Parnidis Dune, dune on Curonian Spit, Lithuania
Parnidis Dune is an expansive sand formation on the Baltic Sea coast near Nida. It rises approximately 52 meters (170 feet) above sea level and consists largely of quartz, which gives it a light color. At the top stands a wooden observation deck offering wide views over the sea and the flat landscape around it.
The dune was shaped over many centuries by wind and weather, serving as a landmark for sailors and travelers along the coast. Between 1675 and 1854, the sand buried four villages, and later from 1955 to 1973, the area received additional sand deposits that altered parts of Nida Bay.
The dune's name refers to the pathway through Nida. The landscape is shaped by specialized plants like beach grass that take root in the sand and define the natural character of the place.
Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on soft sand, as it requires extra effort. Bring water if planning to stay for a while, and stick to marked paths since certain areas are closed to protect the dune's fragile environment.
It is the only place in Kuršių Nerija National Park where sand drifts naturally and moves each year. The dune travels approximately 10 meters eastward annually, constantly reshaping itself so each visit reveals a different landscape.
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