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Thematic series “Recommended by locals” invites you to explore the Bauska region through the experiences of the people who call this place as their home. Local residents know best where to find the most popular dining spots, the most spectacular sights, the most exciting adventure destinations, as well as those little-known gems that often go unnoticed on tourist maps and in guidebooks.
Follow along and get inspired by the locals of Bauska Municipality — in the thematic informative series “Recommended by locals”!

In these thematic series, local residents of Bauska Region answers 3 simple yet essential questions: what to see and do, where to eat, and what is their most recent discovery in the region. The answers reveal both well-known tourist spots and personal recommendations that can serve as inspiration for both locals and visitors. The aim of these series is to showcase the Bauska region from a lively, personal perspective—through the recommendations and experiences of local residents, which help reveal the region’s diversity and inspire readers to explore it for themselves.

This time, we asked Inese Gulbe-Lasmane, farmstead "Roņuki" owner.

What to see and experience in Bauska Municipality? "Everyone has a different idea of relaxation. If you prefer something peaceful and close to home, take the kids to the Zvirgzde White Dune—perfect for a walk, a picnic, or the annual Forest Concert. For a mix of nature and history, visit the sulfur spring in Stelpe and sulfur spring in Bārbele along with the nearby Ausekļi Mill, or try the "ZumZum" bee therapy."
Where to dine in Bauska Municipality? "We treat ourselves depending on which direction we’re heading, but there are three spots we particularly highlight: "Aveņi" in Bauska, "Viestarti" in Iecava, and a new favorite—the "Drava" café in Vecumnieki."
Your discovery in Bauska Municipality! "A discovery we made this year—after putting off the visit for a long time—was the Bauska Museum; it houses an impressive toy collection that delighted the children with its sheer scale, while the adults enjoyed a touch of nostalgia. In the spring, we soaked up the beauty we had been craving among the flowerbeds at Tulipgarden. For a leisure experience that is both active and harmonious, we recommend "Dārtes zirgi" in Iecava."

This time, we asked Agita Hauka, founder and board chairwoman of the Iecava women's club "Liepas." Check out her recommendations and set off to rediscover the Bauska Municipality!
What to see and experience in the Bauska Municipality? "I recommend visiting the Iecava Manor Park—a place where history, the beauty of nature, relaxation, and meditation all come together."
Where to dine in the Bauska Municipality? "I recommend having a meal at the 'Viestarti' café; my absolute favorite dish there is potato pancakes with salmon!"
A new discovery of yours in the Bauska Municipality? "The Green Maze in Iecava Manor Park—where modern technology illuminates history."

This time, our feature spotlights Ieva Aukšmuksta, director of the “Pigoriņi” vocal studio, who lives in Bauska.

What to See & Do in Bauska Municipality? "My husband, my son, and I really appreciate the fresh air, a picnic basket, folding chairs, and a blanket. It doesn’t matter whether we’re warmed by the sun or the snow crunches under our feet—Zvirgzde’s White Dune is a magical place to enjoy a family picnic any time of year. It’s a wonderful destination to visit in summer, fall, winter, and spring alike. But I wholeheartedly recommend bringing a picnic basket, a blanket, and your loved ones, because it’s being together that makes this place special.”

Where to eat in the Bauska region? "My favorite restaurant in the Bauska region is Rezidence. My heart and taste buds always melt at the sight of their ‘Hot Stone Meals.’ It’s not only a wonderful experience for foodies, but also a fun adventure for a couple or a group of friends—cooking a delicious steak for yourselves. And I definitely recommend trying Rezidence’s delicious pesto.”

Your latest discovery in Bauska Municipality! “Without a doubt—the Bauska Museum. Informative, entertaining, and truly interesting exhibits for the whole family. This museum has a special charm during the Christmas season. The friendly and knowledgeable museum staff only enhance the experience of visiting this museum.”

Where to go in Bauska Region for the most memorable experiences? Dainis Upelnieks shares his recommendations – a sport shooter, youth coach of the Latvian national team and European Games silver medallist. At the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympic Games, Dainis achieved an impressive 14th place, while at the 2023 European Games in Poland, he won a silver medal, equalling the Games record. He lives in Zorģi, Iecava Parish, and recommends places in Bauska Regeon that everyone should discover.

