Often when we are preparing for a trip, the Baltic countries are forgotten about or left out due to their location or because they don´t have a tradition of tourism like other European countries. This is a huge advantage because they are not as “corrupted” by tourism as some other countries and they are also cheaper and more original. Estonia is a good example of this, and now that the low-cost airlines have started flying there, many people are discovering Estonia and Tallinn as one of the most original and beautiful places in Europe .
© araqnid
Travelers interested in nature and outdoor activities have much to do in Tallinn. There are several several parks close to the city where you can do all kinds of activities, including hiking, and enjoy the clean, fresh air. Here we propose three hiking trails for you to choose from on your next trip to Estonia.
Oandu-Võsu (9.5 miles)
The hiking trail to from Oandu to Võsu is in Lahemaa National Park, 60 km from Tallinn. This route is 9.5 km long and is lined with tall trees and where you can see marks left by wild animals living in the area, especially by elk and wild boar. If you like walking in forests surrounded by peacefulness and tranquility, this route is for you. Once you get to Võsu, you can enjoy the breathtaking view of the Gulf of Finland. Võsu is also located right on the coast and there´s even a beach. This trail follows the old Seljaku route through virgin forests and can easily be done in about 3 to 4 hours.
Viru Raba (6.5 miles)
This is an easier, circular route. To get there, go down the road from Tallinn to Narva and leave in Liiapeksi in the direction of Loksa. Along this narrow road, in less than a kilometer you will find a path to the right that will lead to the small Viru marshlands (marsh is raba in Estonian). On this trail you will see a variety of wild fruit trees (if ripe, the fruits are safe to eat). If you are interested in plants, you will want to see Charles Darwin´s favorite plant, the sundew dionaea, which is a carnivorous plant. The road has few slopes and can be done in about 2 to 3 hours, or a little longer if you want to stop for a while to take pictures and relax. Once you´re done and back on the road, the village of Kolga, which is about 4 km away, is certainly worth a visit.
Käsmu (14 km)
This is definitely the longest route and can be completed as a daytrip. Käsmu, which is located a little north of Võsu, is a small peninsula with a beautiful lake that you can visit by this trail. This trail brings you along the coast, where you will have incredible views of the Gulf of Finland and the Bay of Eru (Eru Laht) on the other side. This trail is ideal for those who really enjoy hiking, and it allows you to see how the green of nature contrasts with the blue of the water. Be sure to bring some food along for the journey, as you are certain to work up an appetite. To reach Käsmu, take the road of Kotka to Võsu and turn left before reaching the end.
Spend your holidays in Tallinn apartments and enjoy the natural wonders of Estonia. The Lahemaa National Park is impressive and allows you to experience the lakes, forest and incredible views of the Gulf of Finland.