Latgale Trip V3 Jun 2026

What is your (slow and relaxing or packed with activities)? How many people are traveling in your group?

Feature Latvia's largest lakes for those interested in birdwatching, sailing, or the sheer scale of the landscape. The Crowded Planet Cultural & Spiritual Immersion

Drive north toward Aglona, the spiritual heart of Latvia. The Basilica of Aglona is a breathtaking white Baroque church built in the late 18th century. It is a major destination for international Catholic pilgrimages, especially during the Feast of the Assumption in August. Take time to view the sacred icon, Our Lady of Aglona , which is believed to have healing powers. Afternoon: Bread Baking and Witchcraft Folklore latgale trip v3

While Latvian is official, you will hear the Latgalian dialect and Russian. A few words in Latgalian, like "Vasals!" (Hello/Cheers), will earn you instant smiles.

We bought a small, unglazed cup. It felt heavy and grounding, a piece of the land we could take home. What is your (slow and relaxing or packed with activities)

Inside the fortress, the Mark Rothko Art Centre is a mandatory stop. It is the only place in Eastern Europe where you can view original works by the world-famous abstract expressionist. The contrast between the heavy, 19th-century brick walls and the ethereal, emotive canvases of Rothko creates a hauntingly beautiful atmosphere.

Mārtiņš Bērziņš is a Riga-based travel writer who has completed 14 trips to Latgale. He co-created the “V3” concept with local guides in Rēzekne and Lipuški. The Crowded Planet Cultural & Spiritual Immersion Drive

You will hear Latgalian ( latgalīšu volūda ) spoken here, which is more than just a dialect—it is considered a distinct language. While everyone speaks Latvian, hearing the local tongue adds to the authentic atmosphere. Practical Tips for Your Trip

Head northeast into Rāzna National Park, created to protect the unique ecosystems surrounding Lake Rāzna, the second-largest lake in Latvia.

Just down the road, visit the Aglona Bread Museum. The charismatic host greets visitors in the local Latgalian dialect and introduces the history of rye bread baking. You will get to sample warm, freshly baked bread, fresh butter, and local herbal teas.