Although Zemgale (Semigallia) is known for its flat fields or as Latvia’s “bread barn”, our route has been crafted in a way to show you that it is not at all plain. You will be taken by surprise by the winding roads and undulating terrain around Lake Zebrus, as well as bright poppy fields in summertime. Elku Kalns (Idol Hill) will rise over the forests, but from the long rampart of Krievkalni (Russian Hills) you can soak up impressive views of the distant expanses of Zemgale. Nearby Lielauce Palace, taste the water of Kevele Spring, also known as The King Spring, that not only tastes great, but it is said to have healing properties. At the end of the route, you can climb the picturesque Lake Ciecere observation tower to take in the views once again, before you leave and look back at all the fun experiences you had here.

On this route, there are a lot of different stories to tell. For example, you will go to Garie Kalni (Long Hills), not far from Jelgava, where during the World War II Nazis shot patients of Gintermuiza Hospital. You will also see the bunker of Latvian National Partisans in Ile, which is a testament to our people’s resistance to the communist regime. You will feel the breath of history when walking around the ruins of Dobele Castle and the ensemble and park of Lielauce Manor or climbing the Incene Castle Mound, where the ancient Semigallian Sidrabene Castle was located.

This ghost, as a testimony of unlimited power and brutality, most obviously reminds of itself in Zvārde. Where almost the whole territory of Zvārde parish, including two churches and cemeteries, were sacrificed to an aviation bombing ground. Not far from Dobele, there was a tank training division and a military base, where you can witness its abandoned glory and drive there on a still usable road. You will feel the reflection of the Soviet military lifestyle, seeing the architecture of uniform houses, as you drive through the town of Gardene, that was especially built for Soviet officers and their families.