Nature and WildlifeEstonia is an unspoilt, sparsely populated country, nearly half of which is covered with forests. Around a dozen national parks and protected areas provide opportunities for nature lovers to explore the countryside. Information centers at each reserve can provide advice and maps. Popular among both Estonians and tourists is
Lahemaa National Park, the country’s largest national park. Situated on the northern coast, it contains limestone cliffs, waterfalls, lakes and forests. Bog walks can be undertaken in this area. Walkways on wooden boards give visitors
the opportunity to observe the special flora and fauna of the deep peat bogs. In
Soomaa National Park, near Pärnu, the ancient bogs (said to be inhabited by witches) can be explored in traditional canoes. Estonian wildlife includes large mammals such as lynx, bears, wolves and elk. Birdlife is abundant, and birdwatchers are well catered for in reserves such as the
Käina Bay Bird Reserve and
Matsalu Nature Reserve. Eagles, storks and a variety of wetland birds are among the species to be seen. Butterflies are also numerous in parts of Estonia.
TrainspottingOwing to the wide-gauge track, unusual trains can be spotted, an activity popular amongst local people. The
National Railway Museum in Haapsalu is a source of information for trainspotters. Behind the museum, a ‘train graveyard’ contains vehicles of special interest to train buffs. There is even the opportunity to spend the night in a former luxury sleeping car, used to transport Communist Party members in the Soviet era, and now turned into a youth hostel.
WatersportsSwimming is popular all over Estonia. The beaches are often long and wide with white sand; pools and lakes abound in the interior of the country. In the north of the country, it is possible to find small coves used for nude bathing, though there are no designated areas for this. Fishing is very popular and boating widely practiced.
OtherGood hiking and cycling spots include Saaremaa Island, which has remained particularly unspoiled, owing to the fact that, in the Soviet era, even Estonians required a visa to visit it. Horse riding is widely practiced. Otepää in the southeast, with its lakes and forests, is a good location for all outdoor activities in the summer and for skiing in the winter. Canoeing can be arranged with specialist companies. Trips usually last one to three days and the price includes equipment hire. There is an international-standard golf course at Niitivälja, 34km (21 miles) from Tallinn. It is closed in winter. Basketball is also very popular, as are cross-country skiing and football.
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