Foot-and-mouth, a severe animal disease, is currently circulating in Europe and also poses a threat to animals in Estonia. Your help is needed to prevent animals here – sheep, cattle, goats, and other ungulates – from becoming infected. We ask that you please follow some important recommendations.
From the observation tower in the reeds on the left bank of the Penijõgi River, you can admire views of the reed beds covering 3,000 hectares between the delta branches of the Kasari River, which is among the most interesting habitats in the Matsalu National Park. In spring nights the Eurasian bittern bellows in the reeds, you can hear the calls of sedges, Savi’s warblers and crakes, in the summer the local fauna hides in the shade of the reed wall which grows up to 4 m high, and you might also spot a western marsh-harrier or a white-tailed eagle flying above the reeds.
Parking
Solid-surface parking area near the Penijõe Manor, on the bank of the Penijõgi River, for 14 cars or 3 tour buses.
Amenities
8 m high observation tower, open top, benches
Hiking Options
Penijõe hiking trail
Sights
Visitor Centre of Matsalu National Park, Penijõe Manor complex, biodiversity, Viita wooded meadow
Additional Information
Dear Visitor!
The trail is located on a grazed area and because of this dogs are not allowed! The animals may attack dogs. We hope you understand and apologize for the inconvenience! Before going on a nature walk please read the Environmental code of conduct, rules of conduct and waste-sorting policy
Restrictions
Matsalu National Park, meadows in special management zone. Before your visit, please get acquainted with valid nature conservation rules of Matsalu National Park.
Further information can be obtained from the Environmental Board +372 662 5999, info@keskkonnaamet.ee
Contact
Telephone: +372 513 8783
E-mail: info.matsalu@rmk.ee
Object type: observation tower
Location info
Location : Pärnu County, Matsalu National Park
Penijõe village, Lääneranna municipality, Pärnu County
Navigation instructions : Drive 43 km on Risti–Virtsu road (Road no. 10), turn right towards Penijõe (road no. 16193). Drive 2 km to the parking area of the Matsalu National Park Centre at the Penijõgi River, follow the sign to the hiking trail. Walk 1.6 km on the hiking trail to the Penijõe observation tower.
Penijõe village, Lääneranna municipality, Pärnu County
Navigation instructions:
Drive 43 km on Risti–Virtsu road (Road no. 10), turn right towards Penijõe (road no. 16193). Drive 2 km to the parking area of the Matsalu National Park Centre at the Penijõgi River, follow the sign to the hiking trail. Walk 1.6 km on the hiking trail to the Penijõe observation tower.
Foot-and-mouth, a severe animal disease, is currently circulating in Europe and also poses a threat to animals in Estonia. Your help is needed to prevent animals here – sheep, cattle, goats, and other ungulates – from becoming infected. We ask that you please follow some important recommendations.
From the observation tower on the left bank of the Kasari River, you can enjoy the view of the wide expanse of the river floodplain, where flocks of ducks, geese, swans and waders gather during spring floods. In the summer white storks and eagles nest in the surroundings and fly around, often you can spot moose or roe deer going about their business on the floodplain.
Parking
Gravel parking area for 20 cars or 4 buses
Amenities
The observation tower is a 16 m high metal structure former coastal guard tower.
Sights
Superb views of the Kasari flood meadow, wild animals and birds; may be flooded during floods.
Additional Information
Before going on a nature walk please read the Environmental code of conduct, rules of conduct and waste-sorting policy
Restrictions
Matsalu National Park, limited management zone. Before your visit, please get acquainted with valid nature conservation rules of Matsalu National Park.
Further information can be obtained from the Environmental Board +372 662 5999, info@keskkonnaamet.ee
Contact
Telephone: +372 513 8783
E-mail: info.matsalu@rmk.ee
Object type: observation tower
Location info
Location : Pärnu County, Matsalu National Park
Kloostri village, Lääneranna municipality, Pärnu County
Navigation instructions : There are two ways to access the observation tower. Either drive 36 km on Risti–Virtsu road (road no 10), turn right towards Kloostri before the Kloostri bus stop (sign “Kloostri 6”), drive 6 km along the gravel road (road no 16193), turn right onto a narrow village road (sign to Kloostri observation tower), drive 2 km to the marked parking area and walk 200 m on foot. Or drive 43 km on Risti–Virtsu road (road no 10), turn right towards Penijõe (road no 16193), pass the Matsalu National Park Visitor Centre in Penijõe Manor along the gravel road to Kloostri village, turn left onto the narrow village road, follow the sign to Kloostri observation tower, drive 2 km to the marked parking area and walk 200 m on foot.
