The Curonian Spit is a narrow strip of sand stretching 97 kilometers along the Baltic Sea in western Lithuania. According to the legend, the spit was formed a long time ago by Neringa, a girl giant who poured the sandy peninsula into the Baltic Sea to protect the peaceful bay from the stormy sea and create an embankment for fishermen to live. Thus, today the eastern shores of the Curonian Spit are washed by the Curonian Lagoon, while the Baltic Sea washes the western ones.
DAY01:
Early departure to Klaipeda - Lithuanian port city and the third largest city in Lithuania. The short ferry trip from Klaipeda to Smiltyne. Visit of Lithuania Dolphinarium, where you can enjoy the fantastic show of dolphins. Further, drive to Nida. En route stop in Juodkrante – a small fishermen’s village – to visit the Hill of Witches. Lunch. Further, drive with short stops on the way to see the finest sand dunes. Guided tour in Nida. Optional tours to Thomas Mann‘s museum and Fisherman‘s House. Overnight in a hotel.
DAY02:
Breakfast. Departure to Vilnius by the picturesque Panemune road. The road is famous for its castles and manors that can be visited en-route. These buildings were used as opulent residences rather than defensive structures but their impressive towers and strong walls may be deceptive. First, you will visit – the Rennaisance Panemune castle. Dating to 1604 it now houses a museum and you may climb its mighty towers. The castle was restored, but the surrounding park is still providing a nice stroll even after heavy damages done by Soviets. Lunch in the castle. Continue on the road will be Raudone – a castle with a 33,5 m fairy-tale like gothic tower now used as a school. It was originally built in the late 16th century and rebuilt after suffering heavy damage in World War 2. Just a couple of kilometers to Kaunas limits is Raudondvaris with its castle-like red brick manor, built in 16th-17th centuries.