Less than 10km south of Druskininkai, the spectacular Raigardas Valley (Raigardo Slėnis) offers an instant glimpse into the nature that shaped the local culture. From the old Lithuanian meaning Swamp City, Raigardas legend tells that in the mists of time there once stood a great city here that was swallowed up by the earth. Pagan mythology aside, today’s valley landscape was formed fairly recently about 5,000 years ago and is still forming. The valley, which is covered in pine trees all the way down to the bottom where freshwater springs can be found, is surrounded by dunes and meadows bursting with wild flowers and wildlife during the summer. The valley is fabulous hiking territory as well as the ideal place for a picnic.