Lake Razna

Razna is sometimes called the Latgale Sea, and among the hills and forests of the south-east it comes close to earning it. It anchors Razna National Park, a landscape of clear lakes, wooded ridges and small Catholic villages that feels distinct from the rest of Latvia.

The landscape

• The lake shore - clear water and swimming beaches, quieter than the country's coastal resorts.
• Makonkalns hill - a wooded height with castle ruins and a view over the lake.
• Latgale villages - small, devoutly Catholic settlements with wooden churches.
• Razna National Park - lakes, ridges and forest around the water.

When to go

High summer for swimming and boating; early autumn for colour and calm. This is a slow-travel region, best over a couple of days.

What to expect

The appeal is gentle - swimming, paddling and quiet rather than headline sights. It is far from Riga and thin on tourist facilities, which keeps it peaceful but means you need a car and a plan. Latgale rewards travellers who like empty, lived-in countryside.

Nearby

Aglona Basilica, the great Catholic pilgrimage church, is a short drive; Rezekne and Lake Lubans lie to the north.

Key facts