Smiltene is a rather affluent town in North Vidzeme. Its inhabitants earn money from food and timber processing, furniture production. The town is also a centre of road construction and forestry businesses, a large vocational school. Additional opportunities are provided by nearby Valmiera. If only all regional towns were like this in Latvia.

Besides, it is also just a nice place. Hills, parks, a chain of lakes and clusters of well built and well kept houses create a relaxing atmosphere. Best enjoyed in May or October, but also in other times up to half a day can be spent there nicely.