The project “Forest and Coastal Hiking Trails’ accessibility improvement for different social groups” is coming to an end, having introduced practical accessibility and information solutions in Latvia and Estonia that expand hiking opportunities for different groups of society: families with young children, seniors, international students, school students, wheelchair users and people with visual impairments. These improvements also help everyone find a hiking experience suited to their abilities and interests.
The Coastal Hiking Trail and Forest Trail are popular long-distance hiking routes that cross Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania and connect to the European long-distance hiking trail network. These trails have become internationally popular, attracting travellers from all over the world. The thematic classification of trail sections and practical accessibility solutions help everyone find a hike that matches their interests and abilities and plan it safely.
Circular forest trail routes for families in Valmiera municipality
As previously reported, the Vidzeme Planning Region has developed two circular educational routes along the Forest Trail for families with young children. Both routes form loops that return to their starting points and are marked in nature with the “Brīvdabis” sign. These short routes are also useful for travellers who are unable or do not wish to hike the longer sections of the Forest Trail.
On Section 8 of the Forest Trail, Caunītes–Valmiera, near Sietiņiezis, a 3.8 km trail has been established, starting and ending at the Sietiņiezis car park. Outdoor educational games have been installed at four locations along the trail, allowing visitors to learn about forest animals and the sounds produced by the wood of different tree species. The route is partially accessible with pushchairs, as one section includes stairs.
On Section 10 of the Forest Trail, Strenči–Spicu Bridge, near Kauči, a 3 km trail with a digital educational game has been developed, in which participants answer questions about the surrounding nature and cultural history. The game is free, available in Latvian and English, and can only be played while following the route. A smartphone with the LOQUIZ app and mobile data is required. This route is also suitable for walks with pushchairs.
On 18 September this year, the Vidzeme Planning Region team, together with tourism specialists and nature guides, hiked the circular Forest Trail route near Kauči in Valmiera Municipality. The hike was followed by a seminar during which participants discussed minor improvements to the hiking experience, whether the trails need to be segmented, and how, where and in what ways information about the trails should be communicated to reach a wider audience.
This publication was prepared using information provided by the Latvian Country Tourism Association “Lauku ceļotājs”. Photos: “Lauku ceļotājs” and the Vidzeme Planning Region.
