The Baltics by Electric Car

Upon arriving in Vilnius pick up your electric car rental at the airport. From Vilnius Airport to the hotel is just a short 15-minute drive.
Check-in at Moon Garden Art Hotel or similar. Breakfast included.

This small boutique hotel is ideally placed to explore and is one of the old treasured buildings recently converted with 18 unique rooms and considered one of the most beautiful in the Old Town. The breakfast in the restaurant offers several kinds of local meats and cheeses and unique regional ingredients. Your dishes are prepared by their young and talented chef.

Take a stroll in Vilnius Old Town one of the largest surviving medieval old towns in Northern Europe, made up of 74 quarters and 70 streets. It has developed over the course of many centuries and has been shaped by the city’s history and a constantly changing cultural influence. It is a place where some of Europe’s greatest architectural styles – gothic, renaissance, baroque and neoclassical stand side by side and complement each other. These same streets are now filled with art galleries, contemporary restaurants, green parks, live music, and boutiques with handcrafted goods made by the best local artists keeping history alive.

The Catholic influence on Vilnius is very evident from the numerous baroque churches and see the cathedral and the Chapel of the Dawn, which is home to the Black Madonna. There are over 40 churches all with interesting stories to tell. By the turn of the last century, Vilnius also had an eighty-thousand-strong Jewish community. However, by the end of World War II, it was completely decimated. You can visit the ancient university founded by the Jesuits – a centre of the Counter-Reformation and a source of Lithuanian culture.

The Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights is dedicated to showing artefacts and records from the 50 years of Soviet occupation of Lithuania. The museum is in the former KGB headquarters across from Lukiškės Square and is informally referred to as the KGB Museum

Overnight at Moon Garden Art Hotel or similar.

Drive from Vilnius to Kernavė – 39km
Kernavė Archaeological Site, situated in the valley of the River Neris in eastern Lithuania, provides evidence of human settlements spanning some 10 millennia. Covering an area of 194.4 ha, the monument contains archaeological evidence of ancient land use from the late Palaeolithic Period to the Middle Ages. Kernavė, one of the 6 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the Baltic region is a fortification system of five hillforts with a unique archaeological and historical value. Kernavė was the capital of Lithuania before Vilnius, and its historical importance is still recognized today as there are frequent festivals and events organised in the area every year.

Drive from Kernavė to Dubingiai – 55km
A scenic drive to Asveja Regional Park where you can visit Dubingiai, a town that lies on the shores of Asveja Lake, the longest lake in Lithuania. You will see Dubingiai Castle which is now just ruins, but used to be one of the most important and luxurious residences in the whole Grand Duchy of Lithuania and belonged to the Radvilos the most influential noble family in Lithuania. The lake is also home to many unique and rare species of birds and the park itself is famous for its unique swamps and ancient mounds.

Drive from Dubingiai to Labanoras – 50km
Labanoras Regional Park is considered to be one of the most beautiful places in Lithuania. Together with the rich flora and fauna, blooming meadows, winding rivers, and lakes, this regional park is truly a paradise of Lithuanian nature. From the town of Labanoras, you can follow a 2.6 km walking trail through the pine-scented forest

Drive from Labanoras to Kulionys – 35km
In the hills of Kulionys village, located in the Molėtai district and surrounded by Lake Želva you will find the Museum of Ethnocosmology the only museum of such in the world. The essence of the Museum is the relationship of man and mankind with the Cosmic World. Here you can marvel at the groundbreaking exhibitions and interactive displays, look through state-of-the-art telescopes and spacecraft cameras, and enjoy spectacular views over the Labanoras forest and lakes from the observation deck.

Drive from Kulionys to Palūšės – 50km

Palūšės village – which holds the official title of the capital of Aukstaitija National Park.

Check in Palūšės kopa or similar.
Near the village, you will find your resting place for the night at Palūšės kopa a quaint development of 6 Scandinavian style cabins with rooms with kitchenettes and balconies or patios to enjoy the woodland views and access to the lake for some water activities at an additional cost or you might fancy a sauna. Note the restaurant and bar are only open at the weekends so for a midweek stay stock up on supplies for your room for dinner and breakfast.

