Aucugals offers several different reasons to stay: birdwatching at Lake Liepāja, a collection of vintage vehicles and old tools at Mini Zoo “Atomi”, and horse activities at Pērkones Zirgi. When planning, it is worth keeping the various conditions in mind. The trail’s length and the season are important reference points for the lakeside route, sled rides require advance booking, and certain extras at the “Atomi” holiday home are reserved for guests staying there.

Birdwatching at Lake Liepāja

A 17 km-long birdwatching trail runs along the western shore of Lake Liepāja. By bicycle, the route takes about four hours. Trail conditions can vary by season, so check them before setting out. A total of 187 bird species have been observed along the trail. Further species records may be added over time. During migration, Lake Liepāja is an important resting and feeding place for waterbirds. The route’s length and the lake’s seasonal significance therefore answer two different questions: roughly how much cycling time to allow for the trail, and when bird migration is a relevant natural feature.

Getting there via Grīnvalti

You can reach the birdwatching trail via Grīnvalti. From the Liepāja city limits, turn left off the A11 towards Liepāja–Klaipėda and drive 2 km to the village of Grīnvalti (Aucugals). The 2 km refers to the drive to the village; the lakeside trail itself is 17 km long. This makes it easy to distinguish the drive there from the route itself when planning.

Collection, playground and horse activities

At Mini Zoo “Atomi”, you can see a collection of vintage vehicles and old tools; there is also a children’s playground. A visit here offers a different focus from the birdwatching trail: the collection and visitor facilities are the main attractions, while the lake offers a longer route and birdwatching.

Pērkones Zirgi offers horseback riding. Sled rides are available by prior arrangement. So if you are planning a sled ride, you need to book before your visit. Horseback riding and sled rides are different options that you can include in your plans according to your interests; advance booking is specifically required for sled rides.

“Atomi” holiday home

Guests at the “Atomi” holiday home can use a country sauna and hot tub for an additional fee. They also have access to an observation tower. The sauna and hot tub incur extra charges, and both facilities are intended for guests staying at the holiday home. Access to the observation tower is also reserved for guests staying there.

The activities offer different highlights: the birdwatching trail has a set length and approximate cycling time, while the Mini Zoo offers a collection to explore. Horse activities include horseback riding and, with advance booking, sled rides. At the accommodation, meanwhile, the sauna and hot tub are paid extras for holiday-home guests. Which combination suits your stay depends mainly on whether you plan to spend time on the longer route, choose one of the individual activities, or look for the listed amenities at your accommodation.

Discover more destinations: Bernāti, Nīca, Pērkone.

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