Sunsets with the seals, birds and seascapes
Seals are marine mammals that leave no one indifferent with their human-like nature and interesting ways of life. Watching grey seals roaming on the rocks and swimming in the sea around the small islands and coves of Kolga Bay is a unique and memorable opportunity to get to know one of the most fascinating seascapes in Northern Estonia and to get a closer look at the life of the Baltic top predators - grey seals.
For seal and wildlife watching, we use a purpose-built, enclosed-cabin boat with up to 6 seats. Its one-way mirror glass windows allow you to observe nature, while remaining invisible and disturbing as little as possible the shy wildlife. Quiet and precise manoeuvring and stationary positioning are ensured by an electric bow engine, which allows the seals to be observed more closely and with less disturbance than with conventional watercraft. The hull of the boat is constructed from highly durable recycled plastic and has a stable shape with low sides. For this reason, and with the possibility of a low seating position, our boat trips are particularly well suited for photo and video recordings of seals and seabirds. If the weather and visibility are suitable, we can
monitor the seals; underwater activities with a small underwater drone. If necessary, we can also open both the windows and roof hatches to let the sun and the salty sea air refresh us, or observe the animals and birds from a distance through binoculars or enjoy the views of the seascapes.
SUP and kayak adventure to the Death Island
Join us on a unique SUP and kayak adventure on the Daugava river, where you'll visit the WW1 battle sites on the Death Island. The island is home to trenches, a bunker, and other remnants of the historic battle, which you can explore on a guided walk with a knowledgeable guide.
As the day comes to a close, you'll be treated to a soldier's dinner, giving you a taste of what life was like for the soldiers who fought here a century ago. This SUP and kayak adventure is a perfect way to experience Latvia's history while enjoying the beauty of the Daugava river.
Latgale Sauna Ceremony & SPA rituals
Experience ultimate relaxation with our Latgale sauna ceremony. This ancient ritual, guided by an experienced sauna master, includes a tea ritual on the sauna terrace, steaming with brooms, and a soothing hand oil mask. Conclude with a refreshing walk through the garden to the main shower. Available year-round, the sauna is particularly enchanting in autumn and winter, but delightful in summer. Bring a swimsuit and sauna slippers; we provide bath towels and bathrobes.
Enhance your relaxation with our 3-hour spa rituals, featuring luxurious treatments such as body scrubs, massages, wraps, and facial procedures using premium Thalac cosmetics.
Forest cross country skiing adventure
Join us for a steady-paced cross-country skiing adventure in Latvia's winter wonderland. The planned route will be 8-12km. When the snow is present we tend to make several cross country skiing adventures per weeks, to make it more interesting most of the time location differs. One time we can ski in beautiful Gauja National park, another along the seaside. Given the shorter daylight hours, a headlamp is a must for your safety and comfort. If you don't have your own please let us know and we will prepare one. Be sure to pack personal refreshments and snacks to keep your energy levels up. The gear is provided by us!
Nature tour from Tallinn to Riga
This tour offers an extensive exploration of Estonia and Latvia, beginning with three days in Tallinn, where participants can delve into the city's medieval history, visit the Rocca al Mare Open Air Museum, and enjoy a medieval dinner. The journey continues to the beautiful Lahemaa National Park, and includes a visit to Palmse Manor and a night hike at Jaagri Villa. The itinerary then moves to Tartu, to explore its university and cultural sites, and further to the Setomaa region for a deep dive into local customs and the Obinitsa museum. The adventure carries on to Latvia, starting with the ancient town of Cēsis, enjoying nature in Gauja National Park, and exploring the historical Sigulda and Turaida. The tour concludes in Riga, Latvia's capital, with a comprehensive city tour and an optional canal or kayak trip, showcasing the city's rich Art Nouveau architecture and bustling market life. The trip offers a blend of historical sightseeing, cultural experiences, and natural landscapes, culminating in a profound understanding of Baltic heritage.
