Graži vieta, Latgale
Balkanu Kalni is a 20-hectare protected nature park in Šķilbēnu parish named for two of Northern Latgale's highest hills, Kangaru and Balkanu. Its three marked trails pass earthworks dug during Latvia's 1919-1920 War of Independence and end at a valley where, according to local legend, a church sank into the ground. Wooden sculptures added during Art Academy of Latvia plein-air events in 2006-2008 still line the routes today, and the park offers a sauna, tennis court, and winter ski-equipment rental.