This two-day ecotourism route stretches along the scenic Lithuanian seaside – from Klaipėda to Šventoji, following the Baltic Sea coast. The journey is done by bicycle and on foot, mostly through the Seaside Regional Park, the Palanga Botanical Park, coastal forests, open dunes, and nature reserves. It is not only an active nature getaway but also a responsible trip that follows ecotourism principles: litter is collected, reusable water bottles are used, sorted waste stations and drinking water refill points are visited.
The route follows the European Green Belt – one of the most important natural corridors in Europe, stretching across the continent along the former “Iron Curtain.” The Lithuanian coastline is part of this corridor, preserving biodiversity, bird migration paths, and rare dune ecosystems. Overnight stays are planned in rural tourism or ethnographic homesteads, where travelers can immerse themselves in the local lifestyle and taste traditional Lithuanian dishes. This is a route that invites not only to explore but also to preserve – nature, history, and communities.
Short route description
Day 1: Klaipėda – Giruliai – Dutchman’s Cap – Karklė – HBH (Forest Park / Žibininkai)
Start in Klaipėda (begin at the Northern ferry terminal or in Melnragė – easily accessible by public transport).
Cycle (~20 km) along the seaside bike path through Giruliai forest – stops by the sea and drinking water refill points.
Short hike to the Dutchman’s Cap bluff – an impressive geological and natural site with a panoramic view of the Baltic Sea.
Ecological activity – collection of small litter along the coast.
Continue cycling to Karklė – short stop at a birdwatching site and Lake Plateliai.
Lunch/restaurant in Karklė – traditional fish and local dishes offered (e.g., “Fishermen's Campground”).
In the evening, arrive at HBH or stay overnight near the Dutchman’s Cap area.
Overnight stay:
HBH Homestead (in Žibininkai) – surrounded by nature, with SPA area, saunas, local food, and a small zoo.
Guesthouse “Olando kepurė” – near the Dutchman’s Cap, in a quiet pine forest area, with outdoor seating options.
Day 2: HBH – Lake Kalotė – Nemirseta – Palanga – Šventoji
Breakfast at the homestead, departure by bike via forest paths towards Lake Kalotė.
Stop for ecological activity – roadside litter collection along the way, use of recycling points at HBH and in Palanga.
Continue along the seaside bike path through Nemirseta – stop at the dunes, mini hike on the coastal nature trail.
Lunch in Palanga – local fish or potato dishes recommended (e.g., “Molinis ąsotis,” “Jūros akis”).
After lunch, cycle to Šventoji (~14 km) – route ends at the mouth of the Šventoji River.
End of the trip – option to return to Klaipėda by bus with bicycles (buses run regularly, bike reservation required).
Detailed route description and service providers.
Full route in PDF format.
This project is implemented with the financial support from the BESTbelt project of the European Union. The contents of this project are the sole responsibility of Lithuanian countryside tourism association and can under no circumstances be regarded as reflecting the position of the European Union.
