Akmeņdziras: Nature, Coast and History

For a holiday that combines nature observation, coastal scenery and historic sites, the area around Akmeņdziras offers specific places to explore.

By the lake and along the coast

At Lake Būšnieku, a 187 m-long footbridge leads to a birdwatching platform. The nature trail by the lake also offers an 8 km route around the water. This gives you two distinct options: a direct route to the platform and a much longer circuit. The footbridge leads to the observation point, while the circular trail takes in the lake as a whole. When planning your time by the water, you can use these different distances as a guide without treating the two options as equivalent.

Nearby, the Būšnieku ezera krasts nature reserve is part of the Natura 2000 network and covers 49 ha. Alongside the specific routes by the lake, it offers a named protected area as a separate natural attraction.

The coastal landscape also has striking features. Staldzene Stāvkrasts is a typical 4–8 m-high erosional coastline. Along a stretch of about 400 m, sediments from different stages of the Baltic Sea’s development can be seen. An erosional coastline is shaped by the removal of material; here, the stated height and sediments make its geological character especially tangible.

On foot along the Jūrtaka

The 11th stage of the Jūrtaka coastal hiking route runs from Staldzene via Liepene and Jaunupe to Oviši. The 12th stage passes through the Oviši Nature Reserve, whose coastal landscape is characterised by wide sandy beaches and dunes. The route of the 11th stage can be identified by its sequence of places, while the landscape within the protected area is the focus of the 12th. For practical stage planning, check the latest route information.

Churches, a lighthouse and fishermen’s homesteads

Nearby, the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Miķeļtornis (Pize) was built from red bricks in 1883, on the site of an older wooden Lutheran church. The building history thus distinguishes two successive church buildings. The church can be visited only before and after services held on the major church-year holidays. Please arrange your visit in advance.

Ovišu bāka is a preserved historic navigation facility; its construction was completed in 1814. An exhibition on the history of lighthouses is also located nearby. Alongside the history of the building, it explores the separate subject of lighthouses.

Some fishermen’s homesteads from the 19th century have been preserved in Staldzene. They add another example of the region’s heritage to the histories of its churches and lighthouse.

Getting there and accommodation

The Ventspils AO–Akmeņdziras–Ance bus route operates year-round and is listed in the municipal timetable. If you plan to travel by bus, check the timetable before setting off. The BŪDNIEKI rural holiday house is located in Akmeņdziras and is a specific accommodation option in the village. To search for a holiday apartment, use Akmeņdziras as your search location and let your interests in the lake, coast or local culture guide your stay.

Discover more destinations: Ziras, Ventspils, Vendzavas, Zūras, Pasiekste, Lielirbe, Liepene, Ugāle

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