Dzērbene: Lakes, Culture and Special Experiences

• The Lutheran Church of Dzērbene is protected as a state-significant architectural monument under state protection number 6246.
• The Dzērbenes manor complex includes a four-hectare landscape park with a deep ravine and two ponds.
• The Dzērbenes Ainavu ceļi comprise three cycling route sections in Dzērbenes parish.
• The DABA RADA project was held for the fifth time in 2024 at Dzērbenes Radošā māja MEMBERI.

In the Auļi area of Dzērbenes parish, the Ievalčupīte River connects four lakes into a rare subglacial chain of lakes. The term refers to a depression landscape shaped by glacial processes. As a result, the focus here is not just on a single lake but on the recognizable connection between several bodies of water through a river course.

The Ievalčupīte Trail offers insights into landscapes of subglacial depressions. Another special feature is Augstais kalns in the centre of Dzērbene. The hillfort has unusually steep slopes, around 20 metres high, covered with pine, spruce and hazel trees. There are lakes on two sides, while a stream flows along the third.

Along the Dzērbenes Ainavu ceļi, visitors can also see the relief and lakes in Dzērbenes parish, as well as cultural and historical memorial sites such as castles, manors, churches and hillforts. This allows the landscape to be explored not only as a natural area but also through its historical points of reference.

Augstais kalns is also connected with local community life. Since the beginning of the 20th century, it has once again served as a popular local meeting place associated with dances and sociable outdoor events. The history of the area is therefore not limited to buildings or landforms but also includes communal use.

Further regional connections are preserved in the work “Dzērbenes Vectēva stāsti”. It contains descriptions of Jāņi celebrations and wedding traditions in Dzērbene. The stories about the swings on Šūpoļu ceļš refer to local life, history and the people who once lived here. This gives visitors access to traditional customs and memories that differs from simply viewing historic buildings.

DABA RADA comprises a series of interconnected art workshops involving practical work in nature and learning new skills. The project, held for the fifth time in 2024 at Dzērbenes Radošā māja MEMBERI, thus combines creative work, a connection with nature and practical activities in one cohesive format.

For comparison with other destinations, you can also view Vecpiebalga, Kaive and Greiveri.

How long is the described route along the Ievalčupīte?

The route along the Ievalčupīte is 1.75 km long. It was described as easy and suitable for pedestrians; it was also cleared and marked in blue and white.

What does the Dzērbenes Cultural and Historical Heritage Centre offer?

The centre offers a two-hour walk to places painted by the German-Baltic artist and writer Karl Gothard Grass, who was born in Dzērbene. The walk also leads to other lost cultural and historical sites. Cyclists on the Green Railway Trail and skiers are warmly welcomed there. The programme also includes rosebay willowherb tea with the artist Ērika Māldere, as well as a conversation about the book “Dzērbenes Vectēva stāsti”, published by the association.

What can you see at the Dzērbenes Palace complex?

The Dzērbenes Palace complex presents an exhibition of historical objects. It also contains a memorial room dedicated to Jette Užāne. The complex thus combines a collection of historical objects with a memorial site dedicated to an individual.

What can you expect at Neonija?

Neonija combines neon colours, light effects and harmonious sounds into an experience. It includes an augmented reality experience in which paintings come to life on a smartphone.

For the overarching travel overview: Vecpiebalga Municipality.