Welcome to the Santaka – Bezdonys trail, a unique hiking experience near Vilnius that offers a mix of off-road exploration and traditional forest trails. Spanning approximately 22 kilometers, this trail promises an exciting and diverse adventure through breathtaking natural landscapes.
As you begin your journey, the trail starts with a visit to an old train bridge, adding a touch of history to your hike. From there, prepare for an off-road expedition of around 8 kilometers through dense forest areas where no established trails exist. This part of the hike will lead you to conquer nine hills, ancient relics embraced by the overgrowth of the surrounding forest. Keep your eyes peeled, as you may even spot wildlife, such as deer gracefully darting through the distance.
After conquering the hills, the trail leads you to the impressive Revos piliakalnis, an ancient hillfort characterized by its fascinating footpaths that ascend to its peak. Take your time to explore this captivating site before continuing on the trail, covering another 3-4 kilometers until you reach a road. From there, the hike follows a 14-kilometer stretch that passes through noteworthy locations like Skersabaliu karjeras and Arvydu ponds. It’s advisable to contact the owners of Arvydu ponds, as it is private property where hunting and fishing take place.
Finally, the trail concludes at Bezdonys Manor, the last stop on this remarkable journey. Prepare to be immersed in the charm and history of this remarkable place.
Get ready to embark on an adventure that combines off-road exploration, ancient relics, picturesque landscapes, and encounters with wildlife. The Santaka – Bezdonys trail invites you to step out of the ordinary and discover the hidden wonders of this captivating region near Vilnius. Lace up your hiking boots, embrace the call of the wilderness, and let this trail guide you on an unforgettable journey.
Table of Contents
General info:
- Distance: 22km
- Duration: 6-8h
- Difficulty: Medium – Hard
- Starting/Finishing point: Santaka – Bezdonys
- Getting to the start: Train
- Leaving the trail: Train
- Trail map: Get The Map
Getting there
To reach the start of the Santaka – Bezdonys trail, the only mode of transportation available is the train. It is recommended to plan your journey accordingly and catch an early morning train. For the most up-to-date train schedules, you can conveniently check the train times at bilietas.ltglink.lt. Ensuring you have accurate train information will allow you to arrive at the trailhead on time, ready to embark on your adventure through the captivating landscapes that await you along the Santaka – Bezdonys trail.
Leaving the trail
When it’s time to conclude your hike on the Santaka – Bezdonys trail, the only option for departure is by train from Bezdonys. It’s important to plan your timing accordingly, as there is only one train available after lunch, usually around 17:00. Ensure that you arrive at the Bezdonys train station on time to catch your train back to your desired destination. Keeping track of the train schedule will guarantee a smooth and timely departure from Bezdonys, allowing you to reflect on the wonderful memories made during your hiking adventure.
What to expect on the trail
As you venture through this untamed wilderness, prepare to encounter an abundance of wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for glimpses of animals such as deer, foxes, and various bird species, adding an element of fascination and natural beauty to your hike.
It’s important to note that this trail is unique in the sense that part of it it does not have official, established trails. Instead, you’ll find yourself navigating through dense forests, immersing yourself in the raw and untouched nature that surrounds you. Embrace the thrill of exploration as you forge your own path through this captivating landscape.
During your hike, you will come across a water quarry, a picturesque site that offers a tranquil oasis amidst the dense forest. Take a moment to appreciate the serene ambiance and perhaps even cool off with a refreshing dip if conditions allow.
One of the highlights along the Santaka – Bezdonys trail is the presence of ancient hillforts. These historical remnants add a sense of mystery and wonder to your journey. Explore these ancient sites, characterized by their fascinating footpaths and the stories they carry from times long past.
As you venture further into the trail, be prepared to embrace the unexpected and be captivated by the untouched beauty of nature. The Santaka – Bezdonys trail promises a truly immersive experience, where encounters with wildlife, the absence of official trails, dense forests, water quarries, and ancient hillforts combine to create an adventure unlike any other.
What to take with you for the hike
To ensure a safe and enjoyable hike along the Santaka – Bezdonys trail, it’s important to come well-prepared with essential items. Firstly, make sure to bring tick repellent, as the trail takes you through wild and natural environments where ticks may be present. Protect yourself from potential bites by applying tick repellent before starting your hike.
Additionally, it’s crucial to carry an ample supply of water since there are no water sources along the trail to refill your bottles. Stay hydrated throughout your journey by packing enough water to sustain you for the entire hike.
As there are no places to purchase food along the trail, bring your own snacks, packed lunch, and some extra food for the train journey back. Energizing snacks will keep you fueled throughout the hike, and a satisfying lunch will provide the necessary sustenance for your outdoor adventure.
Don’t forget to pack the hiking essentials, including appropriate clothing, sturdy hiking boots, a backpack, and a first aid kit. The trail’s rugged and untamed nature calls for proper gear to ensure your comfort and safety.
Since there are no official trails, having a phone with GPS capabilities is highly recommended. It will help you navigate through the dense forest and stay on track throughout the hike. Remember to fully charge your phone and consider bringing an extra battery or portable charger to ensure you have sufficient power for the duration of your adventure.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Santaka – Bezdonys trail offers a thrilling and immersive hiking experience that takes you deep into the wilderness near Vilnius. This unique trail, characterized by its wildlife encounters, absence of official trails, dense forests, water quarry, and ancient hillforts, promises a journey filled with natural beauty and adventure.
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