Natural highlights
Matsalu National Park
Matsalu National Park is located in the west of Estonia and is a river delta where nature has room to sculpt. The river that floods the area every year from April to May, inviting more than two million waterbirds to stop by. Swamps, fertile meadows and forests line the shallow mudflats of Matsalu Bay. The area has become especially famous as a destination for a birdwatching; 271 species have been recorded and 175 find breeding places there. Eight bird-watching towers are scattered along the many walking and cycling paths. There are also 36 species of orchids. Both in spring and autumn this is an important stop during a nature trip in Estonia.
Karula National park
According to local legend, fairies, ghosts, and witches dwell in the 123 square kilometers of forested hills, small lakes, and old stone burial mounds that form Karula National Park. At its heart lies Ähijärv, a magnificent lake surrounded by trees and reeds that has been worshipped since ancient times. The lakeside visitor center of the park provides information and maps for numerous walking paths. The beautiful 4km-long Ähijärv Trail takes around 90 minutes to circle round the northern edge of the lake and through woodland and meadows; keep your eyes open to spot woodpeckers and native orchids.
Alam Pedja
The crowning glory of your Estonia nature trip is Alam Pedja, Estonia's largest wilderness area, located near the town of Tartu. Large parts of the nature reserve consist of impenetrable vast bogs and flood plains, which are crossed by three adventurous hiking trails. Rare snipes and mongrels breed here. The area has now been given Natura 2000 status.
National park Laheema
Lahemaa National Park is located to the east of Tallinn. The beautiful park is very large and you will find a great diversity of flora and fauna. The park is characterised by green forests, nice beaches, rocky mountains, vast marshes and beautiful waterfalls. There are many different routes for walking and cycling, and you can really enjoy the silence and the unspoilt nature. Animal lovers will also have a great time here. You can spot beavers, birds, bears, wolves and lynxes. Besides nature, you can also find a lot of culture. There are four beautiful mansions, including the baroque Sagadi Mansion, which you should definitely visit. Along the coast you will find nice villages with old farms and picturesque houses.
Highlands of Haanja
The Haanja Highlands are located in the south of Estonia. It is a beautiful hilly area with nice forests. It has the highest hills in Estonia and there are many beautiful viewpoints. In the highlands you can walk and cycle and enjoy the silence. One of the highlights of the park is the beautiful lake Verijärv. The big lake is situated between the hills and the forests and is great for swimming, fishing and canoeing. Near the lake you will also find the Vastseliina Castle, which dates from the 14th century and is definitely worth a visit.
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