Recommendations by starting point

From Tallinn towards Pärnu

Varbola Hill Fort – Among the forests of Varbola you will find the region’s most important building dating from antiquity – the largest hill fort in the Baltics. Walking the ramparts of the mighty hill fort, and coming face to face with a stone catapult, gives visitors an idea of why it was so difficult to conquer. Although the ramparts give a sense of security, be careful – according to rumours, the area around Varbola is a hot spot for UFO landings! There are three car parks at the Varbola Hill Fort, where visitors arriving by car can park.

Varbola Hill Fort Campsite – after conquering the hill fort, it’s a good idea to take some time out and treat yourself to a little lunch. Near the Varbola Fortress are four campfire sites, a dry toilet, and a drilled well for water.

Kõrvetaguse Campfire Site – those interested in a longer hike can enjoy a day trip from the Kõrvetaguse Campfire Site to the Varbola Hill Fort or vice versa. There is no parking at the campfire site.

From Tallinn towards Tartu

Saula Siniallikad (Blue Springs) – Tucked away on the outskirts of Tallinn is a hidden gem, a sacred grove that gave the indigenous people their power. The sacred place restores the prudent and can punish the reckless. By the way, Blue Springs is not just a name, as the springs are also incredibly blue in appearance. According to legend, the water of the Blue Springs will heal you if you give it a coin in return. The sacred grove is open to all who behave respectfully. There is a large car park in front of the Saula Blue Springs, offering direct access to the hiking trail (the Saula Campfire Site is just across the highway).

Saula Campfire Site – here you can take time out in the primeval forest and walk along the Pirita River. If you walk towards Otiveski, you can watch the Pirita River’s spring flood waters and take a closer look at what hikers have to cope with in spring conditions. Parking at the roadside car park (for up to three cars), with access to the campfire site via a gate. One wing of the gate is open – give it a try and come in!

From Tallinn towards Laulasmaa

Türisalu Landscape Conservation Area – to explore, you can park in the RMK Türisalu car park, descend down to the sea and walk under the famous Hamlet Hill or Türisalu Cliff. Hiking enthusiasts can extend their trip to Keila-Joa Park (5 km one end). It is also possible to park in the car park at the Türisalu bus stop (120 m to the sea) and find the Türisalu waterfall – right before the bus stop, the Türisalu stream passes under the road and then soon flows into the sea. A trail runs along the stream, leading to the local hidden attraction – the Türisalu waterfall.

Vääna-Jõesuu – you can park in the RMK Türisalu car parks. Next to the larger car park, the road descends under the bank. Walk in the direction of the Vääna River, where you will find beautiful coastal pine forests! You can also walk to the sea at the mouth of the Vääna River. The area around the Türisalu Cliff is a picturesque place!

Lohusalu-Meremõisa walk – if the car parks in Meremõisa Campsite are full, it’s worth trying to park in Lohusalu and walk along the coast, either in the coastal forest or on the seashore, and have a good time.

On the way from Tallinn towards Nõva, you can use the marked nature objects of the Nõva Recreation Area, as well as the berry pockets (20 of them, each with space for a couple of cars), and take a walk on the paths of the well-lit pine forest.

From Tallinn towards Risti-Virtsu, it is possible to walk on the Penijõe-Aegviidu-Kauksi branch of the RMK hiking trail. We recommend that those coming from Tallinn enter the trailhead at the old reinforced concrete bridge at Kasari, where there is plenty of space for parking. Movement on the trail is in a back and forth direction. It is also possible to continue in the direction of Rumba, Vana-Vigala, and Varbola.

The Rumba campfire site is a small campfire site for a single group, although there are more parking and walking opportunities available there.

If you want to continue from Kasari towards Virtsu, you can visit Matsalu National Park.

Travelling from Tallinn towards Aegviidu, there are plenty of routes and stops, from which you can choose the one that suits you in Kõrvemaa.
Mägede Campfire Sites – good access, three separate fireplaces, possibility to move along the Oandu-Ikla Hiking Trail. Unmarked trails are also available in the vicinity, and the Valgehobusemäe Ski Resort’s health trails are not very far away.

Krani Campfire Site – a campfire site with a large lean-to shelter in the depths of Kõrvemaa’s forests, where you can follow the marked Ähijärve-Aegviidu-Peraküla Hiking Trail, as well as unmarked trails.

Napu Campfire Site – a campfire site on the banks of the Jägala River, on the Oandu-Ikla Hiking Trail, with beautiful forest trails waiting to be discovered nearby.

Driving out of Tallinn along the Narva Highway, there are plenty of alternatives to the Viru Bog, for example, the Viitna Inn, Lahemaa manors, and the Käsmu Peninsula.

The updated Tsitre Trail of Trees, located in the western part of Lahemaa National Park, has much to offer to history and heritage enthusiasts, tree lovers, park and seaside strollers, and birdwatchers. On the Tallinn-Narva Highway, you will need to turn off at the 39th kilometre, in Kuusalu, and head towards Leesi. Parking is available in the parking pockets of the Tsitre Campsite. The trail starts opposite the well site. In addition to the fascinating trail, the seaside observation tower and the campsite with picnic facilities, the surrounding area also includes the Muuksi Hill Fort, Hundikangrud (ancient burial grounds), and Kolga Manor.

