A unique border tourism route, “630 Versts of Feeling”, created from Krāslava to Alūksne

Since this summer, nature and culture enthusiasts have been invited to visit places where the breath of history intertwines with Europe’s external border, along the new tourism route “630 Versts of Feeling”, created as part of the cross-border cooperation project “630 Versts Full of Feeling/Versts of Feeling”. In Latvia, the route from Krāslava to Alūksne continues through Russia to Pavlovsk near Saint Petersburg, bringing together in a single journey of feeling places that have not yet been widely celebrated in tourist guides or spoiled by the attention of visitors, yet are incredibly beautiful. Only a few people know of some of them, and they promise the joy of discovery, as well as the hospitality and charm of the local people. 

“More than three years ago, while working on the project idea, we wanted to show that, beyond already popular tourist destinations such as Sigulda, Riga’s Old Town, Jūrmala and Saint Petersburg, wonderful and worthwhile sites can also be found in the border regions of Latvia and Russia. During these two years, the offerings of the nine main sites involved in our project have been supplemented and improved in order to enhance the visitor experience and create lasting memories. With enthusiasm and a desire to create something new, we have highlighted the cultural and historical heritage and natural beauty along 630 versts of feeling. The versts encompass the solidity of the cultural and historical heritage, while creative and warm-hearted people who make every traveller feel warmly welcome lend lightness to it all,” says Santa Supe, project manager at the Alūksne Municipality.

The new tourism offering in Latvia includes romantic Krāslava, beautiful Arendole, diverse Preiļi, inspiring Lūznava,  legend-rich Varakļāni, surprising Litene and breathtaking Alūksne. The route includes the most interesting tourism offerings, allowing visitors to get to know the border region and feel like discoverers, as these sites are not overrun by tourists. Here, visitors can enjoy peaceful walks, take part in activities, linger and relax. During the journey, it is possible to meet local people—the finest cooks and the most hospitable accommodation providers—in short, everything needed for a fulfilling holiday.

The existing tourism offering at nine sites along the route has been improved within the project, creating new, complementary services to enhance the experience, using modern technologies where possible. During the journey, visitors can use the mobile application Versts of Feelings, which brings together the essential information about the places included in the route—their location, visiting hours and contact details. It is also supplemented with information about the most interesting natural and sightseeing attractions in the surrounding area, pleasant places to eat and stay overnight. A separate section provides information about the nearest tourist information centres. A special surprise for users will be the virtual storyteller: at each of the nine locations (seven in Latvia and two in Russia), it will come to life and tell an unforgettable legend if you travel there and scan the image displayed on the easel. The app is available for both iPhone and Android devices in Latvian, Russian and English.

In view of the spread of COVID-19, “630 Versts Full of Feeling/Versts of Feeling” encourages everyone to carefully assess the need to visit public places and, when going outdoors, to choose the most appropriate walking route, taking care of both themselves and others during this period.

Information prepared by:

 Alūksne Municipality