Before setting off for the day take a stroll around the village and visit the church of Palūšė, built in 1750, it is the oldest surviving wooden church in Lithuania and was built without using nails so quite a feat of engineering.

Drive to Ladakalnis – 14km
Here you will enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of 6 surrounding lakes and forests. The hill itself has a mythological significance and it is thought to be a sacred place of the Baltic goddess Lada, the mother of the world.

Drive to Ginučiai – 3km
The Watermill is one of the most memorable symbols of the Aukštaitija National Park. The wooden building of the mill was built in the second half of the 19th century on the Srovė River and was working until 1968.  The mill is a monument protected by the state and one of 7 in the park but only Ginučiai Mill has preserved the authentic historical equipment.

Drive to Stripeikiai – 5km
Visit the ancient beekeeping museum that presents the history of beekeeping in Lithuania where you can explore the wide diversity of ancient hives and beekeeping utensils and taste the Radziwiłł (Radvila) family dessert, make a pure wax candle or even enjoy honey aromatherapy! You will learn how bees were defended from bears, see the mythological sculptures of the god and the goddess of bees, and visit an ancient barn to learn about the local plants that are the source of honey for bees.

Drive to Ateities g. 23, 30118 Ignalina EV Charging point

Drive to Palūšės kopa, or similar – 11 km
A second night in your lovely cabin and maybe spend the afternoon kayaking on the lake.

Drive to Anykščiai Tree Tops Path 93 km
The Anykščiai Treetop walking path is a one-of-a-kind experience in the Baltic States, taking you right to the level of the tree crowns, it’s like stepping into another world. Stretching out for 300 meters and gradually ascending to a height of 21 meters, this isn’t just a walk but an adventure. There are 14 stops along the way that give you a chance to learn more about Lithuanian forests’ rich diversity. Wait till you reach the last stop – it’s a sight to behold! The highest point on this tower offers not just a magnificent view but also an unforgettable experience. Imagine being mesmerised by the picturesque curves of the Šventoji River or looking down at the towering St. Matthew’s Church, which happens to be Lithuania’s tallest.

Drive to Biržai Regional Park and the Kirkilai Observation Tower – 116 km
Nestled amidst the serene setting of the Biržai regional park and neighbouring karst lakelets stands an impressive view tower. Shaped intriguingly like a canoe or perhaps a submerged boat, this monumental structure reaches nearly 32 meters into the sky. Here you will have an introduction to one of Biržai Regional Park’s prized features – the captivating karst ditch terrain within the Kirkilai landscape Sanctuary. Once you’ve braved the lofty climb to the top of this observational marvel, you’re rewarded with breathtaking panoramas of nature’s exquisite beauty: behold surreal views of 30 sinkholes brimming with water, affectionately dubbed ‘The lakes of Kirkilai Sanctuary,’ each possibly boasting diameters of 35 meters or greater!

Next head to the Visitor Centre at Biržai Regional Park
Stepping into the Visitor Centre at Biržai Regional Park is like falling feet-first into a sinkhole – without the mess, of course! Right from the get-go in the reception room, intricate embossed glass installations mimic the gnarled structure of sinkhole slopes. There’s a nifty cross-section too that reveals layers of earth exposed by a landslide – it’s like a glimpse into the belly of the beast! Gaze up and you’ll find yourself under an impressive ceiling mirroring the inside of a sinkhole. There are dynamic displays labelled ‘Development of Sinkholes’ and ‘Ecosystem of Karst Lakes’ that’ll pique your curiosity about this mysterious natural phenomenon.
Then, when your day full of exploration ends, just relax and spend the night in beautiful Birzai at the Butenas Hotel Tyla or similar.

Drive from Biržai to Bauska – 48km
Today we enter Latvia. Bauska is a small town in the south of Latvia, 11 km away from Baroque Rundale Palace. Bauska has quite a lot going for it, from a genuinely interesting castle to picturesque riverbanks and a quaint town centre. Easily the most important thing to do in Bauska is to make your way to the town’s castle. Sitting to the west of the town, Bauska Castle joins the ranks of other terrific castles in Latvia, like those in Sigulda and Cēsis. The castle is quite a treat to visit, in no small part to its surrounding scenery. It’s positioned on a small grassy hill bordered on either side by rivers, giving it a perfect scenic backdrop.

