Lake Dzirnavu

Lake Dzirnavu is located at the foot of a medieval fortification called Zilais bastions (Blue Bastion). The water mill operated here from the 17th century until 1937 when the mill building was demolished.

The fountain, which is like a bouquet in the middle of the lake Dzirnavu, is beautifully illuminated in the evenings. Walking paths and observation decks are installed all around the lake.

After your trip to the interesting sites of Valmiera you can rest on the benches and view the sculpture Sundial (Saules pulkstenis) by Matiass Jansons that depicts the passage of time.

In ancient times the lake served a practical purpose — defence of the city. The lake and the Rātsupīte River dam and sluice were intended for raising the water level in case of warfare.

In the 19th century the Rātsupīte River and the lake marked the border between the territories of Valmiera city and Valmiermuiža.

There are many stories of looters hurrying to cross the border because they could not be punished outside the territory of the city.

Nowadays the vicinity of Lake Dzirnavu is a peaceful and beautiful place for leisure and walks particularly suited to families with children because of the nearby playground.

Free of charge

Additional services

• Café Bastions (Bastiona iela 24) and restaurants Rātes vārti and Valmiera Theatre Cafe (Lāčplēša iela 4) are located right next to the lake
• Valmiera Tourism Information Centre (Rīgas iela 10) selling souvenirs of Valmiera is located nearby

For your convenience

• Free car parks: next to St. Simon’s Church of Valmiera (Bruņinieku iela 2), Valmiera Market (Tērbatas iela 6), Valmiera Secondary School No. 5 (Raiņa iela 3) and shopping centre Valleta (Rīgas iela 4)
• Restroom: at Valmiera Tourism Information Centre (Rīgas iela 10), Valmiera Culture Centre (Rīgas iela 10), shopping centre Valleta (Rīgas iela 4), car park of Valmiera Secondary School No. 5 (Raiņa iela 3)
• Accessible to people with disabilities
• Wi-Fi
• Children’s playground