This route is made up of two sections of the Baltic Coastal Trail, covering the main part of the Lithuanian coast. This itinerary can also be completed in reverse, allowing hikers/runners to start at Ventė Cape in the south and head north towards the Latvian border, making the route highly flexible depending on your preferences.
Seaside Resorts: Lithuanian-Latvian Border – Palanga – Klaipėda (around 48 km)
Starting at the Lithuanian-Latvian border, this scenic section of the Baltic Coastal Hiking Route heads south through some of Lithuania’s most popular seaside resorts, including Šventoji, Palanga, and Klaipėda. Covering 48 km, the route winds through sandy beaches, coastal forests, and the serene landscape of the Seaside Regional Park.
From the border, the trail first reaches Šventoji, a peaceful resort town where the Šventoji River meets the Baltic Sea. This area is perfect for a relaxing stroll through its sandy shores and charming town center. As you walk through Šventoji, you’ll cross the river via a hanging footbridge before continuing along the coast.
The trail then leads to Palanga, Lithuania’s most vibrant seaside resort. Famous for its sandy beaches, street-side cafes, and lively cultural scene, Palanga is a great place to pause and enjoy the local atmosphere. Landmarks such as the Palanga Botanical Park and the pedestrian pier extending into the Baltic Sea add to the town’s charm.
As you continue south, the hiking route takes you through the Seaside Regional Park, an area established to protect the coastal landscape and its biodiversity. One of the highlights here is the Dutchman’s Cap, a 20-meter-high bluff that offers panoramic views of the Baltic Sea. The park also features historical sites, including WWII coastal defense batteries and traditional Lithuanian homesteads.
The final part of this section brings you to Klaipėda, Lithuania’s third-largest city and its only port. Known for its German-influenced architecture, Klaipėda’s old town is unique, with its grid-like street layout and charming medieval buildings. The city has a vibrant cultural scene, with outdoor cafes, street performers, and bustling markets.
Highlights:
- Šventoji: A tranquil resort town with beautiful beaches and a charming riverside atmosphere.
- Palanga: The heart of Lithuania’s resort culture, with vibrant streets, parks, and beaches.
- Seaside Regional Park: Scenic coastal landscapes with historical and natural landmarks.
- Klaipėda: A bustling port city with a rich German heritage and well-preserved old town.
More Info:
https://baltictrails.eu/en/coastal/itinerary/18
---
Coastline of Curonian Lagoon: Klaipėda – Dreverna – Ventė (around 50 km)
After experiencing the Baltic coast, the Baltic Coastal Hiking Route continues along the tranquil shores of the Curonian Lagoon, heading south from Klaipėda through Dreverna and ending at Ventė Cape. Covering 50 km over 2 days, this stretch offers a quieter and more intimate experience with nature, featuring coastal villages, birdwatching spots, and historical canals.
Starting from Klaipėda, you’ll first head southeast towards the King Wilhelm Canal, a 19th-century waterway that stretches for 10 km along a peaceful, tree-lined path. This part of the trail showcases industrial heritage, with information points explaining the local history and the natural environment. The canal, built in the 1860s, was named in honor of the German Emperor Wilhelm I and was once an important transportation route.
Next, you’ll arrive in Dreverna, a charming former fishing village that is now a hub for wind-surfing and tourism. Dreverna has a modern marina, campsites, and panoramic views of the Curonian Spit, visible across the lagoon. The town’s small streets and traditional wooden houses reflect its maritime heritage, making it a peaceful stop along the route.
The trail continues towards Ventė Cape, an important ornithological site where migratory birds are studied. The Ventė Lighthouse offers beautiful views of the Curonian Lagoon and the sand dunes of the Curonian Spit, which lies about 8–10 km away. Ventė is also known for its developing tourism infrastructure, with small guesthouses and restaurants catering to visitors. This final stretch of the route offers a mix of cultural history and stunning natural beauty.
Highlights:
- King Wilhelm Canal: A historic 19th-century canal surrounded by natural beauty.
- Dreverna: A picturesque fishing village with wind-surfing opportunities and lagoon views.
- Ventė Cape: A birdwatcher’s paradise with a lighthouse and panoramic views of the Curonian Spit.
More Info:
https://baltictrails.eu/en/coastal/itinerary/20