When Lahemaa was established in 1971 as the first national park in the entire former Soviet Union, cultural heritage began to be protected alongside nature. For over 50 years, Lahemaa has emphasized both nature and continuous human activity, as well as their interaction. Local residents and businesses operating in the area proudly introduce Estonia’s oldest national park to visitors and base their activities on the principles of a green worldview. As Lahemaa is Estonia’s most popular nature destination, both state and local government officials and the sustainability working group carefully monitor visitor flows and the impact of tourism on both the environment and the community. All stakeholders work together to fulfill the national park’s objectives of preserving, protecting, and introducing the nature and cultural heritage characteristic of Northern Estonia. A sustainable mindset ensures a sustainable Lahemaa!
A regional sustainable development strategy has been compiled, which defines the vision that by 2030, the Lahemaa National Park tourism region will be an internationally renowned destination, adhering to sustainable development principles, with a diverse and preserved natural environment and cultural heritage, offering an educational, unique, and holistic visitor experience to both domestic and international visitors, and serving as a valuable living and business environment for local residents.
The sustainable approach of the Lahemaa National Park tourism region has been recognized with the sustainable tourism certificate of the European Protected Areas Federation Europarc and the global Green Destination Gold level. For several years, Lahemaa has been selected among the world’s top hundred sustainable destinations for its success story. These recognitions confirm that sustainable development and responsible tourism are important in the destination.
Lahemaa has over 70 villages and more than 3,000 residents, and its community stands out for its activeness. The national park has many village associations and other NGOs that contribute to ensuring that both locals and visitors feel good in Lahemaa. Good examples include the Leesi community shop and our volunteer rescuers. The vibrant local folk culture is kept alive and spiced up with more modern culture in 12 community centers. When coming to Lahemaa, it’s worth checking the events calendar – perhaps you’ll get to participate in an authentic village party.
Discover the true Lahemaa through an internship or volunteer work! Let us know your interest: info@visitlahemaa.com. We are grateful if you support the local community financially through the Lahemaa Tourism Association. Our Swedbank account is: EE962200221075218525.
