2. Lithuanian National Parks

National parks with historical objects, which are visible in them, reveal not only the history of ancient nation, but also attitude toward it.

Itinerary of excursion:

1st day.
We depart from Riga in an early morning. Road goes through the part of Latvia, which is connected with history of Zemgale. Kekava, river Musa and Bauska – Latvian historical places.
The border between Latvia and Lithuania. Road in the direction of Birzai. Small excursion in Birzai, which is lively Lithuanian city. Birzai is situated at the confluence of the Apascia River and on the banks of the artificial Sirvena Lake. The first recorded history refers to 15th century. We can find the beginning of the history of Birzai town in 1589, when building of the Grand Duke Radvila’s Castle was finished. We will view preserved defence buildings in the Old City. They have stayed in the stage of construction since 18th century. Astrava ensemble – visitation of the castle and park. Passage to Aniksai. Aniksai is the town, which history started in the15th century. Aniksai - the centre of the regional park. Aniksai pine forest – one of the most interesting natural specimens in Lithuania; since 1960 it is the National Natural Preserve. A walk through the city and pine forest. Visitation of Puntukas secular stone.
Passage to Utena. Utena is one of the oldest regions of Lithuania. Utena is the place, where is situated town called Narkunai and Utenele – legendary and famous castle. Acquaintance excursion in the city.
Passage to Aukstaitija National Park. We will visit natural specimens of the park. This is the oldest national park in Lithuania.
Approximately at 18.00 – we depart to Vilnius. Check-in at the hotel and getting to sleep.
At evening of course you may go for a walk in the small streets of Old City, visit a wonderful monastery, which surprises us with its catholic mightiness, or go to some coffeehouse.

2nd day.
Breakfast. Drive from Vilnius to Kernava. We will acquaint ourselves with Kernava – the first capital of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania.
Passage to Trakai historical national park. You will hear about Trakai, which is the second capital of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania. Its history. Trakai Castle – the only fortification in East Europe, which is built on lake (Lake Galve) and which has never been conquered.
After the excursion – free time.
Departure at 18.00 pm and at 22.00 pm we are going to be back in Riga.