In addition to Sigulda and Cesis, Ogre was also suggested as a great spot for those seeking autumn scenery close to Riga.
On Sunday, the first week of October, I had the pleasure of celebrating my birthday in this charming town, located just a 40-minute train ride from Riga. With a return train ticket costing a mere 3.80€, it was an affordable and convenient getaway, with trains departing twice every hour.
While the main event of the day was my birthday celebration, I also wanted to enjoy the natural beauty that autumn offers. Although the autumn leaves haven’t yet made their grand appearance, I imagined that in another week or two, the landscape would burst into a vibrant palette of golden and fiery hues.
Our first stop was the Ogre Daugava promenade, which provided a lovely pathway along the banks of the Daugava River. The tranquil environment was complemented by the calm flow of the Daugava River, making it a pleasant location for a stroll.
As we wandered down a dirt path, we stumbled upon a few apple trees. Although I wasn’t certain if it was permitted to pick the apples, there were many scattered on the ground, so perhaps we could take them instead of letting them rot.
Pie Zelta Liepas
Feeling famished after our walk, we made our way to Pie Zelta Liepas, a delightful restaurant conveniently located right across the street from the train station. The underground exit from the station led us directly to this gem of a dining spot.
What stood out about this restaurant was its commitment to inclusivity, as it proudly employed disabled individuals. When we arrived, a female staff member, who was a native English speaker, provided us with this information.
During our visit to the restaurant, we were tended by two different staff members: one named Arvids, and another who had lived in Southampton for seven years before returning to Latvia after an accident.
Suffice it to say, the staff were exceptionally friendly and welcoming, creating an inviting atmosphere that enhanced our dining experience. The food was not only delicious but also very cheap.
Bārs Ezītis Miglā
Before we headed back to Riga, we stopped by Bārs Ezītis Miglā, a trendy bar that seemed like the perfect hangout spot for friends and colleagues. The place had a lively vibe, and it was clear that patrons enjoyed indulging in their famous burgers. However, to our dismay, we discovered that they had run out of burgers when we tried ordering them.
Maybe next time!
Travel Date: 06th October 2024