“Bites” Farmstead | Where Latvian nature, crafts and curiosity meet
- Editorial Team
- Oct 7
- 3 min read
Run by Ivanovi family, a home-like charming place, tucked away in the peaceful Latgale landscape, has become a beloved cornerstone of local life and a true delight for curious travellers.
For almost three decades, Ilga, Jurijs and Janis have nurtured their farm in full view of the open fields, growing melons, watermelons and pumpkins alongside creating homemade delights like pine-cone jam and pine-bud syrup. On-site, they offer hands-on creativity: floristry workshops, clay crafting, handmade birch-bark creations and more. Their dedication has warmed hearts across Latvia by creatively blending tradition with the vibrant life of the land.
A Blend of Production and Tradition
This inviting space isn't just a farm: it is a place to learn and feel the spirit of the land. Ilga and her family host nature walks, workshops, and educational gatherings. Farmstead Bites invites visitors to step into a world where wild meadows, homemade tastes and traditional arts come together in a peaceful harmony. It’s the kind of place that not only shows you nature: it inspires you to understand and cherish it.
Families and students can explore meadow plants’ importance, marvel at the "underground cities" of insects, and watch butterflies and corvids in their habitats. The farmstead’s craftsmanship also extends to syrups made from the surrounding natural bounty. Savouring produce, creating crafts or simply strolling through meadows, visitors find thoughtful engagement at every turn.
One of the region’s most cherished traditions, Latgale ceramics, also finds its place at Farmstead Bites. This ancient craft, recognised as part of Latvia’s cultural heritage, is known for its earthy tones, rounded forms and strong ties to daily life.
Pottery from Latgale has long been celebrated for both its beauty and function, from sturdy jugs and bowls to delicate decorative pieces. At Farmstead Bites, visitors can explore clay in a hands-on way, shaping small works that connect them to this centuries-old practice. Janis’ workshops often introduce guests to the basic techniques of Latgale pottery, making it accessible while honouring the region’s artisans who have passed down their knowledge for generations. To touch the clay here is to feel history and creativity blending in your own hands.
A wonderful souvenir collection is available for guests: dozens of handcrafted vases, mugs, and household items. Each unique in its way and made out of local clay collected by the family.
Honing traditional crafts
Jurijs brings another layer of heritage to Farmstead Bites through his mastery of birch-bark craft, a traditional art deeply rooted in Latgale’s culture. Working with this natural material, he creates practical yet beautiful objects: boxes, baskets, toys for children, and everyday items, that carry both functionality and artistry. Each piece is carefully made by hand, reflecting respect for nature and the resourcefulness of generations before. Being one of the few last artists in the region with such a skill, Jurijs proudly carries his role in preserving a tradition that might otherwise fade. Visitors to the farm can explore his workshop, see the process of working with birch bark, and appreciate how a simple material becomes a timeless treasure.
Bites invites visitors to step into a world where wild meadows, homemade tastes and creative workshops come together in harmony. It’s the kind of place that not only shows you nature - it inspires you to understand and cherish it. This is a farm rooted in nature, education and community, guided by Ilga’s heartfelt vision.
This cosy farmstead feels like a home away from home, welcoming guests with warmth and care. Visits and product orders require advance notice, so travellers should contact them before heading to the destinations.
Plan your visit:
"Bites" farmstead
Savelinki, Zaļesjes pagasts, Ludzas region, Latvia
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