2018 ventspils · creative industries 20–21 culture and entertainment 22–23 ventspils...

2018

VENTSPILSVENTSPILSFAMILY AND RECREATION FRIENDLY CITYFAMILY AND RECREATION FRIENDLY CITY

www.ventspils.lv I www.visitventspils.com

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INTRODUCTION

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Living history 4–7

A city friendly for families and children 8–9

Active recreation 10–13

Health and well-being 14–17

Nature tourism 18–19

Creative industries 20–21

Culture and entertainment 22–23

Ventspils Municipality 24–26

Tourisms services 27–32

CONTENTS

FACTS ABOUT VENTSPILSHas possessed its city rights since the year 1378Area – 58 km² (including 38% of forests, parks and water)Population ~ 40 thousandDistance to Riga ~ 190 kmLength of sea coast ~ 12 kmLake – Lake BūšniekiRiver – Venta

Welcome to Ventspils – a city that cherishes the past, plans for the future and works en-ergetically in the present!Ventspils is a city that does not leave any-one indifferent. Ventspils is like a small state within a state, as the locals have their own specific dialogue, a flag, time, which is coun-ted differently over here, a virtual embassy and even their own money – vents!

You may use the virtual embassy

www.visitventspils.comin order to get acquainted with the diverse tourism offer of Ventspils, as well as earn vents, which can then be used as a means of payment at tourist attractions.

Ventspils is the capital city of flowers and fountains, as colourful cows may be spotted on the streets of the city, and the parks, streets, squares and courtyards are adorned by flower sculptures, various flower formations and tastefully done flowerbeds that do not wither even on the hottest days of the summer.

Whether it is spring, summer, autumn or winter – everyone may find something spe-cial in Ventspils: Adventure Park for those who want to spend their time in a more active manner, narrow-gauge steam train "Mazbānītis" and children’s towns for fam-ilies with children, the spacious Blue Flag Beach and deep dunes, where sunbathing may be enjoyed even on the windiest of days, Water Amusement Park and the SPA complex, as well as the observatory with its modern telescope where one may gaze at the stars and the most modern planet-arium in the Baltic states, which is also the only digital one in Latvia... All of this and a lot more may be enjoyed in Ventspils.

Welcome to Ventspils, a city on the move!

Dog walking area

WC

CampingGuest HouseHotel

Wi-Fi “Lattelecom-free”Pay toiletOne way street

Wi-Fi “Ventspils guest, Ventspils”

EuroVelo 10 and 13

Bicycle routesCycling routes (to be constructed in 2018)

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VENTSPILS SUrrOUNdINgS

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Address: Jāņa iela 17, Ventspils Telephone: +371 63622031

Working hours: 10:00–18:00 (Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun). Closed (Mon).

www.muzejs.ventspils.lv @ventspilsmuzejs Ventspils muzejs Ventspils muzejs

One of the most recognisable symbols of Ventspils is its Livonian Order Castle, which is the oldest pre-served building in the city. The digital exhibition "Living History", as well as the exhibition on the his-tory of the city, its port and the region, both of which may be viewed in the castle, provide an opportunity to travel through various centuries. The diverse his-tory of the castle may be experienced thanks to the art- and history-related exhibitions, concerts and other events held in the museum.

Educational programmes for visitors of the Livo-nian Order Castle (with prior application)

History of Ventspils Museum Exploring the Museum Together with the Black Piglet Paper Dolls of Ventspils Middle Ages at the Castle Fashion – the mirror of ages (Middle Ages, 17th c.,

19th c.)

LIVONIAN ORDER CASTLE

SEASIDE OPEN-AIR MUSEUM AND MAzBāNīTIS

Address: Riņķa iela 2, Ventspils Telephone: +371 63624467

Working hours: 1 May – 31 October 10:00–18:00 (Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun). Closed (Mon). 1 November – 30 April: the museum may be visited during events or by applying in advance.


The Seaside Open-Air Museum provides the possibility to get acquainted with the former lifestyle of Latvian and Livonian fishermen by viewing a spectacular collec-tion of boats and anchors, as well as his-torical dwelling houses, smokehouses and fishing net shacks. The historical heritage of the museum is enriched by the dwell-ing house "Smiltnieki", the windmill and the Lielirbe Baptist Church, as well as the popular "Mazbānītis" – a narrow-gauge steam train with carriages, taking visitors on rides along the 1.4 km long route of the Seaside Park, as well as along the new rail-way line up to the Adventure Park.

Every year, annual festivities are celebrated according to old traditions and thematic events are organised at the museum.

Educational programmes for visitors of the Seaside Open-Air Museum (with prior application):

I Will Be a Friend to the Museum Candle Making Lost and Found at the Museum Weights and Measures Dyeing Yarn Butter Churning The Way to Make Bread

LIVINghIsTORy

The largest collection of anchors in the Baltic states – more than 140 types of anchors, which are among the largest in the world

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The House of Crafts is located in the old-est school building of the Duchy of Courland, which was built in the 18th c. and has now been renovated and turned into a mod-ern object of culture and tourism. Visitors may view a classroom that has been arranged in the style of the 19th c. By applying in advance, one may take part in a class organised according to the traditions of the 19th century. The House of Crafts also houses the gift shop "Ventiņpūrlād".

The museum, hosting an exhibition on the life and creative endeavours of writer, translator, pedagogue and researcher of local history H. Dorbe, provides information on the writers and cultural workers of Ventspils and the region, as well as the history of local schools.

The Market Square and the Town Hall Square may be considered the centre of the Old Town, which the locals have always considered to be the heart of the city, storing evidence of the centuries the city has lived through without ceasing to surprise visitors with the presence of bold and modern architecture. The Town Hall Square is enclosed by the St. Nicholas Evangelical Lutheran Church, International Writers’ and Translators’ House, Ventspils Main Library with the Children’s Library, as well as the Digital Centre.Those visiting the renovated Market Square are greeted by the ringing of the carillon bells of the clock tower every hour.

Ostgals is a peculiar romantic area with quiet cobblestone streets and charming wooden buildings from the 19th c., which were con-structed in order to protect the city from be-ing covered with sand from the dunes. Ostgals has been acknowledged as an urban planning monument of national significance.

