Latvia Winter Activities: Hidden Gems for Snow and Ice Fun

There’s more to Latvia winter activities than skiing and sauna time. While the country is famous for peaceful trails and traditional outdoor fun, there’s a lesser-known side to winter in Latvia that deserves attention. Look deeper, and you’ll find incredible surprises in the forests, rivers, and even abandoned towns. Frozen cliffs, snow-covered castles, and wild sleigh rides still await your discovery. These adventures offer more than just excitement—they bring peace, beauty, and a sense of wonder.

Latvia’s small size makes it easy to reach remote winter spots in just a day. Whether you’re staying in Riga or driving into the countryside, you won’t need to travel far to discover something magical. Many of these are hidden from guidebooks and known mainly to locals, giving you the chance to enjoy uncrowded, authentic experiences. These activities let you connect with nature and feel the untouched side of winter. So, if you’re ready for something different, this guide is for you.

Latvia Winter Activities at Frozen Waterfalls and Ice Formations

Yes, Latvia has waterfalls—and in winter, they freeze into stunning natural sculptures. These icy walls glisten in the sunlight and shift daily with the temperature, creating breathtaking shapes and textures. If you’ve only visited in summer, winter adds a whole new perspective. Frozen waterfalls become silent giants surrounded by snow-covered pines and untouched terrain.

You won’t find crowds here. Just silence, fresh air, and pure winter beauty, making it an ideal escape for photographers and nature lovers alike. Unlike mountain regions, Latvia’s frozen waterfalls are easily accessible and don’t require technical climbing. A short hike usually brings you right up to the icy display.

Top frozen waterfall spots:

Ventas Rumba (Kuldīga) – Europe’s widest waterfall turns into a frosty spectacle.
Ērģeme Cliffs – Water seeps and freezes into long, sharp icicles.
Piķenes Cliff (Amata River) – A vertical wall of frozen water framed by forest.
Maltuva River falls (Latgale) – Remote, rarely visited, great for photographers.

Bring crampons or sturdy boots for icy trails. Early morning light is best for photos, and it adds a magical golden glow to the ice.

Thrilling Latvia Winter Activities: Bobsleigh in Sigulda

Adrenaline seekers should head to Sigulda for one of the most thrilling Latvia winter activities. The Sigulda Bobsleigh and Luge Track offers real rides with a professional pilot steering your team down the icy track. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for those seeking something truly unforgettable.

It’s one of the few bobsleigh tracks in the world open to the public. You won’t just look at the track—you’ll feel the wind, hear the roar of the runners, and experience the force of the curves.

Speeds can reach over 80 km/h
You ride in a real race bobsleigh, not a tourist model
Open December to March, depending on snow
Booking in advance is essential on weekends

Even if you’re not ready to ride, just watching the action is exciting. The track also hosts international events throughout the winter season.

Horse-Drawn Sleigh Rides: A Classic Latvia Winter Experience

Forget snowmobiles. In Latvia’s countryside, you can still travel by horse-drawn sleigh, wrapped in blankets as snow gently falls around you. It’s not just romantic—it’s a cultural tradition that has been preserved in rural areas for generations. The rhythm of the horses and the crunch of snow create a soothing experience unlike any other.

Villages like Alsunga, Aglona, and Vecpiebalga offer guided sleigh rides through snowy woods and open fields. These rides often pass traditional farmhouses, old windmills, and frozen lakes. Local hosts may share stories, offer warm drinks, or even sing folk songs during the trip.

Why sleigh rides stand out:

Authentic local horses and sleds
Routes pass historic farms and forest roads
Often followed by storytelling or traditional snacks
Perfect for couples or families with kids

You won’t find this in every brochure, but locals will gladly help you book. Ask at village guesthouses or regional tourist centers.

Icy Adventures: Caves and Rock Formations in Latvia’s Winter

Some of Latvia’s sandstone cliffs and caves take on a mystical look in winter. These ancient geological features freeze over, with icicles forming like teeth along their entrances. Snow piles up around cave mouths, and silence falls across the landscape. For those who love exploring the outdoors, this is one of the most immersive Latvia winter activities.

