Jūrmala

Life’s a beach in Jūrmala!

Close to Riga (the capital), Jūrmala is Latvia’s only official resort – it literally translates to the English as ‘seaside’. It’s well known for its curative mud, mineral waters, forest and 25kms of sands. After a hard day at the beach, visit the town to enjoy some food and drinks...

A go-to destination for those in the know and a spa resort since the 18^th century, Jūrmala offers the best of country, city, and coast. The city is characterised by its miles of white quartzite sands and lush green forests, providing a naturally restorative setting that will do your soul good. Add in the fresh and healthy air that floats in on the Baltic breeze and you’ve got everything you need for a refreshing break. 

Seven of Jūrmala’s bathing areas are of Blue Flag standard and are bordered by forests of mixed birch and pine. In Spring and Autumn, you’ll find treasure hunters combing the beach for washed up amber.

As you’d expect, Jūrmala has a healthy choice of spas and spa hotels, many of which welcome families. The heart and soul of Jūrmala is a street called Jomas iela. This pedestrian area is lined by pretty wooden cottages and art nouveau buildings that are home to cafés, restaurants and shops. It’s the perfect place to take a seat and watch the world go by while sampling traditional local food and beer.

Jūrmala has more than 400 examples of historical wooden architecture. You’ll find one of the most beautiful on Jūras iela, which is a popular tourist walking route. Less well known but just as interesting is the Open-Air Museum where you can step back in time to a traditional fishing village, try your hand at ropemaking, and see fishing vessels from the 19^th and 20^th centuries. You can then head for the Ragakāpa Nature Park and experience a walk in the wind-formed dune, taking time to enjoy the landscape from the viewing platforms and eco-trail.

Unusually, Jūrmala has its own forest park right in the city: Dzintari is a protected habitat with three different playgrounds, a watchtower, walking and roller-skating paths, a skatepark and a streetball court. In winter, you can even try cross-country skiing here.  

Or if you’re more of a water baby, you’ll love that Jūrmala is home to one of northern Europe’s largest waterparks. Livu Aquapark has something for everyone: from little kids who like to splash, thrill seekers who love rides that are called things like ‘The Kamikaze’, and grown-ups who like their hydrotherapy a little more laid back!

In summer, you can catch a train from Jūrmala to Riga every 30 minutes. The journey takes 30 minutes.