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Estonia’s National Parks: A Nature Lover’s Guide

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.