
1. Castle and museum tours

Guided tours: learn about the Radziwiłł family, castle construction, defensive systems, and life in the 17th–18th centuri

Biržai Castle — located in the northern Lithuanian town of Biržai, on the southern shore of Lake Širvėna, the castle is a remarkably preserved example of a bastion‑type fortress.
Historical Background

Construction of the fortress began in the late 16th century (1586 – 1589) following the Italian bastion plan.
Creation of the artificial Lake Širvėn

Biržai Castle — located in the northern Lithuanian town of Biržai, on the southern shore of Lake Širvėna, the castle is a remarkably preserved example

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Biržai Castle

Experiences at Kirkilai and the Karst Lakes
Hiking and walking – explore the trails around the lakes, see small sinkholes and karst formations.
Photography and nature observation – watch birds, fish in the lakes, and capture sunsets over the green fields.
Relaxation and picnics – the tower offers quiet natural spots perfect for rest and reflection.
Experiences at Karvės Cave
Sense of mystery and adventure – looking into the deep cave feels like discovering hidden wonders.
Educational trails – walk around the cave and learn about karst processes.
Legendary storytelling – fun for kids and adults to hear the tale of the “disappearing cow” and feel the local mystique.
Experiences at Biržai Castle
Historical immersion – walk the bastions and imagine 17th-century soldiers and noble life.
Museum visit – see ancient weapons, paintings, and archaeological artifacts that reveal the Radvila family’s history.
Panoramic views – enjoy the lake, city, and surrounding green fields from the bastions.
Events and festivals – sometimes medieval festivals, concerts, or educational events are held in the castle courtyard.
General Experiences
Nature and history together – feel the connection between the landscape and human history at every site.
Photography and creativity – capture stunning views from lakes, the cave, or the castle.
Family or friends adventure – discover hidden corners along the tour for a real sense of exploration.

Biržai Three-Site Tour – Nature, History, and Mysteries
Biržai is a unique region of Lithuania where stunning nature, ancient architecture, and mysterious legends come together. In this tour, we will visit three main attractions: the Kirkilai Observation Tower and Karst Lakes, Karvės Cave, and Biržai Castle.
Kirkilai Observation Tower and Karst Lakes
Our journey begins in Kirkilai village, home to the Kirkilai Observation Tower. Rising 32 meters above the ground, the tower is shaped like a smile and offers a 360° panoramic view. From here, you can see around 200 karst lakes, whose colors and shapes resemble tiny glass beads scattered across a green landscape.
These lakes were formed by karst processes – when underground layers of gypsum and limestone dissolve, the ground collapses and fills with water. Kirkilai is a place where you can truly feel that the earth beneath your feet is alive.
Fun fact: In summer, the lakes often take on a mysterious greenish-brown tint, creating a magical natural artwork.
Karvės Cave
Next, we visit Karvės Cave, one of the most mysterious karst sites in Biržai. This 12-meter-deep and 10-meter-wide sinkhole was formed by karst activity, when underground gypsum dissolved and the land above collapsed.
According to legend, a cow once disappeared into the cave, giving it its name. Karvės Cave creates the feeling that a hidden adventure world lies beneath your feet. Today, the site is safe for tourists, with a nature trail and nearby rest areas.
Fun fact: Some visitors say they can hear a faint hum at the bottom of the cave, as if the earth itself is speaking.
Biržai Castle
The final stop on our tour is Biržai Castle, a 17th-century bastion fortress standing by Lake Širvėna. Built by the noble Radvila family, the castle defended the region from invaders. It was repeatedly besieged and destroyed but always rebuilt, making it a true symbol of history.
Inside, the castle houses a museum displaying ancient weapons, paintings, and archaeological artifacts. From the bastions, visitors enjoy beautiful views of the lake and the city center.
Fun fact: According to legend, secret tunnels run under the castle, connecting it to the shores of Lake Širvėna.
Tour Summary
This three-site tour is a perfect way to experience the nature, history, and mysteries of Biržai:
Kirkilai – breathtaking nature and panoramic karst lakes.
Karvės Cave – a mysterious sinkhole with a captivating legend.
Biržai Castle – a historic fortress with impressive architecture and a museum.
The tour is suitable for families, students, and tourists who want to explore not only beautiful landscapes but also intriguing stories. It’s a journey where nature, history, and legend combine into an unforgettable experience.

Biržai Three-Site Tour – Nature, History, and Mysteries
Biržai is a unique region of Lithuania where stunning nature, ancient architecture, and myster

Biržai Castle

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Biržai Castle

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