The 59.3 ha Pilskalnes Siguldiņa Nature Reserve is located in a magnificent valley carved out by glacial meltwater. The banks of the valley are richly covered with broad-leaved trees. Several educational nature trails have been created in the reserve :

• Dendrological and geographical route: length 3.8 km. The trail forms a closed circle. There are 28 dendrological, 10 geological and cultural-historical sites. The time required for the visit is 2-3 hours. Visitors can see magnificent beech trees, oaks that have formed a bridge of branches, and stands of various tree species.
• Sprīdītis trail for children: length 1.6 km. It starts at a small reservoir. There are 32 wooden sculptures of the characters from the fairy tale ‘Sprīdītis’ by A. Brigader.
• Black Hill: under State protection and an archaeological monument. Historically, this steep hill was the site of a wooden castle of the Seljuks, which has existed periodically over a long period of time. Remains of earthenware have been found, both in the form of sherds and plaster, as well as other evidence. Archaeological finds in this area indicate the presence of Baltic tribes. The cultural layer left behind and the proportion of charcoal in the soil of the hill on the banks of the Dubupe River may have given rise to its name – Black Hill.
• The trail “Witnesses of History”: length 0.6 km. It is a continuation of the dendrological route, which runs along an untouched stretch of evergreen forest. The trail tells the story of the legacy of World War I, the German army’s defensive structures – the armoured pillboxes.
• Bog trail: a boardwalk across a small cranberry bog. A fascinating opportunity to get acquainted with the flora of the marsh and the insectivorous plant, the sundew.
• Highland Landscape Trail: a great opportunity for active recreation. The 8 km long trail leads along 6 lakes, springs, rest and campfire areas with a unique flora and fauna.
• Obstacle Bike Trail: 20 km route for active tourism enthusiasts – cyclists aiming at overcoming various obstacles, orienteering and sporting activities in physically demanding terrain.

Text and photos from the archives of the Latgale Region Tourism Association.