Holidays in Southern Lithuania

At first glance, Druskininkai seems like an ordinary town in southern Lithuania: quiet, peaceful and surrounded by an impressive natural landscape. Holidaymakers from the West know very little about this famous spa town. It was mostly Russians, but also Poles and, increasingly, travellers from Scandinavia who spent their holidays here.

Historic houses and the charm of the old tsars still linger in southern Lithuania. The Alytus region offers an incomparable blend of familiar holiday destinations and new ways to unwind. Druskininkai stands out somewhat as a tourist hub. The town is an ideal base for a truly memorable holiday. At times, it feels as though time has stood still in the region. Lithuania of days gone by is still very much present, even as the neighbouring area is being thoroughly upgraded to welcome visitors from the West. Grutas Park, with its monumental statues from the Communist era, is a unique relic. Stalin, Lenin and Marx tower above the forest, larger than life. Almost everything that remained in the cities after the occupiers left was brought here. Grutas Park has since become a major attraction throughout Lithuania.

Years after the collapse of the Soviet empire, one of Lithuania’s most beautiful little towns is now being brought into line with Western standards. In fact, the tourism boards in Lithuania were right to pursue their reform programmes. After all, Druskininkai has everything it takes to become one of the most popular spa resorts in Eastern Europe. The aim is particularly to attract holidaymakers from Germany and neighbouring countries to the natural landscape around Dzūkija National Park.

Hotels and holiday providers are improving what they offer. The lake-rich Nemunas region adds to the appeal. Dzūkija is Lithuania’s largest national park. This mix of pine forests and marshland stretches all the way to Belarus. Protecting nature and preserving its unique flora and fauna are top priorities. Some areas of the park are off-limits to people, true wilderness oases. Even so, Dzūkija offers plenty of space for walking and exploring.