Table of Contents
Introduction
Estonia is a small Northern European country located on the shores of the Baltic Sea. Though often overshadowed by its more famous neighbors like Finland and Sweden, Estonia has its own unique natural beauty waiting to be discovered. From ancient forests to stunning beaches, Estonia’s diverse landscapes and abundance of wildlife make it an ideal destination for nature lovers. Read on to uncover some of the magnificent natural wonders that Estonia has to offer.
Landscapes and National Parks
Estonia has five national parks showcasing the diversity of its landscapes, from coastal wetlands to hilly woodlands.
Lahemaa National Park
The first national park established in Estonia, Lahemaa encompasses a range of ecosystems including forests, bogs, and beaches. Hiking trails lead through the park’s magical scenery.
Karula National Park
Located in southern Estonia, Karula is known for its rolling hills, meandering rivers, and glacial erratic boulders left over from the Ice Age. It’s an excellent spot for hiking, fishing, and camping.
Matsalu National Park
Situated on Estonia’s west coast, Matsalu National Park protects important wetlands for migratory birds and is considered one of Europe’s most important bird sanctuaries.
Soomaa National Park
Soomaa National Park showcases Estonia’s peat bogs and floodplain grasslands. In the spring, the snow melt leads to extensive seasonal flooding, attracting kayakers and canoeists.
Vilsandi National Park
Comprised of numerous islands off Estonia’s western coast, this marine national park protects bird and seal habitats as well as endangered orchids.
Islands and Beaches
In addition to its mainland, Estonia boasts over 1,500 islands off its Baltic Sea coastline. Two of the most popular and naturally stunning are Hiiumaa and Saaremaa.
Hiiumaa Island
The second largest island in Estonia, Hiiumaa offers serene forests, quiet farmlands, lighthouses, and quaint coastal villages. Kõpu Lighthouse on Hiiumaa’s north coast is one of the best spots to catch sunset over the sea.
Saaremaa Island
Saaremaa Island is the largest island in Estonia, known for its rolling hills, crater-like meteorite lake, medieval castle, and breathtaking coastal scenery. The island’s beaches are among the best in the country.
Stretching along the mainland coast, Pärnu and Narva-Jõesuu are two of Estonia’s most popular sandy beaches for swimming and sunbathing during the summer months.
Pärnu Beach
Pärnu Beach is a family-friendly golden sand beach that attracts vacationers each summer. The adjacent resort town offers restaurants, nightlife, and spas to enjoy after a day on the beach.
Narva-Jõesuu Beach
On the northeastern shore, Narva-Jõesuu Beach is known for its soft sand and natural pine forests bordering the coastline. It’s an excellent spot for peaceful seaside walks.
Lakes and Waterfalls
Inland from the coastal regions, Estonia’s lake districts and cascading waterfalls provide photogenic vistas.
Lake Peipus
Straddling the border between Estonia and Russia, Lake Peipus is the fifth largest lake in Europe. This massive lake offers plenty of recreational opportunities like boating, fishing, and swimming during the warmer months.
Lake Võrtsjärv
Lake Võrtsjärv is another large lake located in Estonia’s interior, covering over 270 square km. Birdwatching is popular on the lake due to the abundant waterfowl that resides here.
Keila Waterfalls
At almost 9 meters tall, Keila Waterfalls make for an impressive sight as the Keila River cascades over a cliff ledge. Trails around the waterfall lead through the surrounding forests.
Jägala Waterfalls
Jägala Waterfalls are a set of eight limestone waterfalls, each between 3 to 6 meters high, plunging through the forested valley. They are a popular natural attraction near Tallinn.
Forests
With over 50% of its land covered by forest, Estonia is a paradise for nature and outdoor enthusiasts. Coniferous taiga forests dominate much of the landscape.
Lahemaa National Park Forests
The old-growth forests of Lahemaa National Park include a mix of pine, spruce, birch, alder, and aspen trees. Their trails show off the mossy forest floor during a quiet walk under the canopy.
Alutaguse Forests
The sparsely populated region of Alutaguse near the Russian border features seemingly endless stretches of pine and spruce forest interspersed with bogs and lakes.
Soomaa National Park Forests
Beyond the flooded plains, Soomaa National Park also preserves large swathes of old-growth forest, home to brown bears, wolves, and other wildlife.
Wildlife
From its forests to wetlands, Estonia harbors diverse animal species. Though elusive, keep an eye out for these wild creatures in their natural habitats:
Elk
The Eurasian elk, Europe’s largest deer species, resides in Estonia’s woodland habitats. Their sizeable palmate antlers make quite the sight.