Kloostri village, Lääneranna municipality, Pärnu County
Navigation instructions:
There are two ways to access the observation tower. Either drive 36 km on Risti–Virtsu road (road no 10), turn right towards Kloostri before the Kloostri bus stop (sign “Kloostri 6”), drive 6 km along the gravel road (road no 16193), turn right onto a narrow village road (sign to Kloostri observation tower), drive 2 km to the marked parking area and walk 200 m on foot. Or drive 43 km on Risti–Virtsu road (road no 10), turn right towards Penijõe (road no 16193), pass the Matsalu National Park Visitor Centre in Penijõe Manor along the gravel road to Kloostri village, turn left onto the narrow village road, follow the sign to Kloostri observation tower, drive 2 km to the marked parking area and walk 200 m on foot.
VõimalusedMatkarada/MatkavõimalusMaintenance during summerParkimine
Pärnu County, Matsalu National Park
Attention!
Foot-and-mouth, a severe animal disease, is currently circulating in Europe and also poses a threat to animals in Estonia. Your help is needed to prevent animals here – sheep, cattle, goats, and other ungulates – from becoming infected. We ask that you please follow some important recommendations.
Not far from the birthplace of Prof. Eerik Kumari (1912–1984), a memorial is placed in honour of the famous Estonian ornithologist on the Kirbla terrace. The memorial stone was designed by Kalju Reitel in 1987 and has an inscription which reads “The birds’ calls in springtime gave the boy no rest, so he often sneaked off to the floodplain to observe wilderness and listen to the singing of birds for hours.” The Kirbla terrace is part of the Silurian Klint, which stretches from western Estonia to the coast of Gotland.
Parking
Parking for 8 cars or 3 buses by Risti-Virtsu road
Amenities
As the memorial stone is located in a grazing area, it is surrounded
with a post-and-rail fence. A 280 m footpath leads you to the stone.
Sights
The memorial stone is situated on the Kirbla terrace, offering a breathtaking view.
Additional Information
Please remember to open and close the electric fence gates to access the footpath!
Before going on a nature walk please read the Environmental code of conduct, rules of conduct and waste-sorting policy
Restrictions
Matsalu National Park, limited management zone. The area is grazed, so please close the gates behind you! No stairs to descend from the terrace. Before your visit, please get acquainted with valid nature conservation rules of Matsalu National Park. Further information can be obtained from the Environmental Board +372 662 5999, info@keskkonnaamet.ee
Contact
Telephone: +372 513 8783
E-mail: info.matsalu@rmk.ee
Object type: other
Location info
Location : Pärnu County, Matsalu National Park
Kirbla village, Lääneranna municipality, Pärnu County
Navigation instructions : Drive 36 km on Risti–Virtsu road (Road no. 10), turn right immediately after Kirbla urban community (at the sign "Professor Eerik Kumari mälestuskivi"), walk 300 m to Eerik Kumari’s memorial stone and further to Kirbla terrace.
Kirbla village, Lääneranna municipality, Pärnu County
Navigation instructions:
Drive 36 km on Risti–Virtsu road (Road no. 10), turn right immediately after Kirbla urban community (at the sign "Professor Eerik Kumari mälestuskivi"), walk 300 m to Eerik Kumari’s memorial stone and further to Kirbla terrace.
Foot-and-mouth, a severe animal disease, is currently circulating in Europe and also poses a threat to animals in Estonia. Your help is needed to prevent animals here – sheep, cattle, goats, and other ungulates – from becoming infected. We ask that you please follow some important recommendations.
From the observation tower in the northern part of the Kasari floodplain, not far from the Haapsalu–Laiküla road you can enjoy a broad view of the floodplain, which is particularly captivating in spring when it is flooded. Thousands of geese, swans and dabbling ducks, in the summer several species of waders, warbles, corn crakes and many others nest in the floodplain. Moose and roe deer wander around in search of food.
