Kleboniskio Saltinis, Kaunas, Lithuania

## Overview Kleboniškio Šaltinis (pronounced *klebonishkio shaltinis*, or simply *šaltinis*, meaning "spring" in Lithuanian) is a beloved public drinking spring nestled in the forested hills of the Kleboniškis neighborhood in Kaunas, Lithuania's second-largest city. Located just 500–700 feet north of the Vilnius–Klaipėda highway, this natural spring has long been a popular water collection spot for local residents, who visit daily with buckets, bottles, and canisters to fill up. The spring sits in a scenic wooded valley along a small river, tucked between gentle hills — a surprisingly peaceful retreat given its proximity to a major highway. There are two or three established water pick-up points at the site, each with infrastructure to make filling containers convenient. The spring has historically been used as a drinking water source by the Kaunas community, and its popularity speaks to the local trust in the water's quality. That said, as with any natural spring, water conditions can vary and independent testing is always advisable. ## Directions The spring is accessible on foot from central Kaunas via a pedestrian bridge over the highway. Here's how to get there: 1. **Head west** along Šiaurės prospektas (Šiaurės Avenue) until you reach the intersection with Sukilėlių prospektas. 2. **Turn right (north)** onto Sukilėlių prospektas and follow it for approximately 600 meters (about ⅜ mile). 3. The street transitions into **Ašigalio gatvė** and curves gradually to the right. 4. **Look to the north** for a pathway leading to a **pedestrian bridge** that crosses over the Vilnius–Klaipėda highway. 5. Cross the pedestrian bridge and follow the pathway leading into the **wooded area** on the other side. 6. The path descends between hills toward a small river — the spring collection points are located in this valley. **GPS coordinates:** 54.93905, 23.9326 ## What to Expect Kleboniškio Šaltinis is a well-known and frequently visited spring. During daytime and afternoon hours, expect to encounter other visitors — it's common to wait in line for **5 to 15 minutes** to fill your containers. The atmosphere is communal and friendly; if you have any trouble finding the exact spring locations, simply ask one of the many locals carrying water containers and they'll point you in the right direction. The surrounding Kleboniškis forest provides a pleasant natural setting with shaded paths winding between wooded hills. The walk from the pedestrian bridge down to the spring is a short but scenic descent. Wear sturdy footwear, as the path can be uneven, especially in wet conditions. Bring your own containers if you plan to collect water. The spring flows year-round, though flow rates may vary seasonally. This is a wonderful spot to experience a living Lithuanian tradition — generations of Kaunas residents have made the walk to this forest spring, and the practice continues to this day.