Latvia Vidzeme

Sigulda is a town located on a picturesque stretch of the primeval Gauja river valley. After the restoration of Latvian independence in 1991, an emphasis was placed on conserving Sigulda's public monuments and parks as well as improving the town's tourist sector. Supported by the town council, a traditional Opera Festival takes place in an open-air music hall in the castle ruins each summer. A Town Festival is celebrated in May when cherry trees blossom, while Sigulda is known for the colors of its trees in autumn. Its main attractions are the Turaida Castle, Sigulda New and Old Castles, Gutmanis Cave, Aerodium Latvia, and more.

Cesis is a town in Latvia located in the northern part of the Central Vidzeme Upland. Cesis is on the Gauja River valley, and is built on a series of ridges above the river overlooking the woods below. Cesis was one of the candidate cites for the title of European Capital of Culture 2014. Cesis was also developed as a health resort. Upmarket summer houses and health centers were built in the vicinity of the Gauja. 'Cirulisi' near the Svetavots (Holy Spring) Cave is the most remarkable of them, with a spring believed to possess healing powers. Main attractions in this town include the Cesis Castle, Christ Transfiguration Orthodox Church, and St. John's Church.