Parking
Roadside parking for 6 cars or 1 tour bus
Amenities
110 m boardwalk leading to the 4 m high observation tower. The tower and boardwalk are wheelchair accessible, the tower has ramps only.
Wheelchair Accessibility
The boardwalk leading to the observation tower is 110 cm wide and without ascent (handrail on one side). Three inclines between 27-32% lead to the 6 m high observation tower. Parking area unpaved.
Matsalu National Park, Kasari meadows special management zone. Before your visit, please get acquainted with valid nature conservation rules of Matsalu National Park.
Further information can be obtained from the Environmental Board +372 662 5999, info@keskkonnaamet.ee
Contact
Telephone: +372 513 8783
E-mail: info.matsalu@rmk.ee
Object type: observation tower
Location info
Location : Lääne County, Matsalu National Park
Lääne-Nigula municipality, Lääne County
Navigation instructions : Drive 20 km on Haapsalu–Laiküla road (Road no. 31), turn right immediately after the Martna junction, drive 700 m along the narrow gravel road and arrive at the boardwalk (100 m) leading to the observation tower. When approaching from the Laiküla village, it is more practical to take the Haapsalu–Laiküla road and turn left immediately after the Rannamõisa bus stop (sign to Rannajõe observation tower), drive 400 m and arrive at the boardwalk leading to the observation tower.
Drive 20 km on Haapsalu–Laiküla road (Road no. 31), turn right immediately after the Martna junction, drive 700 m along the narrow gravel road and arrive at the boardwalk (100 m) leading to the observation tower. When approaching from the Laiküla village, it is more practical to take the Haapsalu–Laiküla road and turn left immediately after the Rannamõisa bus stop (sign to Rannajõe observation tower), drive 400 m and arrive at the boardwalk leading to the observation tower.
Foot-and-mouth, a severe animal disease, is currently circulating in Europe and also poses a threat to animals in Estonia. Your help is needed to prevent animals here – sheep, cattle, goats, and other ungulates – from becoming infected. We ask that you please follow some important recommendations.
The forest hut, located at the end of the Suitsu hiking trail, is a restored hay barn in the Matsalu forest. A good place to take a break and listen to birdsongs. The forest hut is quite basic, so you must bring all the necessary items for overnight stays with you. Don’t forget to pack some mosquito repellent!
Parking
The riverside parking area holds 8 cars or 2 buses.
Amenities
Wooden seats are available inside the hay barn. The dry toilet is 250 m away at Suitsu rest stop.
Hiking Options
Suitsu hiking trail
Sights
From the 21 m view tower at the beginning of the hiking trail an excellent view opens on the reed beds, the coastal meadow, the Suitsu river and Matsalu forest.
Additional Information
Access by car to the parking lot at the Suitsu river; no snow removal on the hiking trail.
Forest hut for overnight stay. Necessery to bring your own sleeping bag and mat.
Before going on a nature walk please read the Environmental code of conduct, rules of conduct and waste-sorting policy
Restrictions
Attention! It is forbidden to make campfire in and near the forest hut!
Special management zone of Matsalu forest, Matsalu National Park.
Further information can be obtained from the Environmental Board +372 662 5999, info@keskkonnaamet.ee
Contact
Telephone: +372 513 8783
E-mail: info.matsalu@rmk.ee
Object type: forest hut
Location info
Location : Pärnu County, Matsalu National Park
Kirikuküla village, Lääneranna municipality, Pärnu County
Navigation instructions : At the 43th kilometre of the Risti-Virtsu road (Road no. 10) turn right towards Penijõe. Drive 1 km and turn left towards Kirikuküla (sign "Suitsu vaatetorn 5.5 km"). Drive up to the parking space at the side of the Suitsu river. There follow the 650 m earth track to Suitsu forest hut.
Kirikuküla village, Lääneranna municipality, Pärnu County
Navigation instructions:
At the 43th kilometre of the Risti-Virtsu road (Road no. 10) turn right towards Penijõe. Drive 1 km and turn left towards Kirikuküla (sign "Suitsu vaatetorn 5.5 km"). Drive up to the parking space at the side of the Suitsu river. There follow the 650 m earth track to Suitsu forest hut.
