Pļaviņas – the Daugava, history and walking routes
Pļaviņas combines the landscape of the Daugava with historical traces, a waterfall and opportunities for walking and sports activities. This makes it possible to clearly consider the town when planning your trip in terms of nature experiences, culture and a route along the Daugava.
One of the defining natural landmarks is the three-tiered Skanstupītes ūdenskritums waterfall, made of Daugava Suite dolomite. The Pļaviņu Daugavas promenāde is an almost 2 km long flood protection embankment that protects the town from spring floods. Historical sights include the Aiviekstes zviedru skansts.
Key facts about Pļaviņas
The section of the Daugava between Pļaviņas and Koknese was characterised by rapids and rocky riverbanks up to 20 m high. For log driving, this section was considered the most difficult obstacle. This historic landscape is therefore not only a natural feature but is also connected with the use of the river.
The Skanstupītes ūdenskritums waterfall is also one of the few waterfalls on Daugava tributaries that were not flooded. This makes it a distinct natural landmark among Pļaviņas’s points of interest: here you will find a small, geologically distinctive waterfall and, at the same time, a connection to the Daugava’s ever-changing river landscape.
Which cultural sites are part of Pļaviņas?
The Aiviekstes zviedru skansts features four prominent bastions and is relatively well preserved. It was built in the early 17th century as a Swedish fortification against the Poles.
Another focal point is the Pļaviņu muzejs. It currently houses the exhibition “Latvijas armija Pļaviņās 20. gadsimtā”. It covers events from the period of the Latvian War of Independence.
Where can you go for a walk or take a route?
The Pļaviņu Daugavas promenāde is used for leisurely walks and sports activities.
Another option is the route “Shores of the Daugava by train and on foot”. The section in Pļaviņas is approximately 6 km long. As its name suggests, the route combines rail travel and walking; the distance given refers to the section in Pļaviņas. If you would like to expand your search to include another location, you can also look at Odziena.
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How large is the Skanstupītes ūdenskritums waterfall?
The three-tiered waterfall is approximately 1.5 m high and 4 to 6 m wide. Both measurements are approximate.
What is the exhibition “Latvijas armija Pļaviņās 20. gadsimtā” about?
The exhibition covers events from the period of the Latvian War of Independence. It is currently located in the premises of the Pļaviņu muzejs.
What does the exhibit “Daugavas plosta modelis” show?
The exhibit includes stories of log drivers and historical photographs. It thus adds to the historical connection with the use of the Daugava.
How long is the “Shores of the Daugava by train and on foot” route in Pļaviņas?
The section in Pļaviņas is approximately 6 km long. The route is described as a combination of a train journey and a walk.
For the higher-level travel overview: Pļaviņu Novads.
