On Saturday, 7 February 2026, on a beautiful winter day, the new route of the hiking series “Latvijas izaicinājums” – “Vecumnieku silavas” – was officially opened. It brought together around 350 active participants who, on a day when frost and winter cold covered Latvia, chose to head outdoors and fill their day with movement.
On Saturday, 7 February 2026, on a beautiful winter day, the new route of the hiking series “Latvijas izaicinājums” – “Vecumnieku silavas” – was officially opened. It brought together around 350 active participants who, on a day when frost and winter cold covered Latvia, chose to head outdoors and fill their day with movement.
The forests around Vecumnieki revealed themselves in their full winter splendour that day — steep dunes, wide pine forest landscapes, and snow-covered roads that challenged even the most experienced hikers. Every kilometre walked built endurance and increased the sense of achievement.
Along each distance, participants could warm up by the campfire, enjoy hot tea, complete various tasks, and recharge with snacks to regain energy for the kilometres ahead.
At the finish, all participants were welcomed by a traditional and much-anticipated moment — warm soup cooked over an open fire. It has become an integral part of the Latvijas izaicinājums hiking celebrations, warming not only the body but also the spirit. The event concluded with a prize draw, where participants had the chance to win gifts and surprises provided by cooperation partners.
Vecumnieku silavas proved that Latvia’s winter nature can be not only beautiful, but also inspiring and challenging. Many described this stage as a true wading adventure.
Thank you to everyone who took part, and see you at the next stage on 21 March — in the Kingdom of the Red Cliffs of Amata.
You will find photos from the event in the gallery — share them on social media and send them to friends so everyone can see what it means to experience Latvia.