Drive from Bauska to Ķemeri bog – 108km
Ķemeri National Park is a natural wonder inhabited by thousands of migrating birds and was once a popular resort for medical tourism and healthy bathing in sulfur water and sludge. While the times of healthy bathing are long gone, tourists come here to soak in the unique beauty of the region and explore the ruins of a bygone era. Ķemeri bog is a real gem for nature lovers with its pine trees, deep pools, tiny dark lakes and the numerous species of plants that thrive in the bog, especially mosses and orchids plus edible wild berries such as cranberries, crowberries, cloudberries and blueberries. For bird lovers, the bog is home to several Latvian bird species, such as the Common Crane, Wood Sandpiper and European Golden Plover. The latter two species their only breeding habitat is the raised bog.

The Ķemeri bog trail offers two walks – a shorter one of 1.4km and a longer one of 3.4 km.

Drive from Ķemeri National Park to Jurmala – 19km
Jūrmala is one of the oldest resorts on the whole Baltic coast with a long tradition as a spa resort. It used to be a very elegant and fancy spot during the 1930s and very popular after WWII. Today it is still a very popular holiday destination with a 30 km long white sand beach, pure air and mild climate. Besides beautiful beaches Jūrmala is also home to one of the largest heritage sites of historical wooden architecture in Latvia – 103 architectural monuments of national significance, we recommend going along Jūras Iela, where one of the most beautiful houses is located. There is an ecological fee upon entrance to Jūrmala. The fee is 3 EUR  per car for a day and should be paid when you arrive in Jūrmala town. Ticket machines are located at the entrance of the town. You can also purchase a Jūrmala pass at the Tourist information office during their working hours.
Overnight in Jūrmala at the Dzintars Hotel or similar

Drive from Jūrmala to Riga – 26km
Take a stroll through Riga’s Art Nouveau district (Alberta Iela and surrounding streets). Admire the beautifully ornate facades of the buildings in this area, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Riga Farmers Market Tour
Your local guide will lead you through the iconic Riga Central Market which is the biggest in Europe and it’s unique for its construction made from the old Zeppelin hangars. During the Soviet occupation, the market was renamed Central Kolkhoz Market (Latvian: Centrālais Kolhozu tirgus) in 1949. The Soviet press praised the market as one of the best markets in the Soviet Union with about sixty thousand customers shopping at the market daily and up to one hundred thousand during weekends. Walking through a maze of small streets between the many little market stalls, tasting local specialities, and watching how the people interact with each other, you will get a better understanding of how the market thrives. You will meet local food producers and sellers and can directly ask them questions and bring home the real flavour of Latvia visiting four or five different places and getting to taste Latvian handcrafted cheese, rustic meat products, bread and drink. Keep in mind all products are created according to authentic recipes and tastes cherished by local farmers.

Relax in Bastejkalna Park, a peaceful green space in the heart of the city. Stroll along the canal and admire the picturesque bridges and sculptures or for something a little different try one of the unique museums such as the Riga Motor Museum or the World of Hats a converted home that showcases more than 300 varieties of hats and headdresses from around the globe, the result of one man’s extensive travels. You can also have a try at hat-making (open Wednesday to Sunday from 10 am to 6 pm). Overnight in Riga at the Boutique Hotel Kristofs or similar

