Latvia Adventures

Nature and Culture in Mārupe Municipality, Latvia

Mārupe Municipality, Latvia

Mārupe Municipality, located just southwest of Riga, offers a delightful blend of natural beauty, recreational activities, and cultural experiences. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a sports lover, or someone seeking relaxation, things to do in Mārupe Municipality are as diverse as they are rewarding.

Nature Escapes & Outdoor Adventures

Beberbeķi Nature Park – A Must-Visit Place in Mārupe

Beberbeķi Nature Park spans 275 hectares and is a haven for rare pine forests and diverse ecosystems. Its centerpiece, Beberbeķi Mill Lake, offers serene views and opportunities for cross-country skiing in winter. The park’s varied terrain, shaped by ancient dunes, provides a peaceful retreat close to Riga.

  • 275 hectares of biologically valuable pine forests

  • Dunes with rush and sedge in the central area

  • Beberbeķi Mill Lake with 3.5-meter depth

  • Artificial reservoir and natural dune terrain

  • Ideal for walking, relaxing, and winter sports

Medema Bog and Forest Trails

Covering 3,400 hectares, Medema Bog is a revitalized natural area teeming with wildlife, including deer, elk, and over 100 bird species. A 7-kilometer trail, enhanced in 2025 with additional markers, guides visitors through forests and wetlands. It’s a paradise for hikers and birdwatchers alike.

  • 3,400 hectares of wild nature and raised bogs

  • Over 100 species of birds; rich in wildlife

  • 7-km hiking trail with new markers (white/yellow)

  • Viewing platform and educational signs

  • Uneven, swampy terrain—hiking shoes recommended

Cenas Tīrelis

One of Latvia’s largest bogs, Cenas Tīrelis stretches over 6,000 hectares. A 5-kilometer boardwalk meanders through this ancient landscape, leading to two viewing towers that offer panoramic vistas. The area is rich in rare species and is accessible to visitors with mobility impairments.

  • 6,000 hectares of bog and forest

  • Bog formed over 5,000 years ago

  • Five habitats of European importance

  • 5-km wooden boardwalk for easy navigation

  • Two observation towers for photography and birdwatching

  • Accessible for visitors with limited mobility

Rhododendron Park

Rhododendron Park offers a vibrant display of colorful blooms and serves as a cultural venue with Latvian performances. With scenic tracks winding through floral displays, it’s a great spot for a leisurely walk or a cultural outing.

  • Beautiful walking paths through flowering rhododendrons

  • Seasonal displays of color in late spring and early summer

  • Open-air stage for concerts and cultural events

Visit Lillas Lavender – Unique Nature Experience in Mārupe Municipality

Lillas Lavender provides a unique experience in blooming lavender fields. It’s the perfect setting for photography and relaxation.

  • Lavender fields in bloom during summer

  • Aromatherapy and scenic landscapes

  • A peaceful, Instagram-friendly destination

Reflect and Reconnect at the Braži Labyrinth

When you’re facing a crossroads in life, the Braži Labyrinth offers a serene space for reflection. Created on October 7, 2018, this spiritual walking labyrinth is designed to help you find clarity when decisions feel overwhelming or when you’ve lost touch with yourself. It’s more than just a walk—it’s a meditative journey inward.

  • Ideal for personal reflection and mindfulness

  • Open to individuals, couples, and families

  • Consultations available upon request

This peaceful spot adds a spiritual dimension to the diverse things to do in Mārupe Municipality, especially for visitors looking to reconnect with themselves.

Relax by the Water at Božu Reservoir (Voša Pond)

Another must-see place in Mārupe is Božu Reservoir, also known as Voša Pond. This 56-hectare artificial lake was formed by flooding a used sand quarry at a point where the Dzilnupes River cuts through a high dune ridge. Its steep banks, reaching over 3 meters, create a scenic contrast with the surrounding landscape.

  • Great for picnics and summer relaxation

  • Features a beach and recreation area called “Bejas”

  • Popular for swimming and nature walks

Božu Reservoir offers a tranquil break from hiking or urban sightseeing and is a perfect addition to your list of places to visit in Mārupe Municipality.

Leisure and Sports Activities in Mārupe Municipality

Golf Club Viesturi – Relaxing Outdoor Things to Do in Mārupe

Golf enthusiasts can enjoy a round at Golf Club Viesturi, which provides well-maintained greens and a welcoming atmosphere. It’s an ideal spot for both seasoned players and beginners looking to practice their swing.

  • 18-hole golf course

  • Practice areas and professional instruction available

  • Relaxing countryside setting

Ruukki Pludmales Centrs – Active Lifestyle and Sports in Mārupe Municipality

For beach sports lovers, Ruukki Pludmales Centrs offers courts and facilities for activities like beach volleyball. It’s a great spot for socializing or joining tournaments.

  • Sand volleyball courts

  • Indoor and outdoor training facilities

  • Regular competitions and friendly games

Cultural and Local Experiences in Mārupe Municipality

Purnavu Muiža

Delve into local traditions at Purnavu Muiža, a location that reflects Latvian country life. It offers visitors a glimpse into regional culture and heritage.

  • Traditional architecture and rustic scenery

  • Opportunities for local events and seasonal celebrations

  • Hunting and outdoor sport experiences

Rhododendron Park (Cultural Role)

Besides being a botanical attraction, Rhododendron Park hosts cultural events, including music and dance performances.

  • Seasonal concerts in a natural setting

  • Blend of nature and Latvian folk culture

  • Suitable for families and cultural enthusiasts

Day Trips and Nearby Places to Visit Near Mārupe Municipality

Riga’s Old Town

Just a short drive away, Riga’s Old Town offers cobblestone streets, historic architecture, and vibrant markets. It’s a perfect extension to your Mārupe visit, providing urban charm and cultural richness.

  • UNESCO World Heritage Site

  • Medieval churches and art nouveau buildings

  • Cafés, boutiques, and museums

Ķemeri National Park

Located a bit further west, Ķemeri National Park is known for its boardwalks and biodiversity. It’s an excellent option for those looking to extend their nature exploration beyond Mārupe.

  • Popular for its Great Bog Boardwalk

  • Sulfur springs and mineral-rich wetlands

  • Birdwatching and therapeutic mud baths

Mārupe Municipality is easily accessible from Riga, making it an excellent choice for day trips or weekend getaways. Whether you’re seeking tranquility in nature, engaging in recreational activities, or exploring cultural sites, things to do in Mārupe Municipality offer a refreshing escape into Latvian life and landscapes.