Wild Estonia – Nature Tour through Estonia 8 days
This is the tour to take if you want to actively spend time in the wilderness, enjoy different natural habitats and watch birds and mammals. We watch the brown bears, elks(moose) and bird migration. We go bog-shoeing in one of Europe’s largest raised bogs with breath-taking views of bog-pools and experience the peacefulness of old-growth forests. To explore the most stunning contrasts of Nordic nature, we go canoeing and hiking in Matsalu- and Soomaa National Parks and other protected areas. In addition to excellent sightseeing and activities in natural settings we walk in medieval Tallinn Old Town, an increasingly popular UNESCO World Heritage site.
Highlights:
Very good opportunity to see Brown Bears in their natural habitat.
Elk spotting
Bog-shoeing in one of Europe’s largest raised bogs.
Canoeing on one of the wild rivers of Soomaa NP
Sights and sounds of thousands of cranes and geese, and millions of songbirds on their mass migration
Boat tour to watch Ringed Seals
Experiencing the medieval atmosphere of Tallinn Old Town.
SUP and Kayak night ride in the swamp
Embark on a spooky and magical SUP and Kayak night ride in the swamp with headlamps, a must-have experience for thrill-seekers. Paddling through the swamp and watching the fog slowly dissipate into implacable darkness is a surreal experience. After dark, "crazy things" happen in the swamp, so muster your courage and prepare for an unforgettable adventure. To reach the paddling point, you will begin with a 2km walk along the swamp with torches, taking you through the peat quarries on the edge of the Great Ķemeru moor. Along the way, you'll witness fascinating landscapes with dark swamp lakes, beaver houses and dead trees.
Canoeing Through the Apocalyptic Smarde's Green Bog
In the mid-20th century, Smarde's Green Bog witnessed peat extraction until the revelation of hydrogen sulfide mineral waters beneath, leading to the cessation of peat mining in 1960. This halt also marked the end of water pumping from peat quarries, transforming them into water reservoirs. Despite the mining's cessation, drainage systems persist in influencing the bog's water dynamics. Cormorants, or sea crows, have chosen this altered landscape as their habitat, crafting nests among the withered trees. The bog's vivid emerald waters, alongside desiccated trees and cormorant colonies, form its distinctive hallmark, resulting in a uniquely captivating landscape with an almost apocalyptic ambiance.
SUP board and pedal boats in Rummu Adventure Center
It is possible to discover the lagoon by pedal boats and on SUP boards! The Rummu Quarry once offered work for thousands of inmates. But despite its dark history the Quarry is located in the middle of a scenic landscape. The lake, a remnant from the limestone industry, has crystal-clear water and offers a unique way to look at history that is submerged and frozen in time.
Up to four people fit on one pedal boat. We will give safety vests to everyone and an interesting journey over the underwater prison can start!
RUMMU - a place for unique experiences and views – over and under the blue water! Nature mixed with industrial area, former soviet prison buildings and local marble (limestone) quarry filled with water that today looks like a lagoon. Nothing is usual in Rummu.
Kayak tour in Tallinn
A harbour tour with a sea castle! Suitable for beginners as well as for experienced kayakers.
3-4 hour kayaking tour in Tallinn will offer a waterbird’s-eye view of Estonia’s capital and its „medievally modern” skyline, plus a slice of history, from its days as a major trading port in the Russian Empire to its prominence in the Danish era, and its more recent Soviet occupation.
As we paddle past 8 ports, with a collection of military vessels, we’ll get a glimpse of Peter the Great’s marine castle and Patarie – the seldom visited but infamous NKVD prison.
A welcome next stop will be Paljassaare Peninsula, with a walk on sandy Pikakari beach, Tallinn’s closest bird watching area. From there, we’ll paddle back to the city – enjoying the sweep of graceful architecture – towers, spires, and the onion dome of the Russian Orthodox cathedral – that still punctuates the rapidly changing skyline.
Suitable for beginners. No previous kayaking experience needed. Full briefing before the trip.
Guided hikes in Gauja National Park
Individually designed nature hikes through the Gauja National Park: group or individual, from a few hours to several days, various difficulties, circular or linear routes. The hikes can be combined with boat, raft or bike rides, as well as museum visits and great picnics.
