Aukštaitija National Park, Lithuania

Last Updated on 28 January 2026 by Johan

Aukštaitija National Park is the oldest national park in Lithuania and one of the country’s most captivating natural regions. Established in 1974, it protects a landscape of lakes, forests, and traditional wooden villages in northeastern Lithuania. The park covers 410.56 square kilometres and lies about 100 kilometres north of Vilnius, making it an accessible yet peaceful destination for travellers seeking nature, culture, and outdoor activities. The administrative centre of the park is located in the village of Palūšė, within the Ignalina district, which manages roughly half of the park’s territory. The remaining area is shared between the Utena and Švenčionys districts.

Aukštaitija National Park is often called the Land of Lakes. With 126 lakes scattered across rolling hills and pine forests, it offers one of the most diverse freshwater landscapes in the Baltic region. Many of the lakes are interconnected by natural streams and rivulets, creating ideal conditions for kayaking, canoeing, and multi‑day water routes. The park is also home to exceptional biodiversity: nearly 60 percent of all plant species found in Lithuania grow here, even though the park covers less than one percent of the country’s territory. Numerous species of plants, fungi, and birds listed in Lithuania’s Red Book thrive in its protected habitats.

Beyond its natural beauty, Aukštaitija National Park preserves centuries of cultural heritage. More than one hundred villages lie within its boundaries, many of them featuring traditional wooden architecture, ethnographic museums, and ancient craft traditions. The park is a living cultural landscape where nature and rural life coexist in harmony.

Geography and Natural Features

The park’s terrain is shaped by the last Ice Age, which left behind a mosaic of hills, valleys, and glacial lakes. The largest lake, Lake Kretuonas, covers more than eight square kilometres, while Lake Baluošas is famous for its unique island that contains its own small lake. The forests are dominated by pine, spruce, and birch, with some stands more than 200 years old.

The region’s biodiversity is one of its greatest assets. Rare orchids, medicinal plants, and protected fungi species grow in the meadows and forests. Birdwatchers can spot cranes, black storks, woodpeckers, and many migratory species. Beavers, otters, and moose inhabit the wetlands and riverbanks, while the lakes support a variety of fish, including pike, perch, and whitefish.

Cultural Heritage and Villages Aukštaitija National Park

Aukštaitija National Park is not only a natural reserve but also a cultural one. Its villages preserve traditional ways of life that have largely disappeared elsewhere. Many settlements date back to the Middle Ages and still feature wooden houses, granaries, and barns typical of the Aukštaitija ethnographic region.

One of the most notable villages is Palūšė, known for its wooden church built in 1750 without the use of nails. The church is one of the oldest surviving wooden churches in Lithuania and is a symbol of the region’s craftsmanship. Nearby, the ethnographic village of Stripeikiai hosts the Lithuanian Museum of Ancient Beekeeping, where visitors can learn about traditional honey‑gathering techniques and see historic beehives carved from tree trunks.

Other villages, such as Ginučiai, Kaltanėnai, and Salos, offer a glimpse into rural life with their wooden homesteads, watermills, and small chapels. The Ginučiai Watermill, built in the nineteenth century, is one of the park’s most visited cultural landmarks. It once served as a mill, sawmill, and bakery, and today it houses a small museum.

Activities for Visitors Aukštaitija National Park

Aukštaitija National Park is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Its extensive network of lakes, rivers, and forest trails provides opportunities for a wide range of activities.

Hiking and Cycling Aukštaitija National Park

The park offers numerous marked hiking routes suitable for all levels. Popular trails include:

  • The Ladakalnis Hill Route, which leads to one of the most scenic viewpoints in Lithuania. From the top, visitors can see six lakes at once.
  • The Ginučiai–Stripeikiai trail, which combines natural beauty with cultural attractions such as the watermill and the beekeeping museum.
  • The Palūšė–Meironys route, ideal for a relaxed walk through forests and lakeshores.

Cyclists can explore longer distances on quiet forest roads and designated cycling paths. Bicycles can be rented in Palūšė and other visitor centres.

Kayaking and Canoeing Aukštaitija National Park

Water tourism is one of the park’s highlights. The interconnected lakes and rivers allow for multi‑day kayaking trips through pristine nature. Popular routes include:

  • The Baluošas–Žeimena route, known for its calm waters and scenic surroundings.
  • The Šakarva–Lūšiai–Dringis circuit, which passes through some of the park’s most beautiful lakes.

Kayak and canoe rentals are available in Palūšė, Ginučiai, and other villages.

Swimming and Fishing

Many lakes have designated swimming areas with clear water and sandy shores. Fishing is allowed with the appropriate permits, which can be purchased locally. The lakes are rich in fish species, making the park a favourite destination for anglers.

Wildlife Watching

The park’s diverse habitats offer excellent opportunities for wildlife observation. Early mornings and evenings are the best times to spot beavers, deer, and various bird species. Guided nature tours are available through the park administration.

Visitor Information

How to Get There

Aukštaitija National Park is located approximately 100 kilometres north of Vilnius and can be reached by car in about 1.5 hours. The nearest town is Ignalina, which has train and bus connections to Vilnius. From Ignalina, local buses or taxis can take visitors to Palūšė and other villages within the park.

Visitor Centres

The main visitor centre is located in Palūšė. It provides maps, information about trails, and details on cultural sites and activities. Additional information points can be found in Ginučiai and Stripeikiai.

Accommodation

Visitors can choose from a variety of accommodation options, including guesthouses, rural homesteads, campsites, and small hotels. Many lakeside homesteads offer traditional Lithuanian sauna experiences and boat rentals.

Best Time to Visit

The park is beautiful year‑round, but the most popular seasons are late spring to early autumn. Summer offers ideal conditions for water activities, while autumn brings colourful foliage. Winter attracts visitors interested in cross‑country skiing and peaceful snowy landscapes.

Responsible Tourism

Aukštaitija National Park is a protected area, and visitors are encouraged to follow responsible tourism practices. Staying on marked trails, respecting wildlife, and avoiding littering help preserve the park’s fragile ecosystems. Campfires are allowed only in designated areas, and fishing or gathering forest products requires proper permits.

Why Visit Aukštaitija National Park

Aukštaitija National Park is one of Lithuania’s most rewarding destinations for travellers seeking nature, tranquillity, and authentic cultural experiences. Its combination of lakes, forests, traditional villages, and outdoor activities makes it suitable for families, hikers, kayakers, and anyone looking to explore the natural beauty of the Baltic region. Whether you climb Ladakalnis Hill, paddle across mirror‑like lakes, or wander through centuries‑old villages, the park offers a deep connection to Lithuania’s landscape and heritage.

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