Kalsnava between the Arboretum and Manor History

For a trip to Kalsnava, nature and history can be considered as two distinct focuses. The Kalsnava Arboretum draws attention to a large collection of woody plants, while Jaunkalsnava is known for a designated walking trail, Jura Alunāns Park and the history of the manor. You can start by considering whether your trip will focus more on plant diversity, outdoor walks or historic buildings.

A diversity of woody plants at the Kalsnava Arboretum

The Kalsnava Arboretum covers 143 hectares and is home to more than 2,000 different woody plants. The collection garden contains around 150 rhododendron varieties. The number of plants may change as more are planted. The arboretum was established from 1975 onwards for dendrological and forestry research, as well as for planting woody plants from abroad. This background gives the arboretum a clear botanical focus: woody plants and their diversity take centre stage. If you are particularly interested in plants when planning your trip, you will find a specific point of interest here.

Walking trail, park and Veseta

Jaunkalsnava has a 4 km walking trail called “A Walk Around Jaunkalsnava” (Pastaiga pa Jaunkalsnavu). The stated length gives you a clear idea of how long the planned walk will be; check local conditions before setting out. This allows you to include the trail in your itinerary as a distinct nature experience, without confusing it with the park paths.

Jura Alunāns Park has paths, a small open-air stage, ornamental shrubs and information boards with stories from Kalsnava. The park is used for events during the summer season, and the dates vary. If an event is important to your trip, check the specific dates in advance. The park also has a seasonal swimming area on the Veseta. The stream is shallow; check local conditions before swimming. The walking trail, park and swimming area offer different ways to spend time outdoors.

Manor history in Jaunkalsnava

Jaunkalsnava developed in the 19th century around the historic centre of Jaunkalsnava Manor. The Kālenu family managed the estate there for a long time. The manor’s main building was owned by this family from the late 18th century until the land reform. These details describe different aspects of the area’s history: the development of Jaunkalsnava around the manor and the period when the family owned the main building.

The former estate buildings also tell the story of the manor complex. The historic stable now houses the local community centre; its façade retains historic red brickwork. The former manor brewery, “Trimpulas”, has preserved vaulted cellars. These historic points of interest offer different experiences: the stable is defined by its current use and visible façade, while Trimpulas is notable for its vaulted cellars.

Getting there and planning your holiday apartment

Jaunkalsnava railway station handles passenger and freight traffic, albeit on a limited scale. Diesel trains on the Riga–Madona route stop there. Rail connections and timetables may change, so check the latest times if you plan to travel by train.

When looking for a holiday apartment in Kalsnava, it helps to define your travel preferences first: do you want to focus on the plant diversity at the arboretum, include the walking trail and park in your itinerary, or are you mainly interested in the manor’s history? If an event date or train journey is important, factor the relevant dates into your plans.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Bērzaune, Sarkaņi, Stalīdzāni, Lautere, Dzelzava, Tīrumskanuļi, Ozoli, Jaunlubāna

For the broader travel overview: Madonas Novads.