STUDYTOUR #05

Innovative products, creative manor and smart village – Jelgava region

Ceramics and candle workshop “Kur Guni” | tasting of pine cone edible products at “Mītavas čiekurs” | lunch at the locals’ favorite “Svētes klubs” | Honey tasting and a experience sharing about sustainable farming at “Jaunparkas” | success story of the Zaļenieki smart village | excellent flavors and creative atmosphere at dinner at Abgunste manor

Basic information

departure: 8:30 / arrival  19:30
meeting point: Jūrmala Hotel SPA
available places: 35

What to expect ...

We will start the tour with a visit to the ceramic’s shop/workshop “Kur Guni”, where unique ceramic dishes are made.

Then we will go to Mītavas čiekurs, where we will discover how ordinary pine cones are turned into unique Latvian products — pine cone syrup, candied pine cones, and other natural delicacies. The owner will give an engaging talk about his journey from idea to recognisable brand and will let us sample his products.

The route will then take us to the Svēte Club, a renovated old building that now hosts various events and has a cosy café. Here we will enjoy lunch and hear a story about how enthusiastic owners can create a new, vibrant place in a rural setting.

After lunch, we will visit the Jaunparkas honey farm, where the owners will introduce us to the life of bees, honey production, and everyday life on a farm. We will have the opportunity to taste different types of honey and learn how beekeeping intertwines with the surrounding environment.

The trip will continue with the story of the smart village of Zaļenieki, where residents are actively involved in social and business projects. We will learn about several examples and projects of the LEADER initiative.

We will end the day with a visit to Abgunste Manor, which is recognised as one of the most creative manors in Latvia.

At the manor, you’ll be able to enjoy its creative atmosphere, stories about restoration and celebrations, as well as dinner made from seasonal local products, which’ll be served in a particularly aesthetic and creative way.