ESC - Latvia -

Gaiziņkalns

, 312 m | VR Tour

Situated in the Vidzeme Upland, a short distance to the west of the town of Madona, Gaiziņkalns is the highest point in Latvia. Whilst only 312 m above sea level, Gaiziņkalns has been developed into a skiing area with four slopes; "Ladies' Paradise", "The Western Slope", "The Lesser Golgotha", and "Golgotha".

Our virtual tour follows the route of the 2 Km long, circular Gaiziņkalns Trail, and whilst recommended to start outside Café Gaizins at the bottom of "Golgotha", it's possible to begin at either of the two higher car parks, or at the summit itself.

Those wishing to visit the 41 m red brick tower build on the summit in 1982 will be disappointed as it was demolished on December 14th 2012. Blown up and split in two before collapsing is a more comprehensive summary, for the unsafe structure had been built on insuffiecent foundations and never officially opened to the public. Some consolation is provided by a scaled down wooden replica.

Now its your time to explore.

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Gaizinkalns
Start from Café Gaizins
Start from Middle Car Park
Start from Upper Car Park
Start from Gaizinkalns Summit"

The photos for this tour were taken during a visit to Latvia on 7th October 2025. Having visited the nations capital, Riga, the day before, we set off on a fine morning to explore the region and hike both Latvia's high point, and that of it's neighbour Estonia.

Tower and flag on the summit of Gaizinkalns, October 2025.
Tower and flag on the summit of Gaizinkalns, October 2025.