Kolka Travel Guide

 
by CatherineReichardt
  •   Kolka
    by CatherineReichardt
  •   Things to Do
    by CatherineReichardt
  •   Things to Do
    by CatherineReichardt
  •   Things to Do
    by CatherineReichardt
  •   Things to Do
    by CatherineReichardt

Explore Kolka

Things to Do  

Go beachcombing at Cape Kolka
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CatherineReichardt 2325 reviews
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Cape Kolka is a windswept spot on the north west coast of Latvia. Its claim to fame is that it is the point where the Baltic Sea meets the Gulf of Riga: as a result of the two sets of currents colliding, a lot of sand and other debris that is transported by wave action is dumped at this point, making it an ideal spot for beachcombing. Because of the treacherous currents, this stretch of coastline is notorious for its frequent shipwrecks, the 'bones' of which can still be seen protruding from the sand.

Because this remote area was a military reserve under communist rule, it has remained underdeveloped and virtually unspoiled. In good weather, Cape Kolka is a lovely spot, with white white beaches and lots of driftwood: the sort of place that is ideal for a family day on the beach. However, it is a very exposed spot, and could be very windy, and swimmers need to beware of the - three Swedish tourists drowned here as recently as 2002.

There is a whimsical signpost close to the car park, indicating the direction and distance to all sorts of far flung places.

Updated Oct 3, 2011

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Scale the Slitere lighthouse
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CatherineReichardt 2325 reviews
Slitere lighthouse
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The Slitere lighthouse near Kolka is an impressively orderly place - even the portaloos are housed beneath their own concrete structure (see photo)! In truth there's not a lot to see or do here, but it is fun to take advantage of the elevated vantage point from the top of the lighthouse and look out over the flat, flat landscape.

We were also impressed that although we arrived just before closing time, the lighthouse keeper was still the model of hospitality when most others would have shut up shop.

Updated Oct 3, 2011

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Map of Kolka