OLD TOWN

HOUSE OF CRAFTS

International Writers’ and Translators’ House Address: Annas iela 13, Ventspils

Telephone: +371 63623595 Working hours: 9:00–17:00 (Mon, Tue, Wed,

Thu, Fri). Closed (Sat, Sun). www.ventspilshouse.lv Starptautiskā Rakstnieku un tulkotāju māja

Main and Children’s Library Address: Akmeņu iela 2, Ventspils

Telephone: +371 63623598 Working hours: 11:00–19:00 (Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri),

10:00–16:00 (Sat). Closed (Sundays and the last Thursday of every month).

www.biblioteka.ventspils.lv @vent_biblioteka Ventspils bibliotēka Ventspils bibliotēka

Address: Skolas iela 3, Ventspils Telephone: +371 63620174

Working hours: 10:00–18:00 (Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat). Closed (Sun, Mon).


Address: Ērgļu iela 1, Ventspils Telephone: +371 63625004

Working hours: 11:00–17:00 (Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri). Closed (Sat, Sun).


OSTgALS

Ventspils Market Address: Pils iela 14, Ventspils

Telephone: +371 63622532 Working hours: 8.00–15.00 (every day).

Educational programmes for visitors of the House of Crafts:

My First Visit to a Museum To the Old School Before School Old School Paper Smoothie Pottery Legend of the Golden Brooch

LIVINghIsTORy

MEMORIAL MUSEUM OF HERBERTS DORBE "THE DUST OF ANCESTORS"

Prior application required for the educational programmes of the museum

Twice a day – at 12:33:44 and at 00:33:44 – the bell rings the astronomical time of Ventspils

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When visiting Ventspils with your children, you will be able to appreciate more than 30 mind-expanding and attractive children’s playgrounds (36) that are located throughout the whole city and have benches set up next to them for the convenience of the parents.

The most nimble and active visitors may head on to conquer the 12 rope and wire attractions of different levels of complex-ity available at the Forest Trail of the Pār-venta Forest Park, situated next to the Chil-dren’s Park "Fantasy".

The Children’s Town and Children’s Park "Fantasy" are not only popular among the local kids, but all children of Latvia. Owing to the vast range of playground attrac-tions, the youngest visitors will always find something adventurous to do. Every Sunday, special events with songs, dances, games and fairytale characters are organ-ised at the Children’s Town and Children’s Park "Fantasy". Entrance fee: smile and joy.

During the period from May to October, one may view the city from the side of the wa-ter by enjoying a 45-minute trip on the boat "Hercogs Jēkabs", taking its passengers up to the sea gate. While on the trip on the estuary of the River Venta, you will be able to see Ostas Street Promenade, the Livonian Order Castle, the only drawbridge in Latvia, as well as the industrial area of the Freeport of Ventspils.

Mooring of the excursion boat "Hercogs Jēkabs" Junction of Tirgus Street and Ostas Street

Telephone for information and booking: +371 26353344, 63622586, 63602333

After organising two Cow Parade art and pat-ronage projects in 2002 and 2012, there are now smaller and larger extravagantly dressed cows standing on the beautiful cobblestones of the city. The unusual herd is currently formed of 27 cow sculptures of various sizes and colours, having become a well-known adornment of the city and available for viewing throughout the whole year.

CHILDREN’S PLAYgROUNDS

PāRVENTA FOREST TRAIL

CHILDREN’S TOWN AND CHILDREN’S PARk "FANTASY"

COW PARADE

ExCURSION BOAT "HERCOgS JēkABS"

Children’s Town Address: Junction of Lielais prospekts

and J. Poruka Street Working hours:

1 April–30 September 7:00–22:00; 1 October–31 March 7:00–20:00. The park may be visited free of charge.

Children’s Park "Fantasy" Address: Junction of Talsu Street

and Celtnieku Street Working hours:

1 April–31 October 8:00–22:00; 1 November–31 March 8:00–20:00. The park may be visited free of charge.

A CITy fRIeNDLy fOR fAmILIes AND ChILDReN

Events for children every Sunday throughout the whole year

at the Children’s Townat 12:00at the Children’s Park "Fantasy" at 15:00

EVENTS FOR CHILDREN

The Cow Parade is one of the largest public art events in the world

Ventspils – the first city in all of Eastern Europe to host the Cow Parade

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The Adventure Park is a popular recreation and sports complex among locals, as well as visitors of the city. This is a place for the whole family to relax and have fun, as there is a vast number of attractions and even the youngest ones will be able to have an unforgettable adventure.

The artificially made ski hill starts working in the winter, bringing joy to skiers and snow-boarders who have the possibility to use a specially created snow-park with jumps and a ski slope. Joyful moments are also provided by the tube-sliding track and children’s hill for fun rides on sleds.

ADVENTURE PARk SkI HILL "LEMBERg’S TRILBY"

Summer activities: Bumper cars and bumper boats Jump boat Children’s driving school Trampolines and catapult Toy house and inflatable attractions Wake-park and paintball Tube-sliding and the crazy rotor Rope courses on trees, etc.

Winter activities Ski slopes with lights Snow-park with jumps slides and rails Tube-sliding track Children’s hill and sled track Equipment rental and maintenance

Address: Saules iela 141, Ventspils Telephone: +371 28611333

Working hours: in May, September, and October 15:00–20:00 (Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri), 12:00–20:00 (Sat, Sun and holidays); June, July, and August: 11:00–22:00 (every day).

www.piedzivojumuparks.lv @PiedzParks Piedzīvojumu Parks Piedzivojumu_Parks

Address: Saules iela 141, Ventspils Telephone: +371 28611333

Working hours: 15:00–22:00 (Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu), 15:00–23:00 (Fri), 11:00–23:00 (Sat), 11:00–21:00 (Sun).

www.lembergahute.lv @Lembergahute LembergaHūte/PiedzīvojumuParks

The first artificially made hill in Latvia with a 240 m long slope

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ACTIVeReCReATION

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For 20 years, the sports life of Ventspils has been taken care of by one of the largest and most modern sports complexes in Latvia – the Olympic Centre "Ventspils", which provides quality possibilities for youths dur-ing their spare time, as well as suitable infra-structure for professional athletes.

