Lahemaa is a small magical place where nature and humans live in harmony. It has deep forests, stormy seas and huge rocks, but most of all, people with old stories and runic songs.
Lahemaa, the oldest national park of the former Soviet Union, is home to the best that Estonian nature has to offer. In the space of 725 km2, you’ll find lush native forests, wetlands stretching to the horizon, and both rocky and sandy beaches. Lahemaa is one of Europe’s most important forest conservation areas and has the largest deposit of erratic boulders in Europe. It is home to many wild animals— moose, wild boar, bears, and lynx. The northern coast attracts many migratory birds every year. The National Park is crossed by several well-signposted long-distance hiking trails, such as the RMK Oandu-Ikla hiking trail and the Forest trail, which is part of the E11 international hiking trail.
Lahemaa is also a place with rich cultural heritage. 71 villages of the national park with its more than 3000 inhabitants form an active community with lively national culture and welcoming spirit. There are several interesting manors, the largest collection of Estonian art, a maritime museum and several smaller museums worth visiting in the area. Military enthusiasts can find fascinating Soviet-era border guard facilities. An increasing number of small ports in North Estonia are ready to serve visitors. Cultural life is particularly lively in summer, with several traditional outdoor events taking place.
Since 1971, when Lahemaa National Park was established, organisations and the local community have worked together to save the values of this magical place. Lahemaa has won Europarc sustainable tourism certificate and the platinum level of Green Destinations.