Looking for a quick getaway in autumn (or early spring) when the weather feels gloomy? With short days and the sun setting early, it’s best to pick destinations close to Riga to make the most of the daylight. As the vibrant greens of summer fade, nature reveals a new palette—first the yellows and reds, then the browns and greys. Even these subdued tones hold their own beauty. To inspire you to leave your cozy nest, here are three spots within 50 km of Riga that are worth visiting in autumn or early spring.
Witch Swamp (Raganu Purvs) Sulfur Pond Trail – A Perfect Short Autumn Stroll
Get there: By a car
Do you know what goes into a witch’s brew? A frog’s leg, a bottle of crow’s tears, and lots of sulfur.
The narrow boardwalk here may remind you of the famous Ķemeri Bog Trail, as it winds through a marshy landscape bordered by conifers. But soon, you’ll reach the first pond and notice what sets this trail apart. The bog pond resembles a bubbling witch’s cauldron brewing some mysterious potion. The water here is a murky greenish-brown, and it’s hard not to wonder what lurks beneath.
At first glance, it might not sound appealing. But strangely enough, the pond’s murky water, combined with the surrounding reds and browns of the landscape, creates an unexpectedly beautiful scene.
When we visited in late autumn (November), the ponds were dusted with a delicate layer of frost from the night before, adding another layer of intrigue. And the cool weather muted the sulfuric smell.
Further along, you’ll come across a sign marking the sulfur ponds. Here, the boardwalk encircles several larger ponds, and the interplay of colors is even more dramatic.
A word of caution: Frost can make the wooden paths slippery, and there are no railings near the ponds. A slip might send you straight into the cauldron—perhaps where a lurking witch waits for a new ingredient for her brew. So tread carefully!
The walk itself is short (just 800 meters), which might leave you wanting more. If so, the nearby Kaņieris Lake Reed Trail is a great option to extend your outing .
Bumbu Kalniņš Observation Tower – A Stunning View in Any Season
Get there: By a car
For those who don’t feel like leaving Riga at all, this hidden gem offers a chance to experience the city from above—without venturing beyond its borders.
Why visit the Bumbu Kalniņš Observation Tower? Unlike other panoramic spots in Riga, this one is tucked away in the forest. Here, you won’t see the usual city skyline of rooftops; instead, you’ll be treated to a peaceful view of treetops stretching all the way to the heart of Riga.
This place is particularly enchanting in early autumn when the trees take on vibrant hues, but its charm is undeniable year-round.
On a personal note, my boyfriend took me here on one of our first dates, and it left a lasting impression. It’s a great date spot if you’re not afraid of heights, as the climb can be a bit steep! Originally built for wildfire monitoring, the tower is open to visitors, though access is limited to five people at a time.
After enjoying the view, you can take a leisurely walk along the nearby forest trails. In autumn, you might spot mushroom pickers, while snowy days bring sledding children to the hills—perfect for those who want a taste of nature without leaving the city.
Ragakāpa Nature Trail and the Open-Air Seaside Museum – A Blend of Nature and History
Get there: By a car
Picture this: fresh sea air, ancient pine trees, and a glimpse into Latvia’s fishing heritage.
Seaside forests have an enduring charm—they remain lush and green all year round. The Ragakāpa Nature Trail offers a peaceful escape, with the added bonus of an educational experience. Along the trail, you’ll find the Jūrmala Open-Air Museum, showcasing traditional Latvian homes and historic fishing tools.
Thoughts?
As the days grow shorter and the weather colder, it’s tempting to stay indoors. Whether it’s the early sunset or a lack of motivation, it’s easy to feel like there’s nothing to see during these “in-between” seasons.
But the truth is, nature offers hidden gems all year round. These three destinations prove that even on the gloomiest days, beauty and inspiration are just a short drive away. So bundle up, venture out, and let the magic of autumn or early spring refresh your spirit
Other things to see and do in Latvia