An escape from scorching temperatures elsewhere in Europe, Lithuania’s coastal areas, including Palanga and the Curonian Spit, are becoming sought-after holiday destinations. As heatwaves prompt warnings in parts of the continent, the Baltic coast offers a refreshing alternative with its cooler climate and affordable prices, drawing more visitors each year.
Exploring Palanga’s Coastal Charm
Palanga, with its white sandy beaches tinged with pale green from seaweed, has been a favourite among Lithuanian holidaymakers since the 19th century. The transformation by the affluent Tiškevičiai family turned it into a popular seaside resort. The central beach and its L-shaped pier are bustling yet retain characteristics that harken back to its historical roots. Visitors can explore the botanical gardens, which host the Tiškevičiai Palace and an amber museum with thousands of prehistoric artefacts, offering a glimpse into the area’s storied past.
Though Palanga’s centre has seen modern development with entertainment venues and eateries, quieter spots can still be found. The Gradiali hotel offers a serene retreat just a short walk from a less crowded stretch of shoreline, where a day in a cabana costs a fraction of the price found on Mediterranean islands.
Natural Wonders of the Curonian Spit
The Curonian Spit, a protected area accessible via Klaipėda, offers a striking landscape of forest and Blue Flag beaches. Klaipėda, a quick half-hour from Palanga, serves as a charming gateway to this 61-mile sand peninsula. Despite being partly within Russian territory, the Lithuanian side remains open for exploration, boasting abundant bike trails and observation decks that hint at the spit’s rich lore.
The region is steeped in mythology, from tales of its creation by the giant Neringa to legends of an underwater amber castle. Contemporary stories, such as the 18th-century burial by shifting sands, add to its allure. These narratives are recounted during evening boat tours from Nida harbour, the largest town on the spit.
Culture, Cuisine, and Cycling
Nida offers accommodation like Hotel Nidus and dining experiences at places such as Nidos Prieplauka, where visitors can enjoy local specialities against a backdrop of stunning sunsets. Traditional Lithuanian dishes like cold beetroot soup are celebrated and even have their own festival in Vilnius.
The following day in Nida includes a cycle tour led by Angelina Ivanova from the local tourism centre. The bike paths lead to Vecekrugas Dune, the spit’s highest point, providing panoramic views. Along the way, there are signs of the rich wildlife, including migratory birds that frequent the region. The cycling routes also take visitors to Preila, home to smoke-fishing shacks offering fresh catches like sea perch and turbot.
Completing a day of adventure with a swim as the midsummer sun dips, Lithuania’s coast proves a compelling alternative for those keen to avoid more crowded, expensive, and sweltering destinations.
Reporting based on coverage first published by theguardian.com.