Mushrooming in Vicinity of Riga
Join a professional mycologist on a mushroom-picking tour, blending the fascinating world of fungi. Latvia, known for its vibrant mushroom-gathering culture, sees many people with baskets full of mushrooms along country roads in autumn. The tour is perfect for those who enjoy forests, wildlife, and have an interest in mushrooms and their various methods of preparation. The most popular edible mushrooms include various Boletus and Chanterelles. During the tour, you'll forage for species like Chanterelles, Russulas, and various Boletus, Birch Boletes, Aspen Bolete and others. During the tour the guide will also show you some rare and interesting species which are neither edible nor poisonous; some of them could be used in different ways, for example for dyeing wool in various colours. During the tour you will spend 2-3 hours picking mushrooms, then sort your finds with the guide.
The tour can be also provided in German.
Seal watching trips in Hiiumaa
Get ready for an unforgettable experience at sea! The wonderful Kärdla and Hiiumaa coast, seals, and great company. We have from May to September Saturdays and Sundays scheduled trips from Kärdla harbour. During the tour, we’ll enjoy the sea, observe how the Kärdla and Hiiumaa coast looks from the water, and watch the curious seals in action. Grey seal is the largest marine mammal in the Baltic Sea weighing up to 300 kilograms. In general, grey seals tend to chill on the rocks and swim around the boat going human watching from the water.
Small Lapland Premium Tour
Experience Small Lapland with our friendly Alaskan malamutes in a pristine Natura 2000 forest. Begin with a kicksled or walking tour depending on the season, immersing in nature's magic and fresh air. Meet our human-oriented dogs, learn about their breed, and enjoy fireside chats with tea or beverages. Capture memories with a unique sleddog photo session in our Christmas-themed studio. Then embark on an exhilarating hike - snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, or walking with dogs - exploring ancient riverbeds, bogs, and beaver habitats. Afterward, savor a homemade meal featuring pumpkin soup, crunchy meat, roasted onions, fresh bread with herbal butter, apple soup with vanilla ice cream, and gingerbread waffles.
Tours among living chairs and other shaped trees
Whether you're a group of friends, family, or just passing by, we offer a unique, unforgettable experience to spark your creativity. At Forest Designed, we shape live trees into beautiful, functional art using gradual tree-shaping methods. Explore our garden featuring chairs, lampshades, and live tree sculptures. We also grow reproductions of ancient works of art, creating a world gallery in one place. Enjoy tours, creative workshops, event hosting, and more. Our expert guides will lead you through MEŽA DIZAINA DĀRZS, revealing fascinating insights into the ancient art of tree-shaping.
2-Day Baltic Coastal Hiking & Liepāja Experience
Explore Latvia’s wild Baltic coast on a 2-day hiking experience that combines the freedom of independent walking with the comfort of full local support. Following a scenic section of the Baltic Coastal Hiking Trail, part of the long-distance E9 route, the journey leads through remote beaches, grey dunes, sea cliffs, and peaceful coastal forests. You can choose between a 12 km or 25 km route, making the experience suitable for both a relaxed walk and a more challenging hike. Your local guide takes care of route planning, logistics, and luggage transfer, meeting you at the end of the trail so you can fully enjoy the landscape. After the first day, stay in a charming seaside village such as Pāvilosta or Jūrkalne, known for local food, quiet atmosphere, and long Baltic sunsets. On the second day, continue to Liepāja, a city shaped by sea, wind, and history, explored at your own pace with local insight. Perfect for travelers who want nature without the hassle of planning.
TAKA Raiskums Mindfulness Walk
The TAKA Raiskums Mindfulness Walk takes place in the quiet, unspoiled landscapes of Gauja National Park.
Participants move slowly through forest paths in silence, guided to deepen sensory awareness and understand how natural environments support both physical and mental well-being.
The experience includes gentle breathing practices, body awareness meditation in the forest, mindful tasting, and moments of attentive listening and sharing, held in a safe and supportive atmosphere.
