2015

Climbing the Watchtower

In order to rise high to get closer to the sky, as well as to see the recent autumn colors of Latvia’s forests and the picturesque meadows, JSC "Latvian State Forests" presents its newly-built wooden watchtowers.

Tervete Watchtower

Tervete Nature Park of JSC "Latvian State Forests" offers not only the opportunity to enjoy a walking tour, but also to give way to childhood memories and the allurement of a carefree fairy tale land.  As of this year, there is an additional attraction -  climbing 153 wooden stairs of a 39-meter watchtower. The wide stairs and the tower's structure are so safe that even the youngest or most timid visitors boldly overcome one step after another, until they reach a 25-meter wide platform, feeling not a single shake from the wind. Now behold the beautiful Zemgale Region's scenery and see the tiny storybook hero Spriditis' land of luck from high above.

Lozmetejkalns Hill Watchtower

For a taste of history and a look at a historical monument of national importance, 35 kilometers away from Riga is Lozmetejkalns Hill. The renowned Latvian Riflemen fought here during the crucial Christmas Battles to protect the future of our nation. In 2005, JSC "Latvian State Forests" installed a 27-meter tall watchtower for better insight into historical accounts of the World War I fortifications and the Christmas Battles that took place there, and the former German rail line at Maztirelis Bog. It seems that the pine-tree tops are within arm's reach.

Priedaine Watchtower

When planning a trip to Latgale Region, one should definitely visit the 32-meter tower at Priedaine near Kraslava. Its summit offers a beautiful view of the curvy Daugava River and charming Kraslava city. One can even see the Daugavpils television tower, given the weather is clear.

Ancupani Watchtower

Not far from the heart of Latgale Region – Rezekne city, the highest hill of Ancupani Forest sports a 28.5-meter high tower. Climbing 121 wooden stairs, one can take a breathtaking look on church spires and the impressive forest realm. The adjacent recreation area is the place for you to have your picnic lunch.

Eglukalns Watchtower

Appreciating Latgale's natural treasures from a bird's eye view is also possible from Eglukalns tower in Svente, not far from Daugavpils. The 26.5-meter structure went up in 2004, and it offers a great view of Latgale's blue lakes, forests, and hills. Under blue skies, it is also possible to see the neighboring lands of Lithuania. The tower was restored in 2012, by building a wooden bower with benches and chairs at the bottom of the tower.

Udrkalns Watchtower

This watchtower is located 20 kilometers outside Talsi on the 57-meter Udrkalns Hill, offering a view of huge Usma Lake with the legendary Moricsala Island, as well as nearby Stende and Mundigciems, but in clear weather – even Talsi. Unforgettable view of the Ugale Church steeple.

Kalsnava Arboretum Watchtower