In association with: Lithuania Travel
Co-create experiences from the lush forest to the immaculate coastline
Grand castles, majestic cathedrals and charming cobbled streets might spring to mind when you think about Lithuania – but it’s essential to explore its natural side to truly experience this Baltic gem.
Its landscape is full of dense forests and glistening lakes, and the variety of terrains become the setting for unmatched experiences.
Now, thanks to the country’s rebranded tourism strategy, it’s never been easier for visitors to immerse themselves in the natural heart of Lithuania.
Fun in the sun
There’s a selection of Blue Flag beaches to while away the hot summer days, and the Baltic Sea is perfect for a refreshing dip. Adventure seekers can try their hand at wakeboarding, windsurfing, kayaking or kitesurfing, either at sea or on one of the country’s many enticing lakes.
In the spring, birdwatchers should pay a visit to the Curonian Spit, where more than half a million birds – including buzzards, cranes, curlews and herons – migrate to their northern Europe nesting spots.
Autumnal activities
As autumn sets in, it’s time to go mushroom foraging – a popular national pastime. Beneath verdant treetop canopies, foragers hunt for treasure in the form of the 400 edible mushroom species native to Lithuania, which are in prime condition from the end of August to November. The abundant harvest is used in dishes across the country, with boiled, baked and dried mushrooms a staple of many meals.
But whichever time of year your clients choose to visit, there will be plenty of opportunities for them to admire Lithuania’s stunning landscapes. More than 100 hiking trails meander through the country’s forest, marshland and along its rivers, many of which are peppered with observation towers offering unmatched views of the surrounding scenery.
Where to stay
Dzūkija in southern Lithuania is one of the best spots for foraging, particularly for mushrooms and berries, while the local delicacy of banda, a savoury cake made from potatoes, is enjoyed in abundance. For those looking to get off the beaten track, there are rural retreats and glamping sites across the country that bring visitors closer to nature.
To find out more, visit lithuania.travel/en
PICTURES: Lithuania Travel/Andrius Aleksandravičius, Picasa/Helena Jagello