What to see and experience in Bauska Region? “The greatest gem of Bauska region is Rundāle Palace. It is definitely a must-see for anyone who has not been there yet. I especially recommend visiting the palace during the blooming season, when the surrounding gardens are in full splendour.”

Another place particularly close to Dainis’s heart is recreation complex “Miķelis”. In his opinion, there is so much to see there that one day is not enough. “I would recommend to plan an entire weekend there. Stay at the hotel, enjoy a meal at the restaurant, see the impressive collection of vintage vehicles and explore a traditional rural homestead from the time of Latvia’s first independence. There really is plenty to see.”

Where to enjoy a delicious meal in Bauska Region? When it comes to dining in Bauska Region, Dainis’s first recommendation is cafe “Tornis”: “Traditionally – Tornis! You can eat so well there that you won’t have to think about food for a long time afterwards. For me, Bauska is associated with ‘Taverna’, ‘Tornis’ and huge portions. Even half of the ‘Lāča ķepa’ is enough to feed a whole family.” In Iecava he recommends to enjoy a delicious lunch at cafés “Viestarti” and “Sombrero”.

Your latest discovery in Bauska Region? Dainis describes the guest house “Līčupes” as his latest discovery. “It’s an excellent place! I have developed a partnership with the owners, and every year friends of mine from Denmark come to visit. They stay at ‘Līčupes’ and are always very satisfied.”

Over the weekend, we questioned Laima Indriķe from Skaistkalne—curator of the Skaistkalne Parish Local History Collection, manager of the interactive exhibition at the Skaistkalne Magazīna Barn, environmental guide, and rural tourism specialist.

What is there to see and experience in Bauska Municipality? Laima replies: “Zvirgzde White Dune is beautiful and interesting in all seasons, but a visit in the summer can be combined with berry-picking or mushroom-hunting, as well as enjoying the special atmosphere of a sunset concert. Meanwhile, to learn what is karst, what isn’t, and what it ‘does’ in Skaistkalne and elsewhere in the world, you can visit the exhibition in the granary of the Skaistkalne Magazine barn. Afterward, you can take a walk along the nature trail in the Skaistkalne forest to see the various manifestations of this process in nature. Sulphur springs are also linked to the karst process, so to continue exploring natural phenomena, head to the Bārbele sulphur spring. Once you’ve quenched your thirst with the healthy water—which, as it flows through gypsum rocks, has been enriched with sulfur—you can continue exploring the site by using augmented reality on your smartphone screen to travel back in time and witness the former glory of this place."

Where to eat in Bauska Municipality? “If you want to experience the flavors of the border region, the cepelīni served at the ‘Bārbelīte’ café are the perfect choice. If you want to enjoy not only exquisite food but also the atmosphere, head to ‘Aveņi’. Once, a group of tourists from a more distant region started talking about “Tavernas” and “Torņa”’s “Lāča ķepu” and their adventures with devouring full portions—and even half portions—so you could say that legends about it are circulating all over Latvia!”

Your new discovery in the Bauska region! “The revival of the Kaucminde Manor and everything happening there is truly awe-inspiring. And at the same time, there’s a sense of both concern and hope—that it won’t lose momentum, that it will endure… I was last at Svitenes Manor more than twenty years ago, when it was still a school. It’s heartening that its current use has managed to imbue the space with a special character—the presence of art as a tradition and an ongoing process, rather than static objects in the rooms and on the walls."

We asked local resident Gita Muceniece, who lives in Pilsrundāle, about this. Gita is an avid runner—her passion for the sport has led her to win silver at the Latvian 24-hour running championship, set a Latvian record in the Backyard Ultra by running for 37 hours, and represent Latvia twice at World Championships. She is a Latvian champion in 24-hour running!
What to see and experience in Bauska region? "I can recommend my daily route, which can be done either on foot or by bike: Rundāle Palace – Rundāle Mill – Mežotne Church – Mežotne Hillfort – Mežotne Church, and then back to Rundāle. It’s a 14 km loop that I think anyone can manage, especially by bicycle. Fabulous nature, buildings, and museums—there is so much to see, and everything is close together."
Where to eat in Bauska region? "My family really enjoys dining at Sofi Cafe in Bauska. The atmosphere and service are lovely. The prices are reasonable, and most importantly—the food is delicious!"
A new discovery of yours in Bauska region? "My new discovery is the tower of Mežotne Church. Oh, what a view opens up from the top! All around lie our magnificent Zemgale plains!"

