As summer beckons and the work year for the term winds down, Mike’s company set off on a well-earned excursion, one adventure before the summer break. As his spouse and their part-time social media content creator, I was fortunate enough to tag along, capturing snapshots and video content to document the day.
A Morning Among Rhododendrons
On the 1st of June, we departed the office at 10:30 AM, boarding a chartered Minibus that carried us towards the lush beauty of Babīte Rhododendron Nursery. After a quick 30-minute journey, we arrived, welcomed by a guided tour that took us through the nursery’s breathtaking collection.
For about 90 minutes, we strolled through vibrant blooms, learning about the care and cultivation of these striking flowers.
Did you know? Barbite Rhododendrons Nursery is the only specialized rhododendron nursery in the Baltic States. Established in 1980, it spans 11.8 hectares of pine forest, creating the perfect environment for these stunning flowers to thrive.
The nursery boasts an impressive collection, including 76 wild species and 269 cultivars, with over 100 varieties developed right here and registered internationally. Every year, during the peak blooming season in May and June, it attracts around 25,000 visitors!
A Castle Steeped in Legends
Back on the Minibus, the next leg of our adventure led us to Jaunpils Castle, a medieval fortress rich with history. The 50-minute drive brought us to this very well-preserved castle, where we were met by a guide in full medieval attire, bringing the past to life with gripping tales of the castle’s history.
The grand finale? A cannon fired with a resounding boom, a dramatic punctuation to our tour before we indulged in a medieval feast, filled with rustic decor and hearty dishes, and the meals could be enjoyed with either wooden spoons or hands.
Did you know? Jaunpils Castle was built in the late 14th century by the Livonian Order. Originally a fortress, it later transformed into a manor house and has survived wars, revolutions, and centuries of change.
The castle also houses a museum, showcasing historical artefacts and even replicas of medieval weapons. Nowadays, it offers guests a chance to experience history firsthand with its luxurious, medieval-style accommodations.
A Toast to Time Well Spent
After the feast, everyone had free time to explore Jaunpils further, with most heading to the Jaunpils dairy while Mike and I decided to check out the beer brewery. As time was short, we didn’t get to do any tour, but we managed to enjoy a refreshing drink at Jaunpils Brewery before making our way back to the castle grounds.
Homeward Bound
By 4:30 PM, it was time to head back to Riga. Though the trip was winding down, the summer sun was still high in the sky, casting a golden glow over the countryside as we boarded the bus.
The return journey took about an hour and twenty minutes, giving us time to reflect on the day’s experiences, from the stunning rhododendron gardens to the medieval castle and feast.
Now, a few days later, as I sort through the pictures and footage, I can’t help but feel grateful for the chance to document such an enriching day. Here’s to many more adventures ahead, whether with the company or through our own explorations. And with our upcoming summer holiday to the Balkans on the horizon, the excitement is only just the beginning!