April arrived at the manor with a true breath of spring – and what is particularly significant, it gifted us an important turning point: for the first time in the manor’s history, we were completely booked out during the holidays. It was a touching moment that proves our vision of Padure Manor as a haven of peace and inspiration truly resonates with people.
Holidays, Fairytales, and Fisherman’s Luck
We welcomed Easter with a wonderful group of guests from Lithuania. Our guests arrived to enjoy the holidays in historic tranquility, and upon leaving, they shared a sentiment that is so precious to us: “We feel like we are in a fairytale.” It is precisely these moments that remind us why we do all of this.
The second weekend was spent in a Latvian spirit – we hosted guests from the United Kingdom. While the days were spent by the Venta River, catching the silvery glow of spring vimba, they dedicated their evenings to the serene atmosphere of the manor. Their feedback was unanimous – this kind of relaxation is impossible to find in the hustle and bustle of the city.
Open Doors and the Magic of Moments
On April 18th and 19th, we opened our doors wide for the Open House Days. We were visited by 30 interested people who wanted to get to know the manor’s daily life and its development story. Thank you for all the wonderful emotions and stories you left with us!
April was also a true time for photoshoots. The manor’s room proportions, soft light, and the magic of the park are tailor-made for shots that stay in your memory for a lifetime. We often observe how the planned hour unnoticed turns into a three-hour creative flight. If you want to be inspired, be sure to check out our Instagram profile, where I shared the magic of the moments captured by photographers and decorators.
The Clean-up Tradition and a New Rebirth
On April 25th, as we do every year, we gathered for the annual spring clean-up (talka). Although we were smaller in numbers this year, we achieved a great deal. One of the biggest events this year – we finally demolished the old toilet from the Soviet occupation era, which stood as a grey remnant of a different time. In its place, a clear view of the park and even more light now opens up. And of course, the clean-up concluded with the traditional joint feast – that suits our manor best!
A Month of Knowledge and Restoration
We wrapped up the month with educational excursions. We hosted both the youth from the Zaļenieki Commercial and Craft Secondary School and the technical staff from the Liepāja Primary School. We are delighted that more and more people are beginning to understand what heritage preservation and restoration truly mean. The youth from Zaļenieki were also lucky enough to see restorer Agnese Gulbe in action uncovering the dining room ceiling paintings. And what a wonderful surprise from Hamburg! Our friend Jens Lange gifted the manor a set of pearwood furniture originally belonging to the von Melle family. This furniture brings a completely new, even more authentic, and noble history and elegance to the manor’s rooms.
Construction works at the manor are nearing the finish line – just a couple of weeks left, and we will be one step closer to our dream. Thank you for being a part of this story!
A reminder – as co-owners (līdzmuižnieki), you are always welcome at the manor. Take advantage of your privileges – relax, celebrate holidays, or simply find a moment for yourself in historic peace.
See you at the manor,
Jānis Lazdāns