Hike Forest trails in national parks of Estonia and Latvia

Breathe in the rejuvenating aroma of Baltic forests, where the scent of conifers mingles with the crisp air. These forests teem with diverse flora and fauna, and hide treasures such as sandstone outcrops and glacial remnants—gifts from Scandinavia, left behind by ancient glacial melt waters flows.

Within 50 kilometers of the capital cities of Rīga (Latvia), Tallinn (Estonia), and the picturesque coastal resort of Pärnu, lie three beloved national parks: Lahemaa and Soomaa in Estonia, and Gauja in Latvia. To fully immerse yourself in the beauty of each park, we recommend spending at least 2-3 days exploring their unique landscapes and vibrant ecosystems.

Travel Connections: The Baltics enjoy excellent connectivity to Germany and Scandinavia via air and sea routes. Whether you prefer the ease of flying, the freedom of a road trip, or the flexibility of a caravan adventure, embark on your journey in the way that best suits you.

Embark on an unforgettable exploration of the Baltic States and discover their natural wonders through Estonia and Latvia's pristine national parks.

Lahemaa National Park, Estonia

Lahemaa National Park, located in northern Estonia, is one of the country's most significant and scenic nature reserves. The Baltic forest hiking trail in Lahemaa National Park offers a captivating journey through a variety of landscapes, providing hikers with a rich and immersive natural experience.

Baltic Forest Hiking trail in Lahemaa National park showcases the wide biodiversity in several sections and showcases North Estonian Costline. Lahemaa National park is unique with pininsulas that extend into gulf of Finland of the Baltic sea.

Accommodation in Lahemaa National park HERE

Several roads connect Lahemaa National park and Soomaa National park.

Convenient Traffic Hubs:

• Tallin Airport: Located 48 kilometers west to Lahemaa National park

• Tallin Bus Station: 50 kilometers west to Lahemaa National park

• Tallin Harbour: Just 50 kilometers away from Rāmkalni.

Soomaa National Park, Estonia

Soomaa National Park is renowned for its picturesque bogs, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers. We recommend exploring the Riisa Study Trail, which offers a unique opportunity to experience both the bogs and forests of Soomaa. Along this 4.8-kilometer trail, you'll find rest stops and watchtowers that provide stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The trail is especially interesting where the forest gradually transitions into a bog, with dry ground giving way to wetlands and swamp plants blending with ancient spruce forests.

Accommodations in Soomaa National park HERE

Several roads connect Soomaa National park in Estonia and Gauja National park in Latvia:

Road E67 - revealing Baltic coastline

Road P17 - revealing countryside

Gauja National Park, Latvia

More than 50% of Gauja National Park is cloaked in dense forests that adorn hilltops, wind through river valleys, and embrace charming towns and villages. Historically, travelers from distant lands have journeyed here to savor the healing tranquility of Gauja National Park's hiking trails and immerse themselves in its natural wonders.

Travelers' tales speak of awe-inspiring landscapes, towering sandstone outcrops, and the warm hospitality of local communities, all etched into the pages of explorers and travelers' notebooks.

The hiking trails meander through Sigulda's serpentine roads, delve into deep ravines, and traverse pristine forests. Among them, the Baltic Forest Trail unfolds in five captivating sections, spanning a total of 112 kilometers. Along its route, it unveils the picturesque Gauja River Valley, the scenic Amata River Valley, dramatic sandstone cliffs, medieval architectural marvels, and more.

1. Rāmkalni - Sigulda
2. Sigulda - Līgatne
3. Līgatne - Cēsis
4. Cēsis - Caunītes
5. Caunītes - Valmiera

Accommodations in Gauja National park HERE

Convenient Traffic Hubs:

• Rīga Airport: Located 49 kilometers southwest of Rāmkalni, the southwestern edge of Gauja National Park.

• Rīga Bus Station: A mere 40 kilometers from Rāmkalni.

• Rīga Harbour: Just 41 kilometers away from Rāmkalni.

Contacts:

Gauja National Park Tourism Association - Kristīne Luca - kristine@entergauja.com +37128658900

Lahemaa Tourism Association - Kaisa Linno - kaisa@kolgakyla.ee  +3725239239

Soomaa Tourism Association - Aivar Ruukel - aivar@soomaa.com +3725061896