Discover Mālpils: Culture, Nature and Unique Experiences

Mālpils combines an impressive cultural history with experiences in nature, traditional crafts and activities on the water. Mālpils Manor is an outstanding 19th-century Neoclassical architectural monument and gives the town a distinctive cultural character. It is complemented by a medieval castle, a diverse cultural centre, the nature trail along the Mergupe and the “Wake Mālpils” wake park. Anyone planning a trip with different ideas for each day will find opportunities here for historical discoveries, exercise and local specialities.

History Around the Manor House and Castle

Mālpils medieval castle is an archaeological monument of national significance and bears the state protection number 2124. It was built before 1413 on the right bank of the Mergupe to secure transport routes; it was first mentioned in written sources in 1413. This dating makes the castle an important point of reference if you would like to explore the older history of the town. The manor house complements this historical focus with its 19th-century Neoclassical architecture.

Nature Trail Along the Mergupe

For an active part of your trip, the Mālpils nature trail is a good choice. The route is approximately 6.5 km long and is designed as an out-and-back trail. It runs along the left bank of the Mergupe. Take the full length of the route into account when planning your day and choose this excursion if you prefer a hike with a clearly defined route. The distinction between an experience in nature and a day focused on cultural or water-based activities can also play a role when choosing your holiday apartment: what matters is the type of days away you are mainly planning.

Culture, Concerts and Traditional Crafts

Mālpils Cultural Centre has an auditorium with 550 seats. The round dance hall is often used as a concert hall because of its good acoustics. This means that, alongside its historic buildings, the town also has a venue for cultural events and musical experiences. At the “Baložu māja” craft workshop, visitors can try their hand at making wooden vessels. Another speciality of the workshop is the production of wooden gingerbread moulds. These tangible insights into crafts and design give a stay a different character from a purely hiking or water-based trip.

Wake Park and Peaceful Excursions on the Water

The “Wake Mālpils” wake park offers a Wakestation cable system and a water obstacle park. It is suitable both for experienced riders and for people trying it for the first time. SUP boards can also be rented there for peaceful excursions along a quiet stretch of river. When planning your day, you can choose between an energetic wake park experience and a relaxing SUP excursion. Consider which focus suits your group and choose your accommodation according to your preferred holiday rhythm.

Local Impressions and Special Collections

The market on Mālpils village square brings together local farmers, home producers and craftspeople. It is a distinct part of the townscape for anyone interested in regional products and local work. “Augusta zemenes” offers strawberries grown in greenhouses. The Skulme family home provides another cultural insight: from its veranda and courtyard, there is a view towards the Mergupe. The exhibition comprises three rooms open to visitors – Marta and Otto Skulme’s room, Valentīns Skulme’s room and a veranda.

Choose a Holiday Apartment to Match Your Travel Plans

When looking for accommodation in Mālpils, you can choose your holiday apartment according to your preferred holiday focus and daily rhythm. Decide whether you want to centre your trip on culture-filled days or active excursions.

If you would like to compare other places, you can then take a look at Upmalas.

For the higher-level travel overview: Mālpils Municipality.