Hike "Nature's Candies"

Every summer and autumn, people gather in the forests around Smiltene from all over the area. They know the best berry and mushroom forests are right here. They seek blueberries, raspberries, rowan berries, porcini mushrooms, russulas, juniper berries, and all sorts of other treats that look like colorful candies in their baskets, consumed fresh or stored in freezers and cellars for the winter.

 Typically, berry pickers and mushroom hunters keep their best foraging spots a secret, guarding them jealously. This time, we offer a unique opportunity for everyone to explore the richest forests, embark on a hike, and experience a bit of the excitement that accompanies every mushroom picker and berry gatherer venturing into the woods.

 We invite you to bring baskets to collect some nature's candy along the way—both the regular finds and those that rarely make it to the basket. At the end of the event, we will collectively seek answers and discover what's in the baskets and what can be done with it.

 About the event 

 Date: August 31.
 Start: 10:00 AM at Lake Niedrājs (paved parking lot, coordinates: 57.431263, 25.974958)
 Route length: ~8km, leading through hilly terrain on small forest paths.
 Dress code: berry and mushroom picking.
 A picnic by the campfire is planned at the end.

 Participants need to register in advance.

The event is organized by the Smiltene Municipality's Business and Tourism Department. It takes place as part of the active tourism event cycle "105km in Smiltene".

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