Dubysa Valley

The Dubysa runs about a hundred and thirty kilometres from the Šiauliai uplands south to the Nemunas, and it has cut a valley far larger than the present river needs, up to fifty metres deep and steep-sided, wooded and winding, formed by glacial meltwater. That makes it one of the more striking landscapes in a country of gentle relief. Canoeing the Dubysa is a Lithuanian institution, best in spring when the water is high; by late summer it can be too shallow in places. The railway viaduct at Lyduvėnai, the tallest and longest in the country, crosses the valley on lattice piers. Hillforts, old mills and villages line the route, and a regional park protects the middle section.

What you actually see

• The deep valley - steep wooded sides far larger than the river.
• Lyduvėnai viaduct - the tall lattice railway bridge across the valley.
• Canoe water - the river paddled in spring high water.
• Hillforts and mills - the older features along the banks.

When to go

April to June for canoeing while the water is high; by August the river is often too low. Walking and cycling work from May to October, and autumn colour in the valley is excellent.

Honest expectations

Water levels govern canoeing and late-summer trips can involve dragging boats. Access points are spread out and a car or an outfitter's transfer is needed. Facilities along the river are limited. Signage is in Lithuanian.

Nearby

Šiluva lies north; Seredžius and the Nemunas are south.