Ērģeļu Cliffs

These sandstone cliffs were once known as the Pieškalni or Pieškaļi cliffs. They are around 7 km to the North from the centre of Cēsis. These are the most monolithic sandstone cliffs in the Baltic States – around 700 m long (with some 330 m along the Gauja River) and a maximum height of 22 m. There is a viewing area which offers a grand view of the Gauja River valley. Water tourists will boat up to the majestic wall of the cliff and will be surprised at what they see! The name of the cliffs, Ērģeles, is the word for "pipe organ" in Latvian, and the name was supposedly given to the cliffs because of the echoes which can be heard there – they reputedly sound like an organ. Hikers and boaters must be very careful when in this area – please make sure that you are safe! Please note, too, that the infrastructure of the cliff is scheduled to be renovated in 2012.