Skanakalns Nature Park has definitely won the lottery of natural attractions - just as meadows in summer are full of various flowers, this nature park is full of various points of interest. 

Do you like cliffs? In Skaņaiskalns, you will find three different ones - a cliff with the Angel's Cave, where you can see a stylized silhouette of an angel, the Neļķu Cliffs, which can be observed from a distance and, of course, the Skaņaiskalns Cliff, which is a massive stone wall.

Perhaps you're interested in caves? Along the nature trail in Skaņaiskalns, you will find a Devil's Cave that is big enough that you can enter. And you will need a flashlight. 

Or maybe you enjoy wooden sculptures? On this trail, you'll find gnomes, birds, and even a witch flying not on a broomstick but with a propeller at the end, which she usually sits on. 

Is there anything that makes you think of Italy more than freshly baked pizza - the one that's not perfectly round and has a thick crust? Plus a glass of Aperol Spritz? PS - this summer drink is also available in a non-alcoholic version.

Taste preferences may vary, but I must say that Vīnkalnu Pizza is truly delicious.

And the atmosphere is great too. The pizzeria is set in an old building. The terrace is decorated with lights and flowers. And let's not forget the friendly service. In the end, the hostess even brings some kids chewing gum with the bill. It's impossible not to smile. 

Since the castle ruins are right next to Vīnkalnu Pizza Place, it would seem wrong not to visit them as well. I somehow expected to see just one brick wall. I don't know why, maybe because of the pictures? There is indeed a brick wall there

But it turns out that a small fragment of the foundation has also been uncovered, which you can walk around and read the information stands.

Let's stretch our legs and take some beautiful pictures.

In the heart of the park, you'll find a picturesque lake with tall trees bending over its shores and water lilies blooming along the edges. But in the center of the lake, there's a fountain that performs a magical trick - it starts small, then grows big, and shrinks again... It's lovely to take a leisurely walk around the lake and chat with your fellow travelers. 

And what's that? Isn't it another meditation labyrinth? There's no description, but it looks similar to the ones I've seen at Kubesele Nature Trailand Valguma Pasaule. What do you think?

It's exciting to come across points of interest that you didn't expect.

As we head toward the Gauja River, a charming, green building catches our eye. It's one of those buildings that you want to photograph simply because it looks beautiful. And the courtyard is well-maintained too. There are strings of lights and flower beds. But what's that? It turns out there's a QR code on the gate.

The audio guide tells us that this building is the "Laundry House". And in its courtyard is a herb and medicinal plant garden that welcomes all interested visitors.

Why? 

Even though the ride on the small boat covered in paintings isn't too long, besides enjoying the views of the Gauja River banks, you can learn about the origin of Valmiera's name (you won't believe it, but it involves whale), hear about the mishaps of Valmiera's water tower and discover other interesting facts about Valmiera.

During the ride, you can also see the Kazu rapids and pass under a bridge. Did you know that you can make a wish not only when crossing a bridge for the first time but also when passing under it for the first time?

It's like a romantic sci-fi...

Have you ever wished to visit another world? In Valmiera, there is a door that functions as a portal to the dreamland of Neonija. A place where fluorescent flowers bloom in abundance and everyday worries and concerns cease to exist.

So let's go inside! We are greeted by darkness, serene music, and the sound of flowing water. It reminds me of visualization meditations (if you've ever tried them). 

In this parallel world, there is no sun, but every nook and cranny emits mysterious light. Magic undoubtedly lies in the details. 

Each room is slightly different. In one, little birds splash in a bird bath with a neon fountain. In the next room, tiny dots twinkle above your head, resembling stars in the sky. And in yet another, beneath your feet, you find the universe... At one moment, you are in an underwater kingdom. And in the next, you're standing in front of an ancient, magical building.