Description of the attraction
The oldest park in Lithuania is the Aukštait National Park, located 100 km north of Vilnius. The park was founded in 1974; its territory is more than 400 square kilometers. Approximately 2% of the park is a strictly protected area, access to it is possible only when accompanied by park employees.
The park is covered with forest, but 15% of the park is occupied by water bodies, namely 126 beautiful lakes and rivers. The most significant lakes are Kretuonas with an area of 8, 29 sq. Km and Tauragnas - 60, 5 sq. Km. The latter is the deepest in the Aukštaisky Park. Lake Baluoshas boasts 7 islands, and one of them has its own small lake, this is such a lake in the lake. The water system of the park is supported by numerous streams flowing from them.
Of the rivers flowing in the park, it is worth noting the Zheimyana River, in the park it occupies 22 km and all the reservoirs of the Aukshtai Park belong to its basin.
Due to the abundance of water bodies, the park is rich in flora and fauna. There are more than 209 bird species in the park, 45 of which are listed in the Red Book of Lithuania, 64 plant species, 59% of plants growing on the territory of Lithuania can be seen in the park, and it occupies only 1% of the country's territory.
However, the lakes and rivers of the park attract not only the inhabitants of the forest, but also tourists. Which is not at all surprising, because there are 35 species of fish in the reservoirs of the park and fishing enthusiasts come to this beautiful place with pleasure. Thanks to the administration of the park, vacationers can rent boats, kayaks, fishing rods. Also, if you agree with the administration in advance, you can stay for the night in the reserve.
The most favorite place for all visitors to the park is Ladakalnis Hill, which offers an unforgettable view of the seven lakes of the Aukštaisky Park. This hill is 175 meters high above sea level, and its name literally translates as "ice mountain". Being on the hill you can see these lakes: Linkmenas, Asalnay, Ukoyas, Asekas, Alnas, Luschay and Almayas. According to numerous legends, the Ladakalnis Hill used to be used for ceremonies in honor of the mother goddess Lada.
There are 119 villages on the territory of the park, and the total population is 2300 people. Tourists love to visit villages with windmills and wooden churches, such as the villages of Ginučiai and Palūšė.
