In Zaļesje Parish, Ludza Municipality, the Ivanov family has established a diversified farm, focusing also on the conservation and restoration of the dry sandy grasslands on their land. The dry sandy grasslands are particularly colourful in May and June, when the lilies of the valley, wild carnations and various green-flowered and other coloured orchids are in bloom.

Ilga Ivanova and the “Bites” farm are at the heart of Zilupe, and thanks to her vision, many, many people from across Latvia come to fall in love with this corner of Latgale.  Ilga and her family also organise educational activities for tourists and schoolchildren on meadow plants and their significance. During the linden blossom season, they organise evening gatherings to watch the bats. Children will find it fascinating to observe the „underground cities“ created by insects and the pathways between the meadows. You might even be lucky enough to spot some grasshoppers or a multicultural flock of crows. Upon request, nature classes are also organised in line with the curriculum for natural science lessons.

The Ivanov family produce syrups made from elderberries, river mint, pine cones and pine buds on their farm. They offer a variety of creative workshops on site at the farm, as well as wooden building blocks, birch bark crafts and clay products.