The Nature Conservation Agency and the Gauja National Park tourism association “Enter Gauja” have submitted an application for the European Charter for Sustainable Tourism certificate to be awarded to Gauja National Park (GNP), confirming a commitment to promoting tourism in the area while balancing nature conservation objectives with the interests of the local community and economic development.
The certificate is awarded by Europe's largest organisation for protected natural areas – the EUROPARC Federation – and it is an internationally recognised instrument that encourages considered and environmentally friendly tourism development in protected natural areas. In Latvia, the certificate has so far been received, and successfully renewed several times, by Ķemeri National Park.
“The Sustainable Tourism Charter certificate will be confirmation that Gauja National Park is able to balance nature conservation with the interests of the local community and of tourism. It is an important step towards building an environmentally friendly tourism sector, boosting international recognition and ensuring that our natural riches are preserved for future generations,” emphasises Andris Širovs, acting Director General of the Nature Conservation Agency. He adds that only by working together, with all interested parties cooperating, is it possible to safeguard all the values present in the area while making full use of its potential both for educating the public and for promoting local well-being and health,
Once submitted, the application will be assessed by a commission of the EUROPARC Federation, and a commission visit to GNP is planned during the coming year. The decision on awarding the Sustainable Tourism Charter will be known by October 2025.
Obtaining the certificate will also bring benefits to businesses operating in GNP, allowing them to attract new customers and to build partnerships with entrepreneurs and organisations abroad.
Gauja National Park was founded on 14 September 1973 and is Latvia's largest and oldest national park. Its purpose is to protect the unique natural values of the ancient Gauja valley and its surroundings, while providing both recreation and nature conservation functions in the area. In addition, GNP this year marks the 30th anniversary of its joining the EUROPARC Federation.
Tourism in the GNP area has a long history and deep-rooted traditions. Today the national park is home to a strong and closely knit network of tourism and hospitality service providers.