WAY OF SAINT JAMES

SECTION OF THE WAY: Kretingai–Rūdaičiai–Žibininkai

Start the section Kretinga–Rūdaičiai–Žibininkai with the exotic: hundreds of rare plant species are green in winter and summer in Kretinga Manor. The Winter Garden, built back in 1880, is like an earthly paradise that allows you to feel the diversity, aesthetics and harmony of nature. From the town of Kretinga, known as the little Vatican of Lithuania, the way continues past Kretingsodis towards the small settlement of Rūdaičiai. Here you will find a small chapel lovingly built by locals. It was built in 1990 by Stanislovas Mažeika from Rūdaičiai with money donated. It is said that this man took pity on the inhabitants of Rūdaičiai settlement who were walking to the distant plague graves to pray. The tiny chapel cannot accommodate many believers, so there is another chapel dedicated to services - Rūdaičiai Chapel of St Anthony of Padua, established in the Culture Centre of the settlement. After walking half a kilometre from Mokyklos Street along Pilalės Street, there is Rūdaičiai Mound worth visiting. The castle could have stood here until the 13th century, and the locals have found various historical items. There are legends that the Swedes poured this mound with spoons. After returning from the mound to the settlement, you can rest near the charming pond. It is surrounded by a natural park with a dozen wooden sculptures created by local craftsmen from Kretinga district. After resting your legs, you will take the forest tracks all the way to the Trail of Health and Jokes (“Sveikatos ir šposų takas“) which is located on the territory of HBH Entertainment Complex and surrounded by the peace of the forest. Here you will find a park of modern sculptures and nearby Žvėrinčius (park of animals and birds). On the side of this trail, you will find the Boom Park and the largest waterboard park in the Baltic States, 313 Cable Park. Very close is the recreation and wellness centre Holiday Park - refreshment for body and soul. The holiday park offers a sauna area, several pools and even a chance to warm up in an amber sauna.