Of the three Baltic states Latvia is, perhaps, the one that carries most Soviet heritage – a large chunk of its population speaks or understands Russian (although numbers have been declining in recent years), and its seaside resort town of Jūrmala remains dear to both resident and vacationing Russians. Riga, the animated capital, is recognised for its charming Old Town and Art Nouveau architecture. Beyond lie vast natural expanses of forests and lakes, and the must-visit Gauja National Park with its towns of Cēsis and Sigulda, known for their castles.