VõimalusedMatkarada/MatkavõimalusEdasi-tagasi radaPuhkekohtMaintenance during summerParkimine
Pärnu County, Matsalu National Park
Attention!
Foot-and-mouth, a severe animal disease, is currently circulating in Europe and also poses a threat to animals in Estonia. Your help is needed to prevent animals here – sheep, cattle, goats, and other ungulates – from becoming infected. We ask that you please follow some important recommendations.
At the Karusselja lime-tree rest stop in Kloostri Forest, visitors can admire a primeval tree and listen to the songs of forest birds. The lime tree was placed under protection in 1959. It is 23 metres in height and has a circumference of 3.1 m at chest level. If you’re visiting the rest stop in autumn, it’s worth bringing a mushroom basket along with you. There are also hazel bushes located along the trail.
Parking
At the roadside at Lihula-Kloostri road.
Amenities
1 information board at the beginning of the trail leading to the rest stop; 1 bench at the rest stop
Sights
A protected ancient tree
Additional Information
Before going on a nature walk please read the Environmental code of conduct, rules of conduct and waste-sorting policy
Restrictions
Metsatuka special management zone, Matsalu National Park. Further information can be obtained from the Environmental Board +372 662 5999, info@keskkonnaamet.ee
Contact
Telephone: +372 513 8783
E-mail: info.matsalu@rmk.ee
Object type: rest stop
Location info
Location : Pärnu County, Matsalu National Park
Kloostri village, Lääneranna municipality, Pärnu County
Navigation instructions : At the 43th kilometre of the Risti-Virtsu road (road no 10) turn right towards Penijõe (road no 16193, brown sign "Matsalu rahvuspargi külastuskeskus 2"), drive past the centre of Matsalu National Park in the Penijõe manor, continue 4 km along a gravel road to the information board "Karusselja limetree" to the left of the road. From the information board, a 120 m earth track takes you to the rest stop.
Kloostri village, Lääneranna municipality, Pärnu County
Navigation instructions:
At the 43th kilometre of the Risti-Virtsu road (road no 10) turn right towards Penijõe (road no 16193, brown sign "Matsalu rahvuspargi külastuskeskus 2"), drive past the centre of Matsalu National Park in the Penijõe manor, continue 4 km along a gravel road to the information board "Karusselja limetree" to the left of the road. From the information board, a 120 m earth track takes you to the rest stop.
VõimalusedMatkarada/MatkavõimalusPuhkekohtMaintenance during summerParkimine
Lääne County, Matsalu National Park
Attention!
Foot-and-mouth, a severe animal disease, is currently circulating in Europe and also poses a threat to animals in Estonia. Your help is needed to prevent animals here – sheep, cattle, goats, and other ungulates – from becoming infected. We ask that you please follow some important recommendations.
Hikers can rest their feet and enjoy the beauty of the surrounding forest meadows and the proximity of Matsalu Bay in the restored Nurga Farm hay barn, which is located next to the Kiideva-Puise nature trail. Information is displayed in the hay barn about the local flora. The rest stop is located on a well-maintained wooded meadow and provides a good opportunity for plant observation – the varied lighting conditions of wooded meadows give many different plant species the opportunity to grow.
Parking
Roadside parking at the beginning and end of the nature trail.
Amenities
A shelter with poor walls – originally a hay barn, with benches by the walls
Hiking Options
Kiideva-Puise nature trail
Sights
Kiideva-Puise nature trail, former wooded meadows, Lõpre oak
Additional Information
The nature trail has been created at the initiative of the local village society, who also organizes the maintenance of the trail.