This time, we’ve talked to Baiba Tropiņa, a food blogger who lives in Iecava.
What to see & do in the Bauska region? “I’d recommend visiting the Mežotne hillfort. There’s a beautiful nature trail there that offers views of the Lielupe River and Mežotne Castle. The restored Mežotne Church is also a lovely addition to the area’s cultural and historical route.”

Where to eat in Bauska region? Baiba replies: "Our family’s favorite spot is the ‘Aveņi’ pub. It has a beautiful interior, a pleasant atmosphere, and delicious food."

Regarding her latest discovery in Bauska region, Baiba says: "My discovery is the open-air museum "Ausekļu dzirnavas". It’s a very authentic place with a genuine rural atmosphere, an old mill, and historic machinery. A great place for families with children to visit!"

This Friday, we asked it to the local Jānis Mičulis,
what to see & experience: "Definitely visit Zvirgzde White Dune. Wonderful forest environment, well-maintained attraction, easy access. At any time of the year, you will be surprised either by the abundant juniper groves at the top of the hill, or by the magnificently blooming marigolds, or by the wonderful view over the pine tops and young trees. It is desirable not only to climb the stairs to the top of the dune, but also take the path that leads along the dune ridge."
Where to have a meal? "If you are in Bauska and in a hurry, and you want to have a quick meal, then you should stop at Rātslaukums and right next to it on Plūdoņa Street is the "Rātslaukums" cafe. You can eat there quickly, deliciously, fillingly and quite cheaply.
Jānis admits about his new discovery of the Bauska region: "After visiting the Skaistkalne church, which is already an excellent place in itself, and seeing the karst falls near Skaistkalne, you have to go to Kurmeni! In Kurmen, you will be surprised by both the church itself and its surroundings. There's something to see here!"

This time we asked Rasa Rušmane, an active and creative 12th grader who lives in Vecumnieki! Find out Rasa's recommendations and go discover Bauska region anew!

What to see & experience in Bauska region? "My favorite thing and a place to draw energy is the equestrian sports club "Gaita" in Vecumnieki. It is a wonderful opportunity to be in direct contact with nature, these intelligent animals, enjoying leisurely rides along picturesque forest trails. I recommend it, because there is a special peace here, allowing you to completely disconnect from the daily rush, enjoy the moment here and now." says Rasa.

When asked where to have a meal in Bauska region, Rasa admits: "For a real and hearty meal, I choose Bauskas Taverna, which is located in the very historical center of the city. It is a place with its own story and authentic atmosphere. I recommend trying their famous main dishes, because the portions are so generous that no one will leave disappointed!"

Rasa's new discovery, on the other hand, is "Zvirgzde White Dune" which is one of the highest inland dunes in Latvia. It is an excellent place for families, because the walking trails and viewing platform allow you to comfortably enjoy the unique natural landscape, where the sand dune meets the pine forest."

What to see & do in Bauska region? We kindly asked to Gints Jankovskis, leader of NGO "Time for Youth". Everyday Gints lives in Īslīce parish.
"I won't be very original — I always recommend for both friends and foreign visitors to explore the castles of Bauska region. These are places that make our region stand out in a particularly striking way and allow you to experience history, architecture, and the power of the Zemgale landscape."

Asked about where to eat&dine in Bauska region, Gints without hesitating answers:
"If I have to recommend a reliable place to dine in the Bauska region, it would definitely be Aveņi — you can enjoy a delicious, hearty meal there, with the feeling that you’re truly experiencing Zemgale’s hospitality. It’s a place I can confidently recommend to both locals and visitors of the municipality. On the other hand, when we want to treat ourselves a little, my team and I really love Ricehill sushi — delicious, high-quality, and exactly what you sometimes need after a busy day at work."

What's Gints newest discovery in Bauska region? "My latest discovery in the Bauska region is the Rundāle Watermill museum —a place that perfectly complements a visit to the classic Rundāle Palace. There, you can learn about the history of the mill, enjoy the surroundings, and explore a part of the region at a more leisurely pace—a part we sometimes unfairly overlook."