Lynx
With excellent camouflage for forest environments, the Eurasian lynx is a shy wild cat living in Estonia’s wilderness. Lynx can occasionally be spotted in remote areas.
Wolves
Grey wolves roam across Northern and Eastern Estonia, usually steering clear of people. Their eerie howls may be heard at night.
Owls
Several species of owls such as eagle owls and pygmy owls make Estonia their home. Listen for their hoots after sunset.
Foxes
Red foxes are common across Estonia, though their bushy tails may be the only sign you see as they can be quite evasive.
Beavers
Look for signs of beavers in and around bodies of water. You may spot their large flat tails slapping the water’s surface.
Deer
Beyond elk, smaller deer species like roe deer and fallow deer inhabit Estonia’s forests and meadows.
Seasonal Natural Wonders
While worth visiting any time of year, Estonia reveals different sides of its natural splendor during each season.
Fall Foliage
In autumn, Estonia’s woodlands transform into a sea of orange, red, and yellow leaves before the landscapes are covered in snow. It’s a magical time for hiking and photography.
Winter Landscapes
A blanket of sparkling white snow highlights Estonia’s natural features during the cold winter months. Visitors during this serene season can go cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and more.
Midnight Sun
From late May to mid-July, Northern Estonia experiences nearly 20 hours of daylight including a mystical midnight sun. The long days provide ample light for exploring the countryside.
Cultural and Historical Sites
Beyond the natural scenery, several cultural attractions allow visitors to dive into Estonia’s heritage and history while surrounded by natural splendor.
Old Town Tallinn
Wandering the cobblestone streets of Tallinn’s medieval Old Town district transports you back in time, all while overlooking the coastal city backed by nature.
Kuressaare Castle
Located in Kuressaare on the island of Saaremaa, this massive 13th century castle overlooks the Baltic Sea and provides plenty of Instagram-worthy backdrops.
Hill of Crosses
Covered in crosses placed by Catholic pilgrims, this peaceful hillside is now home to over 6,000 crosses as well as scenic views.
Outdoor Activities
With so much natural diversity, Estonia offers endless outdoor recreation across its landscapes.
Hiking
Thousands of miles of hiking trails crisscross Estonia, ranging from easy nature walks to challenging treks through boggy terrain.
Kayaking and Canoeing
Paddling through places like Soomaa National Park and coastal inlets allows you to intimately experience Estonia’s waterways.
Birdwatching
From migratory songbirds to seabirds and birds of prey, Estonia is a bird lover’s haven with skilled birding guides available.
Cycling
Pedal along quiet country roads, coastal paths, and through national parks to take in the scenery under your own power.
Swimming
Take a dip in Estonia’s chilly but refreshing waters, including beaches on the Baltic Sea and clear lakes.
Conclusion
With otherworldly forests, crystalline lakes, picturesque islands, and fascinating wildlife, Estonia promises natural beauty around every corner. Though it may fly under the radar, nature lovers shouldn’t overlook Estonia when planning their next adventure. Whether you go hiking, cycling, camping, or exploring charming towns, you’re sure to be mesmerized by Estonia’s diverse landscapes and unique natural sanctuaries waiting to be uncovered.
FAQs
What is the best time of year to visit Estonia for nature?
While Estonia offers beautiful nature year-round, late spring through early autumn provides the most pleasant weather for enjoying the great outdoors. Mid-May to mid-July offer nearly endless daylight to experience Estonia’s nature to the fullest.
What is the most untouched natural area in Estonia?
Alutaguse is one of Estonia’s most remote and pristine natural areas. Located near the Russian border, it consists of vast primordial forests and wetlands with little human presence or development.
Where can you see wild animals in Estonia?
Your best chance of spotting wildlife like elk, deer, foxes, bears, and more are in Estonia’s national parks and other protected natural areas such as Lahemaa National Park, Karula National Park, and Alutaguse forests.
What are the top outdoor activities in Estonia?
Top outdoor pursuits in Estonia include hiking, cycling, canoeing, kayaking, swimming, fishing, mushroom and berry picking, birdwatching, and winter sports like cross-country skiing. The national parks provide plenty of opportunities.
What natural UNESCO sites are in Estonia?
The Struve Geodetic Arc, a chain of survey triangulations stretching across ten countries including Estonia, was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005 for its scientific significance in geography and astronomy.