In a press release, VMU invites you to get acquainted with several recently renovated VMU recreational facilities in Samogitia.
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Lopaičiai Educational Trail – a place where forests speak Samogitian
In the heart of Samogitia, Telšiai district, surrounded by the unique Ruškis landscape reserve, visitors are greeted by one of the most impressive VMU recreational facilities – the Lopaičiai Educational Trail.
The old educational trail was established more than two decades ago on the initiative of Rietavas foresters and the Tverai eldership community, and in 2023, VMU began a nearly year-long reconstruction of this trail.
One of the most important highlights of the renovation is the 360 m long wooden trail on piles. This durable structure not only blends with the natural environment but is also adapted for people with disabilities.
The educational complex was supplemented with outdoor stone stairs leading uphill, terraces, gravel and crushed stone paths, an educational space, and an event venue – an amphitheater. In the area, you can also see altar and fertility stones, intertwined with ancient legends and stories about the rituals that once took place here. In addition, benches for rest, information stands were installed, and the area around the spring located in the territory was tidied up.
The spring gives the place even more mystery, as it attracts visitors not only for its natural value but also for the local legend about its healing powers.
One of the most important highlights of the renovation is the 360 m long wooden trail on piles.
No less authenticity is added to this place by the hillfort, on which, it is believed, stood the castle of the Samogitian Duke Vykintas. It is assumed that an ancient Samogitian pagan sanctuary, where rituals were performed, operated in this territory about 7 thousand years ago.
In the renovated trail, visitors will also find a virtual forester’s story. QR codes are installed on information stands, which, when scanned with a smartphone, make the forests speak žemaitiškā. In this way, visitors can not only see unique natural and historical objects but also hear authentic stories about this area.
Lopaičiai today is not only one of the most visited places in Samogitia but also an excellent example of how nature conservation, cultural heritage, and modern recreational infrastructure can be harmoniously combined.
Santekliai Educational Object – nature’s tranquility at the confluence of rivers
The Santekliai educational object is located in a picturesque spot – near the confluence of the Virvytė and Venta rivers. This recreational area attracts visitors not only with its unique landscape but also with infrastructure adapted for outdoor recreation.
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Around the confluence of the rivers, resting places, benches, information stands, and paths have been installed, allowing visitors to comfortably explore the surroundings and enjoy the tranquility of nature. This is a place where you can stop for a short rest, admire the views of the flowing rivers, or get to know the uniqueness of Samogitian nature.
Luokava Hillfort – harmony of forest and history
In the territory of Akmenė district municipality, right in the middle of the forest, stands the Luokava Hillfort – a place where the tranquility of nature merges with historical heritage. The hillfort greets visitors with winding paths leading upwards, from where a view of the surrounding pine forest opens up.
This is a great place for those who want to stop for a short break surrounded by the forest. Benches and a gazebo are installed near the hillfort, inviting you to relax and enjoy the natural environment.
Beržynėlis – a cozy campsite by the lake
In the Samogitian National Park, next to one of the most beautiful bodies of water in the country – Lake Plateliai – the Beržynėlis campsite has been established. This is a place suitable for both a short stop and a longer stay in nature.
The campsite has a parking lot and recreational infrastructure for relaxation: fire pits, toilets, benches with tables. The embrace of the forest and the lake gives this place peace and allows you to escape the daily hustle and bustle of the city.
Plokštinė campsite full of tranquility
Another campsite, Plokštinė, is located on the shore of Lake Plateliai. It is set near St. John’s spring and the Plokščiai forest stream, making this place especially popular for those seeking refreshment on hot summer days.
Visitors are greeted here by a wide sandy beach and a view of Pilies Island in the distance – one of the most impressive areas of Lake Plateliai. The campsite is adapted for outdoor recreation, making it a great place for both a short stop and a longer stay by the lake.
These and other recreation areas, campsites, educational trails, and other forest recreational facilities located in all 25 VMU regional divisions can be found on the updated map prepared for the public, available on the VMU website.
