Trip to Cēsis and Āraiši!

On May 18, 2025, the “Autism Support Point Rēzekne” organized a trip to Cēsis Medieval Castle, the Holy Spring (Svētavots), the Āraiši Archaeological Settlement, and Āraiši Windmill. On the way, we enjoyed delicious lunches and dinners at the café Pasēdnīca and the bistro Bērzkrogs.

Upon arriving in Cēsis, we had lunch at Pasēdnīca, where we enjoyed our meal before heading out on our adventure… At the medieval castle of Cēsis, we walked with lit candles that illuminated the dark passages and high, narrow stairs, making us feel as if we had truly traveled back in time.

Although we were tired, we continued to the Holy Spring, where we were welcomed by a graceful 99-year-old grandmother who told us about the rituals of the spring and its history. Then we experienced it ourselves—this beautifully maintained, peaceful place. We walked barefoot through the sacred stream and filled our bottles with holy water to take with us.

Feeling relaxed, we headed to the Āraiši lake settlement, where we explored some of the oldest human dwellings. It was incredibly interesting and unusual. We then visited the Āraiši Windmill, where we learned how the mill works, explored it, and enjoyed the beautiful nature—the yellow “carpet” of blooming rapeseed fields. On the way back, we had dinner at the Bērzkrogs bistro.

Heartfelt thanks ❤️ to our sponsors and supporters—CEF Recruitment SIA, our dear driver ❤️ Vasiliy Puķinisķis, who always takes us around, ❤️ the trip organizers Sandra and Edgars Šilinis, ❤️ the parents and children for their endurance and unity—who weren’t afraid of the rain and bravely faced the journey. 💖💖💖🌅