Akmensrags

A total of 207 bird species have been observed along the route. Akmenrags is among the top twenty birdwatching spots in Latvia. In spring and autumn, hundreds of thousands of waterbirds and passerines migrate through the area, following the coastline and flying over the sea.

Getting There:

The route is located between Pāvilosta and Ziemupe. From the Liepāja-Ventspils highway (P111), turn left at Saka Station and drive 8 km until you reach the lighthouse sign. If coming from Liepāja, the most convenient route is via Ziemupe. Turn towards Ziemupe at the Vērgale junction on the P111 highway and drive 18 km to the lighthouse. The distance from Liepāja is 50 km, and from Ventspils, 80 km.

Parking:

Cars can be parked in the lot near Akmensrags Lighthouse or in suitable roadside spots while following traffic regulations.

Distance and Duration:

The route length is 4 km.

Public Transport:

None.

Nearby Routes:

"Pāvilosta," "Ziemupe," "Stādi."

Best Season for Birdwatching:

Bird species can be observed year-round during daylight hours. Seabird watching in the afternoon is challenging due to the sun, so the best time is at sunrise and within six hours after. At night, it is possible to hear the nightjar, Tengmalm's owl, and tawny owl.

Recommended Mode of Travel:

Since the route is not long, walking is the most suitable way to explore it. If birdwatching in the dunes and along the shore, cycling may be difficult.

Birdwatching Highlights:

1. Akmenrags is among Latvia’s top twenty birdwatching spots. In spring and autumn, hundreds of thousands of waterbirds and passerines migrate along the coastline and over the sea. The offshore sandbank provides excellent feeding conditions for waterbirds, attracting thousands of greater scaups, common eiders, and goldeneyes, especially in winter.
2. The forests around Akmensrags are home to various bird species, including tits, treecreepers, great spotted woodpeckers, mistle thrushes, and woodcocks. In winter, hazel grouse can be seen foraging along the roadside, and with luck, one might even spot a capercaillie. On the slopes of the Rudupe River, birds such as the wryneck, kingfisher, and the rare grey wagtail nest.
3. About 1 km south of Akmensrags Lighthouse, there are high, expansive dunes offering an excellent view of the sea. The dunes are home to woodlarks and skylarks. The white-tailed eagle often uses this spot as an observation point before hunting. A rare sighting of a new bird species for Latvia—the Asian desert warbler, typically found in Kazakhstan and the Middle East—was recorded here once.