The central sports complex includes a bas-ketball hall and an ice-skating rink, a track and field arena, stadium, football fields, as well as a large street gymnastics area.Sports hall "Centrs" has a modern shoot-ing-range where shooting may also be tried out by beginners, as well as the largest out-door climbing wall in the Baltics. Sports hall "Pārventa" ensures perfect conditions for the development of futsal, and there is also a football stadium next to the hall, whereas indoors there is a climbing wall, as well as a new gym with an area of 285 m2 and mod-ern equipment, ensuring a quality training process. A football stadium corresponding with international standards has also been created on Katoļu Street.

The extensive offer of sporting possibilit-ies is complemented by the rowing centre "Dampeļi", as well as the recently opened Ventspils Beach Volleyball Stadium and several beach volleyball courts all around the city.

Ventspils has created a diverse and modern infrastructure for those doing extreme sports, in order for it to be possible to spend one’s spare time in a useful manner. The summer skate park makes it possible for everyone to train and learn tricks in inline skating, freestyle BMX and skateboarding, as well as provides the opportunity to organise events. Ventspils Adventure Park includes a BMx track and a wake-park, where no one will be bored.Owing to the suitable infrastructure, the city hosts the international street culture and sports festival "ghetto games".

In order to promote sports and healthy liv-ing, Ventspils hosts various large-scale sports events, with the locals and guests of the city actively taking part in them. The most popular traditional sports events are the opening of the tourism and cycling season, the Nordic Walking Festival and the Adventure Park Half Marathon, as well as many more. In ad-dition to the possibility to do sports at various distances, the participants, as well as the view-ers of the largest events, are offered a broad culture and entertainment programme for the whole family.

OLYMPIC CENTRE "VENTSPILS"

SPORTS COMPLExES

ExTREME SPORTS

SPORTS EVENTS IN VENTSPILS

Address: Sporta iela 7/9, Ventspils Telephone: +371 63622587

www.ocventspils.lv @OC_Ventspils ocventspils ocventspils ocventspils

Sports hall "Centrs" Brīvības iela 14, Ventspils. Telephone: +371 27817093

Sports hall "Pārventa" Tārgales iela 5b, Ventspils. Telephone: +371 20606555

Rowing centre "Dampeļi" Virves iela 59, Ventspils. Telephone: +371 29216405

Ventspils Beach Volleyball Stadium Blue Flag Beach of Ventspils

www.ocventspils.lv

Every year during the "ghetto games" festival, Ventspils becomes the Latvian capital of extreme sports

Summer skate park Address: Sporta iela 5, Ventspils

The park may be visited free of charge.

One of the highest quality BMx tracks in Latvia

NEW

NEW

ACTIVeReCReATION

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Eternal summer, joy and well-being reign over the Water Amusement Park, which is rich in various recreation possibilities for adults, as well as children. Lovers of recreation may head over to the section of water attractions with two slides, the Mountain River and playground equipment at the children’s pool, whereas the SPA complex may be used for relaxing in vari-ous saunas and the salt room, as well as dif-ferent water procedures with soothing music playing in the background.

The Beach Water Park is among the most pop-ular rest areas in the city on the hottest, as well as cooler days of the summer – while here, one may not only have fun on various water attrac-tions, but also get a beautiful and natural tan, as well as listen to the sea roar.

For those wishing to lead a healthy lifestyle, the sports complexes of the Olympic Centre "Ventspils" offer well-equipped gyms and aerobics halls, as well as swimming pools. Open door days are organised every year in order for those interested in getting ac-quainted with the sporting possibilities. To take care of the well-being and health of the locals, as well as the guests of the city, out-door fitness equipment has been set up in several places (12) all over town.The North Kurzeme Regional Hospital and Ventspils Outpatient Clinic provide quality medical services.There are also plans for developing SPA medicine in Ventspils by taking advantage of the close proximity of the sea.

WATER AMUSEMENT PARk

HEALTHY LIFESTYLE AND MEDICINE

Address: Lauku iela 5, Ventspils Telephone: +371 25636777, 63623974

Working hours: 12:00–22:00 (Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri), 10:00–22:00 (Sat), Sun 10:00–19:00 (Sun).

www.udensparks.lv

Address: Medņu iela 19, Ventspils Telephone: +371 26429684

Working hours: June–August 10:00–21:00 (every day). www.pludmalesakvaparks.lv

Sports complex of the Water Adventure Park Address: Lauku iela 5, Ventspils

Telephone: +371 63623974, 26360777 Working hours:

gym, large and small swimming pool 6:45–21:00 (Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri), 9:00–19:00 (Sat, Sun).

gym of the Olympic Centre "Ventspils" Address: Sporta iela 7/9, Ventspils

Telephone: +371 63622061 Working hours: 10:00–21:00 (Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri), 10:00–16:00 (Sat, Sun).

Ventspils Outpatient Clinic Address: Raiņa iela 6, Ventspils

Telephone: +371 63622131 www.ventspilspoliklinika.lv

North kurzeme Regional Hospital Address: Inženieru iela 60, Ventspils

Telephone: +371 63624665 www.ziemelkurzemesslimnica.lv @Zkurzemes_slimn SIA "Ziemeļkurzemes reģionālā slimnīca"

BEACH WATER PARk

heALTh AND weLL-BeINg

3 pools, slides, saunas and bubble-baths. Attractions suitable for babies

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The white sand seashore, sunbathing in the dunes and the possibility to go for a swim in the Baltic Sea – these are the reasons to spend time on the beach of Ventspils. There are summer cafes, playgrounds and out-door fitness equipment, as well as wooden plank-ways that are used by vacationers and surfers for getting to the sea. The Blue Flag certificate serves as an indication of conformity with international quality standards.

10 km north of Ventspils is Staldzene – an old fishing village, where a few 19th c. fish-erman’s homes have been preserved. Here, fishermen still head into sea and on calm evenings it quite often smells of smoked flounder. Staldzene is a popular place for walking and swimming among locals, as well as visitors, and it has an impressive seashore cliff.

The cycling paths of Ventspils span for more than 50 kilometres in length, connecting all of the most beautiful places of the city. Easily accessible bicycle stands of interest-ing shapes have been installed at the fa-vourite rest areas of cyclists, and there are also two public bicycle pumps available at two locations in Ventspils – on Ostas Street Promenade and next to Pārventa Library.

