10 National Parks & Reserves In Estonia You Must Explore If You’re A True Wildlife Lover
Estonia is winning the hearts of travel lovers across the world with its unique offerings, value-for-money experiences and undiscovered cultural treasures. While the capital city Tallinn exudes old-world charm, the Estonian outdoors is a dreamland for nature lovers. More than 1000 picture-postcards with islands and picturesque Beaches, adventure and rejuvenation go hand in hand for those seeking respite from the monotonous routine. In a world of dwindling forests, more than half of Estonia is covered in ancient forests and woodlands, making for a soul-soothing encounter with nature in all its spectacular splendour.
there are five national parks in estonia There are many protected areas and nature reserves as well as a deep range of abundant wildlife and avian species. Let’s breathe in the scent of nature and explore the top estonia national park And nature reserves that should not be missed on a visit to this hidden European gem.
5 national parks in estonia
Here is a list of the 5 best national parks in Estonia that are worth visiting during your trip. Take a look to know the reason.
1. Lahema National Park
Lahema National Park It not only gives a glimpse of Estonia’s spectacular natural biodiversity, but also provides a perfect cultural experience for the whole family with many exciting activities to choose from. Being the oldest and eldest national park in estonia, Lahema is a perfectly woven natural tapestry of pine forests, beautiful swamps, sandy shores, sparkling rivers and picturesque hiking trails. You can take a refreshing dip in the watering holes or enjoy the abundant Estonian nature along the Ondu Forest Trail or Viru Bog Trail, which takes you through dense forests and swamps. While you enjoy the pristine surroundings you may even spot bears, wolves and lynx if you’re lucky. The four magnificent estates within Lahema offer a glimpse of the glorious past.
Time: The park is open 24 hours. Pamse Manor timings are: 10 AM to 6 PM
Entry Fee for Palmsey Manor Museum: Euro 9/7 per adult/child.
tip: Plan a trip of at least half a day and wear comfortable walking shoes.
2. Suma National Park
As you walk through the swamp Suma National Park, Time stops for you to witness the pure pristine nature. On its 4.8 km long boardwalk, which takes you through five beautiful swamps and boglands, you can experience the magic of one of the best national parks in estonia And spend some blissful quiet moments. The scenic hiking trails are great for spotting wildlife in the evening and the famous Beaver Trail also allows you to see beaver dams and say hello to these cute animals. With five rivers and several marshy lakes, the park also offers wonderful canoe tours and bathing opportunities. Guided tours also feature berry picking, mushroom finding, and bird watching!
tip: Take a swimsuit with you for a refreshing dip in the warm lakes. If you contact
From Pärnu Suma then stops at the mysterious Torii Hell.
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3. Vilasandi National Park
With a part of Vilasandi Island, Vilasandi National Park It covers 100 small islands, islets and reefs in the surrounding area and boasts diverse and beautiful flora and fauna. Considered to be the oldest nature conservation area in the Baltics, the park was first established as a protected reserve for the many species of migratory birds in the area. The largest of the islands, Vilsandi is home to beautiful hiking trails where you can find over 30 varieties of orchids, fossils and exotic birds like the eider duck and barnacle swan. Visitors can canoe through several small islands with beautiful sea views and lighthouses. The forest areas are also suitable for picnics, with wooden tables, benches and barbecue facilities.
tip: For an out-of-this-world experience, a visit to the Harilad Peninsula is a must.
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4. Karula National Park
the smallest among national park in estonia, Karoola National Park is nevertheless big on natural beauty with breathtaking mountain views and beautiful lakes. Those who love solitude and peace must visit this paradise of lush green forests and more than 60 gorgeous lakes. Located in southern Estonia, the park is also home to several endangered bird and plant species, such as the Lesser Spotted Eagle, Black Stork, Daisy Leaf Grape Fern and Baltic Orchid. Ideal for camping, hiking, fishing, long nature walks and casual picnics, the national park is an oasis for nature lovers. There is a viewing tower at the top of the highest peak, which provides a sweeping view of the surrounding scenery.
tip: The area around Lake Ahijarve is best for recreational activities.
