Saunags is a small coastal village between Pitrags and Vaide. Two perspectives are especially useful when planning a trip: Stage 15 of the Jūrtaka as a longer coastal hike, and Saunags as part of the Livonian cultural landscape. When planning your stay, it is also important to decide whether you would prefer a clearly defined hike or several cycling options.

Hiking: a stage with a clear time plan

Stage 15 of the Jūrtaka passes through Slītere National Park and runs via Saunags, Vaide, and Kolkasrags. From the center of Saunags to Kolkasrags is 13 km; the hike takes about 5–7 hours. Set aside a substantial part of the day: this is a hike in its own right, not just a short detour. On the Saunags–Vaide section, you can walk along the beach. Between Vaide and Kolka, there is also an alternative via a forest path marked by yellow paint on the trees or by cycle route sign 558. On this stage, the Vecročupe can be forded when water levels are low. Check the current water level before setting out, as it determines whether this crossing is possible.

Cycling: several types of route to choose from

If you prefer cycling, you can include the “Pa lībiešu ciemiem” route in your plans. It runs through Kolka, Vaide, Saunags, Pitrags, Košrags, Mazirbe, and Sīkrags. There are several options for this route: a forest path through the villages, which is gravel in some sections; the paved Kolka–Ventspils road; and an option along the beach. The options differ mainly in route type and surface, so the cycling route is not limited to a single course. Beach and road conditions can vary, so it is worth checking your chosen option again before setting off. While an approximate walking time is given for the Jūrtaka stage, the cycling route offers a choice of route types.

Livonian local history

Saunags is one of the twelve villages on the Livonian Coast (Līvõd rānda); the historical Livonian name of the village is Sǟnag. The Piltene register of 1582/1583 mentions Saunags with eight farmsteads. Over time, residents called part of the village Dižsaunags. A specific historic site is the medieval Veckapu kalns cemetery, near the Nigliņa houses. It is designated a locally significant archaeological site and can be visited there. The two historical references date from different periods: the cemetery is medieval, while the register mentions the village in 1582/1583.

Saunags in Slītere National Park

The Livonian Coast, which includes Saunags, is part of Slītere National Park. The park is designated a Natura 2000 site and an internationally important bird area (IBA). The landscapes encompassed by the national park include sandy coastal beaches and dunes, dry meadows, dry pine forests on dunes, and coastal waters. The Livonian Coast has preserved its old cultural landscape and distinctive natural landscapes. If you are planning activities in the protected area, check its boundaries and the applicable rules in advance.

Discover more destinations: Dūmele, Dundaga, Košrags, Pitrags, Mazirbe, Kolka

Return to the main travel overview: Dundagas Novads.