Overlanding & Car Camping in Aukštaitija: Best Routes, Hikes & Campsites

Aukštaitija, or Highlands, is the largest region in Lithuania, with the Labanoras forest at the heart of it. Hiking trails and overland routes are plentiful in Lithuania's best outdoor destination. The Lakelands region of Aukštaitija is popular among car campers due to its abundance of over 1000 lakes.

Labanoras, Lithuania's largest forest, with around 300 lake systems is a popular summer location. Ginučiai's forests are home to the 19th-century Ginučiai watermill and the Lithuanian Museum of Ancient Beekeeping, where visitors can sample honey and learn about the curative powers of bee products. Palūšė is the primary tourist destination in Ignalina, with the wooden church of St. Joseph, hiking trails, and campsites.

Lithuania Lake District is a camping hotspot with both official and wild camping areas. For official information and listed places, visit the Regional Park directories of Asveja, Labanoras, and Aukštaitija National Park in Palūšė, as well as the tourism centre in Molėtai. I encourage overlanders to explore forest paths and uncover their favourite spots hidden in more distant areas. The Labanoras forest area offers limitless hiking opportunities. While the Labanoras Cognitive Trail is less than 3 kilometres long, the Trenkturas website offers multiple routes for people with varying physical capacities.

Kačėniškė mound

Why Aukštaitija is a Top Destination for Overlanding & Car Camping

Aukštaitija is home to many of Lithuania’s most scenic roads. The distinctive narrow and hilly road between Dubingiai and Molėtai. Have you ever been on a rollercoaster ride? You can experience a sense of free fall while driving through Lakeland Lithuania. When you go over a hill fast enough for your stomach to jump. Roads between Molėtai and Dubingiai or Labanoras, between Labanoras and Ginučiai or Utena are especially scenic and will keep you alert on the road.

Lake Asveja and Dubingiai town on the left

Lithuanian camping rules prohibit parking within 25 meters of water or damaging berry bushes by parking on the forest floor. In many campsites areas closest to water are usually protected by wooden poles preventing driving any closer. As car campers, we might want to be as close as possible to the scenic views you can wake up to but Lithuanian camping rules are strict and should be followed. Needless to say, you should follow the “leave-no-trace” principles and look after yourself as well as leave the place better than you found it.

The best seasons are from Spring to Autumn when the road conditions are most favourable. In Autumn you can especially enjoy the colourful rides and even the bumpiest road will feel enjoyable.

Best Overlanding Routes in Aukštaitija for Scenic Drives & Adventure

- Molėtai to Dubingiai: A scenic drive through historic and natural sites. You can start on either destination and visit all the sights along the way. In Dubingiai the bridge over the Asveja Lake is a popular photography location. There is a cognitive path leading through the Dubingiai Hillfort. Nearby, you will find the old tavern building now turned Regional Park Visitor’s Centre. Visiting is recommended and won’t break a budget. The building is kept authentic with many tools and crafts preserved in the exhibition rooms. Between these towns, if you come on the weekend it’s recommended to visit the Vintage Transportation Museum and meet nostalgic vehicles. Molėtai is a paradise for fishermen and there are fun statues of fish and fishermen shoes you can “try on” - you can find these and other art objects in the town’s park.

- Labanoras Forest Route: Remote and serene trails with wild camping spots. The hilly road snakes through the middle of Labanoras Woods but more exciting are little forest roads leading to hiking trails and hidden lakes with plenty of choices for car campers.

- Ignalina to Ginuciai: Adventure through Aukštaitija National Park with must-see stops. Aukštaitija National Park is the largest in Lithuania with its base in Palūšė - a starting point for most travellers in the region. The building and info centre is located beside the old wooden Palūšė church and next to the large lake. There is a campsite and a starting point for easy cognitive hike trails.

- Practical tips for navigating roads and trails. The signal works fine through most of the region whether you’re hiking or overlanding through the middle of Labanoras forest, and you can use your preferred navigation. I usually go with Waze, and Google Maps for specific locations. Gaia GPS or Topo Maps are other common navigation apps you can use.