You can hike into these quiet, frozen places on foot or snowshoes, especially after a fresh snowfall. Some are linked with local legends and myths, giving the visits a deeper cultural layer.

Unique icy spots to explore:

Sietiņiezis Cliff (Vidzeme) – Frozen arches and sandstone caves.
Līgatne Nature Trails – Old bunkers turned icy chambers.
Zvārtes Rock – A magical scene surrounded by forest.
Dunduri Meadows – Wild horses near limestone cliffs.

Always check trail conditions before visiting. Some areas may close during storms or heavy snow.

Sleep Under Snowy Skies: Latvia’s Winter Glamping Stays

Winter nights in Latvia are peaceful and often starry. Why not spend one in a transparent cabin or heated forest igloo? New eco-resorts and guesthouses now offer modern, cozy shelters in the woods. These stays let you admire snow falling gently through a glass roof or wake up to a view of a frozen forest.

It’s cozy, luxurious, and unlike any hotel. Many of these unique accommodations come with saunas, fire pits, and nature trails right outside your door.

Notable winter glamping stays:

Ziedlejas (Amata region) – Stylish saunas and glass huts.
Treehouse Čiekurs (Līgatne) – Warm treehouses with wood stoves.
Dome Tent Glamping (Kurzeme) – Tents with fireplaces and snow views.

These stays often include snowshoes, sleds, or access to private sauna rituals for guests.

Explore Latvia’s Winter Castles and Historic Manor Houses

Latvia’s castles look like fairy tales under snow. Snow-covered towers, frost-covered gardens, and candlelit interiors create an atmosphere you won’t find in summer. Many castles remain open in winter, hosting seasonal exhibits, music events, and tours.

These historic sites often have fewer visitors during the colder months. That means quieter experiences, better photos, and more time to soak in the details.

Winter castle visits worth your time:

Cēsis Castle – Torch-lit tours and medieval ruins.
Rundāle Palace – Grand halls with snowy garden views.
Jaunpils Castle – Stay overnight in a medieval fortress.
Bīriņi Palace – Ride horses and enjoy forest walks.

Check their event calendars for concerts, winter fairs, or themed dinners during the season.

Join Torchlight Hikes and Moonlit Trails in Latvia’s Winter

Many Latvian nature parks host torchlight hikes during winter weekends. These events are growing in popularity and provide a peaceful way to connect with the season. Locals of all ages join in for quiet, social walks under the stars or full moon.

Paths wind through woods, bogs, and riversides, often with stops for mulled wine or music. You walk slowly, letting your senses adjust to the sounds and sights of winter in the dark.

Popular torchlight events:

Ķemeri Full Moon Walks – Boardwalks and starry skies.
Dabas Koncertzāle – Music performances in the wild.
Sigulda Night Hike – Scenic trails by lantern light.
Ziemeļgauja Snowshoeing – Remote, quiet, and peaceful.

Wear warm layers and bring a headlamp just in case.

Photograph the Frozen Coastline: Latvia Winter Activities for Creatives

Latvia’s coastline becomes unrecognizable in winter. Strong winds and freezing waves sculpt ice into layers. Beaches, harbors, and cliffs become surreal icy landscapes perfect for photography and exploration.

Whether you’re a pro or just using your phone, Latvia’s winter coast will impress you. Fog, frost, and snowy dunes create striking images.

Top spots for coastal winter views:

Jūrkalne – Steep cliffs and icy waves.
Engure – Icy piers and seabirds.
Vecāķi Beach – A frozen beach near Riga.
Cape Kolka – Where two seas meet, often frozen over.

Bundle up well—the coastal wind can be brutal, but the view is always worth it.

Latvia’s winter season goes far beyond the classic sports and spa days. If you’re willing to explore a little deeper, you’ll uncover an entirely different side of the country. Frozen cliffs, glass cabins, and torchlit forest trails offer a unique combination of nature, tradition, and adventure. These aren’t just activities—they’re experiences that awaken the senses and feed the soul.