Bauska Castle

Bauska Castle stands on a long narrow spit of land where the Memele and Musa rivers join to form the Lielupe. It is two castles in one: the ruined medieval stronghold of the Livonian Order at the point, and the restored later residence of the Dukes of Courland behind it.

What you actually see

• The river spit setting - the castle on its narrow tongue of land between two rivers.
• The Order ruins - the medieval towers and walls at the tip.
• The ducal residence - restored Renaissance rooms of the Courland dukes.
• The tower view - a climb for a view over the river junction and forests.

When to go

Snow-free months; the setting is loveliest in summer green or autumn colour. Combine it easily with Rundale Palace nearby.

Honest expectations

It is smaller and less grand than Rundale, and works best as a pairing with the palace rather than a destination on its own. The two halves, ruin and restored residence, feel quite different. The riverside grounds are pleasant for a short walk.

Nearby

Rundale Palace is a short drive west; the Lithuanian border and the road to Vilnius run just south.