Must-Visit Hiking Trails in Aukštaitija National Park

- Labanoras Cognitive Trail – official hiking trail introducing to the old forest, typical flora and fauna of the region. Part of the trail contains wooden planks and at certain times of the year or weather be careful of slipping and wear appropriate footwear.  

- Ginučiai to Ladakalnis Trail – scenic lakes, hillforts, ethnographic village and historical landmarks.  

- Palūšė Hike – panoramic views of the lake region introducing the flora and fauna.  

- Dubingiai Cognitive Trail – history blended with nature.  

Ginučiai watermill

For more trails visit Trenkturas website or download the map and choose from one of the many solo hike routes. I have personally tried the  Aibutiškio pelkės prieigose Labanore (11 km) easy and scenic hike that also includes the Labanoras Cognitive Trail. To fully immerse yourself in nature try Labanoro girios takais (34 km) trail. Experience the beautiful nature of Aukštaitija National Park and visit preserved ethnographic villages by choosing the Paežeriais per etnografinius kaimus (23 km) trail. Legendary Lithuanian film Tadas Blinda was filmed in one of the villages.

Top Car Camping Spots & Wild Campsites in Aukštaitija

- Official Campsites: if you prefer official campsites with more or less infrastructure and more comfort you can try camping in Žalvaris Park, Mindūnai camping, Apple Island Campsite, Lake Asalnai camping, and glamping.

- Wild Camping Spots: to locate the best wild camping spots you can check the Park4Night app, iOverlander site. Labanoras is one of the most popular destinations for camping in summer with plenty of large and small lakes in a quiet forested area. Dubingiai is also a good location for camping with many campsites in the area including Asveja Lake - the longest lake in Lithuania.

- Essentials for a Successful Car Camping Trip: waterproof gear, swimming gear, and bug spray are all obvious. When camping in summer prepare to make breakfast oats or pancakes with the berries you will find in abundance. Or, if you’re fishing, a catch-yourself dinner might be plausible. In Autumn keep your eyes peeled for mushrooms but only pick the ones you can identify as edible.

Outdoor Activities in Aukštaitija Beyond Hiking & Camping

- Kayaking and canoeing in the lakes and rivers. Ignalina is a haven for outdoor adventures. Lakes Lusiai and Žeimena, river Žeimena are among the few kayaking sites. Watersport enthusiasts will have more than enough options to choose from. 

- Fishing hotspots and permits. Day permit for fishing starts at 5 Eur and Aukštaitija has the biggest fishing lakes in Lithuania.

- Cultural heritage: local museums, churches, and historical sites. Molėtai and the surrounding area are abundant in unique museums: Molėtai Transportation Museum, Žalvaris Park (which also offers camping), Lithuanian Museum of Ethnocosmology, Beekeeping Museum and Lake Fishing Museum.

From notable architecture in the region, you shouldn’t miss Palūšė and Labanoras wooden churches. Salakas Church built out of rocks is also an interesting building.

Salakas Church

Essential Tips for Sustainable Camping & Responsible Travel

- Leave-no-trace principles for hikers and campers. While official campsites might have garbage collection points wild camping you will have no access to the basic amenities meaning you will need to pack out the things you pack in. Not everything can be burnt in the campfire either. I might never banish some disgusting things I found left behind in the fire pits. Don’t be that person and enjoy off-grid camping in Lithuania responsibly. 

- Supporting local communities and eco-friendly businesses. Farmer markets and people selling berries, mushrooms and honey along the major roads are a good way to support local businesses and acquire fresh food.

- Wildlife conservation and respecting nature. Road trip through Aukštaitija National Park in Lithuania sustainably and avoid driving and parking outside the roads and parking lots. Be mindful if the place is a nature reserve which might forbid any activity whether hiking in a certain part of forest, fishing, picking berries, or car camping. Only start campfires in designated places and don’t cut wood for your fires.

