Here, you can explore the nature, culture, history, and people of Latvia’s borderlands – from collections of antique tools and farming equipment to the oldest spa site in Bārbele, the Catholic heart of Zemgale, and scenic walking trails alongside karst sinkholes in Skaistkalne, ending with a panoramic view from the church bell tower.
For a truly authentic Latvian experience, visit the traditional sauna “Dvēseles dziednīca” in the Zemgale heritage homestead “Everti” – where ancient healing rituals are practised and a restored 19th-century farmstead complex can be explored.
In Kurmene, enjoy the harmony of cultural heritage and nature – stroll through the manor park, admire the church architecture and visit the animals in the outdoor enclosures.
Plan your visit to coincide with seasonal festivities – the Sowing Festival in May and the Harvest Festival in September at the open-air museum “Ausekļu dzirnavas” in Bārbele, St Peter’s Day celebrations in Kurmene in late June, and Kanapene Festival in Skaistkalne in early August.
The route is also suitable for active recreation – enjoy cycling along route No. 402 “Rich Zemgale” between Skaistkalne and Kurmene to experience Zemgale’s pastoral landscapes, or go boating from Kurmene to Skaistkalne, taking in the calm flow of the River Mēmele, which marks the border. Popular canoe routes in this area include: Ērberģe – Kurmene, Krasti – Skaistkalne and Skaistkalne – Ānes – Mēmeles Park.
Hikers are also encouraged to follow the marked St. James Way, which traverses the beautiful areas of Vecumnieki, Stelpe, Brukna, Bārbele, and Skaistkalne.