Exploring the Baltic Nations' Hidden Gems
In a captivating two-week fly-drive tour, a traveler embarked on an adventure through Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia, booked by the travel agency Regent Travel. The journey, filled with historical charm, natural beauty, and culinary delights, offered a unique insight into these three Baltic countries.
The traveler was immediately struck by the notable walls encircling Old Tallinn, a testament to the city's rich history. The capital cities of Vilnius, Riga, and Tallinn, each boasted faithfully restored medieval old towns, providing a glimpse into the past. In Kaunas, Lithuania's old capital, the medieval old town has also been meticulously restored.
The countryside in these countries is a breathtaking tapestry of forests, swamps, lakes, farmland, and empty roads, covering an area greater than England and Wales but with a population of only six million. Rundale Palace, south of Riga, stands as a magnificent example of Baroque architecture, while other stopping points included Kuldiga, Sigulda (both in Latvia), and Tartu (Estonia).
A drive down the Curonian spit, reached by ferry, offered a noteworthy experience, albeit with a caution to avoid reaching the border with the Russian enclave of Kaliningrad. The traveler also visited Trakai, Turaida, and Cesis, which are worth seeing in Lithuania and Latvia.
The variety of churches, from Catholic to Orthodox to Lutheran, is exceptional in these countries. In Vilnius, the Ertlio Namas served beaver paté and chocolates flavored with strawberry and cucumber, which the traveler declared as the best they had ever tasted. The quality of restaurants in these countries is surprisingly high, with many Michelin-starred or recommended establishments.
The roads, streets, and public spaces are clean and well-maintained, with impressive flower displays in Latvia and Lithuania. Climbing the towers of castles, churches, and town halls provided excellent exercise, offering panoramic views of the cities below.
The traveler noted that these countries have been invaded multiple times, including three times during the last war, yet national flags, including Ukrainian ones, are commonly seen, signifying national pride due to historical struggles against invasion and occupation. Despite speaking different languages, most people in these countries also speak English.
The countries have been transformed, now prosperous, friendly, and safe. Many people who came to the UK 20 years ago have returned to these countries. The flight from Luton to Vilnius, Lithuania, on a Saturday during the summer, was operated by Wizz Air and ran smoothly.
Antique/junk shops are the only remnants of Soviet occupation in these countries. However, these relics serve as a reminder of the countries' past struggles and their resilience in overcoming adversity.
In conclusion, the two-week fly-drive tour through Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia offered an enriching experience, blending history, culture, and natural beauty. The traveler returned home with a newfound appreciation for these often-overlooked Baltic countries.