Ladakalnis - tallest hill in Aukštaitija, surrounded by lakes

Plan Your Aukštaitija Overlanding Trip: Maps, Gear & Local Tips

Aukštaitija National Park, especially the Ignalina and Labanoras areas is popular with holidaymakers, car campers, hikers, fishermen and kayaking enthusiasts. Large wooden areas with hundreds of hidden lakes attract overlanders to explore and relax in quiet nature spots. Hikers will find a variety of trails to choose from. 

To keep this beautiful nature for others use common sense and follow leave-no-trace principles.

If you have spent your vacation here, let me know. And if you plan a trip in the future you can refer to my free map for ideas or receive a personal itinerary tailored to suit your expectations.

Overlanding & Hiking in Kaunas: The Best Trails, Campsites, and 4x4 Routes

Introduction to Kaunas and Its Region

Central location in Lithuania gives Kaunas a major advantage. The city has recently gained UNESCO status for its modernist architecture. While buildings there and street art can keep you busy for some days, you might be tempted to explore the surrounding area's beautiful nature and resort towns.

Kaunas Lagoon is a great 4x4 destination. Drive through dirt roads, explore small settlements, and end up at the scenic shore—perfect for fishing and nature lovers. After a morning adventure in nature, you can quickly transport to a nearby resort town. In recent years small towns of Kačerginė, Zapyškis and Kulautuva grew more attractive for tourists with festivals, art exhibitions and opportunities to spend time actively.

St. Ann’s Church in Kačerginė

Overlanding Routes in the Kaunas Region

Want the best overlanding experience near Kaunas? Take scenic backroads, explore hidden trails, and enjoy the stunning views of the Nemunas River. Wherever you go you might spot Nemunas River coming closer to the road from time to time. Outside Kaunas Lagoon Regional Park you will enter Nemunas Loop Regional Park with Birštonas resort town in the heart of it. 

There are several campsites around the Kaunas Lagoon as well as fishing spots, the shores of Nemunas River are dotted with steep mounds. In these woods, you can discover an abandoned Soviet-era camping or a short but beautiful Dubrava forest swamp trail. After completing the boardwalk hike why not go explore forest roads?

Dubrava bog boardwalk

Top Hiking Trails in Kaunas: Juniper Valley, Dubrava & More

• Juniper Valley - a popular and beautiful boardwalk among the Juniper trees with amazing views of the Nemunas River. The trail is also wheelchair-friendly.

• Dubrava Reserve Boardwalk – an easy but unique bog hike. It is accessible for families with children and the one-way trail is only 1,7km long and won’t take you an hour to complete.

• Pakalniškiai Cognitive Trail – river views & cardio climbs. The linear trail will make you walk 6km in total meaning you will cover a lot of steps, and come down to the Lagoon water a few times before conquering steep hills and Pakalniškiai mound. The close proximity to the water, breathtaking views and interesting info stands along the way will make it an exciting memory.

Juniper Valley Boardwalk

Best Camping & Wild Camping Spots Near Kaunas (With Map!)

Plan to visit the city or prefer more comfort, be able to work on the road and then quickly jump in the refreshing water? Kaunas Lake Camping is the place for you. Located on the shore of Lampėdžiai, the former quarry lake the campsite offers water sports and other sports facilities, free Wifi and all the amenities.

If you prefer seclusion and completely natural surroundings away from any noise then Kaunas Lagoon and Nemunas River bends are dotted with campsites. You can refer to my Kaunas map to find a great place for your rest.

Jiesia outcrop

Hidden Cultural and Historical Gems

Kaunas Castle is a popular location in the Old Town located near the confluence of two rivers - Nemunas and Neris. But rarely do travellers visit a castle in Raudondvaris. Just several kilometres outside the city on a hill you will be greeted with well-preserved Manor buildings including the winter garden turned restaurant and the Kaunas region tourism office with plenty of travel inspiration and helpful staff for planning your trip.