Before going on a nature walk please read the Environmental code of conduct, rules of conduct and waste-sorting policy
Restrictions
The rest stop is in Puise special management zone, Matsalu National Park. Further information can be obtained from the Environmental Board +372 662 5999, info@keskkonnaamet.ee
Contact
Telephone: +372 513 8783
E-mail: info.matsalu@rmk.ee
Object type: rest stop
Location info
Location : Lääne County, Matsalu National Park
Puise village, Haapsalu, Lääne County
Navigation instructions : Take Haapsalu-Laiküla road (road no. 31) and turn right at the 11th kilometre after Parila (sign "Kiideva-Puise loodusrada"). Drive 8 km up to Tuuru crossroad, turn left there towards Kiideva. Continue 3 km up to the next crossroad, turn right there and then after 30 m to the left, and continue 1 km towards the coast, where the hiking trail starts. Walk 2 km to Nurga rest stop. If you start walking from Puise, at Puise bus stop, you have to walk 1.8 km to get to Nurga rest stop.
Take Haapsalu-Laiküla road (road no. 31) and turn right at the 11th kilometre after Parila (sign "Kiideva-Puise loodusrada"). Drive 8 km up to Tuuru crossroad, turn left there towards Kiideva. Continue 3 km up to the next crossroad, turn right there and then after 30 m to the left, and continue 1 km towards the coast, where the hiking trail starts. Walk 2 km to Nurga rest stop. If you start walking from Puise, at Puise bus stop, you have to walk 1.8 km to get to Nurga rest stop.
Foot-and-mouth, a severe animal disease, is currently circulating in Europe and also poses a threat to animals in Estonia. Your help is needed to prevent animals here – sheep, cattle, goats, and other ungulates – from becoming infected. We ask that you please follow some important recommendations.
The campfire site is located near Matsalu National Park Visitor Centre, it is the starting point of RMK Penijõe-Aegviidu-Kauksi Hiking Route. Surrounded by bird song in spring and negboured by the couple of storks.
Parking
Parking for 4 cars or 1 small bus.
Water
Tap water
Amenities
Outdoor fireplace with grillrest, 3 picnic tables with shelter, firewood shelter, DC, information board
Visitor Centre of Matsalu National Park, Penijõe Manor and manor park, Penijõe observation tower
Additional Information
Before going on a nature walk please read the Environmental code of conduct, rules of conduct and waste-sorting policy
Restrictions
Matsalu National Park, limited management zone. Before your visit, please get acquainted with valid nature conservation rules of Matsalu National Park.
Further information can be obtained from the Environmental Board +372 662 5999, info@keskkonnaamet.ee
Contact
Telephone: +372 513 8783
E-mail: info.matsalu@rmk.ee
Object type: campfire site
Location info
Location : Pärnu County, Matsalu National Park
Penijõe village, Lääneranna municipality, Pärnu County
Navigation instructions : Drive 43 km on Risti–Virtsu road (road no 10), turn right towards Penijõe (at the sign to Matsalu National Park Visitor Centre, "Matsalu rahvuspargi külastuskeskus 2", road no 16193). Drive 2 km to the designated parking area at Penijõe Manor. From the parking area turn to the left to the narrow paved road which takes you to the parking lot of the campfire site (in front of the hut with thatched roof).
Penijõe village, Lääneranna municipality, Pärnu County
Navigation instructions:
Drive 43 km on Risti–Virtsu road (road no 10), turn right towards Penijõe (at the sign to Matsalu National Park Visitor Centre, "Matsalu rahvuspargi külastuskeskus 2", road no 16193). Drive 2 km to the designated parking area at Penijõe Manor. From the parking area turn to the left to the narrow paved road which takes you to the parking lot of the campfire site (in front of the hut with thatched roof).
Foot-and-mouth, a severe animal disease, is currently circulating in Europe and also poses a threat to animals in Estonia. Your help is needed to prevent animals here – sheep, cattle, goats, and other ungulates – from becoming infected. We ask that you please follow some important recommendations.
This small campfire site is located on the edge of a mixed spruce and pine forest, away from human settlements. The dense forest provides pleasant shelter from the wind and protects hikers from the blazing sun during the hot season. In autumn, hikers can collect ingredients for a tasty mushroom stew nearby. A fire-fighting water source is located next to the campfire site, 1.5 km from the RMK Penijõe-Aegviidu-Kauksi hiking trail.
Parking
Gravelled parking lot
Water
Non-potable water from the fire-protection pond, drinking water should be taken with you.
