Estonia is known for its stunning natural beauty, and its national parks are some of the best places to experience this. Here’s a guide to some of Estonia’s most notable national parks, perfect for nature lovers:
1. Lahemaa National Park
- Location: Northeastern Estonia, near the Gulf of Finland.
- Highlights:
- Estonia’s largest and oldest national park, known for its diverse landscapes, including forests, bogs, and coastal areas.
- Popular for hiking, cycling, and birdwatching.
- Features historical manor houses and fishing villages.
- The Viru Bog and the Altja village are must-see spots.
- Activities: Hiking, wildlife watching, photography, and cultural heritage tours.
2. Soomaa National Park
- Location: Central Estonia.
- Highlights:
- Known for its unique bog landscapes and the “fifth season” (flooding season), when the park’s wetlands become navigable by canoe.
- Home to rare flora and fauna, including wolves, lynx, and beavers.
- The park has well-maintained boardwalks, making it easy to explore its wetlands.
- Activities: Canoeing, hiking, wildlife observation, and bog walking.
3. Karula National Park
- Location: Southeastern Estonia, near the Latvian border.
- Highlights:
- A peaceful park with rolling hills, lakes, and forests.
- Known for its rich biodiversity and beautiful landscapes, it’s perfect for those looking for tranquility.
- Offers excellent opportunities for hiking and cycling.
- Activities: Hiking, birdwatching, and cycling.
4. Vilsandi National Park
- Location: Western Estonia, on the island of Saaremaa.
- Highlights:
- A coastal national park with diverse ecosystems, including islands, wetlands, and beaches.
- The park is home to a large population of seals and migratory birds.
- The Vilsandi Lighthouse is a key landmark and offers scenic views.
- Activities: Birdwatching, seal watching, hiking, and exploring coastal landscapes.
5. Matsalu National Park
- Location: Western Estonia, along the coast of the Baltic Sea.
- Highlights:
- A UNESCO Wetland of International Importance, famous for its birdlife.
- Ideal for birdwatching, especially during migration seasons.
- The park also features diverse habitats, including coastal meadows and forests.
- Activities: Birdwatching, hiking, photography, and boat trips.
6. Põhja-Kõrvemaa Nature Reserve
- Location: Northern Estonia, near the town of Jõgeva.
- Highlights:
- A remote and wild reserve known for its rugged terrain, including peat bogs, forests, and lakes.
- Offers a true wilderness experience, with few visitors and minimal infrastructure.
- A great place for hiking, biking, and cross-country skiing in winter.
- Activities: Hiking, skiing, and exploring nature trails.
7. Endla Nature Reserve
- Location: Central Estonia.
- Highlights:
- A large wetland area, home to many species of birds, amphibians, and plants.
- Known for its peaceful environment and rich biodiversity.
- Features walking trails and observation towers for birdwatching.
- Activities: Birdwatching, hiking, and photography.
8. Seitsema National Park
- Location: Eastern Estonia.
- Highlights:
- Known for its scenic views, forests, and wetlands.
- Home to several hiking trails, including the long-distance “Seitsema Trail.”
- Ideal for those looking to experience Estonia’s natural beauty in a less touristy area.
- Activities: Hiking, wildlife observation, and photography.
Tips for Visiting Estonia’s National Parks:
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early autumn (May to September) is ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, birdwatching, and canoeing. Winter offers opportunities for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
- Transport: Renting a car is the most convenient way to explore Estonia’s national parks, as public transport options may be limited in remote areas.
- Accommodations: Many national parks offer camping sites, guesthouses, and eco-lodges for an immersive experience in nature.
Estonia’s national parks offer a variety of landscapes and activities for nature lovers, from tranquil bogs to coastal reserves, making it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts.