Stories of nature, flavors, flowers and people – Ogre region

The philosophy of “Zied Zeme” always begins with people – their life stories and how this lore takes root in the land where they live.

This route unfolds like a living landscape of Latvian rural narratives: the scent of honey, the taste of flowers, the calm of nature combined with modern leisure spaces, craftsmanship and national pride created by local craftspeople.

The day will begin at “Lūšu Drava”, where the story of a beekeeping farm reveals a small ecosystem that teaches symmetry and cooperation.

Participants will enjoy a honey-tasting session accompanied by home-baked bread and warm tea, along with the opportunity to make beeswax candles and fill their own jar of honey. This visit offers a tangible experience of how nature and people form a harmonious whole – a place where respect for nature and human work becomes a lived experience.

Next, we will visit “Gardi Ziedi”, entering a world of edible flowers and aromas. This farm represents one of Latvia’s rare stories where food begins not in the kitchen, but in a blooming field. Here, culinary herbs and flowers are grown for some of Riga’s finest restaurants, supplying chefs who are shaping Latvia’s contemporary gastronomy.

The hosts also offer a tasting experience that brings flavours from the garden directly onto the plate, revealing the richness and surprising diversity of Latvian nature.

“AB Park” is a clear example of how LEADER support can serve as a springboard for ambitious ideas and a reminder that big achievements often begin with small concepts. A walk through the park allows participants to enjoy nature and see how it is thoughtfully integrated into recreational infrastructure.

The visit to Suntaži Post Office and the gluten-free cake production facility highlights a story of health, quality and social responsibility.

In Suntaži, LEADER-supported initiatives demonstrate how fundamental gluten-free products are for everyday well-being, offering freedom from pain, allergies and dietary restrictions, and restoring quality of life for many people. A tasting will be provided to show that gluten-free and lactose-free products can be both healthy and delicious, along with a small surprise from Suntaži Post Office.

The day will conclude at Turkalne Manor, which holds the secrets of Latvia’s national drink – beer. A visit to the brewery and a beer tasting provide a fitting end to the programme, combining knowledge transfer, the transformative power of LEADER support – from ruins to a restored manor – and a convivial atmosphere with dinner and shared conversations.