The biggest resort in the Baltic Countries, located by the Baltic Sea is Jurmala (Latvian: Jūrmala), 25 km west of Riga and 15 km from Riga International Airport.
The treasure of Jurmala is its 26 km of white quartz sand beach. It is one of the most awesome beaches where the Blue flag flies confirming that the beach is safe and facilitated and the water is of good quality.
The beach has all the necessary infrastructure for daily relaxation. It offers changing cabins, benches, toilets, children’s playgrounds, and summer cafes.
Free WiFi is available on most beaches and for active recreation, there is an opportunity to rent equipment for water sports or play volleyball or football on free-of-charge football and volleyball pitches.
For the safety of the guests, life-saving stations are operating on seven beaches. Since 2013, the beach of Kauguri has been available for the visibly impaired, while Vaivari beach is available for people in wheelchairs.
Health Therapies in Jurmala
The secret of Jurmala’s attractiveness lies in the unique combination of resort factors:
Climate – Climate therapy, Thalassotherapy, Psammotherapy, Air therapy with pine forests and pure, ionized air, Mineral Waters – Balneological therapy, sulfur, bromine salt, and mineral waters and healing mud – treatments with peat and sapropel mud that comes from Kemeri, a historical part of Jurmala. It is a year-round resort, suitable for recreational experiences and treatments, ideal for children and seniors.
Clear sea air has a very good influence on organisms, lungs, and skin. Mud applications are used for treatments and prophylaxis of different diseases. It also has a positive impact on human well-being and decreases emotional stress. Resort rehabilitation centers, hotels, and spa centers offer up to 400 different types of health-procedures and treatments all year round.
Contents
- 1 Did You Know ?
- 2 Jurmala is the only spa city in Latvia and the first Latvian city to be admitted to the European Spas Association
- 3 Climb The Viewing Tower Of Dzintari Forest Park
- 4 Jurmala City Museum: A Glimpse into Coastal History
- 5 Visit The Art Station Dubulti In Jurmala
- 6 Where To Eat in Jurmala
- 7 How To Get To Jurmala
- 8 Jurmala Latvia Map
Train from Riga to Jurmala
It’s easy to get to Jurmala by train from Riga train station. A ticket will not set you back more than EUR 0,80 one way (buy a return and it will be even cheaper). The trip takes more or less half an hour. Buy a ticket on the Sloka line or the Dubulti line.
The most popular beach station is Majori, you’ll find a boulevard with shops and restaurants her. Any stop further will bring you to beaches more quiet, bur also with lesser facilities. Pumpuri is the most quiet of all.
Did You Know ?
Jurmala is the only spa city in Latvia and the first Latvian city to be admitted to the European Spas Association
Climb The Viewing Tower Of Dzintari Forest Park
The viewing tower in Dzintari Forest Park is the highest point of free access in the center of the town. From here the wonderful landscape of Jurmala can be observed. The tower’s viewing platform has a height of 33.5 m above the ground and is hiding among tall pine trees in the most popular walking park of the city.
Here children can play in playgrounds, and ride with electro-cars, but rollerskaters and skaters can enjoy a smooth ride on the pavement equipped specifically for the roller skaters or challenge their strength in the skate-park.
Jurmala City Museum: A Glimpse into Coastal History
Nestled along the sun-kissed shores of the Baltic Sea, the Jurmala City Museum stands as a silent witness to centuries of stories, whispered secrets, and forgotten memories. Let us delve into the enchanting world of this coastal gem.
A Journey Through Time and Tides
The museum’s permanent expositions weave a tapestry of Jūrmala’s past. Here, visitors can explore:
- The Resort Atmosphere: Step into the ambiance of a seaside resort—the salty breeze, the laughter of beachgoers, and the timeless allure of the waves. Learn how Jūrmala has been a haven for relaxation and rejuvenation for generations.
- Swimming Through History: Dive into the history of swimming—from the 18th century to the present day. Discover how bathing costumes evolved, and marvel at the largest swimwear collection in Latvia.
- Local Life and Culture: The heart of the museum lies in its collection of old Jūrmala postcards and artifacts related to everyday life. These treasures evoke nostalgia and connect us to the locals who once strolled these very streets.
Hidden Corners and Whispers of the Sea
Beyond the main building, the museum extends its embrace to three branches:
- Aspazija House in Dubulti: Named after the renowned Latvian poetess, this charming house invites you to explore her life and works. Wander through sunlit rooms and imagine the muses that danced within these walls.
- Jurmala Open-Air Museum in Lielupe: Step outdoors and breathe in the fresh sea air. Here, traditional wooden architecture and folklore come alive. Listen to the wind whisper tales of fishermen, craftsmen, and village life.
- Bulduri Exhibition House: A treasure trove of temporary exhibits awaits. From contemporary art to historical retrospectives, this house keeps the museum’s spirit alive and ever-evolving.
Practical Details
- Location: Tirgoņu iela 29, Jūrmala
- Opening Hours: Wednesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Contact: Call +67 764 746 for inquiries or guided tours.
Whether you’re a curious traveler, a history enthusiast, or simply someone seeking the magic of the sea, the Jurmala City Museum invites you to step across its threshold and immerse yourself in tales of tides and time.
Visit The Art Station Dubulti In Jurmala
Art Station Dubulti is the only modern art space in Europe in a functioning railway station. Finished in 1977, the station was renovated in 2015 to create an open art platform.
It’s a great example of how to unite transport and culture, creating a convenient place to host lectures, discussions, and exhibitions.
Address: Zigfrīda Meierovica prospekts 3
Where To Eat in Jurmala
Jurmala has plenty of food options, mainly concentrated on and around Jomal iela.
Two of my favorites are Majorenhoff just opposite of the Majori train station, and The House of Light a bit further down Jomas iela on number 63. Both have a good choice of dishes and very friendly service.
How To Get To Jurmala
The easiest way to reach Jurmala from Riga is by train. The trip takes less than 30 minutes, and a one-way ticket will set you back EUR 1,50 (last time I checked was August 2020).