The western Žemaitija variant offers an entirely different experience from the main route — hillier, wilder and deeply steeped in Samogitian culture. This first stage sets the tone, departing from the border village of Pikeliai and heading south through hilly farmland and patches of oak forest. The landscape feels ancient; the Samogitians were the last pagan people in Europe to convert to Christianity (1413) and their heritage is palpable throughout.
The stage ends at Židikai, a quiet village with accommodation at the local parish house.