The village of Gauja lies on the right bank of the Gauja River. You can explore the area through different themes: its historical connection to Carnikava, a walking path by two lakes and a cycling route along the river. When planning your trip, you can decide whether you would rather explore on foot, by bike or with an interest in local history.

Local History on the Riverbank

In the 17th century, Gauja was the site of the historic centre of Carnikava. This centre included a church and, later, a school. The sequence of events is part of the area's history: the school was added after the church. This historical connection complements the landscape and gives you another reason to choose the area.

Walking Path by the Garezers Lakes

Garezers I is in the village of Gauja, near where the river flows into the sea. The walking path runs alongside the lakes Garezers I and Garezers II and continues to Lilaste. It is approximately 3.5 kilometres one way. When using this figure to plan your trip, note that it describes one direction, not the length of a round trip.

On the return from the Garezers path, you can choose to walk by the sea, through the dunes or alongside the lakes. The path also offers a chance to enjoy the beauty of the coastal forest. You can choose your return route based on the landscape you prefer.

Cycling Route Along the Gauja

The “Gaujas ciema takas” cycling route runs along the scenic banks of the Gauja and is approximately 7 kilometres long. The surface is mostly paved, with short sandy sections near the bank. The route is suitable for bicycles and families.

The distances are easy to distinguish: the walking path is about 3.5 kilometres each way, while the cycling route is approximately 7 kilometres long. The landscape also differs: the walking path runs alongside the lakes, while the cycling route follows the riverbanks and has short sandy sections near the bank.

Access and Getting There

There is a seasonal access notice for the mouth of the Gauja: access is possible from the village of Gauja, but closed from the Carnikava side. Check the current access arrangements before visiting the river mouth.

Gauja station, in Carnikava Parish, is served by passenger trains. This is a practical point to consider when planning your journey.

When looking for hotels in Gauja, start by considering the purpose of your trip: would you like your stay to centre on a walk by the lakes, a cycling trip along the Gauja or the area's historical connection to Carnikava? These interests give you a concrete basis for deciding whether Gauja is right for your trip.

Discover more destinations: Garciems, Kalngale, Lilaste, Carnikava

For the broader travel overview: Carnikavas Novads.