The Viitna Nature Study Trail is located in the area of Viitna-Kadrina. The car park is of sufficient size, offering the possibility to take a walk around Lake Pikkjärv. Highly varied landscape and glacial landforms. There is no possibility to build a campfire.

The Neeruti Nature Trails, with campsites located along the way at Eesjärve, Tissipuu, and Leivaahjumäe.

When exploring the area around Oandu, you can stop at the Sagadi Forest Centre before reaching Oandu, and go for an invigorating walk in the beautiful manor complex park.

You can leave your car in the yard of the Oandu Visitor Centre, or in the car parks of the Oandu Nature Forest Park or the Oandu Campsite – wherever there happens to be space.

Oandu Heritage Culture Trail – it makes sense to turn around after reaching the milestone and return to the car park.

Oandu-Aegviidu-Ikla Hiking Trail – follow the Oandu-Võsu trail until you reach the Esku-Pedassaare Road (trail point ‘Old Forest Roads’), from there follow the road to Esku and back via the ride to Oandu. In total about 10 km.

There is room for 2 ̶ 3 cars along the road next to the rest stops at Esku and Koljaku. From there you can walk from ride to ride under the beautiful pine forest, with the rides also serving as good orientation points. You can read the map board at Koljaku.

On the way from Tartu towards Jõhvi you will find nice places to walk and stop.

The Kärgandi Campfire Site – a quiet spot in the forest where you can wander freely along the forest paths and find your way to the Kukemetsa Forest Hut – you can park your car on the side of the road and hike along the marked RMK hiking trail, or take a larger loop along the gravel road back to the hut. Moving exclusively along forest paths is also possible.

Moving from Tartu towards Põlva and turning onto Postitee, the drive itself, on the newly repaired winding road, with its sudden ups and downs, puts your stomach to the test. You can find scenic walking spots near the Voorepalu Campfire Site or the Voorepalu Põrgurada Trail – high pine forests, varied terrain, forest trails. Only the Põrgurada Trail is marked. The paths and trails in the beautiful forests around Lake Palojärv are perfect for adventuring on your own. You can leave your car in the spacious car park at the Palojärve Campsite. Close to the Road Museum you will also find the Tilleoru Hiking Trail, which offers a pleasant walking experience. Leave your car in the car park at the Road Museum.

On the way from Tartu to Otepää, you can visit the Pühajärve and Murrumetsa hiking trails – plenty of opportunities to walk on marked trails. The Pühajärve SPA and Otepää Nature Park car park are open.

On the way from Tartu towards Võru, near Kanepi, is the Kooraste Kõverjärve Campfire Site – a lakeside campsite with forest roads.
Vähkjärve Campfire Site – located near Võru Highway, parking available, you can also walk along forest roads (only the passing cycle track is marked – 38 km).

In Põlva and Võru County it is possible to visit the campfire sites accessible by car on the Peraküla-Aegviidu-Ahijärve branch of the RMK hiking trail. Opportunities for moving are also marked on the hiking trail, with the Piusa Campfire Site being located on the side of the trail. If you cross the railway at Piusa, you can pass through the hiking trail.

Poogandi Campfire Site – you can hike to the Lõunalaagri Campfire Site and back along the Lõunalaagri Hiking Trail.

From the Lindora Campfire Site you can also access the Piusa River Valley Hiking Trail.

Paganamaa’s three unique trails introduce you to the picturesque lake-rich Piiriorg, with a campfire site and observation tower at the branch point.

In Pähni, you can visit the forest megaphones on the Tõrvandu Forest Study Trail, and on the Pähni Forest Study Trail you can soak up the scent of the boreal forest and play a smart game. There’s plenty of space for a picnic at the Pähni Forest Hut.

The Karula Long Hiking Trail, Karula Cycling Trail, Karula Long Cycling Trail, and the Karula Short Cycling Trail are waiting for you.

The Karula National Park Visitor Centre is closed, but you can park your car in the visitor centre’s car park, and most hiking and cycling trails start from the visitor centre.

The Laari Forestry Study Trail, near Taevaskoda, in Põlva County, is suitable for moving about – you can leave your car by the side of the road. The forest paths winding between the tall pine forests around the Laari Campfire Site are also suitable for walking on your own. Alternatively, the forests around the Sõnajala Campfire Site are also suitable – the RMK hiking trail is marked in both directions from the campfire site on the banks of the Ahja River.

If you are coming from Põlva County towards Värska, a good place to stop is at the Värska Campfire Site. From there, you can cycle or walk along the Laskevälja Cycling Trail. You can also reach the Poogandi Campfire Site by car, and from there to Lõunalaagri and back.

On the way from Tartu towards Valga, you can enjoy nature and walking about in the forest on trails that pass through the diverse pine forest landscape south of Elva. For example, the Elva River Primeval Valley Hiking Trail, the Fairy Trail, and the Lake Viti Hiking Trail.

You can also visit Sangaste Forest Park, with its many park trails and campfire sites. Or the Soontaga Hiking Trail – a pleasant guided walking trail in a tall pine forest – which begins at the Soontaga Campsite.