Pažaislis Monastery on the shore of Kaunas Lagoon is a baroque masterpiece built in 1644. You can visit the museum, and the church, walk through the inner courtyard and go on a hike along the shore of the Lagoon.

In anticipation of World War 1 a circle of Forts was planned and built over time. These days all 10 Forts remain in different levels of preserve with a few of them turned into museums, while others act as unique art spaces, and a few are protected areas of wintering bats. Plan your overlanding trip in Kaunas visiting as many of these Forts as possible. The full list with a map and other military objects is on the Kaunastic website.

Practical Tips for Travelers

To prepare for your overlanding trip in Kaunas you will need fuel and food and for your convenience, I have prepared a map with gas stations and grocery stores marked near the major roads and the majority of interesting places. 

• The best time to go hiking and overlanding near Kaunas is from April to October. Trails, particularly near the Kaunas Lagoon and in the Dubrava forest, near the Nemunas River, might be wet and more difficult to access in early spring. However, Winter will be nevertheless exciting with challenging off-road trails.

• For further exploration and planning an overlanding and camping trip along the beautiful Nemunas River road check my blog post about activities and sights between Kaunas and Jurbarkas.

Have you explored Kaunas and its wild side? Share your experience in the comments or tag me on Instagram (@redhead_in_woodland)!

Solo Adventures for Neurodivergent Travelers: A Guide to Road Trips, Camping, and Hiking

Travelling solo is often seen as a daunting challenge for neurodivergent individuals. Common misconceptions suggest they can't handle the responsibility of self-care, navigating new environments, or managing unexpected situations. However, with the right preparation and mindset, solo travel can be not only achievable but also empowering.

This is where the road trips come to mind - setting your schedule (or being a little spontaneous), choosing your route, the comfort of your own space and taking breaks when needed. Solo road trips for ADHD and autists can be not only an easy but fun and beneficial experience.

You can choose your music, and the level of sound; find the right light settings, and overall, create an environment in which you feel the most comfortable. It might include your favourite textures and items you can bring with you. While you might be confined to the weight limits in certain types of travel, road trips allow you to be more flexible and pack everything you might need.

For neurodivergents, solo adventures like road trips, car camping, and hiking offer incredible opportunities for personal growth, relaxation, and even overcoming challenges in your way. In this guide, we’ll explore how to make your solo travel experiences both comfortable and fulfilling.

Why Solo Travel is Empowering for Neurodivergents

Solo travel can be empowering for neurodivergent people. Nature trips in particular might help with sensory needs. Neurodivergents can also travel on adventure and end themselves in breathtaking locations, as shown on YouTube and Instagram. Nature trips, in particular, can help meet sensory needs. Many neurodivergent travellers enjoy escaping crowded spaces, where sensory overload and triggers are minimized. Activities like Shinrin-yoku, or Forest Bathing, are known to promote relaxation and mental clarity.

Overlanding, a form of self-reliant travel where you drive to remote areas, was designed with flexibility in mind and can be especially rewarding for individuals with autism. It’s about learning to navigate diverse terrain, plan effectively, and manage your vehicle in different conditions. The independence gained from overlanding is incredibly empowering. 

Autism benefits from travel because it exposes them to a range of challenges and removes them from familiar environments. 

Solo road trips will provide excitement and thrills for those with ADHD. New places and experiences might give a boost in energy and peace of mind. ADHD and adventure go hand in hand by boosting dopamine levels.

The greatest advantage of solo travel for neurodivergent individuals is the ability to fully customize each trip—whether that means choosing a direct route or adding detours for rest stops, ensuring the journey is as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.

How to Prepare for Your First Solo Road Trip

The key to building up courage in travelling solo and having a good time is correct preparing for a solo trip. Let’s break down the tips of successful planning for neurodivergent adventure travel.

Plan at Your Own Pace

Nobody knows you better than you, and road trips allow you to choose your own pace. For people with autism, planning a road trip will help them take charge and establish structure. Solo road trips for ADHD travelers, on the other hand, may need to be broken down into smaller segments in order to keep focus and avoid overwhelm.