This time, we asked questions to Agnese Gulbe, she's the household manager of the farm "Jaunapšenieki" in Rundāle parish.
Agnese's answer to the question of what to see and do in the Bauska region: "I definitely recommend visiting Rundāle Palace and the French garden. You can find additional tourism information at tourism information point in "Rundāles Avoti". For families with children, I’d recommend going to the “Sviesta karamele” masterclass and to “Freshman Farming” for healthy snacks.”

As for where to eat&dine in Bauska region, Agnese recommends two cafés: "I’d recommend a meal at pub ‘Aveņi’—great service and delicious food! Or at the ‘Viestarti’ café in Iecava—their nut sauce is to die for!"

We also asked Agnese to share her latest discoveries in the Bauska region: "There are so many! The awesome creams from 'Gusto' cosmetics. The 'Rice Hill' sushi truck—my son’s favorite spot. And the healthy snacks from "Freshman Farming"... I could go on forever, because I discover something new every day!"

Featured in this section: Anda Sproģe, artist, art educator, and founder of the Anda Sproģe ART brand.

In response to the question of what to see and do in the Bauska region, Anda says: "I definitely recommend a visit to Rundāle Palace and the French Garden, which are not only the pride of our region but also the most beautiful palace in Latvia. I recommend using a guide service, which will tell you fascinating stories about the historical events at the palace. The French Garden with its magnificent roses will inspire any visitor. I recommend taking a carriage ride through the garden. Have lunch at the palace restaurant."

Asking where to eat in the Bauska region, Anda suggests: "Our region is rich in dining options, but one of the most memorable is the "Aveņi" pub. Beautiful interior, delicious food, and a beautifully set table for celebrations. The tastiest potato pancakes with various toppings! As a second option, I can recommend “Harvest House.” The sushi is excellent."

Regarding her new discovery in the Bauska region, Anda says: "Although the place itself is quite old, I only recently rediscovered it—the "Rožmalas" resort complex! A charming atmosphere, a spa, a design hotel, works of art, and food, as well as a historic mill. I highly recommend visiting this place!"

This time, our featured local is Laine Baha, a resident of Iecava, director of the Iecava Youth Center, and a member of the municipal council.

When asked what to see and experience in the Bauska region, Laine replies: "I really enjoy boating on the rivers of Bauska Municipality—the Mūsa, Mēmele, and Lielupe—because they are peaceful and offer picturesque scenery. The view near Bauska Castle, with its dolomite outcrops, steep banks, and majestic castle, is particularly impressive. The view from the river is truly inspiring."

As for where to eat in the Bauska region, Laine says:"I recommend trying some of the pastries or cakes baked at the "Gardumu avēnijas" café-patisserie in Iecava, along with a freshly brewed cup of coffee right there on the spot. I especially recommend the freshly baked poppy seed roll, which literally ‘melts in your mouth’!"

Speaking about her newest discovery in the Bauska region, Laine highlights: "The place I’ve rediscovered is the "Dārtes zirgi" association, which is constantly evolving and undergoing various changes. There, both children and adults can go horseback riding—in the paddock or in the surrounding area—as well as enjoy sleigh rides, and in winter, sleigh rides. This place is located in Iecava, on the grounds of the historic Dārte Manor, and is perfect for a peaceful retreat in nature."

In today's section, we feature Andis Gerasimovs, a local resident of Bauska who is better known by his stage name, DJ Andy.

When responding to the question of what to see and experience in the Bauska region, Andis says: "Bauska is beautiful any time of year! It’s lovely to watch how the rivers come alive in every season. Of course, our beautiful castle hill, which I’d recommend everyone visit. In the spring, it’s a pleasure to meet people at the Vimba Festival!”

When asked where to have a meal in the Bauska region, Andis replies: “Of course, everyone admires our wonderful, traditional "Bear’s Paw", which is served at "Taverna" and "Tornis". This hearty dish has become a local classic that every visitor to the city simply must try! As for my choice for a dinner with family and friends, it’s “Aveņi”.

Commenting on his new discoveries in the Bauska region, Andis emphasizes: "To be honest, the biggest discoveries are still ahead of us! The Bauska region is currently undergoing wonderful transformations—new recreational spots are emerging and streets that seemed long forgotten are being revitalized. The city is growing and changing along with us."