The best road cycling routes in Naujojo Lentvario Botaninis Draustinis

The route leads along the clear, calm lake, whose glittering surface shimmers in the sun. The peaceful atmosphere of the lake, combined with the fresh air and the gentle sound of the water, created an almost meditative ride. It was an experience that highlighted the beauty and tranquility of nature. A particular highlight of the route was the view of a nearby castle that towered majestically over the landscape. The historic architecture of the castle, embedded in the natural surroundings, offered an impressive contrast to the tranquil lake surroundings. The combination of medieval architecture and natural landscape made the trip a journey through time through the history and culture of the region. In addition to the castle, the road also offered a beautiful view of an adjacent park, which added to the beauty of the route with its lush greenery and diverse flora. Cycling through this idyllic landscape was a treat for the senses and provided a perfect opportunity to enjoy the beauty of the surroundings.

The hill, known for its collection of wooden angels carved in the local style, offers a fascinating insight into Lithuanian folk art. Each sculpture is unique and embodies the deep cultural and spiritual meaning that angels have in Lithuanian culture. An interesting aspect of Engelsberg is its geographical shape, which from a bird's eye view resembles an angel with wings. The lakes of Galvė, Totoriškės and Luka form the body and feet of the angel, while the lakes of Skaistis and Akmena represent the outstretched wings and the hill itself is the head of the angel. This natural formation gives the place an almost mystical aura. In addition to its artistic and natural beauty, Engelsberg is also a popular location for wedding ceremonies.

The Liepų alėja, an avenue of small lime trees that stretches between the park's event stage and the 7.5-hectare Vingio section of the Vilnius University Botanical Garden, is simply breathtaking. The avenue, which was declared a protected botanical natural heritage site in 1996, was created on the site of a former manor house. A summer spa house was built here in 1857 on the initiative of the military governor of Vilnius, V. Nazimov, and the large park created at that time still gives the place a special flair today. For cyclists and nature lovers alike, this location offers a perfect opportunity to experience Vilnius' urban culture in a relaxed and natural environment.

The Vokė, a picturesque left tributary of the Neris, flows quietly under the rickety bridge. Despite its narrowness and noticeable instability when crossing, the bridge offered a unique and exciting experience. The bridge's location in an unexpected place, embedded in the natural beauty of the Lithuanian landscape, makes it a special highlight. For me, the bridge's narrowness and wobbling were part of its charm. As I drove across the river, I felt the movement of the bridge beneath me, which got my adrenaline pumping. It was a balancing act that I was happy to master.

narrow, shaky suspension bridge across the river

A small highlight on the EV11 route - a rather shaky bridge. At our time (07/23) there was even construction going on along the way and everything was silted up, which means impassable.

The Neris (Lithuanian Neris, Polish Wilia, Belarusian Вілія, Wilija) is a river in Belarus and Lithuania. It rises in northern Belarus, flows through the Lithuanian capital Vilnius and the medium-sized town of Jonava and flows into the Neman in Kaunas. On the Belarusian side, it is dammed up at Vileyka to form the Vileiskoye reservoir. In Vilnius, the river is partly concreted in, but otherwise natural and not straightened. In Kernavė, on the banks of the Neris, are the remains of the old Lithuanian ruler's residence, which are under UNESCO protection (Wikipedia).

You can do your wedding ceremony here 🙂