Discover Kaplava: Nature, Culture and Regional Trails

Kaplava combines a distinctive landscape with traces of cultural history and regional trails. The settlement of Kaplava lies between two streams that flow into the Daugava and is located in the protected Augšdaugava Landscape Area and the “Daugavas loki” Nature Park. Those planning a trip to Kaplava can combine nature, history, sacred architecture and regional cuisine into different areas of focus.

Landscape between the Streams and the Daugava Region

Its location between the two streams flowing into the Daugava gives Kaplava a clear landscape setting. At the same time, Augšdaugava and “Daugavas loki” Nature Park point to the wider surroundings, where the landscape itself becomes an important part of the journey. For families who do not want to spend every holiday day in the same way, this opens up various options for planning their days: they can explore historical themes, include a hiking route or focus on regional characteristics.

Archaeological and Ecclesiastical Historical Traces

One of the notable cultural sites is Podvinku Baznīcas kalns. This archaeological monument of regional significance includes a medieval cemetery and a church site. The place thus represents a long history without its significance being reduced to a single structure. From the 16th to the 18th century, a village or sloboda developed at the settlement of Kaplava. This historical development adds another layer of history to the view of Kaplava.

The Orthodox Church of Kaplava is also a prominent part of the area’s cultural profile. It is a cultural monument of state significance and was built in 1895 in Veckaplava. Those interested in sacred architecture and regional history can include the church as a fixed stop in their personal travel plans. It is also mentioned in connection with regional cycling route No. 35, “Daugavas Loki”. The route therefore offers another thematic way to explore this part of the landscape.

Hiking and Regional Cuisine

For hiking plans, the 16 km section of the long-distance hiking trail “Ezertaka” provides a specific point of reference. It runs from Krāslava via Klajumi to Lielborne. Take this distance into account when planning an active day and decide how important hiking should be alongside cultural experiences and observing nature.

The “Klajumi” horse farm offers a culinary complement. It serves dishes from Latgale’s culinary heritage in the rustic style of the “Klajumi” kitchen. This makes regional cuisine an independent aspect of the trip: alongside the landscape and history, visitors can also get to know local traditions through typical dishes.

Which Accommodation Suits Your Travel Plans?

When looking for a holiday apartment in Kaplava, it is worth deciding first what you want to focus on during your holiday. If you would like to place historical sites and churches at the centre of your trip, Podvinku Baznīcas kalns, the Orthodox Church and the history of the settlement are important themes. Those who prefer being outdoors can include “Daugavas loki” Nature Park, the Augšdaugava landscape and the 16 km Ezertaka section in their plans. For a food-focused trip, the cuisine of “Klajumi” complements the programme. This allows you to choose accommodation not based on general promises, but on the type of holiday you actually want to create in Kaplava.

If you would like to continue your search beyond Kaplava, you can also consider Krāslava, Robežnieki, Miglāni, Pastari, Rimšāni, Kombuļi and Piedruja as additional travel destinations.

For the higher-level travel overview: Krāslava Municipality.