Ķemeri National Park — Attraction in Jūrmala

I decided to take a side trip to take the boardwalk trail after seeing some recommendations on the explore Latvia app.

Getting there would have been a challenge if not for the fact that people have left clear instructions on blogs, google maps and tripadvisor, as I am someone who is really bad with directions despite always traveling solo.

The train ride from Riga central station to Kemeri station took about an hour, and the ticket costs about 2.30 euros one way. Do note that the trains are not that frequent. The first train back to Riga starts at 1140am, and the next one is 2pm. So do take note. I missed the 1140am train but found out that there were buses for 0.70euros which take you to Jūrmala (Majori station).

After you alight, -walk across the train tracks, -get onto the road in front of you, -take the small side road on the right of the road into a small forest, and this path ends at the highway -cross the highway, and continue onto the path (there’s signage) -you will pass 2 major cemeteries, one on your left, and another on your right -when you see the cemetery on your right, you are about 300m away from the visitor centre

The trail was beautiful, and I basically had the entire trail to myself. I only came across 2 travelers the entire time I was there. Take the longer route as it allows you to go up the observatory tower, which is beautiful! Do note that there are no shelters of any sorts so you will be exposed to the elements (sun, rain, etc)

I spent about 2 hours on the trail with many stops along the way taking photos. I started heading towards the station before noon, and made it back to take the bus to majori. There were hordes of people coming in as I was leaving.

I then spent the rest of the day exploring Jūrmala. Really enjoyed the trail and would recommend those in Riga to take a day trip...

Truly beautiful place and worth the adventure to get there. If possible I recommend taking a car. That seems to be the most popular way to get to the bog boardwalk. If you get to Ķemeri by train and walk to the bog, it can be a bit of an adventure and you will find yourself doubting whether you've gone the right way. Signage is not the best. First, you go left from the back side of the station down to the road. Cross the railroad tracks. Keep walking down the road, then there will be a little dirt path off to the right in the trees. There is a sign indicating that you should take this path, but it is somewhat hidden behind a tree. Go all the way down the dirt trail to the highway, then cross the highway (there's no pedestrian crossing, so be careful) and you will walk by a cemetary on your left. Stay on this road. Eventually, there will be another cemetary on your right. At this point you're almost there. Keep going along this road and you will end up at an information shack and will be 300m from the boardwalk entrance. It's an adventure, but totally worth it. Very beautiful...

If you are close to Riga and nature lover, this national park is a must visit for you. There are different activities and trails available, suiting to your needs. I took the bog board wark trail and did the big arc. It took me a bit more than an hour as I was walking fast. How nature takes time to create it's own natural filter, is amazing. The park has its own ecosystem, which itself is interesting to read about.

My notes for your trip:

Flies in summer Dont forget your sunscreen 24h parking close to the park for 3€ (07,2024) Stinky toilets for urgent cases There will be a person from whom you will be able to buy a ticket You need to buy a Jurmala day pass for 3€

I hope this helps you to prepare your trip and manage...