Discover the Untamed Beauty of Lithuania’s Wilderness

Europe’s hidden natural treasures aren’t confined to the majestic Alps or the lush forests of Scandinavia; they can be found in the heart of Lithuania. With its pristine green landscapes, ancient woodlands, and a rich cultural tapestry, Lithuania’s national parks are finally receiving the recognition they deserve. Lonely Planet has named the country one of the world’s top destinations in their ‘Best in Travel 2025’ list. This accolade comes as no surprise to Olga Gončarova, General Manager at Lithuania Travel, who has long been aware of the country’s cultural richness and natural allure. “Lithuania is an undiscovered gem in Europe,” she states. “Here, we experience no overtourism—just breathtaking natural beauty and a genuine cultural authenticity.” Gončarova views the recent Lonely Planet recognition as a “gift” to Lithuania, benefiting not only tourism professionals but also all Lithuanians who contribute to providing a warm and authentic experience for visitors.

Lithuania’s National Parks: Which One is Right for You?

Lithuania boasts five stunning national parks, each showcasing the country’s rich heritage, diverse biodiversity, and dedication to sustainable tourism. From the historical, lake-rich regions near the capital, Vilnius, to the sweeping coastal dunes and ancient forests, these parks offer a unique experience. “Thirty percent of Lithuania is covered by forests,” notes Gončarova. “Our infrastructure is improving yearly, with over 150 hiking trails available for exploration.” Each park beautifully intertwines nature with history, featuring charming villages nestled within lush landscapes teeming with rare flora and fauna. From the easily accessible charm of Trakai Historical National Park to the expansive dunes of the UNESCO-protected Curonian Spit, these parks provide a serene travel experience for those looking to escape Europe’s bustling hotspots. One cherished tradition here is mushroom picking, particularly during the autumn months.

Trakai Historical National Park: A Blend of Castles and Kayaking

UNESCO-listed Trakai National Park, Lithuania’s smallest national park at 82 square kilometers, offers a captivating blend of history, shimmering lakes, and lush woodlands. “Trakai is conveniently located just 25 kilometers from Vilnius,” shares Gončarova, emphasizing its accessibility. The park is dominated by the stunning Trakai Island Castle, a medieval fortress perched on Lake Galvė, drawing visitors year-round. A short 700-meter walk to the south reveals the evocative remnants of the Peninsula Castle, adding to the park’s historical mystique. With lakes comprising around 20 percent of the park’s area, Lake Galvė serves as a lively hub for canoeing and kayaking during the warmer months.

Beyond the castle, Trakai’s clear lakes and wooded trails create an idyllic setting for kayaking, hiking, and picnicking. Its convenient location and rich historical backdrop have made Trakai a beloved destination for both locals and tourists. The park holds particular significance as one of Lithuania’s oldest protected areas, balancing conservation efforts with a focus on heritage preservation. Visitors can also explore traditional wooden houses built in the Karaite architectural style throughout Trakai village, where they can learn about Lithuania’s unique cultural mosaic and sample local delicacies such as ‘kibinai,’ a savory pastry introduced by the Karaite community centuries ago.

Curonian Spit National Park: A Birdwatcher’s Paradise

Travel west to Curonian Spit National Park to unveil the untamed beauty of the Baltic coast, which Gončarova describes as “truly unique.” This UNESCO World Heritage site stretches along a slender sandbar that separates the Curonian Lagoon from the Baltic Sea. Renowned for its towering dunes, coastal pine forests, and traditional fishing villages, the park is also a sanctuary for rare bird species, including Peregrine Falcons, Red-Legged Falcons, Brown Kites, and Pink Starlings, making it a prime destination for bird watchers and wildlife enthusiasts. Visitors can explore Europe’s largest moving dunes, known as the ‘Dead Dunes,’ where shifting sands have buried entire villages throughout history. The Curonian Spit is also famous for its amber deposits, often referred to as “Baltic gold,” which locals have crafted into exquisite jewelry and artifacts for generations. Adventurous souls can traverse the coastline by bike, with trails winding the length of the spit, offering breathtaking views of both the sea and the lagoon.

Žemaitija National Park: A Tapestry of Legends and Lakes

In northwestern Lithuania, Žemaitija National Park is where nature, mythology, and history converge seamlessly. Anchored by the legendary Lake Plateliai, this park features ethereal landscapes that locals believe are steeped in folklore. By day, the lake is an irresistible draw for swimming, kayaking, and cycling along its scenic banks. Families flock to its sandy, shallow shores, particularly near Hotel Linelis, which offers a playground along with volleyball and basketball courts, making it a favorite for families. However, as night falls, the lake’s tranquil beauty takes on a more eerie ambiance. Local legends warn against evening swims, claiming that moaning sounds from the depths and tales of long-haired woodland spirits may emerge. Regardless of belief, this folklore-rich atmosphere adds an intriguing layer to Žemaitija’s allure.

Beyond its natural beauty, visitors can delve into the park’s Cold War Museum, located in a former Soviet missile base that offers a chilling glimpse into a darker chapter of modern history. Housed within the underground silos that once held SS-4 medium-range missiles, each armed with 2-megaton warheads, the museum recreates the tense atmosphere of the Cold War. Visitors navigate through multi-layered security areas and control rooms, exploring exhibits on missile technology and the cultural significance of this historical period.

Aukštaitija National Park: Embracing Traditional Crafts and Customs

Aukštaitija National Park, Lithuania’s oldest national park, is a harmonious blend of lakes, forests, and traditional villages. Nestled in the country’s northeast, this park features over 100 interconnected lakes, streams, and rivers, making it a premier destination for kayaking, swimming, and water sports. A must-visit site in Aukštaitija is Ladakalnis, a historic hill that provides a stunning panoramic view of six surrounding lakes. “We boast over 30 observation towers within our national parks,” notes Gončarova.

Historically, Ladakalnis served as a site of worship for ancient Baltic tribes, and many visitors today honor that tradition by leaving pebbles as offerings to the goddess Lada, who, according to legend, was once revered here. Beyond its scenic vistas, Aukštaitija is deeply committed to preserving Lithuania’s traditional crafts and customs. “We have unique programs aimed at connecting visitors with local traditions,” explains Gončarova. In the village of Meironys, located on the shores of Lake Lūšiai, the Nature School offers engaging activities centered around environmental education. Another cultural highlight in the park is the Beekeeping Museum, where visitors are introduced to the art of Lithuanian beekeeping through engaging exhibits and hands-on experiences.

Dzūkija National Park: The Heart of Lithuania’s Forests

Dzūkija National Park stands as Lithuania’s largest protected area, sprawling over 697 square kilometers, making it the country’s most extensive forest. This vast national park showcases a diverse landscape of wetlands, inland dunes, swamps, and towering pine forests. Renowned for its rich biodiversity, Dzūkija is a haven for bird enthusiasts. From April to September, the park’s forests resonate with the sounds of various bird species. The Merkys Valley is alive with the calls of corncrakes, while kingfishers dart over the Ūla River, and black storks and goosanders frequent the riverbanks.

A cherished tradition in Dzūkija is mushroom picking, particularly during the autumn season. Visitors have the opportunity to join local foraging tours, where they can learn about the forest’s edible mushrooms and the cultural significance of foraging in Lithuania. With its rich variety of natural landscapes and cultural experiences, Dzūkija National Park captivates the hearts of nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.