Drive from Riga to Sigulda – 53km
Gauja National Park
The Gauja National Park often called Switzerland of Latvia by locals is the largest and oldest of the national parks in Latvia, characterized by great biological diversity, a variety of landforms, natural springs, sandstone outcrops, picturesque views and unique natural, cultural and historical monuments.
The Gauja National Park exploration starts in Sigulda, a small medieval town in the valley of the Gauja River. You will explore its cultural sights and natural surroundings and get some breathtaking views of the Gauja Valley. During the trip, you can also visit Gutman’s cave – the largest in the Baltics, a sandstone cave which is also a geological protected monument. You will get to know the medieval Latvian legend of the Rose of Turaida and see the ruins of the Turaida castle, a former Livonian-order settlement that is the most pictured monument in the area.
Driving from Sigulda to Cesis – 37km
Cesis is a wonderful medieval town with a defensive stone wall, Town Hall and other characteristic charms of a medieval city that can be dated back to at least the 14th century. Cēsis is a small town, so it’s best explored at a relaxed pace. It’s a great destination for history buffs, nature lovers, and anyone looking for a peaceful getaway in Latvia take your time to enjoy the quaint cafes, and artisan shops.
Overnight in Cēsis, Hotel Province or similar

Drive from Cēsis to Valmiera – 34km
Valmiermuiza Craft Brewery
Valmiermuiza is a small manor brewery near Valmiera. The beer is produced from the highest quality ingredients, following the principles of slow brewing. While visiting the factory, you will have a chance to find out how the rich history of the manor has influenced the production of the beer and how they brew fine beer from a combination of Valmiermuiža well water, delicious malt, aristocratic hops and natural yeast. An integral part of any visit is discovering and sampling the wide range of brews.

Drive from Valmiera to Valga – 53km
The twin-town Valga Valka is located at the southern border of Estonia and the northern border of Latvia boasting two languages and cultures. Where else could you stand, one foot in one country, holding “jäätis” (ice cream in Estonian) in your left hand and the other foot in another country, holding “saldejums” (ice cream in Latvian) in your right hand?

You might want to visit the beautiful town library which was originally built as a manor house in 1902. You can also visit the Valga Museum, which tells you about local history, from archaeology to Estonia’s re-independence or walk the hiking trail The Valga/Valka–Ape narrow gauge railway was opened to traffic in 1900 and the last trains ran here in 1970, today, most of the old railway embankment is used as a hiking trail that runs through forests and fields on gravel and dirt roads.

Drive from Valga to Võru – 72km
While Võru may not be as internationally famous as some larger European cities, it holds a special place in Estonia for its unique culture, language, and traditions. Visitors interested in experiencing authentic Estonian and Seto culture will find Võru to be an intriguing destination.

Explore the town’s charming city centre, where you can find historical buildings, shops, and cafes. Take a leisurely stroll through the streets to soak in the local atmosphere. Võru is situated on the shore of Lake Tamula, which provides opportunities for boating, swimming, and enjoying the waterfront promenade. In winter, the lake often freezes, making it a popular spot for ice skating.

Drive 36km to the unique Kirsi Talo Tourism Farm in Võru County

Today you will discover Setomaa, a unique Estonian region.
Setos have kept close ties to their traditional roots throughout history and boast their own unique lifestyle including their own language and clothing customs. Setos are also well known for their ancient polyphonic singing tradition that is kept alive and well by older and younger generations alike.

Drive to Obinitsa – 8km
You will visit an Obinitsa museum that offers an opportunity to learn about the unique history and culture of Setomaa through exploring the family life, traditions and customs of Seto families. The items in the cosy museum come from the surrounding villages. You will also participate in the interactive dress-like-a-Seto program and have a chance to try out national Seto costumes. This is a unique chance to explore this rare European indigenous culture.

Driving from Setooma to Tartu – 90km
Tartu is home to one of Northern Europe’s oldest universities. Take a stroll through the campus of the University of Tartu, enjoy the beauty of the University’s botanical gardens, featuring a wide range of plant species from around the world and take in the main building and the library, they are architectural highlights. You can also visit the University Museum, which showcases the institution’s history. Tartu has a wealth of museums such as the Estonian National Museum, a Toy Museum and the Ahhaa Science Centre which is great for big and little kids alike with its hands-on exhibits, planetarium shows, and educational activities.
Take a relaxing walk along the banks of the Emajõgi River, which runs through Tartu. You can also enjoy boat trips or rent a rowboat or paddleboard for a different perspective of the city.
Tartu is very compact, with most sights, restaurants and nightlife nestled across a couple of parallel streets. Being the second largest town in Estonia and a hot bed for creative and scientific culture, there is always something on from theatre performances to concerts and festivals.
Overnight in Tartu at the Hansa Hotel or similar

