense trees.
Along the way, a whimsical surprise awaited us—a tiny gnome statue nestled into a cliffside alcove. It’s equal parts charming and haunting, like something out of a movie where statues come to life after dark. Fingers crossed it will be in the same place when we come back!
Then we reached Sigulda’s Pēterala. It looks like a narrow, vertical crack carved into the sandstone wall. It’s as if a giant had thrown an axe, and this jagged opening is all that’s left, a striking mark on the stone.
And with that our Sigulda adventure is over, so let’s hurry to the car while the last rays of the sun still light our way. With so many stairs and trails this is not a place to be in the dark.
And what are your thoughts?
I wonder how many staircases we conquered today? Anyways, Sigulda has a magical way of surprising you at every turn. Between the natural beauty, the sense of discovery, and the physical challenge of climbing all those steps, it’s an unforgettable experience. If you’re looking for an adventure off the beaten path, these lesser-known spots in Sigulda are calling your name.
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