Forest Trails, Gravel Roads, and White Dunes – Inside Toms Skujiņš' Gauja National Park

The Trek–Segafredo rider might compete on asphalt around the globe, but when he's back in Latvia, he swaps carbon wheels for something sturdier. “Most of the park’s best rides are off-road,” he says. “It’s better to ride closer to nature — mountain biking or gravel riding lets you really experience Gauja.” 

From his favorite route along the beach — “you’re in the forest, but you can see the sea” — to races that wind between Valmiera and Cēsis adding: towns, Toms’ connection to the region is evident. He singles out Sigulda as a “must-stop,” both for its scenery and its growing reputation as a cycling town. “The Sigulda Market has some great coffee and bakeries. It’s a solid lunch spot.”  

But it’s the serendipitous moments that he treasures most. “It’s not always about the castles or monuments. Sometimes you just ride, and a lake or a view opens up that stops you in your tracks. That’s Gauja.” 

Professional cyclist and Gauja local Toms Skujiņš has raced on the world’s biggest stages — but when it comes to cycling for joy, adventure, and connection to nature, he returns to his roots in Gauja National Park. Here are his five essential tips for experiencing the park on two wheels: 

1. Bring a Mountain Bike (Even if You're a Roadie) 
“Trust me — it’s more fun. Even if you’re used to a road bike, a mountain bike will let you explore the forest trails without worrying about bumps or terrain. You’ll get more out of it.” 

Enter Gauja suggests: Bike rental offered by Rāmkalni, Sigulda Adventures, Campsite Ozolkalns, Campsite Žagarkalns, Campsite Apaļkalns, Wellness complex Ziedlejas

2. Stop in Sigulda 
“Sigulda adding: town is not just beautiful — it’s got a great market, solid coffee, and a cycling vibe. It’s the heart of the park for a reason.” 

Enter Gauja suggests: Ejoy scenic ride over river Gauja with Sigulda Cable car by Sigulda Adventures and Turbo Zipline by Sigulda Adventure.

3. Camp Under the Stars (If It’s Not Winter) 
“If you can, bring a tent. Spending a night outdoors in the park is special. Just make sure the weather’s on your side.” 

Enter Gauja suggests: Pitch a tent and settle in at these campsites: Ozolkalns, Žagarkalns, Apaļkalns.

4. Use the Train to Start Your Journey 
“The Latvian train network is surprisingly good for cyclists. Start in Riga, hop off in Sigulda or Cēsis, and build your ride from there.” 

5. Don’t Skip the Beach 
“Riding forest trails with glimpses of the sea and white dunes? It’s an experience you won’t find many other places. It’s remote, scenic, and unforgettable.”