Tickets for the event are limited.
Spring summons in the heart of Dzūkija
Up, down, up, down. Past the hills and valleys described by Vince Krėve-Mickevičius, the forests that sheltered the partisans, and the mounds reminiscent of the strongest castles of the GDL. Every kilometer encompasses the heart of Dzūkija with its history, rivers, lakes, and forests.
That’s why we’re organizing our spring opening in the history-filled Merkinė. On the 23rd of March, we’ll meet you at the confluence of Nemunas and Merkys rivers, surrounded by centuries-old forests. This year, we have a record number of routes to choose from, so everyone will find the perfect one!
Tickets for the event are limited.
We apply discounts for companies. Contact [email protected]
ROUTE COMPARISON
Tickets for the event are limited.
We apply discounts for companies. Contact [email protected]
DISCOUNTS
ROUTE INFORMATION
Start/Finish – Vilniaus g. 54B, Merkinė, 65338 Varėnos r. sav. (54.166696, 24.202033)
Tickets for the event are limited.
For the urban explorer. Have you heard that Merkinė used to be more important than the capital Vilnius? The strongest rulers of the GDL gathered here, as evidenced by the castles in the town. Although none of the buildings have survived, you can learn more about the crafts and political life that flourished here by visiting the regional museum after your hike. History will come to life through the objects you encounter along the route: the synagogue complex and the manor house on the Merkys outcrop.
For the nature lover. After seeing the town of Merkinė, you’ll continue to the forests that have made it famous. After all, the country’s most important rulers resided here for centuries, and with good reason: the river offered natural protection, and the tranquility of the forests inspired great deeds. As a lord of the forest, you too will explore every green corner. You’ll not only be dazzled by the centenarian trees but also by the scenery of the confluence of the Nemunas and Merkys rivers, which can be seen from the outcrop.
On the partisan paths. Although Merkinė is filled with medieval spirit, it’s equally rich in monuments from the 20th century. After all, the forests of Dzūkija are the place where the partisans of the Dainava Military District operated. As you walk along the narrow forest paths, look for the column shrines, bunkers, and chapels. These are memorials to the freedom fighters. Two of the most important are the Oath Mountain, where the partisan leader took his oath, and the headquarters of Adolfas Ramanauskas-Vanagas, a place of protection for the freedom fighters.
Guided by the river Merkys. Wherever you turn, Merkys will follow you. It is the largest river in south-eastern Lithuania and is famous for its spectacular landscapes. And this is exactly what you’ll collect along the route. You’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the confluence of the Merkys-Nemunas rivers, the striking Merkys loops, and the sandy banks. They’re like an encyclopedia that tells you about our planet, its climate, and its past. Follow the information boards carefully – and your hike will be full of sights and knowledge.
The toughest challenge of the year (so far)! They say you should train gradually. So, if you’re hesitant about the first 100 of your life (or this year), this route is the perfect training ground. And to ensure it doesn’t get boring, we’ve prepared a true potpourri of sights and sounds. Along the way, you’ll see the historic buildings of Merkinė, the spectacular views from Merkys outcrops, plenty of rustling forests and their inhabitants, and the most beloved by dzūkians – lake Glynas. You’ll reach it by crossing two fun “obstacles”: the hanging bridges over the Ūla and Merkys rivers.
THE PROCESS OF THE EVENT
THE PROCESS OF THE EVENT
Participants of all routes must arrive at the starting point of the hike on their own – Vilniaus g. 54B, Merkinė, 65338 Varėnos r. sav. (54.166696, 24.202033).Kazlų Rūda city park, Jaunimo g 7A, Kazlų Rūda (GPS:54.74514838, 23.49845264)
REGISTRATION
After arriving to the start area, your ticket will be scanned (mobile versions accepted) and you will be handed out your starting package.
PARKING
Parking in the parking lots located in the territory of the city of Merkinė. You can conveniently find them on the event map.
STARTING
After registration, you are allowed to begin the hike on the designated time for your route, which can be found in the route comparison area.
DISHES DEPOSIT
If you do not have a cup for tea, bowl and a spoon for lunch, it will be possible to borrow it in the starting area, leaving a 1 euro deposit. The deposit will be returned after the hike by returning the borrowed dishes.
HIKING
Rest and assistance stops will be set up all across the hike route. You will also be able to replenish your water supplies, have a cup of tea, grab a snack and if needed, receive first medical assistance.
TRANSPORTATION AFTER TERMINATING YOUR HIKE EARLY
Participants wishing to terminate their hike early will have to get to the nearest rest and assistance stop. From there, they will be brought back to the start area by designated vehicles. For participants who have not completed the hike, e-mail the diploma will be sent by e-mail specified during registration. by mail within 15 minutes after the finish is recorded in the registration system.
FINISHING
All of the hike routes are radial, thus you will start and finish and the same place – Vilniaus g. 54B, Merkinė, 65338 Varėnos r. sav. (54.166696, 24.202033). KHere, the participants who have successfully completed their chosen route will be awarded with medals. The e-diploma will be sent to the participant by e-mail specified during registration by mail within 15 minutes after finishing.
When registering, all participants agree with hike regulations.
WHAT IS INCLUDED IN THE PARTICIPANTS PACKET?
We will take care of everything:
ARRIVAL
Participants take care of their arrival at the hiking place on their own. You will find the marked start point on the map.
START PLACE:
Vilniaus g. 54B, Merkinė, 65338 Varėnos r. sav. (54.166696, 24.202033)
START – FINISH TIMES:
8 KM: start time from 07:00 to 13:00, finish till 17:00
15 KM: start time from 07:00 to 13:00, finish till 18:00
26 KM: start time from 07:00 to 12:00, finish till 20:00
33 KM: start time from 07:00 to 10:00, finish till 21:00
54 KM: start time from 07:00 to 09:00, finish till 22:00
ORGANIZERS
PARTNERS
