This is one of the most picturesque and the most popular outcrops of red sandstone of the Devonian period, which is situated on both banks of the Amata river and is surrounded by woods and meadows.
The outcrop is divided into two parts; in the Southeast, away from the Amata is a 44m high semicircular precipice, and in the Northwest there is a 19 m high protuberance of cliff which washes against the Amata river. The total length of the precipice is approximately 200m. Slightly below the Zvārtes Rock on the other bank of the Amata, is Miglas (Fog) Rock which is also known as Čūskas (Snake) Rock and measures 25m in height.
A magnificent view opens up fromriver and the top of the rock. There is a convenient staircase to reach these viewpoints. There are a lot of legends about this cliff involving stories of how witches and devils could be found in the area, especially during the winter and summer solstices.
Zvārtes Rock is a natural geological monument, located in the territory of the Gauja National Park.
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Excellent place for recreation
The Zvartes Rock and its neighborhood offer great opportunities for leisure activities to be enjoyed by the whole family, a group of classmates or friends. There are several picnic areas for the convenience of visitors.
Also in the vicinity, one can take a look at Raganu Plavina (The Witches’ Meadow) and the Miglas Rock. From there you can go on a short walk along the Amata River to the Veclaucu Bridge and back.
When boating enthusiasts flock to the Amata during springtime floods, the Zvartes Rock is an excellent vantage point to observe their activities.
Amata Trail
From the Zvartes Rock, one can take shorter or longer hiking trips on the trail along the Amata River from Melturi to where the Amata flows into the Gauja River. The Amata Valley is rich in dolomite and sandstone outcrops, beautiful scenery and diversity of flora and fauna. Except for the Zvartes Rock, other geological formations can only be seen by walking along the Amata Trail from Melturi to the Veclaucu Bridge or taking a boat ride on the river.
Barn of Vielu farmstead
The barn of the Vielu farmstead is a fixture of the landscape around the Zvartes Rock. The legend has it that
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