Only a few kilometres outside of Ventspils is Lake Būšnieki, which has become popular among families, fishermen, as well as those doing water sports. There is a well-main-tained swimming area and picnic spots, it is possible to rent a boat at the boat base, and there are also plank-ways installed for the convenience of surfers. There is an easily ac-cessible cycling route next to the lake.

BLUE FLAg BEACH

SOUTHERN PIER PROMENADE

STEEP COASTLINE OF STALDzENE

CYCLINg ROUTES

LAkE BūšNIEkI

The Southern Pier Promenade is a place for enjoying romantic walks, as well as viewing beautiful sunsets, the crashing waves of the sea and ships coming into port. A beau-tiful view of the city and the sea may be seen from the 19 m high observation tower equipped with a spyglass. Here one may also see the four metre high "Sailor Cow" sculpture, the fishing boat "Azova", as well as the large "Chair", which is made out of links of anchor chains.

Boat Base of Lake Būšnieki Address: Staldzenes iela 70, Ventspils

Telephone: +371 22000509 Working hours:

1 May–31 July 5:00–22:00 (every day); 1 August–30 September 5:00–21:00 (every day).

heALTh AND weLL-BeINg

A walking and cycling path is being formed all around Lake Būšnieki

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It is not for nothing that Ventspils is called the flower capital of Latvia, as thousands of flowers bloom in the city every spring. Particularly dazzling tones of flowers are brought into the city by various original flower sculptures – the Duck Family in the Children’s Town, Underwater World next to the Beach Water Park, Hare Fam-ily next to the Adventure Park, the Ladybirds on Ostas Street Promenade and the Ladybird Fam-ily on a Daisy in Pārventa, the Bobsleigh Team in Jaunpilsētas Square, the Basketball next to the Olympic Centre "Ventspils", as well as the Flower Cow in Sarkanmuiža Meadow. The cor-rect time may be checked on the Flower Clock, located in the centre of the city.

During the summer season, the central venue for cultural events in Ventspils is Reņķa Garden, where open-air dances, summer concerts and festivals are organised regularly. While out on a leisurely walk, it is possible to view amusing sculptures of fairytale characters and pets, and relax at the nearby pond where duck families scurry around the sparkling fountain. This place is not only popular among new mothers and other lovers of walks, but also among adherents of recreation who use the convenient pathways for running, Nordic walking and cycling or exer-cise on the outdoor fitness equipment.

Ventspils gets special appeal from its nine dif-ferent sparkling fountains, which are not just simple fountains, but also pieces of art that are worth seeing – the Ship Watcher on Ostas Street Promenade, Sun Boats in Jaunpilsētas Square, Millstone in Dzirnavu Square, Dune Pine next to Pārventa Library, Drops next to Ventspils University College, Vidumupīte Foun-tain, fountain in the pond of Reņķa garden, the colourful fountain of the Adventure Park and the unique Frigate "Whale" fountain, which adorns Lielais Square.

The Deer Park of Ventspils offers the possibility to view red deer and fallow-deer in their nat-ural habitat from a 6.5 m high observation tower, whereas the manager of the Deer Park will tell you about the daily lives and habits of the forest animals.

Lielais Square is the place where local residents traditionally welcome the New Year, gather for celebrations and spend time taking leisurely strolls. Here, a home has been found for the unique, international award-winning Frigate "Whale" fountain. The fountain has been de-signed according to the shape of the sailing ship of Duke Jacob’s fleet, which had an impressive amount of masts (20) and yards (8).

In 2019, the new building of the Secondary Music School of Ventspils, which will also be able to host concerts, will open its doors in Lielais Square.

On sunny days, a rainbow appears on the small water drops of the fountain

FLOWER SCULPTURES

REņķA gARDEN

FOUNTAINS

DEER PARk

LIELAIS SqUARE AND THE FRIgATE "WHALE" FOUNTAIN

Address: Talsu iela 240, Ventspils Telephone: +371 29102584

Working hours: 1 May – 30 September 10:00–16:00 (Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun). Closed (Mon) 1 October – 30 April 10:00–16:00 (Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun). Closed (Mon, Tue)

www.vlk.lv

Ventspilslabiekārtošanas kombināts

It is possible to have leisurely walks or bicycle rides among the countless gigantic anchors of the Seaside Park. The youngest visitors will en-joy the wooden playground towers, whereas the most active ones will be delighted by the Jungle Trail with plank-ways, bridges and ropes on trees, as well as the outdoor fitness equipment.

SEASIDE PARk

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NATUReTOURIsm

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The Creative Centre offers the sight of breath-taking planetarium star shows and 360-degree films on nature, the Uni-verse and planets, while the observatory enables you to see the Sun, planets, binary stars and nebulae through a high-quality telescope. On working days, never-end-ing bustle may be felt here, as the Creative Centre offers a wide range of educational programmes, thus gathering local children and youth of various ages.

The Kurzeme DemoCentre offers an excit-ing and insightful adventure by letting you discover the world of technology and providing information about the causes and consequences of climate change, as well as possible solutions.During the excursion, visitors are invited to participate in a car race, save the world with the power of one’s mind, step into the shoes of a public servant and reduce CO2 pollution.

The main line of activity of Ventspils Univer-sity College is related to the realisation of sci-entific research, as well as academic and pro-fessional study programmes. A large role in the daily work of the institution is played by the Ventspils International Radio Astro-nomy Centre with its scientific complex in Irbene, where one may go an exciting tour in the company of a guide and view radio tele-scopes with a diameter of 32 and 16 metres, visit the underground tunnel and even climb the tower of the radio telescope to enjoy a magnificent view of the surroundings.

Here, residents of Ventspils and visitors of the city may use computers and the inter-net, as well as receive office services (copy-ing, scanning etc.). The Digital Centre trains adults in using various software and offers students diverse technology-related hobby groups – in robotics, digital domestic sci-ence, drone school etc.

