Jūrmala, Latvia’s famed seaside resort, stretches along 33 kilometers of white sandy beaches kissed by the Baltic Sea. Its wooden architecture, featuring colorful villas from the early 20th century, tells the story of its history as a retreat for the well-to-do during the Russian Empire. Visitors strolling the Jomas Street promenade will find a lively atmosphere filled with cafes, boutiques, and galleries, alongside peaceful spots where the sea breeze encourages relaxation.
The town’s natural environment is dominated by pine forests that surround the residential areas, creating a soothing contrast to the sea. Kemeri National Park, located nearby, is a significant wetland area with boardwalk trails leading through peat bogs and spring-fed lakes. One unique feature is the bubbling mud pots, caused by natural gases escaping from beneath the earth, which is a rare sight that attracts curious visitors seeking unusual landscapes.