Rāzna National Park

Rāzna Overview

Rāzna National Park (in Latvian: Rāznas Nacionālais parks) is located in eastern Latvia, in the Latgale region, near the city of Rēzekne. Established in 2007, the park spans an area of approximately 212 square miles (552 square kilometers), making it one of the largest national parks in Latvia. The park is centered around Lake Rāzna, Latvia’s second-largest lake, and is known for its rich aquatic ecosystems, diverse landscapes, and cultural significance.

The landscape of Rāzna National Park is a mix of lakes, forests, meadows, and wetlands. Lake Rāzna, often referred to as the “Sea of Latgale,” dominates the park, with its vast surface area and scenic shoreline providing habitats for a wide variety of species. Surrounding the lake, the park features rolling hills, particularly the Raznas Hill range, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Numerous smaller lakes, rivers, and streams crisscross the park, creating an intricate network of waterways. The Mākoņkalns Hill, one of the highest points in the region, adds to the park’s dramatic landscape.

The vegetation in Rāzna National Park is diverse, with vast stretches of pine and spruce forests, interspersed with alderand birch groves. The meadows and wetlands host a variety of plant species, including rare and protected species like orchids and gentians. The park’s unique mix of aquatic and terrestrial habitats provides an ideal environment for a wide range of flora.

Rāzna National Park is home to an impressive array of wildlife. The park’s lakes and rivers are rich with fish species, including pike, perch, and eel, making it popular with anglers. Moose, red deer, wild boar, and foxes are common in the forests, while the park’s wetlands attract a variety of bird species, such as cranes, herons, and white storks. The rich biodiversity and serene landscapes make Rāzna National Park a vital conservation area in Latvia.

Park Map

Rāzna National Park Highlights

Wildlife

Popular Species

Razna National Park is home to a diverse range of species that thrive in its lakes, forests, and meadows, showcasing the natural beauty of Latvia.

Roe deer are commonly seen grazing in the park’s meadows and forest edges, known for their agility and quick movements, especially at dawn and dusk.

Red foxes are adaptable predators found throughout the park, hunting small mammals, birds, and insects, and are often spotted in open areas during early mornings.

Wild boars roam the park’s forests, foraging for roots, acorns, and small animals, often leaving signs of their activity in the undergrowth.

Beavers are active in the park’s lakes and rivers, constructing dams and lodges, creating wetland habitats that support other species.

Otters are playful and agile, frequently seen near the park’s water bodies, hunting for fish and small aquatic creatures in the lakes and streams.

European hares are fast and elusive herbivores commonly found in the park’s open meadows, feeding on grasses and other vegetation while avoiding predators.

Bats are important nocturnal creatures in the park, helping control insect populations and roosting in trees and caves around the forested areas.

Brown frogs thrive in the park’s wetlands, hopping through moist areas and serving as a vital part of the local food chain for larger predators.

Pike are top predators in the park’s lakes, known for their swift movements and sharp teeth as they hunt smaller fish in Razna’s waters.

Trout are frequently found in the park’s rivers and lakes, offering an exciting catch for anglers and contributing to the park’s aquatic ecosystem.

Bird Species

Razna National Park is a birdwatcher’s haven, offering a wide variety of bird species that inhabit its wetlands, forests, and lakes.

White storks are iconic birds often seen nesting in the park’s meadows and wetlands, feeding on insects, small mammals, and amphibians.

Grey herons are tall, elegant wading birds that hunt along the park’s lakes and rivers, using their long beaks to catch fish and amphibians.

Mute swans are graceful water birds often seen gliding across the park’s lakes, recognized for their white plumage and striking curved necks.

Eurasian cranes are large, majestic birds that frequent the park’s wetlands, known for their distinctive calls and impressive courtship displays during the breeding season.

Common kingfishers are brightly colored birds found near the park’s rivers and streams, diving swiftly into the water to catch fish and small aquatic creatures.

Great crested grebes are striking water birds that perform elegant mating dances, often seen swimming and diving in the park’s lakes.

Coots are small, dark water birds commonly spotted in the park’s lakes and ponds, using their strong legs to swim and dive for food.

Ospreys are large, fish-eating raptors often seen hovering above the park’s lakes before diving dramatically to catch fish.

Barnacle geese migrate to Razna National Park during winter, grazing in the park’s open areas and meadows as they pass through on their migration route.

Golden eagles are powerful raptors occasionally seen soaring over the park’s forests and lakes, hunting for small mammals and birds with their sharp talons.

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Engaging Razna Național Park

Boating & Fishing

Lake Rāzna, the centerpiece of Razna National Park, is one of the largest lakes in Latvia and a hub for water-based activities.

Visitors can rent boats or kayaks to explore the calm waters and scenic surroundings. The lake is also a popular destination for fishing, with a variety of fish species, including perch and pike, making it ideal for anglers.

The tranquil setting offers a peaceful escape into nature, with stunning views of the surrounding hills and forests.

Hiking

Razna National Park offers several hiking trails that wind through its diverse landscapes, including forests, meadows, and lakeshores. The trails vary in difficulty and provide opportunities to explore the park’s rich biodiversity.

Hikers can enjoy spotting local wildlife such as deer, foxes, and birds while walking through peaceful, untouched nature. Along the way, visitors can take in beautiful views of Lake Rāzna and the rolling hills that define the park’s landscape.

Birdwatching

Razna National Park is a prime location for birdwatching, with its wetlands, lakes, and meadows providing important habitats for various bird species.

Visitors can enjoy guided birdwatching tours or explore the park independently to observe species such as cranes, herons, and eagles.

The park’s peaceful environment makes it an ideal place for nature lovers to quietly observe and photograph birdlife in their natural habitat.

Sources

All Trails, Best Trails in Razna National Park, https://www.alltrails.com/ar/parks/latvia/latgale/raznas-nacionalais-parks, retrieved August 2024.
Latgale Tourism, Razna Lake National Park, https://latgale.travel/listing/razna-lake-national-park/, retrieved August 2024.
Latvia Travel, Razna National Park, https://www.latvia.travel/en/sight/razna-national-park, retrieved August 2024.
Nature Conservation Agency Latvia, Razna National Park, https://www.daba.gov.lv/en/razna-national-park, retrieved August 2024.
Wikipedia, Razna Național Park, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/R%C4%81zna_National_Park, retrieved August 2024.

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