This walk is calm, grounding and restorative, offering space to reconnect with nature and oneself.
Nordic Ski Touring in the highest peaks of Baltics
Embark on a a two-day Nordic ski tour in the rolling hills of southern Estonia - Haanja Highlands are home to the highest peaks in the Baltics. Our experienced guides will take you through the best nordic ski areas, while teaching you basic skills to make the most of your adventure. This tour is perfect for those seeking a challenge and an unforgettable experience in snow covered winter landscapes. Deep forests, sleepy villages and locals with kind but slow vibe. The open bookings are for the slow lynx tour - climb up the 20 highest peaks with skis over one weekend! Navigate through rugged terrains, snowy trails, and pristine forests. Our experienced guides will accompany you every step of the way, ensuring safety and providing fascinating insights into the local geography. Whether you are looking to push your limits or a nature enthusiast seeking new routes, the snow lynx hike promises an unforgettable journey through Estonian peaks.
Nature photography tour
Estonia is known for its most in-tact biodiversity in Europe, perfect for nature photography tour ; therefore in our forests and wild landscapes, there is a high probability to see large mammals, carnivores, rare birds, insects and plants.
High possibility to see wildlife:
Beautiful and extraordinary forests, bogs & landscapes
You learn about animal and bird marks (like footprints)
Tips and tuition by professional nature & wildlife photographer
Kayaking
Kayaking is so much fun! Kayaking is done in the Baltic Sea, we can make a few hours trips or even days to Estonian smaller islands. Kayaking in Estonia provides an opportunity to witness diverse marine and bird life along the Baltic Sea coastline- may it be rare bird species or curious seals.
We have trips for those who look for romantic tours, for those wishing to get an exciting experience, and for those who are willing to educate themselves about local nature and culture. Such small islands like in Estonian coastal waters cannot be found elsewhere and the limestone cliff is worth seeing. The best way to explore our natural treasures is to use a sea kayak.
Nature Spa at Tipi Glamping Retreat
The Tipi village glamping in the western part of Latvia offers a wood-heated spa bath in the open air. The Tipi tents, inspired by North American Indian design, are crafted from natural materials and created in Latvia. The spa bath is filled with warm water infused with green herbs and meadow flowers. Enjoy the bath while listening to the surrounding sounds of nature, such as the birds and grasshoppers. Combine the Nature Spa with an overnight stay in a tipi tent or cottage located next to the bath.
Estonian 3 day Wilderness Hiking Retreat, Bog & Forest Hiking Camp
Discover the forests and bog landscapes of North Estonia and
experience the peaceful rhythm of Estonia’s wilderness on a three-day hiking retreat in the Kõrvemaa Nature Conservation Area, located next to Lahemaa National Park.
This small-group nature experience combines guided hiking, authentic countryside accommodation, sauna culture and wild nature moments, offering the perfect balance between adventure and relaxation.
Each day we explore different landscapes – forest trails, ancient bogs and hidden lakes – discovering the natural beauty and biodiversity of northern Estonia.
Along the way we take time to pause, taste wild berries, listen to the sounds of nature, swim in bog lakes and enjoy lunch surrounded by the forest.
Evenings are spent in a rustic countryside accommodation at Uuejärve Matkapesa, where guests can relax in a traditional wood-heated sauna, swim in the lake and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the forest.
After dinner the evening continues with a campfire gathering, listening to the sounds of nature or watching the northern sky during the famous White Nights season.
This retreat is designed for travellers who wish to slow down, reconnect with nature and experience Estonia beyond the usual tourist routes.
Top Nature Sites of Latvia
Enjoy a week-long guided tour through Latvia's natural areas and landmarks. Discover Europe's widest waterfall, hike on the white sand beach in the Baltic Sea resort town of Jūrmala, traverse the Vidzeme rocky coastline, canoe and bogshoe through Latvia's national parks, and sample the mouth-watering natural cheeses, honey and wines from local small-scale farms. End your days relaxing in a traditional countryside sauna, taking in the serene surroundings.