Amenities
Outdoor fireplace with grillrest, picnic table with shelter, 4 benches around the fireplace, firewood shelter, DC, information board
Hiking Options
RMK Penijõe-Aegviidu-Kauksi Hiking Route
Camping
The maximum number of tents (for 4) allowed is 4.
Sights
Vanamõisa stonebridge, Rumba railway station
Additional Information
Before going on a nature walk please read the Environmental code of conduct, rules of conduct and waste-sorting policy
Contact
Telephone: +372 513 8783
E-mail: info.matsalu@rmk.ee
Object type: campfire site
Location info
Location : Pärnu County, Matsalu National Park
Lääneranna municipality, Pärnu county
Navigation instructions : Drive 35 km on Risti–Virtsu road (road no 10), in Kirbla turn right towards Rumba (at the sign "Rumba 10"). Drive 10 km until the sign
„RMK Rumba lõkkekoht“. Turn right, drive 1,5 km.
Drive 35 km on Risti–Virtsu road (road no 10), in Kirbla turn right towards Rumba (at the sign "Rumba 10"). Drive 10 km until the sign
„RMK Rumba lõkkekoht“. Turn right, drive 1,5 km.
RMK Penijõe-Aegviidu-Kauksi hiking route / Penijõe-Varbola (84 km)
VõimalusedMatkarada/MatkavõimalusTelkimineLõkkekohtMaintenance during summerParkimine
Pärnu County, Matsalu National Park
Attention!
Foot-and-mouth, a severe animal disease, is currently circulating in Europe and also poses a threat to animals in Estonia. Your help is needed to prevent animals here – sheep, cattle, goats, and other ungulates – from becoming infected. We ask that you please follow some important recommendations.
The route starts at the Visitor Centre of Matsalu National Park at Penijõe and runs along existing roads and paths towards Varbola. On the way one can see the scenic flood meadows of the Kasari river, where tens of thousands of birds migrating through Estonia stop over during spring and autumn migration seasons. Then there is the former trackbed running to Virtsu, and the karst areas of Märjamaa. Next, the hiking route travels on ancient coastal formations to Varbola stronghold, which is one of the largest forts in Estonia and was used from the 12th to 14th century. The route also goes through the parks of several well-known or less known manors.
Parking
The best facility for long-term parking is at the Visitor Centre of Matsalu National Park. A few cars can also be parked at each campsite along the hiking route.
Amenities
The trail is signposted and marked with white-yellow-white paint marks on trees. Rest stops on the trail and distances between them.
Visitor Centre of Matsalu-Rumba campfire site 29 km
Rumba campfire site- Hirvepargi campfire site 11 km
Hirvepargi campfire site-Susla campfire site 14 km
Susla campfire site-Kõrvetaguse campfire site 22 km
At campsites and campfire sites along the hiking route.
Outdoor Fireplace
At campsites and campfire sites along the hiking route
Sights
Flood meadows of the Kasari river, Märjamaa karst area
Additional Information
Before going on a nature walk please read the Environmental code of conduct, rules of conduct and waste-sorting policy
Contact
Telephone:
Visitor centre of Matsalu +372 513 8783
E-mail: info.matsalu@rmk.ee
Object type: hiking route
Location info
Location : Pärnu County, Matsalu National Park
Pärnu county, Rapla county
Navigation instructions : At the 43th kilometre of the Risti-Virtsu road (Road no. 10) turn right towards Penijõe (at the sign to Matsalu National Park Visitor Centre, "Matsalu rahvuspargi külastuskeskus 2", road no 16193). Drive 2 km to the designated parking area at Penijõe manor. The hiking route starts at the Visitor Centre of Matsalu National Park.
Telephone:
Visitor centre of Matsalu +372 513 8783
E-mail:
info.matsalu@rmk.ee
Object type:
hiking route
Location info
Location:
Pärnu County, Matsalu National Park
Pärnu county, Rapla county
Navigation instructions:
At the 43th kilometre of the Risti-Virtsu road (Road no. 10) turn right towards Penijõe (at the sign to Matsalu National Park Visitor Centre, "Matsalu rahvuspargi külastuskeskus 2", road no 16193). Drive 2 km to the designated parking area at Penijõe manor. The hiking route starts at the Visitor Centre of Matsalu National Park.