Consider whatever excites you the most: exploring natural wonders in National Parks, learning new things at museums, experiencing the culture and history of a new region, or simply relaxing in the tranquil outdoors.

One advice I've learned from experience is that no matter how well you plan, things will never go exactly as expected. Always allow for flexibility and adjustment. It may be unsettling for neurodivergent travelers, but road trips teach the value of flexibility and backup plans.

Sensory-Friendly Road Trip Essentials

Consider your sensory needs while planning a road trip. Traveling by car allows you to bring everything you need without worrying about weight. You can bring a weighted blanket, which will sometimes weigh as much as the airline's carry-on weight restriction, or add unnecessary weight when backpacking. Have noise-canceling earphones and a light-blocking eye cover. Check that there are no unwelcome smells in your car. If you have difficulties unwinding think about bringing soothing tunes or podcasts. Consider what familiar items can provide comfort and stability during the trip.

Essential Gear for Solo Road Trips

The list of essential road trip gear for neurodivergents is the same as for any other traveler.

Make sure you have a good GPS or map, a first-aid kit, and plenty of food and water to keep you going. If you intend to sleep in your vehicle, consider a car camping setup, which includes a comfortable mattress or sleeping bag, a portable stove, and cooking supplies.

Tips for Car Camping

We've already discussed solo road trips, why they're good for neurodiversity, and how autistic and ADHD people might enjoy travelling alone. We can now talk about tips for neurodivergent car camping. 

I've said it before, but traveling and camping in a vehicle has several advantages over traditional camping. When it comes to gear, there is no need to make any compromises. That doesn't mean you have to go all out and buy all of the camping gear available. On the contrary, you just need a few essentials to begin enjoying vehicle camping. 

The most basic piece of equipment is your bed configuration, which I strongly advise you to try at home or near to home first to see whether you are comfortable, sleep well, and feel well the next day. You will also require cooking tools, such as a gas/propane camping stove, cooking utensils, and ingredients to prepare easy and delicious meals at the campsite. A excellent alternative is to try food kits designed for solo journeys that simply require hot water to prepare. Make sure you have enough water; it's better to have too much than too little.

Car camping is an excellent alternative to traditional camping for neurodivergent travelers. It provides flexibility, comfort, and control over the surroundings.

Setting up a Neurodivergent-Friendly Campsite:

Create a customized campsite by selecting areas that fit your sensory and comfort requirements. If you require silence, seek out isolated or less busy campgrounds. If you're afraid of the dark, a camping lantern or string lights can provide a calming, safe environment. Always have a backup plan in case something unexpected happens, and notify someone of your intended route for safety.

ADHD and autistic car campers can bring the majority of their hobbies with them. Mine are constantly with me. Don't stress about how to spend your time at the campsite; you'll figure it out once you're there. In reality, I would spend a lot of time simply being present and enjoying my surroundings.

Overlanding and Hiking for Neurodivergent Travelers

If you're seeking for long-term travel, consider hiking and overlanding. These activities allow neurodivergent travelers to disconnect from the challenges of daily life and reconnect with nature.

Hiking Tips for ADHD and Autism:

Hiking is a great solo activity, especially when you can select trails that suit your energy level and sensory preferences. A varied trail with multiple stops might seem more exciting to someone with ADHD while hiking alone. For those with autism, picking less-known paths will give them peaceful surroundings. 

One crucial hiking recommendation for neurodivergent people is to bring enough water and snacks to keep them nourished along the route. Learn about the trail's terrain, check the weather forecast for that day, and dress appropriately for the conditions.

Conclusion: Embrace the Journey

Plan your neurodivergent adventure trip without overthinking it, and don't be afraid to hit the road as soon as you're ready. Your first trip can always begin at the nearby campsite or hiking trail, where you can test your gear and gain the confidence to travel further. Overlanding on back roads, camping under the stars, or hiking in the most charming locations can be transformative experiences for ADHD and autistic travelers. The adventure awaits!