On the way from Pärnu towards Ikla, you will find nice places for walking and stopping, and forest trails, after Uulu, before the Rannametsa-Tolkuse Nature Study Trail, in the beautiful pine forests of the Luitemaa dunes.

You can also find pleasant forest trails in the seaside pine forests around the Krapi Campsite.

On the way from Pärnu towards Vändra, drive through Vändra to the Kellissaare Campfire Site, where you can enjoy a pleasant walk along the RMK hiking trail and on the Mädara dunes.

On the way from Vändra towards Suure-Jaani, you will reach the dunes of the Navesti Landscape Conservation Area. There you can park your car at the start of Sakala Road, which begins at Vanaõue, or at the Luite Campfire Site. You can also plan a longer walk along the Saarjõe Hiking Trail, by parking your car at the Metsavenna or Kabelimäe campfire sites.

On the way from Pärnu to Lihula, you can stop at the Matsalu National Park Visitor Centre car park, from where you can head out onto the Penijõe Hiking Trail and walk along the RMK hiking trail. Other places of interest are the old Kasari bridge and the Rumba Campfire Site. Parking is available at both sites.

From Pärnu towards Kilingi-Nõmme, it is worth turning towards Häädemeeste from Tõitoja, and at the 8th kilometre you will notice a signpost leading to the Rae Lake Hiking Trail and Campsite. You can go for a pleasant walk in the beautiful countryside and enjoy the peace and tranquillity, watch wild animals and birds, go fishing and swimming. It’s certainly a place where you’ll experience the joy of discovery in all seasons. It’s also a photographer’s paradise.

Moving on from the Lake Rae Hiking Trail towards Häädemeeste, you will find the Laiksaare Nature Study Trail. The trail runs through the species-rich Rannametsa River floodplain forest. Here you’ll see giant old trees, hear sweet birdsongs, and have the opportunity to rest your feet in a forest hut. You’re sure to discover some interesting places here to capture with your camera.

Now you have the choice of heading towards the beach and reaching the Kabli Nature Study Trail, or heading in the direction of the Nigula Bog Study Trail.

If you chose the direction of Kabli, you’ll discover the nature of the south-west Estonian coastal landscape on this study trail that runs along the coast. You can enjoy the sandy beach and the sea, watch the birds, explore the coastal meadows, and admire the lightshow as the sun sinks into the sea.

However, if you head in the direction of the Nigula Study Trail, you will be struck by the rich mosaic of bogs and, following the boardwalk, will reach Salupeaksi, the largest bog island. This bog is the place to come to recharge your batteries, find peace of mind, and refresh your spirit.

When heading from Viljandi towards Suure-Jaani, it is worth driving to the dunes of the Navesti Landscape Protection Area. There you can park your car at the start of Sakala Road, which begins at Vanaõu, or at the Luite Campfire Site. You can also plan a longer walk along the Saarjõe Study Trail, parking your car at the Metsavenna or Kabelimäe campfire sites.

After exploring these sites, you will have the opportunity to move on to Soomaa National Park and the Hüpassaare Study Trail, where a clever hiking game has been completed. We also invite you take a smart hike and let technology help you discover even more about nature!

If you are travelling from Viljandi towards Karksi-Nuia, it is worth visiting the Sinialliku Hiking Trail, which runs along the shores of beautiful Lake Sinialliku and leads you to enigmatic springs. Here you can also go hiking on the ancient hill fort. You could also visit the Loodi Hell Valley Hiking Trail, called Loodi Hell because of its red sandstone outcrop, and the Loodi Larch Stand Hiking Trail, where a half-hectare of giant European larch trees leaves a powerful impression.

Heading from Viljandi towards Kolga-Jaani, there is a wonderful opportunity to swim in the rejuvenating waters of the heart-shaped bog lake, thanks to which the Parika Väikejärve Study Trail is also known. Around the trail are pine forests rich in bilberries, while out in the bog you can pick cloudberries and cranberries. Lake Parika Observation Tower is a good place for a quick side trip on the Tartu-Viljandi Highway. A short walk takes you to the edge of the Parika Bog, where you can watch birds from a secure observation tower as they bustle about in the bog landscape and on the lake water.

Travelling from Jõhvi towards Tartu, you can turn into Iisaku. You can leave your car in the car part at the Iisaku Observation Tower, with a campfire site and health trails located near the observation tower.

15 km from Iisaku towards Tartu is the Kauksi Visitor Centre, where you can park your car and go for a short hike on the Kauksi Stream Nature Trail or the Luite Hiking Trail, which starts from the yard. They will also take you through the Kauksi Campsite, which has plenty of campfire sites and coastal pine forests for walking, and you can also move along the Kotka Hiking Trail with its high sandy ridges.

On the way from Jõhvi to Narva, you can visit the Vaivara visitor site in the Sinimäed Hills (Blue Hills), leaving your car in the car park at the foot of the memorial. The Vaivara Historical Trail, which starts from the car park, is an 8 km circular trail passing through the historical battlefields of the Blue Hills. It is also possible to visit Oru Park.