CREATIVE HOUSE OF VENTSPILS WITH PLANETARIUM AND OBSERVATORY

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOgY MUSEUM "kURzEME DEMOCENTRE"

VENTSPILS UNIVERSITY COLLEgE AND SCIENCE

VENTSPILS DIgITAL CENTRE

Address: Inženieru iela 101, Ventspils Telephone: +371 63628303, 63629657

www.venta.lv @VpilsAugstskola Ventspils Augstskola Ventspils Augstskola ventspils_augstskola

Address: Akmeņu iela 3, Ventspils Telephone: +371 63607607

www.digitalaiscentrs.lv @VDCentrs VDCentrs VDCentrs VDCentrs

Address: Maiznieku iela 11, Ventspils Telephone: +371 63622805

www.jaunradesnams.lv @Jaunrades_nams Ventspils Jaunrades nams Ventspils Jaunrades nams

Address: Ventspils Augsto tehnoloģiju parks 1, Ventspils Telephone: +371 63630435 (Kurzeme DemoCentre), +371 63664910 (Creative workshops)

Working hours: 9.00–18.00 (Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat). Creative workshops are available with prior booking.

www.kurzemesdemocentrs.lv www.aspired.lv

CReATIVeINDUsTRIes

Ventspils International Radio Astronomy Centre Address: Ventspils Municipality, Ance Parish, Irbene

Phone for booking tours: +371 29230818 Visits with prior booking.

www.virac.eu

The Ventspils antenna is the eighth largest in the world

The 32-metre rotatable parabolic antenna RT-32 is the largest in Northern Europe

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JULY14.07. Sea Festival in Ventspils

20.07.–22.07. Gathering of bikers from the Baltic Sea region countries "Kurland Bike Meet 2018"

27.07.–29.07. International street culture and sports festival "Ghetto Games"

28.07. Sand Sculpture Festival "Golden Grain of Sand 2018"

29.07. Childhood Festival at the Culture Centre of Ventspils

AUgUST3.08.–5.08. Ventspils City Festival – 728

4.08. Stage of the Latvian Strongman Championship

9.08.–12.08. Ukrainian Culture Days

11.08. Latvian Nordic Walking Festival

13.08–18.08. Modern Rhythm Music Festival and Master Class "Ventspils Groove 2018"

24.08. Friday walk "Come out into the Evening Light"

25.08. Ancient Night of Bonfires on Staldzene Beach

SEPTEMBER2.09. Day of the parishes of Ventspils region at the Seaside

Open-Air Museum

7.09.–9.09. Oktoberfest

16.09.–14.10. Russian Culture Days in Ventspils

OCTOBER28.10. Folklore Festival dedicated to K. Barons at the Culture

Centre of Ventspils

28.10. Porridge Day at the Seaside Open-Air Museum

NOVEMBER11.11. Lāčplēsis Day

18.11. 100th Anniversary of the Proclamation of the Republic of Latvia, fireworks at Tilta Garden

18.11. National holiday concert at Theatre House "Jūras Vārti"

DECEMBER1.12. Ceremonial lighting of the city’s Christmas tree in Town

Hall Square

2.12. Lighting of the Christmas tree in Children’s Town and Children’s Park "Fantasy"

8.12. Nikolai’s Day at the Livonian Order Castle

21.12. Traditional Latvian Winter solstice celebration "Bluķa vakars" in Dzirnavu Square

25.12. Mazbānītis Festival in the Seaside Open-Air Museum

31.12. New Year’s Eve Run

Address: Karlīnes iela 40, Ventspils Telephone: +371 63624271

www.jurasvarti.lv @jurasvarti Teātra nams JŪRAS VĀRTI

Address: Kuldīgas iela 18, Ventspils Telephone: +371 63624796

www.kulturascentrs.ventspils.lv @VentspilsKC Ventspils Kultūras centrs Ventspils pilsētas domes Kultūras centrs

Address: Tārgales iela 4, Ventspils. Telephone: +371 63680073

Working hours: 11:00–19:00 (Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri), 10:00–16:00 (Sat). Closed (on Sundays and the last Thursday of every month).

www.biblioteka.ventspils.lv @vent_biblioteka Ventspils bibliotēka Ventspils bibliotēka

The Theatre House "Jūras Vārti" is an inter-nationally competitive cultural centre of regional significance, offering its visitors professional stage art of various genres – productions of theatre, opera and ballet, concerts of classical, popular, experimental and folk music and other genres, as well as visual and modern media art exhibitions.

Pārventa Library has become a popular place to visit among locals, as well as vis-itors of the city. Those who are interested have access to departments of books for children and adults, places to work on the computer and access the internet, as well as spacious areas for reading the newest peri-odical publications. The library also hosts various educational and cultural events.

The Culture Centre is a multifunctional mod-ern institution, where visitors may enjoy theatre, concerts, balls and other them-atic events. Its main objective is to take care of the cultural life of the city by ensur-ing local residents and visitors of the city a diverse, creative and extensive selection of events. The Centre offers the possibility to visit and organise seminars, lectures and conferences.

THEATRE HOUSE "JūRAS VāRTI"

LARgEST EVENTS IN VENTSPILS IN 2018

PāRVENTA LIBRARY

CULTURE CENTRE

JANUARY12.01., 13.01. Slavic celebration "Svyatki"

26.01., 27.01. International Bards Festival "Day of Tatiana"

27.01. Award ceremony of the Latvian Digital Music Top 100 "DIGITOP 100"

FEBRUARY4.02. Huskies pull Meteņi into the Seaside Open-Air Museum

10.02. Winter Tournament "Holy Valentine". Battles of knights, workshops at the Livonian Order Castle

18.02. Maslenitsa Celebration at the Seaside Open-Air Museum

MARCH3.03. Day of Princesses and Pirates at the Livonian Order

Castle

17.03. Small Singing Festival at the Culture Centre of Ventspils

23.03.–25.03. Final of the European Short Track Speed Skating Cup

APRIL1.04. Easter at the Seaside Open-Air Museum

21.04. Festival of waking-up the fountains

MAY12.05. Opening of the Ventspils summer tourism and cycling

season at Ventspils Adventure Park

19.05. Pārventa Festival

19.05. Museum Night

20.05. Wedding Meet-Up at the Seaside Open-Air Museum

25.05. Friday evening walk "Come out into the Evening Light"

27.05. Children’s Festival

JUNE2.06. Blue Flag Raising Ceremony at Ventspils Beach

9.06. Knight tournament "Lilium Vindaviensis 2018" and the II Medieval Music Festival at the Livonian Order Castle

16.06., 17.06. Ventspils Adventure Park Marathon

22.06. Day of Herbs in Dzirnavu Square

23.06. Līgo evening, Midsummer’s night open-air dance in Reņķa Garden

29.06.–01.07. Belarusian Culture Days "From Midsummer’s Day to Kupala"

CULTURe AND eNTeRTAINmeNT

Spectacular culture and entertainment events every weekend throughout the whole tourism season

24 25

Ventspils Municipality is rich in rivers and lakes suitable for boat trips during the spring, sum-mer and autumn. Many of the rivers are also suitable for family boat trips with children.

