From Kurzeme to Aukštaitija – a new lake guide featuring 176 lakes and a wide range of recreation opportunities

Within the framework of the WaterWays project implemented by the Kurzeme Planning Region, and with support from the Interreg Latvia–Lithuania Programme, a new lake guide covering both Latvia and Lithuania has been developed. It has been created alongside the upgrade of the water tourism website riverways.eu, where content is now being expanded with information about lakes and the recreational opportunities they offer.

The guide includes a map of 176 lakes—each with its own character and story. It features 64 lakes in Kurzeme, 24 in Zemgale, and 29 in Latgale. In Lithuania, it highlights 48 lakes in Aukštaitija, 11 in Žemaitija, and one lake in Minor Lithuania.

The guide offers not only travel inspiration but also practical information on water activities, accommodation, and other tourism services in both Latvia and Lithuania.

The goal of the WaterWays project is to promote lakes as attractive travel destinations while encouraging responsible, environmentally friendly, and accessible recreation in nature.

What do lakes in Latvia and Lithuania offer?

In Kurzeme, Zemgale, and Latgale, many scenic lakes provide not only well – equipped swimming areas but also a wide range of active recreation options – fishing, boat rentals, SUP boards, water bicycles, and motorboats. In many places, visitors can also enjoy trips by boat or yacht, sunrise and sunset cruises, or even concerts on the water. Some lakes offer unique accommodation such as floating houses, sauna rituals, or spa experiences by the lakeside. Families and active recreation enthusiasts will appreciate water amusement parks, wake parks, and water skiing opportunities. Around many lakes, walking trails, cycling routes, and nature paths have been created, allowing visitors to explore the surrounding environment.

In Kurzeme, popular destinations include Lake Usma with its extensive water tourism and accommodation options, Lake Engure – home to wild horses and rich birdlife -and Lake Liepāja, which attracts visitors with nature trails, viewing platforms, and an educational Nature House. Lake Durbe offers several well – equipped recreation areas, boat launching facilities, and a viewing tower. Lake Pape delights with unspoiled nature, birdwatching opportunities, and wild horse pastures, while Lake Ciecere features a water amusement park, walking trails, and even its own small harbor. An especially inclusive environment is provided at Lake Būšnieki, where there is a wheelchair-accessible beach, a nature trail around the entire lake, and tactile environmental objects introducing local birds and fish.

In Zemgale, Lake Zebrus stands out with a recreation complex on its shore, as well as the Tērvete reservoir, where a glamping site has been created within a pine forest as part of the Latvian State Forest Nature Park. Nearby is the Tērvete Nature Park – one of the most family-friendly destinations in Latvia. In the Jelgava area, Lake Ozolnieki is notable for its active recreation park and wakeboarding opportunities.

Latgale – the land of lakes – also offers diverse experiences on the water. Lake Rāzna, located in Rāzna National Park, combines scenic beauty with a wide range of tourism options – from boat rentals to holiday homes. Lake Drīdzis, the deepest lake in Latvia and the Baltics, invites visitors to explore its shores. Lake Ežezers charms with its many islands and recreation complexes, while Lake Dagda and Lake Lubāns offer both closeness to nature and various water activities.

In Lithuania, as in Latvia, lakes are among the most popular destinations for both local and international travelers.

The guide and the website riverways.eu will also provide information about the most beautiful lakes in Žemaitija and Aukštaitija. In Žemaitija, Lake Plateliai stands out with extensive opportunities for water sports and nature recreation. In Telšiai, Lake Mastis offers scenic surroundings right in the city center, while Lake Talkša in Šiauliai combines nature with an urban environment. In Aukštaitija, notable lakes include Lake Sartai with its elongated shape and events, Lake Rubikiai with its island landscape and tourist attractions, and Lake Zarasaitis, which can be explored via a wooden boardwalk and enjoyed from the panoramic viewing loop in Zarasai.

These are just a few of the lakes featured in the new guide and the updated website riverways.eu.

Discover the lakes of Latvia and Lithuania!

Download the guide in Latvian, English, or Lithuanian and get inspired for your next adventure by the lakes.