Mid-conference trip

On Wednesday (July 1), we are inviting you to join us on the mid-conference trip. The bus ride through the calming southern Lithuanian landscapes to the main destination, Trakai, will take about 2 hours. 

We will then split into groups based on your choice (see below for options) and meet again to enjoy a lunch of local specialities together. After lunch until the evening departure back to Druskininkai, you will have the opportunity to explore the town's natural, historical, and cultural riches on your own, or just sit down at one of the many restaurants to discuss your collaborations and relax.

Trakai

Located just 28 km west of the capital Vilnius, Trakai is one of Lithuania’s most charming and historically rich settlements. Its roots trace back to the 14th century, and the city received town rights in 1409. Once the medieval capital of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, Trakai played a pivotal role in the country’s history. Known for its castles (the stunning Trakai Island Castle and the Trakai Peninsula Castle), as well as its natural features (forests, hills, and over 30 interconnected lakes), the town sits at the heart of Trakai Historical National Park and has long been home to a vibrant mix of communities. It is known as the historical home of the Karaim community (people of Crimean origin brought here in the 14th century), with distinctive architecture and culinary traditions still alive today. Visitors love strolling through the quaint old town, enjoying lakeside views, and sampling local delights, especially kibinas, a savoury pastry filled with chopped mutton, a traditional Karaim speciality.

Trip options in Trakai

Option 1: Trakai Island Castle Museum – ground yourself in history

Take a history lesson about Lithuania, Trakai town, its castles and the surrounding lands, and examine the museum and collections of furniture, smoking pipes, stamps, clocks, china, glass, hunting trophies, and liturgical art. Trakai Island Castle is one of Lithuania‘s most iconic landmarks, dating back to the 14th century. Built by Grand Duke Kęstutis and completed by Vytautas the Great, it was both a strategic stronghold of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania and a ducal residence. Plundered and burned during the war with Russia (1655–1661) and reconstructed after WWII, the castle is now part of the Trakai History Museum, a living monument to the nation’s medieval past and cultural heritage.

Option 2: Boat Cruise on Lake Galvė – a moment of calm between history and nature 

Take a break from the conference pace and enjoy a peaceful boat cruise on Lake Galvė, an impressive glacial lake with a surface area of 3.3 square kilometres and depths up to 47 meters. It has a complex shoreline and harbours 21 islands, each wrapped in its own legend. The boat ride will feature the natural and historical landmarks surrounding the lake. This experience offers a chance to relax, continue conversations in an informal setting, and admire one of Lithuania’s most iconic views – Trakai Island Castle reflected in the water.

Option 3: Varnikai Nature Trail – immerse yourself in nature (almost literally)

Take a walk along a beautiful nature trail in Varnikai botanical-zoological reserve right outside of Trakai. The 5-km circular trail is a haven for nature lovers, featuring various forest types and a distinctive raised peat bog with several residual open lakes, crossed by a 1.5-km-long wooden boardwalk. Walking along this trail, visitors can see rare plant species, peat-bog landscapes formed over thousands of years, and many different biotopes in a single hike. The trail is easy to walk, features viewing platforms and informational stands, making it suitable for a relaxed 1–2-hour educational nature-spotting hike.