Nature holiday - Visit Haapsalu

Immerse yourself in the nature of Läänemaa

In the romantic small town of Haapsalu and small villages, hospitable people await you, surprising you with their sincerity and interest in history and culture. The guests who stayed here are remembered again and again with great respect.

VisitEstonia has produced a brochure introducing Estonia’s national parks:

A hike on elven trails in the virgin nature of Tõldmäe

A hike on elven trails takes you to the magical Tõldmäe bog island covered in virgin forest and offering breathtaking views on Leidissoo. This is a place where time stands still and the unearthly prevails. The place is rich in trees and rocks in various shapes and sizes. We will talk about nature, local legends, Estonian pre-history, mythology and traditions. If you wish, you can have a smoke sauna after the hike. Leave the civilization behind, become a part of primeval nature and have an adventure in a mystical elven forest! You will always be welcome here!

The hike is about 8 km long and lasts for about 5–8 hours; the price includes the fee of a tour guide and transportation from Tallinn.

Põllula, Auaste küla, Lääne-Nigula vald, Lääne maakond

Lake Prästvike hiking trail

Lake Prästvike, located in the central part of Vormsi Island, is a former sea lagoon, which has been taken over by reed to a large extent, but has retained its importance as a spawning and nursery area for fish in the coastal sea. The birdlife of the lake is abundant and diverse – on a quiet spring evening, you can hear the song of the bittern.
The largest spring among the numerous springs in the northern part of the lake is the Suurallikas Spring. The 1.7 km hiking trail leads to Lake Prästvike and the observation tower on the north shore. At the edge of the forest, there is the unique Raviallikas Spring. It is surrounded by calcareous spring meadows with different species of Orchidaceae.

Vormsi ringtee T3, Hullo küla, Vormsi vald, Lääne maakond

Kayaking on Haapsalu Bay

Nice kayaking trips on Haapsalu Bay welcome you to an experience. We set out from Holmi beach in Haapsalu and make a trip around the waters of the bay. We visit yacht harbours and paddle between islets. It is a great way to see almost all of Haapsalu.
The kayak trip includes a place in the boat, equipment, guide service and instructions. Group price (6 persons) €150, from the seventh person €30 per person. The trips are most suitable for adults and children from the age of 14.

Haapsalu linn, Haapsalu linn, Lääne maakond

Nõva Nature Reserve, RMK Recreation Area, and Visitor Centre

The Nõva Recreation Area and Nature Reserve on the lowland of West-Estonia was established to protect the coastal landscapes and plant communities. It covers vast bog plains, forest massifs, and sand beaches. The lakes around Peraküla village are surrounded by 5-metre high coastal dunes. White water lilies and the great fen-sedge grow on the lakes. The coastal area enchants beachgoers and surfers. The forests and bogs are full of berries and mushrooms. There is an information point, camping spots, and places for making bonfires in the recreation area.

The Nõva Visitor Centre in the Nõva RMK Recreation Area provides information about the area’s sights and advice on choosing the hiking routes.

Nõva looduskeskus, Peraküla, Lääne-Nigula vald, Lääne maakond

Peraküla beach

This beautiful countryside, largely untouched by civilization and surrounded by sparse settlement, is alluring to nature enthusiasts, who are able to visit the nearby forest to forage blueberries, cowberries and mushrooms.

The Nõva coastal area is also enchanting to those interested in enjoying a beach setting and getting a little surfing in. The sandy beach of Peraküla offers close to a dozen kilometres of pure singing sand.

Did you know…?: There are no lifeguards at this beach, and RMK Peraküla has a camping area with campfire sites and outhouses, as well as having a 200 capacity car park at Peraküla beach.

Riguldi metskond 3, Spithami küla / Spithamn, Lääne-Nigula vald, Lääne maakond

Paralepa forest tracks

The Paralepa park forest not far from Haapsalu has 3 km and 5 km long tracks. They provide a number of exercise opportunities, from parallel bars and balance beams to chin-ups and obstacle course runs. You can get a map from the reception desk at the nearby Fra Mare Hotel to help you navigate along the tracks. The map marks the running and ski track, which is also marked in situ, and the hotel will also hire out Nordic walking equipment, bicycles and skis.

Ranna tee 1, Haapsalu linn, Haapsalu linn, Lääne maakond