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5. Matsalu National Park
Spread over 400 square kilometers on land and coast, it is one of the best national parks in estonia To encounter hundreds of bird species. Considered one of Europe’s top bird watching locations, Matsalu National Park It is home to over 250 bird species and is an important refuge for migratory birds. The park’s unique and gorgeous landscapes can be explored by foot, bicycle or boat tour with expert guides. The culture center displays informative collages and several watch towers allow ornithologists and bird lovers to view various species. Well-marked hiking trails with rest houses are perfect for treks into the untouched forest.
tip: Bird-watching towers at Heska, Keimu and Klostri promise good views.
5 Top Nature Reserves in Estonia
The country’s commitment to conserving and protecting nature is evident through more than 100 protected areas and nature reserves filled with rich biodiversity. Here is a list of 5 nature reserves that you must visit.
1. Otepää Nature Park
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Covering 22430 hectares in the northern part of Valga County, it is the largest landscape conservation area in the country and holds the same importance national parks in estonia To preserve its pristine nature. Rolling landscapes, beautiful lakes and lush forests make it an ideal place for long nature walks and moments of solitude amidst pristine surroundings. There are also well-marked hiking and skiing trails with bike lanes around the lake as well as picnic areas for cycling enthusiasts. Winter imparts an ethereal charm to this magnificent abode of nature and transforms it into a mini Switzerland.
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2. Andala Nature Reserve
This beautifully protected nature reserve in central Estonia consisting of beautiful streams, ravines, marshes and swamps was established to protect the region’s unique karst formations and marsh islands. Marked hiking trails for hikers of different levels (from the 1.3 kilometer long Manikjärve Bog Study Trail to the 8 kilometer long Andala Lake Trail) offer the chance to explore the forests, swamps and grasslands in the reserve at leisure. The reserve is also home to the Nora-Ostriku waterfalls which are the largest in Estonia. The observation tower allows visitors to view the nature reserve’s rich birdlife due to its numerous swamps and wetlands.
3. Pohja-Korvema Nature Reserve
Popular for its dense forests, beautiful lakes and abundant swamps, this nature reserve in northern Estonia is popular for its unique landscape and myriad species of birds, plants and animals. Like Matsalu’s importance among the national parks of Estonia for its superb bird-watching opportunities, Korvemaa Nature Reserve is also home to several protected bird species such as the golden eagle and the black stork. Along with its wooded moorland paths and beautiful hiking tracks, Korvemaa is also popular for its cross-country ski tracks.
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4. Kopu Nature Reserve
Located in Hieu County in western Estonia, this nature reserve was established to protect the unique biodiversity of the Kopu Peninsula. Located on the highest point of the island of Hiiumaa, which is Estonia’s second largest island in the Baltic Sea, the Kopu Nature Reserve is known for its rich geological diversity and rare flora and fauna. Filled with a variety of forests such as heath and fens, the reserve is also home to rare plants such as sea holly, black bogbrush and many orchids. The rare black woodpecker, European nightjar and European honey buzzard are among some of the important protected flora.
5. Manija Landscape Conservation Area
Made up of Manilad and Anilad islands in Pärnu County, this protected area aims to preserve coastal grasslands, rare plants and ponds inhabited by natterjack toads. The irregular stones of Kotkakivi form a home to rare fauna such as the short-eared owl, barred warbler and red-backed shrike, as well as an important part of the area’s unusual cultural heritage landscape. For those interested in exploring this wonderful area, more information about nature and culture can be obtained from the Manija Island Centre.
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Well-managed national parks with nature reserves and nature parks in Estonia clearly emphasize the country’s commitment to its natural wealth. When nature lovers plan an international trip here with TourTravelHotels they should take out ample time to see and explore the beautiful landscapes of Estonia.
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