Ventspils takes pride in its Livonian charm and its impressive seaside. It is one of the oldest but fastest growing towns in Latvia.
It is located in the western Kurzeme region, on the coast of the Baltic Sea, and has the River Venta after which it was named running through it. The town area includes the old town, the forest lowlands, and the Blue Flag beaches which symbolise a clean environment and good water quality.
Back in the times of the Livonian Order in the thirteenth century Ventspils was known as a harbour town. It is still a transit centre of international importance in Latvia, a family-friendly place to live, and also a travel destination.