Dzūkija is the least populated region of Lithuania, rich in woodlands, legends and myths. Dzūkija national park tour presents a unique opportunity to escape from urban noise and visit primeval woods, crystal lakes and small ethnographic villages that have preserved their authentic spirit. Beautiful slopes, the mystic Eye of the Ūla river, cursed water bodies and historic settlements – all these represent a small fraction of interesting spots in Dzūkija. Visit Dzūkija with Discover Lithuania full-day tour or choose multi-day tours in Lithuania and set off on a magic journey.
Discover Dzūkija National Park – the largest national park in Lithuania
What makes Dzūkija national park unique is its territory stretching over 55,000 hectares, making it the largest national park in Lithuania. Almost all of it is situated in Varėna region, with smaller parts located in Alytus and Lazdijai. Čepkeliai nature reserve surrounded by the park is the largest wildlife island in Lithuania and the only Lithuanian site enjoying membership of the European Wilderness Society since 2019. During the Dzūkija national park tour the Discover Lithuania team will take you to the most picturesque and authentic villages in Dzūkija region as well as unique architectural and cultural monuments, giving you a glimpse of the fruits of nature and picturesque landscape of Dzūkija.
A region where history meets natural wonders
During your visit at Dzūkija national park you must see the village of Zervynai. This is an authentic and still populated ethnographic village dating as far back as the Palaeolithic period. Cute wooden huts, carved shutters, wooden fences look like an open-air museum. There are 52 homesteads having the status of a cultural monument, 8 homesteads and 32 decorated buildings.
It is through this location that the fastest river of Lithuania – the Ūla river – is flowing. River banks overgrown with forests and the picturesque precipice of Mančiagirė are favourite tourist attraction site. Those opting for private tours in Lithuania must visit the mystical Eye of Ūla – a round fount several metres wide from the bottom of which water is bubbling out as if boiling. There are several legends about the Eye of Ūla, the most famous of which claiming this water having miraculous healing and beautifying powers.
During Dzūkija national park tour visit the Grūtas park, still full of the Soviet spirit
Grūtas park, which takes you back to the Soviet times, has been recognised as one out of ten weirdest museums in the world. Following the restoration of Lithuania’s independence in 1990, the majority of sculptures from the then important locations were brought here. To its visitors Grūtas park unveils the Soviet ideology which used to inhibit and destroy our national spirit. With its watch towers, fragments from concentration camps and other abundant Soviet relics, the whole territory of 20 hectares resembles severe conditions in Siberia. Grūtas park is also home to a zoo, restaurant and picture gallery.
Mesmerising little towns of Dzūkija
Discover Dzukija National Park and visit the most picturesque little towns of this region, such as Liškiava, situated on the left bank of the Nemunas river. Liškiava is a Baroque gem in southern Lithuania, often visited by tourists from all over the world. The ensemble of the Holy Trinity Church and Dominican Monastery is the site attracting many visitors.
Very close to Liškiava visitors may go to the famous Merkinė – one of the oldest populated territories of Lithuania, a town of glorious past, and a former defence, administrative, commercial, educational, and religious centre. Visitors are welcome to climb up the hill of Merkinė and a 25-metre-high Merkinė observation tower offering a remarkable view of the landscape.
In Dzūkija travellers may also visit the famous Veisiejai – one of the oldest settlements in Lithuania, the authentic part of which has been declared an urban monument. Meanwhile, the village of Meteliai in Lazdijai region is regarded as a fishermen’s settlement boasting Meteliai observation tower with its splendid panoramic view. If you fancy a realm of birds, Žuvintas must be your next stop to take a closer look at the world of nature and visit Žuvintas biosphere reserve.
Visit Dzūkija with Discover Lithuania
Pine forests in Dzūkija national park, mainland dunes, marshland and rivers hide a unique natural world, which is home to many rare species of flora and fauna. There are 3 reserves and 28 protected areas, 42 natural heritage sites, of which 18 have been declared natural monuments. Dzūkija national park tour presents a possibility to set off on an adventurous journey to experience the magic of untouched nature and visit exclusive sites in Dzūkija national park. Discover Lithuania is your private tour operator in Lithuania, offering travel solutions refined to the last detail and accommodating individual traveller needs.