The “Border Violator” route leads along the Latvian – Lithuanian border and is quite diverse in terms of roads, landscapes, and population density. In addition, there are several interesting (even unique!) places of interest here – various churches on both sides of the border, church ruins, old schools, bridges, and manors. You fuel the adventurer in you by crossing state borders in places you normally would not do it – in the middle of nowhere. It might seem not quite legal, although it is.
This route we have crafted in a way that it crosses southern border of Latvia several times, covering the territories of Tervete, Auce and Saldus in Zemgale, while on the Lithuanian side you will have the opportunity to see the picturesque regions of Aukstaitija and Zemaitija. You can start the trip in either – Tervete or Ezere. The special twist of this route is that on your way, you will be able to cross the border several times driving on small, rarely used roads that are not even known about by the majority of people.
On this route we will offer you 20 places of interest – everyone will find something for their liking as they are quite diverse. The route will be especially interesting for those who like to explore industrial heritage. You will come to the railway station, where there are no rails going by any more, you will see impressive and strange bridges, a lime kiln built in 1908 and a mill with a dam. You will also see and feel the grandeur and scale of the Mazeikiu oil refinery. Of course, the military bases of the former Soviet army are also impressive with their ambition and aura of abandonment. You will visit two of them – the missile base and the airfield.
The route is rich in various cultural monuments, such as old manors, some of which are now ruins and some that are still buildings with a public function, such as school or a cultural centre. There are many churches in Lithuania and in its border areas. Much like manors – some churches still function, but there are also some that have turned into scenic ruins.
We promise that the sights on the Latvian-Lithuanian border will not disappoint you and will reveal something unseen and memorable.
