Discover Strenči: Photo Trails and Culture

• The photo trail “Divi gadsimti vienotā rakursā” is 4 km long and features material by 20th-century photographer Dāvis Spunde.
• The tenth section of the Forest Trail runs from Strenči to Spicu Bridge; after 3.5 km, the route reaches small, remote forest paths.
• Strenči Church was built in 1907 in the National Romantic style, which developed within the Art Nouveau movement.
• Dāvis Spunde documented events in Strenči and the surrounding parishes, including timber rafting on the Gauja.

The photo trail “Divi gadsimti vienotā rakursā” runs through Strenči and Gaujmala. It starts at the Strenči Tourist Information Centre at Rīgas iela 7. As the route description is older, check the current signs on site. The route combines a clearly stated length with material from the 20th century, offering a way to explore the area’s photographic heritage.

The tenth section of the Forest Trail runs from Strenči to Spicu Bridge. After 3.5 km, the route follows small, remote forest paths. At Zemā sala (Low Isle), you can enjoy some of the finest views of the protected Northern Gauja landscape (“Ziemeļgauja”). This section therefore offers more than just the trail itself: its forest paths and landscape are also part of the experience.

The figures describe different things: 4 km is the length of the entire photo trail, while 3.5 km marks a point on the Forest Trail section. When planning your trip, it is therefore important to distinguish between a trail with a stated total length and a section described in terms of its paths and landscape.

Dāvis Spunde documented events in Strenči and the surrounding parishes. The subjects he recorded included timber rafting on the Gauja. The photo trail features material by the photographer from the 20th century, linking the route description to specific examples from the region’s history.

A monument to Spunde is shaped like a camera and contains photographs by him set in glass. Strenči Church offers another perspective on cultural history: it was built in 1907 in the National Romantic style. This style developed within the Art Nouveau movement, placing the church in a broader architectural context.

At the Gauja Nature Trail stands Dravas oak, which preserves traces of beekeeping. Alongside the natural heritage, it also offers a glimpse of traditional craft. The Strenči tree nursery in Kociņi, in Trikāta Parish, is located near Strenči. During a visit, you can walk in clean, scenic surroundings; the nursery cultivates around 200 different coniferous and deciduous tree species.

The annual Gaujas plostnieku svētki includes a wood-carving competition in which participants create wooden sculptures. The new sculptures are later installed in the wooden sculpture park. If you want to include the festival in your travel plans, check the event dates in advance.

The grounds of Strenči Hospital feature a navigation system with clear markings, maps, signs pointing to the buildings, and information boards. These elements help visitors find their way around the site.

Where does the “Divi gadsimti vienotā rakursā” photo trail start?

It starts at the Strenči Tourist Information Centre at Rīgas iela 7. Check the current signs on site.

What does the 3.5 km figure refer to on the Forest Trail?

It marks a point on the section from Strenči to Spicu Bridge, after which the route follows small, remote forest paths.

What tradition is part of Gaujas plostnieku svētki?

The annual festival includes a wood-carving competition in which participants create wooden sculptures. The new sculptures are later installed in the wooden sculpture park.

For the broader travel overview: Strenču Novads.