ZS Silvas

A Lifestyle Rooted in Nature

The family-run farm “Silvas”, located in Brīvzemnieki Parish, Aloja Municipality, is an agricultural cornerstone created by a family where daily life intertwines with dreams, a mindful lifestyle, and respect for nature. In 2015, Māris Bērziņš and Dina Avotiņa moved to the countryside to turn their hobby-level sheep farming into a serious occupation and a model of sustainable agriculture.

Today, the farm raises around 400 Latvian Dark-Headed sheep, producing high-quality lambs, as confirmed by its status as a breed-certified farm. “Silvas” places special emphasis on preserving the genetic resources of the Latvian Dark-Headed sheep, thus helping safeguard this important breed developed in Latvia.

Management of natural meadows is one of the farm’s core values. In summer, the sheep graze freely in these biologically valuable habitats, while in winter they feed on the delicious and healthy hay harvested on-site. This practice promotes meadow conservation and maintains their rich biodiversity. To ensure safe grazing, “Silvas” has developed unique methods to protect the flock from wolf attacks—gas cannons, a car with a playing radio, and most unusually, long-lasting Dubai perfumes applied to the sheep, which make them less attractive to predators. This makes the “Silvas” flock a truly unique phenomenon in the Latvian countryside.

Starting in October, the farmers welcome both groups and individual visitors to introduce them to life on a rural homestead and the daily realities of sheep farming. The offer includes tastings of lamb products, giving newcomers the chance to discover this flavor. Guests can also enjoy herbal tea harvested from natural meadows and try handmade sheep-fat balm enriched with high-quality plant oils. For those with bigger appetites, the hosts serve a hearty lamb soup.

Among the natural meadow products, sheep wool holds a special place. At the farm, it is showcased as an example of an unconventional but practical material—used for insulation, therapeutic purposes, and even as mulch—making it a modern and versatile resource. This reveals the meadow not only as a source of food for sheep but also as inspiration and a supply of sustainable materials for people. This offering naturally complements the farm’s main value: the preservation and wise use of natural meadows.

The meadows of Silvas and their abundant gifts are an essential part of both sheep life and people’s daily wellbeing.

Where to buy?

Visits to the farm by prior appointment:  (371) 26186535