The pursuit of a white Christmas can be a pricey endeavor if you head for the Alps or Scandinavia; however, Latvia, part of the beautiful Baltic States, offers budget-friendly alternatives for winter adventure sports. Some of these activities are exclusively for the brave and adventurous. Here’s iBestTravel’s guide to winter adventure sports in Latvia.
Ice Swimming in the Sea
If you encounter a crisp frosty morning after a night of snowfall, it’s time to hit the beach! Latvia boasts 500km of stunning coastline, adorned with pine-covered dunes. For the superhumans—who seem to be plentiful in Latvia—winter is the perfect season for a swim in the frigid sea. Ice swimming, or dipping, is woven into the local culture. Those who partake in this invigorating experience are known as ronis (seals) in Latvian or morzhi (walruses) in Russian. Look for them on the beaches of Vecāķi in Rīga’s northern suburbs and at Jūrmala, located south of Rīga.
When these courageous individuals encourage you to join in, they will assuredly inform you that the sea temperature, hovering around 2–4°C, is warmer than the air temperature, which is typically around freezing. Consequently, the transition from water to air post-dip becomes surprisingly pleasant. Overcoming the initial hurdle of undressing in the chilling cold and entering the water will reward you with an adrenaline surge and a feeling of invincibility against winter viruses.
Remember to bring your towel. The ronis utilize these not only for drying off but also for a vigorous self-massage, a key component of the ice dipping ritual. Additionally, it’s wise to pre-arrange a thermos filled with hot tea (try adding fresh mint, lemon, and sugar for an authentic touch) to warm you up after you don your winter clothes again.
Run from a Steam Bath to an Ice Hole
The ice dipping culture is deeply intertwined with steam bathing traditions—pirtis in Latvian, or banya in Russian. Several steam baths are located by the sea, and some companies provide mobile saunas to favorite beach spots. However, a classic pirts experience typically involves a nearby lake. After thoroughly warming yourself in a steam room heated to 60–100°C, you can briskly run to the lake and take a dip into an ice hole. Post-pirts, you’ll relish the refreshing chill of the icy water, or at the very least enjoy a brisk walk in the cold for a cooling experience.
Cross-Country Skiing
When the snow cover is thick enough, the beach transforms into a natural track perfect for cross-country skiing. The sea breeze and moisture cause the snow to harden, allowing you to glide freely for kilometers while enjoying the view of the waves and inhaling the fresh scent of the surrounding pine forest. Rent a car and skis in Rīga (consider trying Uzvaras Parks Rentals) and head to Vakarbuli Island at the mouth of the Daugava River or the surrounding Jūrmala area, both being approximately a 30-minute drive from the city center.
Traditional cross-country skiing through the picturesque forested landscapes is also a favored activity. The premier skiing trails are found in the charming resort town of Sigulda, around 60km north of Rīga. While downhill skiing may not be its primary attraction due to the country’s relatively flat terrain, well-maintained short slopes are available both in Sigulda and on the country’s highest peak, Gaiziņkalns, which rises 311m above sea level. For those seeking speed, the bobsleigh experience in Sigulda offers a thrilling alternative.
Bobsleigh Experience
The bobsleigh and luge track in Sigulda, built in 1986 for training Olympic champions, provides an exciting opportunity for visitors. While the real bobsleigh experience may be a bit daunting for beginners, individuals can enjoy a slower and softer version called Vučko, reaching speeds of 75–80 km/h.
Take on the Local Drink
After completing any of these exhilarating outdoor activities, a leisurely stroll through the festive Christmas market in Rīga awaits. Be sure to sample the country’s signature drink, Rīga Balsam, a rich black herbal liqueur served warm with blackcurrant juice. This delightful concoction, often referred to as black magic, pairs wonderfully with the enchanting white magic of a Baltic winter.
