Latvia is located in the center of the Baltic states and Europe. The second largest Baltic country borders its better-known golf neighbors, Lithuania and Estonia. Latvia is also dominated by vast unspoiled landscapes. The coastline seems to be endless, with deserted beaches. Latvia is full of contrasts. The hub is the lively centre of the Baltic states in Riga. A direct flight from Germany takes a good two hours. The Hanseatic city is also the ideal starting point for a Baltic golf trip.
Golf in Riga
The ideal time for a golf vacation in the Baltic states is in midsummer in June and July. On the never-ending days, golfers experience the highlight of the north. Golf in Riga is almost synonymous with the Ozo Golf Club. It is one of the best in Europe. The 18-hole course is varied and has 50 sand bunkers. The fairways on the coastline are especially beautiful and challenging. The course is set beautifully on lake Kisezers. The club restaurant is not only popular with golfers, but also with gourmets. On the fashionable "Baltic Riviera" at the spa town of Jurmala lies another golfer's paradise: the Jurmala golf course. The well-kept 27-hole course is flat with numerous water hazards. Golfers sometimes struggle with the ball in the strong sea breeze. About half an hour from Riga, in the Jaunmarupe region, there is a quiet 9-hole golf course: Viesturi. It is less elite with tall trees and green fairways.
Piragi, Griki und Riga
Russia influences the hearty traditional Latvian cuisine. The Latvians also like to use buckwheat in their dishes. And casseroles (griki), blinis (small pancakes), piragi (stuffed dumplings) and ligsdinas (stuffed meatballs) are also very popular. These dishes are always accompanied by a blob of sour cream and bread (maize). Riga is in a league of its own. As in all major Baltic cities, excellent international cuisine has established itself. Whether French, Italian or German gourmet temples – they are all available in the Baltic metropolis.
Latvian contrasts
After a few rounds on the golf course, it's time for a change. No problem in Latvia. After all, it's the land of contrasts. About an hour from Riga, not far from the town of Bauska, there is the monumental structure of Rundale Castle. Built by a Russian tsarina, the baroque castle is often referred to as the Versailles of the North. The French-style garden is very impressive. A trip to the Gauja National Park, one hour northeast of Riga, is a must. It is ideal for outdoor sports with many hiking and biking trails as well as canoeing. Over 500 cultural monuments are located in this park.
A must-see is the historic old town of Riga with its famous Art Nouveau buildings. In the summer months, southern flair dominates in the capital.
