552. Velotakas Ķemeru nacionālajā parkā – Meža aplis, Šlokenbekas aplis, Lustūžkalna aplis

Ķemeri National Park is renowned for its marshes and mineral-rich sulphuric waters, as well as its shallow coastal lakes abundant with birdlife, moist deciduous forests, ancient pine-covered dunes, fen meadows, and herbaceous bogs. It is home to rare species such as black storks, sea eagles, and lesser spotted eagles. Wolves and lynxes inhabit the dense forests, while otters and beavers thrive in the waters. Additionally, the park's old buildings provide shelter for the incredibly rare bat species, the pond bat.

For recreational purposes, the park has established and marked four cycling routes with colored markings on trees. Three of these routes, "Meža aplis," "Šlokenbekas aplis," and "Lustūžkalna aplis," form a network of cycling trails around Valgums Lake, totaling 45 km in length. There is also a 13 km route called "Zaļās kāpas" near Ķemeri.

Meža aplis (Forest Circle): This route is a perfect choice if you want to enjoy a few hours of tranquil cycling through forest roads without exerting yourself. It covers the following path: Jāņukrogs – Kārniņi – Antiņciema ceļš - Smārde - Jānukrogs. The route spans 17 km and is moderately challenging, marked with a red color in nature.

Šlokenbekas aplis (Šlokenbeka Circle): Cyclists on this route can admire both nature and human-made attractions. The path initially leads through sunny forests along the Slocene River until it reaches Šlokenbeka Manor. The route follows Milzkalne - Kārniņi - Jāņukrogs – Radziņciems– Jāņukrogs - Milzkalne. It covers 14 km and has a moderate difficulty level, marked with a blue color in nature.

Lustūžkalna aplis (Lustūžkalns Circle): This route allows you to explore the most mountainous part of Ķemeri National Park and includes the highest peak in the area, Lustūžkalns. The path follows Ezermalas – Lustūžkalns – Pilkas – Sausupji – Ezermalas, spanning 14 km. It is moderately challenging and marked with an orange color in nature.

Zaļā kāpa (Green Dune): This route takes you from Ķemeri to Lake Kaņieris along the ancient ridge of dunes and past two swamps. The route follows the path: Ķemeru dzelzceļa stacija – Brocēnu iela – Augļu iela – Purvīša iela – Zaļā kāpa – Antiņciems - Ķemeri. It covers a distance of 13 km and has a moderate difficulty level.

These cycling routes offer an excellent opportunity to enjoy the natural and historical treasures of Ķemeri National Park while engaging in a moderately challenging and enriching outdoor activity.