Randu Meadows is a nature reserve covering the stretch of the Vidzeme coast from Ainaži to Kuiviži. The 200 ha area is home to one third of Latvia’s plant species, or about 600 species, including 37 rare and endangered species in Latvia and other European countries.
The trail leads to the birdwatching tower through the meadows and the adjacent dune, which is covered by pine mint and flax. Wooden footbridges alternate with a simply trodden path. The length of the trail is ~1.4 km. The Rand meadows are the only coastal meadows in Latvia, which are also considered a living herbarium, where one third of Latvia’s flowering plants can be found on an area of 200 ha. Almost all Latvian coastal biotopes can be found here, including the largest complex of coastal meadows and lagoons.
Among the rare species listed in the Red Data Books of Latvia as well as of various European countries, one can find red fescue, creeping bent, reed foxtail, sea-goat’s-tail, sea-goat’s-tail, sea-goat’s-tail, sea-goat’s-tail and sea-goat’s-tail.
An internationally recognised bird migration and breeding site. If you are lucky, you will see the Great Buzzard, Reed Bunting, Shinz’s Snipe, Osprey, Common Tern or River Tern.
IMPORTANT
- Best time to visit: May – September
- The trail is marked with signs – a post with a direction sign and pictograms.
- During storms and wind floods, some parts of the trail may be wet or flooded and should only be walked in rubber boots.