DOYOU Place - Lithuanian Hideaway
Escape to nature in the Lithuanian Forest and find yourself in in one of the most unique places in the world. Built by creatives for dreamers, DOYOU PLACE is a hideaway for those who seek more nature, less noise. It is not a base, but the destination.
What’s the Story, where is DOYOU PLACE?
DOYOU Place is nestled in the Lithuanian Forest 55km from the capital, Vilnius (check out our weekend city guide). We flew into Vilnius International Airport and collected a hire car from Budget and after filling the boot with groceries from the nearby supermarket, we hit road. It is a straightforward drive and takes under an hour.
Excitement started to build as we pulled off the main road onto a dusty lane winding through the forest, and the minute we arrived we were greeted by Kestas and Juste and their gorgeous pets Mini and Cooper. We instantly felt at home.
DOYOU PLACE is the hand-made dream of Kestas and Juste, both photographers with a passion for land conservation. When the opportunity arose to acquire a section of the Lithuanian forest on the edge of a lake, the couple left their city life behind in Vilnius and started about building a home in this picturesque location. Shortly after, they added three A-frame cabins which compliment the landscape with their black wood exterior and ply interior. A large window at the front of each of the cabins invites the outside in making you feel at one with nature.
In addition to the cabins, Kestas and Juste have built a concrete sauna house that is partly absorbed by the land with lake views. During sunset on our first night, we enjoyed these views from inside the sauna and using the jetty as a launch pad, we plunged into the cool water to take a break from the heat. Afterwards, wrapped up and relaxed, we enjoyed the complimentary whiskey bar (yip!) as the moon came out.
Days at DOYOU PLACE are slow but far from boring. They start with Kestas sending a text announcing that fresh bread and cinnamon rolls are baked and ready for collection from the custom built coffee cabin. After breakfast on the terrace of our cabin or in the giant glass cabin with killer views, we headed straight to the lake for a swim or a few laps on the paddleboard. Spending relaxing afternoons reading and napping in the hammock, swimming and taking walks in the woods, watching bees drink from wild flowers as cuckoo song filled the air. In the evening, the BBQ and fire pit were fired up after sundowners in the hot tub.
We were devastated to check-out after four wonderful days as we knew we were leaving somewhere really special. The warmth and hospitality we received from Kestas and Juste made us feel totally at home. This kind couple have created a unique place where you not only escape to nature, but connect with yourself and your travel partner. Their moto sums the experience up perfectly “don't stay where you are needed. Go where you are loved.”
On your way back to Vilnius take the opportunity to visit the pretty town of Trakai. Once the capital of Lithuania, this unique town sits over three lakes and is famous for its magnificent Gothic castle. Its a lovely pit-stop on your journey east, cool down by taking a fresh water swim with a spectacular backdrop and grab a couple of plates of Kibinai (traditional, filled pastries) at one of the waterside restaurants.
Be sure to tack a couple of nights in Vilnius on to your trip. Unspoilt by stag parties and coach loads of tourists, Lithuania’s cool capital is a small, but vibrant city. Check out our guide to find out more and why it is Europe’s hidden gem.
We visited DOYOU PLACE in June which was perfect, the summer weather was gearing up, but it wasn’t too hot and the water in the lake was warm. However, if you love the changing colours of autumn or snow filled days, September to May would also be great.
