The Lithuanian countryside

A visit to the countryside always gives a good insight into the lives of ordinary people in any given country. I therefore make a point of going to some random villages whenever I visit a new country and has a chance to do so. In the case of Lithuania, I was pleasantly surprised. Although many villages clearly have seen better times, it is obvious that the country holds great potential for development in agriculture. The soil is good and the forests are well maintained, even though some houses look like they are about to collapse on the occupants heads.



Where the paved road ends, is often where the fun begins. I would recommend just picking a place at random

 

Some people might view my excursions to the villages as a form of slumming, but one should keep in mind that I come from a country where rural life is idealized as “the real way to live” – for various reasons. This is however, a concept totally lost on most Lithuanians. It seems that city life has a much higher status in this country, and that many people dread having to live in a village. Because of this, you will most likely be met with confused looks if you as a Lithuanian to help organize a visit to some remote village. Unless you know someone there, he will most likely not understand why you would make such a preposterous request. “There is nothing to see!”




Nothing to see? Pay attention to the forest behind the farmhouse – it is full of narrow gravel roads.

 

There is in fact plenty to see. Both on the way there, and in the village itself. You get a perception of how ordinary people live that most tourists never will get. They usually turn back once they come to the end of the paved road, and realizes the beating the car will take from the gravel road. Should you decide to go on such an outing, I suggest bringing a map. If the place you have chosen is any good, you will almost certainly be lost. Unless you bring a guide, of course.



Most tourists prefer such roads. Look familiar, don`t they.

 

Driving on the smaller forest roads are also gives you a good chance to see some Lithuanian wildlife without even leaving the car. It`s not like you are likely to see a bears and European buffalos or anything, but foxes, deer and various birds of prey are rather common. A good way to locate there roads is through Google Maps, since they are not marked on all roadmaps.



There are plenty of these around, but they prefer rural surroundings.

 

And even if you brought your own car, rent one if you are going on a long rural safari. The reasons for this will be self-evident once you reach the gravel road. Unless of course you own a Land Rover or something similar.

Rating: Recommended