Driving from Tartu to Kolkja – 40km Keep an eye out on your drive along what is called The Onion Route for the bright yellow National Geographic windows erected under the Living on the Edge project.
Kolkja is near Lake Peipus which is one of the largest lakes in Europe and is shared between Estonia and Russia. This area is known for its historical ties to the Old Believers, a religious group that split from the Russian Orthodox Church in the 17th century. The Old Believers sought refuge in the remote areas around Lake Peipus, including Kolkja, to preserve their traditional religious practices. As a result, you can find Old Believer communities and cultural influences in this region. Visit the Peipsimaa Visitor Centre where they keep the local traditional handicraft skills alive.

Visit the Kolkja Onion Farm
Kostja, the host of the onion farm gives guided tours during which he introduces the onion cultivation methods of Old Believers, as well as the modern cultivation tips and tricks. In addition to onion cultivation, Kostja can make onion wreaths and carries out weaving workshops for those who are interested, and a taste of the mouth-watering onion pies is a must.

Drive Kolkja to Alatskivi – 10km
Visit the magical Alatskivi castle and emerge in the life and history of an aristocratic family and meet the various servants who worked in the manor a century ago. You can also make your own souvenirs. Allow 90 minutes to do the place justice.

Drive to Avinurme Woodworking Centre – 60km
Avinurme Woodworking Centre is home to local craftsmen. It offers the widest selection of woodwork products in Estonia, including dozens of saunas and household items. You can even put your own skills to the test! The centre organises a variety of workshops, from basket-weaving and felting to bread-making, candle-making, painting and more. Recharge in the cosy coffee shop that offers homemade cakes and pastries, fresh bread and other treats.
Overnight in Avinurme or the surrounding area at the Kadrina Mois or similar.

Drive from Avinurme to Lahemaa National Park – 135km
Lahemaa National Park is one of Estonia’s most prominent and oldest national parks, known for its stunning natural beauty and cultural heritage. It is in the northern part of Estonia, along the Gulf of Finland coast and covers an area of approximately 280 square miles which makes it the largest national park in Estonia.
We suggest a visit to Kasmu, a tiny peninsula on the Finnish bay. Known as the Captains’ Village, from 1884 to 1931 tiny Kasmu was home to a marine school that churned out ship captains. At one stage it was said that every Kasmu family had at least one captain in their midst. In the 1920s a third of all boats in Estonia were registered to this village.
Lahemaa National Park has several historic fishing villages along the coast, such as Altja and Võsu. These villages provide a glimpse into traditional Estonian coastal culture.
If you want to try another bog then head to Viru Bog – a 30km drive to one of the most accessible bogs in Estonia. The trail is 3.5km and the lap is 6 km long. The study trail introduces the bog’s flora, former sand dunes, eskers, and heath forests. There is a boardwalk, and the trail is clearly marked with signposts.

Drive from Viru bog to Tallinn – 53km
Tallinn is a city with a rich history and a mix of old-world charm and modern amenities, making it a great destination for travellers interested in culture, history, and exploration. Head to an area called Telliskivi Creative City which is known for its vibrant street art and creative atmosphere. You can explore unique shops, galleries, and cafes.
Walk along the medieval city walls and towers that once protected the city. Kadriorg Palace and Park is worth a visit as this baroque palace was built by Peter the Great and is now an art museum and the surrounding park is a lovely place for a stroll.

Tallinn has a variety of museums to explore, including the Estonian History Museum, Kumu Art Museum, and the Seaplane Harbour Museum, which features a historical seaplane hangar.
Toompea Castle houses the Estonian Parliament and offers panoramic views of the city. Nearby, the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral is an iconic Russian Orthodox church known for its stunning architecture.

Take time to Estonian cuisine and international dishes at Tallinn’s many restaurants and cafes. Don’t miss trying local specialities like black bread, herring, and marinated eel.
Overnight in Tallinn at the St Barbara Hotel or similar.

Head to the airport to drop off your car hire before you return home.