Ādaži between the Gauja, Greenway and Vējupe

Ādaži lies on the Gauja and brings together river scenery, outdoor activities and historical connections with concrete offerings centred on water and local food. The Greenway runs along the left bank of the river; Vējupe is one of the Gauja’s oxbow lakes. There is also a mini-zoo in the centre and a look at everything from a medieval mill to modern forms of production. This mix makes Ādaži an interesting place if you want to combine nature and discovery on your holiday.

The Gauja, Greenway and forest

Ādaži lies on the Gauja and has picturesque forest areas. The Greenway provides a practical focus for outdoor activities: this walking and cycling route runs along the left bank between Ādaži and Carnikava. It is 13.5 km long one way. This figure helps you gauge the desired tour length and plan the Greenway as the main focus or as part of your day. There is a Greenway car park in Ādaži at Gaujas iela 30.

Water activities near Vējupes

Vējupe is one of the Gauja’s oxbow lakes on the left bank of the river. E-FOIL can be tried at Vējupes Beach in Ādaži; there is also a cable wakeboard course in the Vējupes area. The activities offer different experiences: E-FOIL is available at the beach, while the wakeboard course is in the surrounding area of Vējupe. If you plan to try E-FOIL, include the reservation information in your preparations.

A summer visit with children

Dzīvo Sapņu dārzs is a mini-zoo in the centre of Ādaži. In summer, children can feed and get to know the domestic animals there. If this is one of the activities you are looking for, bear in mind the season specifically mentioned.

Historical traces and local culture

The history of Ādaži dates back to the Middle Ages. Jaunās dzirnavas, the New Mill, was already in existence in Ādaži in 1209 and controlled the route to Riga. Ādažu pilsnovads, the Ādaži Castle District, was established in the 13th century. These are distinct historical points of reference: a mill with a role on a transport route and the establishment of a castle district. The audio guide “ĀDAŽI – Manors, Raftsmen and Innovation” is available in Latvian and English.

The Gauja Festival in Ādaži is another part of the area’s cultural heritage; it has been held since 2010. The period between the medieval dates and this more recent reference offers a distinct perspective on the different chapters of local history.

Food and production

SOIRA makes its cheese from organic milk supplied by nearby dairy farms. This example puts the ingredients’ origin in the foreground. The Ādažu čipsi Nutrition Class offers a different insight into local production: workshop participants make crisps with a flavour of their own choosing. The experience also includes a virtual 360-degree tour through the production process—from potato sorting to the warehouse shelf. If you plan to attend the Nutrition Class, check the information about booking in advance.

Plan your trip around your interests

When choosing a holiday apartment in Ādaži, you can start by considering what you want to focus on during your stay: a walk or cycle ride on the Greenway, water sports near Vējupes, or the area’s historical and culinary attractions. The Greenway’s length gives your tour planning a concrete framework; the mini-zoo’s summer activity has its own seasonal condition.

More destinations

Discover more destinations: Kadaga.

Back to the main travel overview: Ādažu Novads.