Lahemaa Day Trip
Unforgettable Adventure in National Park!
Lahemaa National Park is the oldest and largest national park in Estonia. It was established in 1971 to protect and represent typical North-Estonian landscapes and the cultural heritage of the area. It was also the first national park in the Soviet Union. Park lies on the territory of two counties and its area covers 72 500 ha. The name Lahemaa (“Land of Bays”) comes from the part of the coast, where four peninsulas are separated from each other by four bays. About 70% of the area is covered with forests. Here you can discover the shine of golden beaches and shores, strong colours of green pine forests, solid stones and amazing strength of the open sea!
The national park tour is one of the most popular destinations among tourists who want to explore well-preserved Estonian nature and feel the charm of local countryside. During fascinating full-day trip we visit both nature and cultural sites. Whether you are looking to experience nature, for moments of inspiration or relaxation, a bit of getting away from everyday life, you can find it all in Lahemaa!
Some places we visit:
Jägala Waterfall is the highest and the widest natural waterfall in Estonia. It runs down from the North-Estonian limestone platoe and during thousands of years created up to 14 m deep and 300 m long valley. The waterfall forms two strong whirlpools at each edge. Whirlpool at the right shore is stronger – reportedly there is 6 m deep pit. Jägala river is not that deep here, but its stream is powerful enough to bring away a horse. In the limestone in upper side of the waterfall could be seen fossils of ancient cephalopods (related to octopuses). The most impressive time to visit waterfall is in winter when it is frozen and it is possible to walk under the waterfall or in spring during the high waters period. By the way, Latvians have nicknamed Jägala the Niagara Falls of the Baltics!
Viru Bog with wooden boardwalk introduces untouched beauty and uniqueness of Estonia’s nature. This 3.5 kilometer nature trail is built right on top of one of Estonia’s many bogs (over 33% of country’s area is covered with bogs). The most picturesque view opens from the observatio tower located in the middle of the bog. Typical bog ecosystem can be studied during the walk.
Käsmu is a small coastal village in the Lahemaa National Park firstly mentioned in 1453. It has rich maritime history and is known as the “Captains Village”. First residents – 9 families – came and stayed here in the 16th century. During 1884-1931 the village was home to the Estonian School of Navigation with over 1600 graduates. Since 1840-s it’s been also known as beautiful summer vacation village. During the golden times of Käsmu – in 1939, 500 residents lived here. Today Käsmu has only 70 locals, the number increases about three times during summer time, winter time there are only 12 kids who goes to school. Käsmu is the richest area with boulders in whole Europe! Being here, certainly leave a stone to a stone pile to make your wish come true (this tradition comes to the XVII century)! On the top of Käsmu peninsula there is a small island which is possible to reach by jumping from one stone to another. In the middle of the village is located historical chapel and a church.
Altjais a well-restored old fishermen’s village with thatched roofs, authentic smoke saunas and big wooden swing. Altja and its surroundings as a fishing place were first mentioned in 1465. Net sheds on the beach were restored in 1973-1974 after old photographs and the memories of the habitants of Altja. The barns were originally built by the crew of the fishing boat. The crew was made up of men from different families who had to have netting of the same size. Besides drying the nets the barns were also used for keeping fishing tackle. Thematic net sheds by the sea will not leave you indifferent. One of three taverns is preserved until nowadays and offers simple, but tasty traditional Estonian cuisine. Population of Altja for today is under 50 inhabitants. Note also two-row wooden fence, which is typical for old farmhouses.
Palmse Manor, also called as a heart of Lahemaa, is one of the most unique manorial ensembles in the Baltics. Majestic manor house surrounded by park is first mentioned in a written document in 1287 when it was under the tutelage of Tallinn’s St Michael’s nunnery. Afterwards it belonged to German origin von Pahlens family and to other several owners. From 1972 to spring 2002 Lahemaa National Park administered the manor. Palmse was fully renovated. Since spring 2002 the manor is managed by the Foundation “Museums of Virumaa”. All the buildings are under state protection as an architectural monument. Inside the main building is situated a museum to represent common lifestyle of past centuries. In addition to master’s and mistress’s wings, great hall and drawing rooms there are wine cellar, hunting hall and historic kitchen. Numerous other buildings like horse stables, glasshouse, bathing house and distillery can be seen nearby.
TOUR INFO
DURATION ca 8 hours
START AT 9:00 a.m.
Minimum number of participants is 2
PRICE 99 EUR per person
Groups of 3 and more participants 85 EUR per person
Children aged up to 7 travel for free*, 7-12 years 69 EUR per person
INCLUSIONS
– Transportation by comfortable car or minivan
– Personal English-speaking guide
– Entrance tickets
– Lunch (traditional Estonian cuisine)
– Small snacks and drinking water on the way
– Printed materials about places we visit
– A CD with pictures of Estonia as a gift
– Surprise for small tourists
– Raincoats if necessary
*- 1 child for 1 adult, lunch is not included.