PAID CONTENT FOR ESTONIAN NATURE TOURISM ASSOCIATION PAID CONTENT FOR ESTONIAN NATURE TOURISM ASSOCIATION PAID CONTENT FOR ESTONIAN NATURE TOURISM ASSOCIATION
Estonian Nature Tourism Association ESTONIA
ESTONIA IS A NATURE-LOVER’S PARADISE, WITH UNTOUCHED WILDERNESS, A DIVERSE CLIMATE AND LOW POPULATION
Here, nature is always close, and every journey offers a unique experience, whether in the forest, bogs, rivers or small islands. Estonia is a place where time slows down, and nature embraces you in every season.
Estonia’s natural treasures Estonia offers more than just its stunning national parks: nature is accessible everywhere, often within just 30 minutes from the city. With over 50% of the country covered by forests and 22% by bogs, Estonia’s landscape is a tapestry of diverse ecosystems. The country is also ranked highly for having some of the cleanest air in Europe and ranks among the top in the world for air quality. Estonia is a sanctuary for wildlife, including bears, lynxes and over 40 species of wild orchids. It’s a place where nature and digital innovation coexist harmoniously.
Unique landscapes Estonia is blessed with four distinct seasons, plus a fifth – the ‘flood season’ in Soomaa National Park,
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where you can canoe through flooded forests and meadows. Spring and autumn are ideal for nature- watching, with large bird migrations bringing over 300 bird species through the country. Among the most sought-after species are ural owl, hazel grouse, several rare woodpecker species (such as the three-toed and white-backed woodpeckers), the lesser spotted eagle, capercaillie, and steller’s eider. Estonia is also home to fascinating mammals, including the lynx, bear, wolf, moose, deer, wild boar, raccoon dog, flying squirrel and the grey seal. Winter offers a wealth of opportunities for
active holidays — from cross-country skiing and snowshoeing to dog sledding and skating on frozen lakes. Estonians have a deep love for nature and spend much of their time outdoors, gathering berries and mushrooms while enjoying the peace and quiet.
A hiker’s paradise Estonia has 127 health trails that are perfect for running, walking or cycling. For those seeking
longer adventures, there are five long-distance hiking trails that stretch from one end of the country to the other, with the longest being more than 500 miles. These trails are equipped with campsites and firepits, ensuring that hikers can feel safe and enjoy the journey. There’s also the Coastal Hiking Trail and the Forest Hiking Trail, which pass through the Baltics and connect with Europe’s extensive network of hiking paths.
Unparalleled hospitality In Estonia, hospitality is at the heart of everything, offering visitors not just a stay, but extraordinary experiences that leave lasting memories. Thoughtfully curated services and unique natural settings turn a simple walk into a fairytale journey. Whether it’s a leisurely stroll through the woods
or an in-depth exploration of nature’s micro-world with a biologist, Estonia offers something for everyone. Imagine enjoying a gourmet meal made from forest-fresh ingredients, served on a white tablecloth right in the heart of the wilderness.
Explore Estonia’s National Parks Each of Estonia’s six national parks has its own unique identity, offering a variety of landscapes and experiences. Lahemaa National Park is located on the northern coast. It’s a mix of lush forests, wetlands and beaches and is home to a rich array of wildlife, including moose, wild boar and bears. Explore ancient fishing villages, hike through primeval forests, or simply enjoy the solitude of a deserted beach. Soomaa National Park, famous for its ‘fifth
season’, transforms into a watery wonderland during spring floods. Canoe through the flooded forests or hike along the boardwalks in the bogs. Soomaa is also one of the best places in Europe to observe beavers in their natural habitat. Meanwhile, birdwatcher’s paradise, Matsalu
National Park, is one of Europe’s most important wetlands. During spring and autumn, millions of migratory birds pass through, making it a must- visit for bird enthusiasts. Alutaguse National Park is Estonia’s newest national park. Alutaguse is a land of contrasts,
where pristine forests and deep marshes meet small villages and former mining areas. It’s a refuge for bears, as well as rare species like the flying squirrel and willow ptarmigan. Karula National Park, the smallest of Estonia’s national parks, is characterised by its rolling hills and lakes. It’s a place of peace and quiet, where time seems to stand still, offering a glimpse into Estonia’s heritage. Finally, Vilsandi National Park is situated on the
west coast. Vilsandi is a haven for seabirds and seals. It’s an archipelago of over 160 islands, where you can wade from one island to another through shallow waters or explore the limestone cliffs rich in fossils.
Reasons to visit Estonia Estonia is not just a summer destination; it’s a place to visit year-round. Springs and summers are mild, and each season offers something unique. Spring and autumn bring the wonders of bird migration and vibrant landscapes, while winter turns the country into a snowy playground. And let’s not forget the fifth season, a rare phenomenon that you can only experience here.
DON’T MISS Experience Estonia’s unique bog landscapes with snow and bogshoe walks across the peat, discovering over 20,000 bog lakes
Need to know
KEY FEATURES • Beautiful landscapes • 5 seasons • Low population
KEY ACTIVITIES • Snow- and bogshoe walks • Wildlife-watching and bird migration • Hiking trails and forest foraging
GET IN TOUCH
balticnaturetourism.com/en T: +37 25 10 5441 E:
info@loodusturism.com
IMAGE: JAREK JÕEPERA IMAGE: JAREK JÕEPERA
THIS ARTICLE HAS BEEN SUPPORTED AS PART OF CB0100030, AN INTERREG CENTRAL BALTIC PROGRAMME 2021-2027 PROJECT CO-FUNDED BY THE EUROPEAN UNION
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