Second life of historical buildings and nature tourism – Ērgļi surroundings

We will begin the visit with a walking tour in Ērgļi, including a stop at the site of the former medieval Ērgļi Castle – a nationally protected archaeological monument located next to the historic manor complex. The site reflects the historical development of the area and its significance as the former centre of Ērgļi.

Next, we will visit the Ērgļi market square, a public space developed with active recreation infrastructure, including a cycling pump track. This stop illustrates how municipal investments support active lifestyles, youth engagement, and improve the overall quality of life in a small rural settlement.

The programme continues with a meeting with the association “Lai viegli satikties!” and an introduction to the development of the place known as “Kravas Perons”. This community-led initiative demonstrates how existing infrastructure can be transformed into a multifunctional space for social, cultural and community activities through local initiative and cooperation.

Lunch will be enjoyed at “Ērgļu stacija” – former railway station restaurant.

Afterwards, we will visit Braki, a culturally significant site that has been restored with the support of LEADER and the municipality. The visit highlights the preservation of traditional Vidzeme rural architecture, including a historic threshing barn which serves as an example of how rural development funding can be used to safeguard cultural heritage.

The programme then continues with a visit to the weaving workshop “Mailīšu Fabrika”, located in a LEADER-supported building. Participants will see a collection of historical looms that are still used in production today and learn how traditional weaving skills are preserved and developed through small-scale entrepreneurship.

Later, we will stop at Briežkalns, one of Ērgļi’s main tourism destinations. The site offers panoramic views of the Vidzeme Central Highlands and demonstrates how natural landscape and relief are used for tourism and active recreation development.

The day will conclude with dinner at the “Ērgļu stacija” (former Ērgļi railway station), a historic building adapted for modern use as a restaurant and community meeting place. This final stop illustrates the functional reuse of heritage infrastructure and its role in contemporary community life.