The beginning of the Forest Trail at this section coincides with the Gauja Nature Trail, which runs along the very bank of the river. The Forest Trail crosses the A3 in two places (before the turn to Seda and before Kauči) (be careful!) and continues along small forest roads, a sand-gravel quarry, then continues down a gravel road at the turn to Oliņas. After 3.5 km, turn right again and follow the route to Spicu Bridge via small and remote forest roads where some of the most beautiful sights of the Northern Gauja (“Ziemeļgauja”) protected landscape area can be seen by the so called Zemā sala (Low Isle). A picnic area and a camp are located at the end of this section, where the P24 crosses the Spicu Bridge.
Practical information
Length: 27 km
Duration: 1 (long) day or 2-day route
Starting point: Gauja Bridge next to Strenči
End point: Spicu Bridge by Gauja River
The course of the route: Gauja Nature Trail – Kauči – Oliņas – Spicu Bridge
Road surface: Mainly small forest roads and trails, gravel road
Difficulty: Moderate, if the section is completed in two days, hard, if completed in one day
Danger points: The A3 must be crossed in two places after Strenči. Make sure you are safe when crossing the road! Swimming in Gauja River can be dangerous!
Keep in mind! There are no shops or caterers between Strenči and Gaujiena (3–5 day walk)! Be sure to carefully follow the markings or use a GPX file to avoid getting lost on the route.
Alternative route options: Strong hikers without heavy backpacks will be able to complete the distance in one day. It is advisable to divide the section into a two-day walk with an overnight stay at the rest area past Oliņas (tent spots only), located approximately in the middle of this section.
