Saddlery and leather goods workshop “Apkalnmājas”

A leather goods workshop operates in the family home "Apkalnmājas" - it makes horse harness accessories, various straps, belts, leather bags, etc. It offers guided tours, a tour of the exhibition hall, an introduction to leather types, the opportunity to try your hand at making some products yourself, view and purchase works, as well as learn more about the lifestyle characteristic of the Latgale environment.

Apkalnmājas has been manufacturing horse harness equipment since 1998. It is currently the only artisan workshop in Latvia producing the specific harness gear required for the traditional horse-and-shaft-bow (duga) hitch. The craftsmen's skills and expertise in working with leather enabled the business to expand, opening up opportunities to create leather products for other domestic animals as well as leather accessories for men and women.

The aim of Apkalnmājas is to preserve, cultivate, and promote the cultural and historical heritage of Latgale; consequently, since 2011, Apkalnmājas has been open to excursionists and vacationers.

Mission: We develop craftsmanship as a small business sector, refine our product range, expand market reach, and promote the cultural and historical heritage of Latgale through tourism services.

Thematic tour

Features of the typical Latgalian lifestyle in "Apkalnmājas" (garden, buildings, ect.), various handicrafts, various types of leather (in exhibition hall harness, belts, bags, ect.). Duration up to 40 minutes. Possibility to purchase leather products.

Creative workshop

Practical activity, making a key chain or other product from leather (~for a group of 15 people, up to 40 minutes).

Picnic area with a closed canopy

For a group of up to 25 people (grill, electricity connection, campfire site).

Sports field (grass surface) – mini-football, volleyball, swings.

Tent sites

aTelpa cottage

• Accommodation for 2–3 people.
• aTelpa cottage with a terrace for two people or a family with children.

Cottage equipment:

• In the bedroom – a double bed or two separate beds.
• In the living room – a sofa (convertible, providing sleeping space for 1–2 people).
• In the kitchen – a table with four chairs, a fridge-freezer, an induction cooktop, a microwave oven, and an electric kettle.
• The bathroom has a toilet, sink and shower. Hot and cold water. Air conditioning, bed linen, towels.

Please arrange your visit in advance!