MOST POPULAR ROUTES: Engure – Rinda – Irbe – the river mouth – 97 km Rinda – Irbe – the river mouth – 66 km Stende – Irbe – the river mouth – 45 km Irbe – 38 km Užava – 32 km Rīva – 18 km

Jūrkalne Seashore Bluffs – a picturesque seashore with impressive bluffs up to 20 metres high. On 21 June, the largest Sum-mer Solstice celebration in Latvia takes place in Ugunspļava Meadow, and this year it will be joined by participants of the Inter-national Folklore Festival "Baltica 2018".www.jurkalne.lv

Lake Usma – a popular place for recreation, fishing and sailing with the only inland wa-ter yacht harbour in Latvia. Yacht rides: +371 29353241, 26334500; www.usmasezers.lv

Pope Manor ensemble and surroundings – the property once owned by Baron von Behr holds a school, whereas the open-air stage of Pope will host the third Festival "Gate", or-ganised according to the theme of the book "Dullais Dauka", from 20 to 22 July. In Decem-ber, visitors of the manor are welcomed by Santa Claus and workshops of elves.Telephone: +371 20274030www.dziesminiekuvarti.lv

Užava lighthouse – one of the most beau-tiful lighthouses of Latvia (1879), open to visitors. Telephone: +371 28341836

Oviši lighthouse – the oldest navigation building in Latvia, hosting an exhibition on the history of lighthouses. On 21 July, the acoustic concert of Oviši, organised by singer Ēriks Loks with his friends, will take place here. Telephone: +371 26264616

Miķeļtornis lighthouse (1884) – the highest lighthouse in the Baltic states (62 m). The tower has tilted ever so slightly over time. Currently not available for inside visits.

Ance Manor – the renovated manor, built by Baron von Behr in the 18th c., provides the possibility to cook the traditional Sklandrausis dish and get acquainted with the work of the craftsmen group "Paukers". Telephone: +371 26307029

Ugāle Lutheran Church – famous for having the oldest organ in Latvia (1697–1701). This is the home of the only organ workshop in Latvia, where barrel-organs are also produced. Telephone: +371 29120601

Piltene – once the main city of the Bishopric of Courland and the residence of the bishop. Local history exhibition. Telephone: +371 26566315

zlēkas Church – called a cathedral due to its pompous interior, designed in a Mannerism style. Telephone: +371 26257521

zūras regional history exhibition – a story on a unique exhibit – sugarloaf moulding form of the first sugar refinery of Latvia, spirit distillery, relation of the family of playwright Gunārs Priede to Count Gustav von Lambsdorff and ink-pot.Telephone: +371 22002942

Ventspils Municipality is crossed by the cyc-ling routes EuroVelo 10 "Baltic Sea Cycle Route" and EuroVelo 13 "Iron Curtain Trail".Both EuroVelo routes go along the seashore of the Baltic Sea, making it possible to get acquain-ted with former USSR territories, as well as the military radio telescope in Irbene.

Cycling route of the River VentaVentspils – Piltene – Zlēkas – Ventava – Zūras – Vārve – VentspilsTotal length of 95 km (10 km of gravel roads, 85 km of asphalt and city streets)

Around Lake UsmaUsma – Amjūdze – Āpciems – UsmaTotal length of 55 km (10 km of asphalt, 13 km of gravel roads, 32 km of forest and country roads)

"DabaLaba" – boat rental, archery, soup made on a bonfire and other recreational possibilities.

Address: "Krastiņi" Ance, Telephone: +371 26844295, 26826839

Information on cycling routes and boat rental may be found at www.visitventspils.com. Ask for maps and brochures at Ventspils Tourism Information Centre.

BOATINg IN VENTSPILS MUNICIPALITY

TREASURES OF LATVIAN LANDSCAPE

CYCLINg ROUTES

NEW

LIgHTHOUSES

CULTURAL HISTORY

Museum of Storms at the Folk House of Jūrkalne – the only exhibition in Latvia about the victims of the Baltic Sea, which includes old items found washed up on the beach or re-trieved from the depths of the sea. It has been designed as an improvised sunken sailing ship, where the accent has been placed on the le-gend of Jūrkalne and ship wrecks. The exhibi-tion room has an atmosphere similar to that of the depths of the sea, allowing visitors to "dive" in and look into a "sunken wreck".Telephone: +371 26261884, www.jurkalne.lv

VeNTsPILsmUNICIPALITy

The best in kurzeme – recipient of the "Lielais Jēkabs 2017" award

26 27

Information: www.visitventspils.com (Event calendar)

Information on tasting events of delicious, healthy and natural products (home wine, cheese, smoked meat and fish, bread, honey) made in Ventspils, as well as artisan handicrafts and the possibilities of getting to know how they are made is available at www.visitventspils.com

If you wish to enjoy the goods of the countryside, you have to call the hosts in advance. www.ventspilsnovads.lv

Tasting of "Užavas" beer, Telephone: +371 29219145

EVENTS, CRAFTS AND TASTINGS 2018

Holiday home and camping "Podnieki" sauna

Address: Robežu iela 185, VentspilsTelephone: +371 26330216 (LV, RU), 29150434 (ENG, DE)E-mail: [email protected]

15 25 5 40

TOURISM SERVICESACCOMMODATION IN VENTSPILS

MUNICIPALITY

Guesthouse and camping "Ventaskrasti"Address: Ventaskrasti, Ziru pagasts, Ventspils novads Telephone: +371 29616644E-mail: [email protected]: viesu nams VentaskrastiInstagram: ventaskrasti

100 100

"Camping Jēņi"Address: "Rundāles", Tārgales pagasts, Ventspils novadsTelephone: +371 26382706, 29152971E-mail: [email protected] hours: 00–24

