Saldus: Culture, Trails and Local Experiences

• The J. Rozentāla Saldus vēstures un mākslas muzejs displays original works from the early creative period of the Latvian master painter. It is currently the only place in Latvia where this is possible.
• Saldus Lake covers 11.9 hectares and is located near the town centre in a valley between several hills.
• The Ciecere nature and walking trail follows the Ciecere River from the bridge on Kuldīgas iela to the bridge on Saules iela.
• Kalnsētas Park has narrow, steep paths along the river as well as wider paths for more leisurely walks.

The museum is an obvious destination for travellers interested in Latvian art. The original works from J. Rozentāls's early creative period displayed there give a visit to the museum a distinctive focus. The Saldus Sv. Jāņa evaņģēliski luteriskā baznīca is also part of the town's history: it is the oldest building in the town. On the steps beside the church stand seven life-size bronze sculptures depicting figures from J. Rozentāls's painting “Pēc dievkalpojuma”.

Another cultural site is the building of the Saldus Music and Art School. It contains an acoustic concert hall used for cultural events. Exhibitions by students, teachers and guest artists are also held regularly. The “Medus piliens” fountain in “Māra Čaklā skvērs” square adds a distinctive design feature with two horizontal honeycombs and a large connecting drop of honey.

Saldus Lake provides a scenic point of reference near the town centre. Those who want to explore the course of the river can include the Ciecere nature and walking trail in their plans. Its two stated endpoints are at the bridge on Kuldīgas iela and the bridge on Saules iela. The paths in Kalnsētas Park differ considerably: alongside narrow, steep paths along the Ciecere, there are wider paths for more leisurely walks. This makes it possible to adapt the day's plans to the desired character of the walk without assuming a specific duration or level of difficulty.

The “Atklāj un iepazīsti Saldus pilsētu” route is intended for exploring by bicycle. It is aimed at visitors who want to get to know Saldus by bike. The combination of a museum, sightseeing, a walk or a cycling tour that suits you therefore depends mainly on your own interests and the time available.

At the Saldus Food Factory, visitors can register for a guided tour of the confectionery production department and taste fresh “Gotiņa” milk toffees. The “Saldalus” brewery also offers a guided tour with beer tasting. Both activities give the trip a culinary focus, but they differ in emphasis: one focuses on confectionery production, while the other focuses on brewing and tasting.

During the summer season, there is an 18-hole mini-golf course near the Saldus sports complex. Children can also enjoy an inflatable attraction, a trampoline and velokarts. Families can therefore include these seasonal activities separately in their travel plans, while those interested in culture are more likely to consider the museum, church, exhibitions or concert hall.

When looking for a hotel in Saldus, it helps to first determine your own priorities. For a culture-oriented trip, the museum, historic church, sculptures, exhibitions and cultural events take centre stage. If you prefer spending time outdoors, the lake, Ciecere Trail, Kalnsētas Park or the cycling route can determine your plans. Families should also check whether the summer season is suitable for the activities mentioned at the sports complex.

Guided tours also affect your daily plans: participation at the Saldus Food Factory requires registration, and the “Saldalus” brewery combines its tour with a beer tasting. If you would like to compare additional destination pages, you can also visit Druva, Šarlote, Kursīši and Jaunlutriņi.

Where can you see original works from J. Rozentāls's early creative period?

At the J. Rozentāla Saldus vēstures un mākslas muzejs. It is currently the only place in Latvia where these original works can be seen.

Is registration required for the guided tour at the Saldus Food Factory?

Yes. After registering, visitors can take part in a guided tour of the confectionery production department and taste fresh “Gotiņa” milk toffees.

What walking opportunities are available in Saldus?

The Ciecere nature and walking trail runs along the Ciecere River between the bridge on Kuldīgas iela and the bridge on Saules iela. Kalnsētas Park has narrow, steep paths along the river and wider paths for more leisurely walks.

What seasonal activities are available for children?

During the summer season, there is an 18-hole mini-golf course near the Saldus sports complex. Children can also enjoy an inflatable attraction, a trampoline and velokarts.

For the higher-level travel overview: Saldus Municipality.