The Baltic states have more to offer than short breaks and stag parties. Ben Lerwill discovers hidden charms and outdoor action in of Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia
The three Baltic States of Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia are small republics of the former Soviet Union with relatively new tourist set-ups.
All three have been largely synonymous with city breaks and stag parties, but the industry is waking up to the fact that they are individual, well-rounded destinations, offering far more than chocolate-box churches and cheap beer.
Baltic Holidays proprietor Phil Teubler said: “People had a job even spelling Lithuania when we started out in 1999, let alone pointing to it on a map. These days, all three countries are far more mainstream.
“They offer a lot – there are some excellent spa breaks to be had and, while the Baltic summers might be quite short, the beach resorts are surprisingly good.”
The Baltics now have official tourist representatives in Britain and the ongoing take-up of Baltic flight routes continues to open up new markets.
Indre Trakimaite, director of the Lithuanian National Tourism Office in London, said: “We want to help end the notion it’s a region to be enjoyed for only two or three days. It’s somewhere for families and couples to come and relax.”
As evidence of this, Lithuanian Airlines is launching a service from Stansted to coastal resort Palanga in May.
Trakimaite has the perfect riposte to any lingering ‘just-for-stags’ stereotyping – capital city Vilnius will be European Capital of Culture next year.
The future also looks bright for Latvia and Estonia. Ryanair’s new service from Bristol to Latvian capital Riga is an indication of faith in future visitor numbers.
The hotel market is equally confident. Swissôtel opened a 30-storey property in Estonian capital Tallinn in February, a notable move the hotel chain puts down to the city’s continued status as a popular leisure and business destination. Reval Hotels is opening two new properties in the region this year.
Overall UK visitor numbers to the Baltics are slightly down on the peak of two years ago, but the outlook is certainly upbeat. “We’re optimistic about the future,” said Egert Anslan, the London representative for Enterprise Estonia.
“As a tourist destination it’s been necessary to shift through various stages and we’re now developing a broader product. We want to welcome everyone from birdwatchers to conference delegates,” he said.
“There are a lot of opportunities to get out of the city, and we think the industry will tap into that.”
Lithuania
Where is it? The southernmost of the three republics. Direct flights serve the inland capital Vilnius and second city of Kaunas.
Main attractions: The large baroque Old Town in Vilnius is popular for its art exhibitions and fun-loving spirit. Understated Kaunas is well placed for exploring the country’s folksy traditions.
Kernave and Trakai offer a variety of heritage sites surrounded by rolling green landscapes which culminate in a dune-covered stretch of Baltic coastline. Palanga is the biggest of the resorts, and is perfect for sunset walks and al fresco dining.
Suits: Vilnius is a big draw for party animals and couples, while outdoorsy types will revel in the possibility of cycling breaks, river trips and fresh air. The spa offering is also strong.
Sample product: Baltic Travel Company offers a two-night spa break at Le Méridien Villon on the outskirts of Vilnius. The package costs £395 per person and includes return flights, airport transfers and two spa treatments.
Latvia
Where is it? Wrapped around the Gulf of Riga between its two Baltic neighbours.
Main attractions: Capital city Riga, with its ornate architecture, is the main starting point. Trips further afield will unearth castles, beaches and some gloriously untamed countryside.
Gauja Valley is home to the charming town of Sigulda, where visitors can enjoy winter sports in a postcard setting.
Jurmala, 31 miles from the capital, is the place to be for beach action in the summer months. It is also close to Kemeri National Park. Taking in the country’s natural highlights – river gorges, secluded lakes and all – is an increasingly popular way to see Latvia.
For urbanites, Liepaja and Daugavpils offer an insight into life the Baltic way.
Suits: Riga is still considered a big stag-party draw. That said, those in search of a taste of Latvian culture will not be disappointed, and families are well catered for on the coast.
Sample product: Baltic Holidays offers a 10-night Latvian Tour taking in Riga, Daugavpils, Lake Cirma, the Valmiera district and the Cesis region. From £875 per person twin-share, excluding flights. The price includes transfers and guides.
Estonia
Where is it? The smallest and northernmost of the Baltics.
Main attractions: Tallinn is the hub of affairs. Its medieval Old Town and cobbled charms have long been a tourist favourite; the city is the oldest capital in northern Europe.
Estonia is particularly beautiful after snowfall, but it is a great year-round destination regardless. Parnu offers a cultured summertime retreat, while the offshore island of Saaremaa is where to head for serious peace and quiet.
Like its neighbours, the country provides a largely untapped mix of beautiful countryside and traditional hospitality. And if ice-fishing followed by a sauna and birch-whipping appeals, you’ve come to the right country.
Suits: Active types. There is everything from golf to snow-tubing, and there’s much to explore for those with an interest in history. Older visitors will enjoy the rural areas.
Sample product: Kirker Holidays offers four nights for the price of three throughout 2008 at the five-star Telegraaf hotel. A four-night holiday costs from £614 per person including return scheduled flights to Tallinn, private airport transfers and four nights’ bed and breakfast.