50 100 25

Guesthouse and Camping "Raganas slota"

Address: "Doniņi", Vārves pagasts, Ventspils novads Telephone: +371 29255061, 29444510E-mail: [email protected]: Raganas slota

80 50 20 80

USMA SPA Hotel and CampingAddress: "Priežkalni", Usmas pagasts, Ventspils novads Telephone: +371 26334500E-mail: [email protected] Facebook, Twitter: Usma SPA Draugiem.lv: SPA Usma

89 30 30 50 60

Guesthouse – tavern "Zaķu krogs"

Address: "Jaunarāji", Jūrkalne, Ventspils novadsTelephone: +371 26133995E-mail: [email protected]: zakukrogs.wordpress.comFacebook: zkjurkalneInstagram: zaku_krogs_jurkalne

45 50 45

Children’s playground

Sauna

Bathing place

Boat rent

Fishing

Animals allowed

Credit cards accepted

Internet

Car park

Suitable for people with special needs

Pay with vents

Number of beds

Number of tent places

Number of trailer places

WC, showe

Number of places (for catering companies)

Catering

Conference rooms

Sports field

LEGEND

30

30

30

30

30

WWW.VENTVELO.LV

RINDAS IELA 44VENTSPILS

[email protected]+371 27583888

TRIX RENTAL"Seaside Camping"

Ventspils

Vasarnīcu iela 56T. +371 29262976, 22008805

Escape room "Jūras vilka ligzda"

Address: Medņu iela 40, VentspilsTelephone: +371 244 05 490 E-mail: [email protected]: escape.danar.lvFacebook: escape.danar

ESCAPE ROOM

MAY5.05. Museum Night "Time" in Vārve and Piltene19.05. Tourism season opening in Jūrkalne

JUNE21.06. Regional Summer Solstice Festival and the closing

event of the Folklore Festival "Baltica 2018" in Jūrkalne

30.06. Cycling event "Nights of Nightingales" in Zlēkas JULY

7.07. Ziras Parish Festival14.07. Ugāle Parish Festival21.07. Piltene Town Festival20.–22.07. Third Dullais Dauka festival "Vārti (Gate)" in Pope21.07. Oviši acoustic concert in the Oviši lighthouse27., 28.07. Užava Parish Festival28.07. Vārve Parish Festival28.07. Tārgale Parish Festival28.07. Ance Parish Festival

AUGUST4.08. Mauritz’s Festival in Usma11.08. Pond Festival in Zlēkas12.08. Herb Days in Jūrkalne11.08. Pope Parish Festival18.08. Puze Parish Festival18.08. Craftsmen Swarm in Ance25.08. Bonfire Night in Vārve, Tārgale, Užava and Jūrkalne

SEPTEMBER2.09. Day of the parishes of Ventspils Municipality at the

Seaside Open-Air Museum15.09. Poetry Days in Ance22.09. Autumn Festival "Apple Ball" in Jūrkalne

OCTOBER6.10. Night of culture and folk houses in all parishes11.10. Memorial event dedicated to opera singer Alīda

Vāne in Tārgale NOVEMBER

18.11. Regional event dedicated to the anniversary of Latvia in Ugāle

24.11. Gathering of Ventspils Municipality amateur theatre companies "Masks Off" in Ugāle DECEMBER

in December Santa Claus’ workshops in Pope Manor

Bread baking, "Bērziņi", Jūrkalne, Telephone: +371 29471655

Mini-zoo in Usma, Telephone: +371 29103871Mini-zoo "Buki" in Vārve, Telephone: +371 25120357

559

561

10 13

Cycling routearound Lake UsmaCycling route of the River Venta

Boating routes

EuroVelo 10 and 13

Largestbicycle rental in Kurzemebooking

bicycle storeMaintenance

VENTSPILS MUNICIPALITY

28 29

Hotel of the Olympic Centre "Ventspils" *** Address: Lielais prospekts 33, Ventspils Telephone: +371 63628032E-mail: [email protected]

154 20

3rd

placein the 2017 Accommodation Contest

Hotel "Jūras brīze"

Address: Vasarnīcu iela 34, Ventspils Telephone: +371 63622524, 29184880E-mail: [email protected]

29

1st


Hotel"Raibie logi" Address: Lielais prospekts 61, Ventspils. Telephone: +371 29142327E-mail: [email protected]: Hotel Raibie logiTwitter: @HotelRaibieLogi

25 20

2nd


Hotel "Dzintarjūra" *** Address: Ganību iela 26, VentspilsTelephone: +371 63622719E-mail: [email protected]

120 40

Hotel "Vilnis" *** Address: Talsu iela 5, VentspilsTelephone: +371 63628606E-mail: [email protected]

93 20

Hotel "kupfernams"

Address: Kārļa iela 5, VentspilsTelephone: +371 63626999E-mail: [email protected]: Kupfernams

14 50 30

guesthouse "zītari" Address: Tirgus iela 11, VentspilsTelephone: +371 25708338E-mail: [email protected]: krogsZitariWorking hours: 00–24

7 25

Seaside Camping Address: Vasarnīcu iela 56, VentspilsTelephone: +371 63627925, 22008805E-mail: [email protected]: Piejūras kempingsWorking hours: 00–24

172 250 70 40

guesthouse "Marbella"

Address: Karlīnes iela 28, VentspilsTelephone: +371 24944477E-mail: [email protected]: Viesu nams MarbellaWorking hours: 00–24

35 25

1st


guesthouse "Veldzes nams" Address: Saules iela 83, VentspilsTelephone: +371 29 26 24 31E-mail: [email protected]: VeldzesNamsInstagram: veldzes_nams

41 50

2nd


guesthouse"zaļie ābolīši" Address: Ābolu iela 24, VentspilsTelephone: +371 28821740E-mail: [email protected]: Guest house "Zaļie ābolīši"Draugiem.lv: Viesu nams "Zaļie ābolīši"

10 25

ACCOMMODATION IN VENTSPILS

guesthouse "Villa Magonīte" Address: Vasarnīcu iela 23, VentspilsTelephone: +371 29437906, 28838183E-mail: [email protected]: Villa Magonīte

