Around Latvia in 9 days

9-day ride around Latvia – 1531 km, every region felt unique

Hey everyone!

Just finished a 9-day bikepacking trip around Latvia, starting and ending in Riga. Total distance: 1531 km. What surprised me most was how different each region of the country feels – from forests to open fields, lakes, hills, coastline, and quiet backroads.

📅 Daily distances:
Day 1 – 186 km

Day 2 – 188 km

Day 3 – 167 km

Day 4 – 175 km

Day 5 – 163 km

Day 6 – 158 km

Day 7 – 219 km

Day 8 – 186 km

Day 9 – 88.5 km

🚴‍♂️ Setup:
I used a gravel bike with a minimalist bikepacking setup:

Rear saddlebag

Frame bag

Handlebar roll

2 bottles

Clothing for various weather conditions

Kept it light and functional – just the essentials for 9 days on the road.

🏕️ Sleeping:
Mostly wild camping – in forests, near lakes, or tucked away in quiet spots. No campfires. Just pitched the tent, rested, and rolled out early in the mornings. Occasionally used campsites when needed for a shower or to charge devices.

🌄 Regional impressions:
Kurzeme (West) – pine forests, peaceful gravel roads, some coastal scenery

Zemgale (South) – flat, open landscapes, lots of wind but easy riding

Latgale (East) – full of lakes, rolling hills, and scenic views

Vidzeme (North) – forested, hilly, quiet and remote-feeling

The landscape kept changing, making each day feel new.