The largest park in Lithuania is located near Alytus. It was founded in 1991 to preserve pine forests that have been subjected to massive logging for a long time.
Declaring a huge area a National Park, the authorities saved an island of pure nature in the stone Lithuanian jungle. The park covers about five hundred square kilometers and stretches along the banks of the Neman River.
The unique natural world, preserved due to the fact that the forest is declared a National Park, is a sight for sore eyes with a huge number of pines, that are directed upwards and seem to hold the sky. The wooden paths run around a large number of lakes and swamps, without disturbing the natural cycle of the interaction of some natural objects with others.
The Park is very popular among locals. On weekends, many wildlife lovers come there to walk and have a picnic. Moreover, the Lithuanians are very law-abiding and do not have a campfire, because it is strictly prohibited. It is also possible to rent bicycles and ride along the endless paths, or rent a kayak and swim in the lakes and rivers of the park.
The park contains the largest surface swamp in the country, which is under state protection. You can look at it not only by walking up to it but also from a bird's-eye view. The park has a chic observation platform that rises above the tops of pine trees. The view from it is magnificent. The few hundred steps that you will have to climb it are definitely worth it.
On the territory of the Park, there are many architectural monuments, as well as several places where ancient tools and household items made of wood and ceramics are displayed. All of this is absolutely free, and some objects can even be touched or bought.
Dzukija National Park is a place where you can feel the unity with nature and think about the things that are really important, contemplating the wonderfully preserved natural beauty. If you have a free day and you are in Lithuania, it is definitely worth visiting.