Aluksne is a town in Latvia, set around Lake Aluksne in the country's northeast. It is a quiet, green place where a lakeside walk, an old castle site and a slow afternoon can fill a visit.
What to see
- Castle ruins: Latvia's oldest castle ruins, dating back to the 14th century, stand in the town and are among its main historic sights.
- The old town: Aluksne's charming old town is best explored on foot, at an easy pace.
- The narrow-gauge railway terminus: The town is the end of a scenic narrow-gauge railway line, which gives a visit a distinctive touch for rail enthusiasts.
- Christmas tree tradition: Aluksne is known as the birthplace of the first Latvian Christmas tree tradition, a link that gives the town a notable place in the country's festive history.
Outdoors around the lake
The lake is the heart of the town's landscape. Visitors come for hiking, cycling and water activities, and the scenery around the water suits a relaxed day outside. Those who enjoy active holidays will find enough here for a day or two, while those who prefer gentle walks can simply spend time by the shore.
Aluksne suits travellers who want a calm base in Latvia's countryside, with history, a railway connection and open landscape close at hand.