46 50

guesthouse "Pie kapteiņa" Address: Kapteiņu iela 8, VentspilsTelephone: +371 29264832E-mail: [email protected]: Viesu nams Pie Kapteiņa

16 30

Guide services in Latvian, English,Russian, and Lithuanian

CATERINg COMPANIESACCOMMODATION IN VENTSPILS

Hotel of Ventspils University CollegeAddress: Inženieru iela 101, VentspilsTelephone: +371 63629202, 20278255E-mail: [email protected]

300 187

1st


Holiday home "Namelis" Address: Piltenes iela 28, Ventspils Telephone: +371 29150063E-mail: [email protected]: Namelis

10

1st


guesthouse "40 Saules" Address: Saules iela 40, VentspilsTelephone: +371 29488533E-mail: [email protected]: 40saules

44

1st


Apartments of Town Square Address: Baznīcas iela 2, VentspilsTelephone: +371 29868170E-mail: [email protected]: Ventspils Rātslaukuma Apartamenti

16

2nd


Apartment hotel "zaļais namiņš" Address: Ganību iela 2-1, VentspilsTelephone: +371 26588752, 26805656E-mail: [email protected]: Zaļais namiņš

7

Apartment for rent in the centre of VentspilsAddress: Ganību iela 18A, VentspilsTelephone: +371 22480722, 26165072E-mail: [email protected]

35 15

Accommodation in private house "Marijas nams"

Address: Kapteiņu iela 18, VentspilsTelephone: +371 28451425E-mail: [email protected] hours: 00–24 over the summer period

18 2

Holiday home "Summer House" Address: Parka iela 8/10, VentspilsTelephone: +371 29412343E-mail: [email protected]

10

Fast service café "Jaunpilsēta" Address: Saules iela 48, VentspilsTelephone: +371 63624222E-mail: [email protected] hours in the summer: 11:00–17:00 (Mon–Sun),in the winter: 11:00–17:00 (Mon–Sun),Closed (Sat, Sun)

WiFi

1st

placein the 2017 Catering Company Contest

Café "Jūras brīze" Address: Vasarnīcu iela 34, VentspilsTelephone: +371 26678316E-mail: [email protected]: Juras BrizeWorking hours: 8–22

22 60

1st


Pastry shop"kārumnieks" Address: Lielā iela 20, VentspilsTelephone: +371 29424860E-mail: [email protected]: ventspilskarumnieks

12

1st


1st

placein the 2017 Catering Company Contest"Baby-Friendly Company"

1st


Cafe in the heart of Ventspils –

in Town Square

Open from

07:30

- Great coffee- Cakes, buns and other goods- Breakfast offer- Lunch offer- Original menu

30

TOURISM SERVICESCATERINg COMPANIES

Ventspils, Platā iela 4 • Tel.: + 371 29872013 • www.vejaroze.webnode.lv

CHINESE RESTAURANT

You are warmly welcomeat our restaurant to try out

the delicious Chinese cuisine!

Café "zītari" Address: Lielais prospekts 33, VentspilsTelephone: +371 26585711Facebook: kafeZitariWorking hours: 7.30–19.00

35 35

80 80

Pizzeria "zītari" Address: Sporta iela 7/9, Ventspils (Ice Hall, 2nd floor)Telephone: +371 68623234Facebook: picerijaZitariWorking hours: 12.00–21.00

Pub "zītari" Address: Tirgus iela 11, VentspilsTelephone: +371 25708337E-mail: [email protected]: krogsZitariWorking hours: 12.00–22.00

50 25

Café "BOLERS"Address: Medņu iela 42b, VentspilsTelephone: +371 26456956E-mail: [email protected]: BolersWorking hours: 11–22

30 100 30

"Sushi Fighter" Address: Lielais prospekts 30, VentspilsTelephone: +371 26715161E-mail: [email protected]: sushifighter.lvWorking hours: 11:00–22:00 (Mon–Thu),11:00–23:00 (Fri, Sat), 11:00–22:00 (Sun)

14

8000 8007Fortūna 2Fortūna 2

+371 636 211 11+371 296 211 11+371 297 211 11

TAXITAXIwww.taxi-ventspils.lv8000 8007

• Souvenirswiththemescharacteristic to Ventspils and Latvia• Needleworkandhandcraftedproducts• Originalartwork• Creationofcraftworktoorder• Variousaccessoriesandsouvenirsforweddings

We are located in the House of Crafts Skolas iela 3, Ventspils. Telephone: +371 28249671; E-mail: [email protected] Facebook: VentiņPūrlādWorking hours: Tuesday – Saturday 10.00–18.00

gIFT SHOP "VENTIņPūRLāD"

Captain ĢIRTS +371 29262976

DEEP SEA FISHING

Address: Robežu iela 7, VentspilsTelephone: +371 63622422E-mail: [email protected] SAFE!

Pils iela 28, Ventspils

+371 22480248

[email protected]

www.kinorio.lv

Salads, soups, main dishes, burgers, desserts

Children’s rooms and attraCtions

Tool-free cal

The vents of Ventspils can be earned and collected by participating in various activities in the virtual embassy of Ventspils www.visitventspils.com in order to get discounts in 54 recreational, sightseeing and entertainment places in Ventspils. The virtual vents can be exchanged for real money of Ventspils in the Bank of Vents at the Tourism Information Centre or in the branch of the Bank of Vents located at the hotel of the Olympic Centre "Ventspils".

Publisher: Ventspils City Council, www.ventspils.lvPrepared by: Ventspils Tourism Information Centre, www.visitventspils.comCartography, design: SIA "Karšu izdevniecība Jāņa sēta", www.kartes.lvTranslation: SIA "Skrivanek Baltic"Printing: SIA "ADverts", www.adverts.lv

Address: Dārzu iela 6, Ventspils, LV-3601 Telephone: +371 63622263, 29232226 E-mail: [email protected] @VisitVentspils @VisitVentspils #visitventspils

BRANCH OF THE BANK OF VENTS Hotel of the Olympic Centre "Ventspils"

Address: Lielais prospekts 33, Ventspils Telephone: +371 63628032

VENTSPILS TOURISM INFORMATION CENTRE AND THE BANK OF VENTS

www.visitventspils.com

Pay with vents

2018 ventspils · creative industries 20–21 culture and entertainment 22–23 ventspils...

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