Birdwatching in Estonia
Estonia is among the top three bird watching destinations in Europe for the number of species spotted here. With over 380 species of birds spotted in Estonia annually.
Estonia’s indented coastline, numerous islands, forests, bogs and other diverse cultural landscapes are all great spots for bird-watching. The best time for bird-watching is during their migration when millions of birds fill the skies.
Birding season begins as early as in March. Spring migration culminates in mid-May and the bird observation season winds down by mid-June. The autumn migration tends to be more modest, but draws enthusiasts to Estonia in September and October as well. Thanks to the large forest areas and suitable habitats, six species of eagle can be seen in Estonia as well as 8 of 9 European woodpecker species.
Beaver-watching trip
Join our guided evening tour on the Jägala River to discover the fascinating life of beavers. As natural enemies of beavers are land animals, they are bold in water and sometimes curious. Listen for their warning signals like tail splashes as darkness falls, signaling increased activity. With luck, we may spot beavers swimming near our kayaks. Patience and silence determine our proximity. Receive instructions, then kayak along the riverbank, hearing stories about beaver life and observing their activities.
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.
Restaurant in the Forest
This restaurant has no walls. Instead, it offers a moss-covered floor, the freshest air, the music of birds, and the most delicious food, prepared before your eyes over an open fire by our team. With every dish served, your senses become more alive. Surrender yourself to this experience! Our menu features a wide variety of delectable dishes, crafted using only the freshest locally sourced ingredients. From sumptuous lunches to delectable dinners, each dish is cooked with care and precision, allowing you to savour the flavours in their purest form.
Grand hiking tour on the coast of Latvia and Estonia
Explore a long-distance coastal hike tailored for nature enthusiasts. This extensive journey unfolds along the coastlines of Latvia and Estonia, allowing you to connect with diverse landscapes, wildlife, and local cultures. Walk along sandy and pebbly shores, through coastal forests, and visit quaint fishing villages. Discover tranquil floodplains, lagoons, and shallow bays. In Estonia, immerse yourself in the serene beauty of Nordic nature. Enjoy moments of solitude along less-traveled shores and explore cities like Riga and Tallinn. Savor the warm hospitality of resort towns and connect with the unique cultures of Latvia's Livs and Estonia's Kihnu residents.
Sled Dog Tour on Bog Islands
A 45-minute car drive from Tartu takes you to Peipsiveere Nature Reserve, one of Estonia's wildest and least inhabited areas. Join us for a guided sled dog tour through forests and across numerous bog islands, where you'll encounter signs of moose and other wildlife activities..
Aroma Workshop on Nature
Immerse yourself in natural scents with our aroma workshop. Explore essential oils and craft your own unique blends, discovering the benefits of aromatherapy while creating a personalized fragrance to cherish. Ideal year-round, the workshop gains extra charm in winter with exclusive seasonal Christmas aromas. It's perfect for families and groups, offering a fun and educational experience for all ages.
Bring comfortable clothing and water. All materials for creating your custom blends are provided.
2 days nomadic wilderness resort experience
Immerse yourself deep in the wilderness of Northern Kõrvemaa. Begin the day with an invigorating hike in the bog, then cycle through forest to our luxurious nomadic wilderness camp, where you will have the full comforts available to you in a rustic, wild setting. Relax in a tent sauna as a gourmet meal is prepared on-site in our mobile kitchen. Share stories around a campfire before bedding down in your safari tent under a starry sky. Next day, you have a canoe adventure in the morning and a variety of activities to choose from in the afternoon, including kayaking trips, farm visits and island safaris. Or you can always just choose to relax in the comfort of our camp, taking short walks to nearby serene nature.
SUP King Marathon – Salaca 100
Join other SUP enthusiasts in a 100 km challenge that will push you to the edge.
Once a year, SUP enthusiasts take on the challenge of paddling 100 km in a single day, through Latvias most beautiful rivers. It’s a test of endurance, mental grit, and love for adventure.
Every 20–30 km, the “Settlements of Kings” offer a chance to rest, refuel, and share a moment with fellow paddlers before setting off again. It’s not just about the distance—it’s about the experience, the struggle, and the reward of making it to the finish. Ready to see what you’re made of? Sign up now.
Sunrise or Sunset Canoeing in Peipsiveere Nature Reserve
A 45-minute car drive from Tartu will take you to the Peipsiveere Nature Reserve, one of Estonia's wildest and least inhabited areas. This vast and pristine wetland features numerous rivers and lakes, making it an ideal destination for canoeing. The serene rivers, lakes, and bog islands are home to a variety of birds and mammals, including several protected species. Our canoeing tours, available from April to October, are led by experienced nature guides. Canoeing on these tranquil wetland rivers is suitable even for beginners. The tour includes a light meal: breakfast on sunrise tours and a pancake picnic on sunset tours.
1. Public transport - buses from Tartu Coach Station to bus stop Saki. If you are coming from Tallinn, take a bus to Tartu from Luxexpress, if you want to come from Tartu by bus, find the best time for you using the time table. NOTE! There are buses from Tartu and back only on Wednesday and Saturday so that you can have a tour at 13.00
2. Rent a car or use Bolt/Taxi. We recommend that option!
3. Ask for us pick up from Tartu and back. Pick up fee is 200.00 euros.
Adventurous excursion in Ligatne
Join a guided tour in Līgatne in Latvia and enjoy a world class culinary masterclass afterwards, Ligatne is located just a short 1.30-hour drive from Riga. In a close collaboration with nature tourism organisations we offer you a 1.5-2 hour journey through Līgatne's charming architecture, beautiful natural scenery, and the historical and famous Līgatne Paper Mill. For a fun twist, you can take the tour in vintage “Latvia” minibus. In November 2023 Ligatnes Pavaru Māja were awarded with Michelin Green star, emphasising our sustainability. The tour is a perfect mix of exploration, learning, and delicious, world class food.
Diving and snorkeling in Rummu AdventureCenter
RUMMU QUARRY – a place for unique experiences and stunning views, both above and below the surface of its striking blue waters! This destination blends natural beauty with industrial history, featuring a former Soviet prison and a local limestone (marble) quarry that has transformed into a surreal lagoon. Nothing is ordinary in Rummu. One of the most unforgettable things to do in Rummu is to go diving with Rummu Diving – the only PADI 5 Star Dive Resort in the region.
Whether you're a certified diver or have no prior diving experience, you're welcome! Beginners can join after a short instruction session, during which an experienced instructor will provide full training and equipment. You'll then have the chance to explore submerged prison buildings and structures, left underwater since the 1990s. Moreover you will see the underwater forest and some surprise objects under the water. The entire diving experience takes about three hours and offers memories that will last a lifetime.
If you prefer to stay closer to the surface, snorkeling is also
available – a great way to discover the unique underwater landscape without needing a diving certificate.
Beyond the water, Rummu Quarry is one of Estonia’s most
extraordinary destinations. Relax on the beach, hike up the ash hill, take an audio-guided tour of the former prison, enjoy a summer café, or try your hand at disc golf.
8-Day Self-Guided Hike in Gauja National Park
Embark on an adventure along an 8-day self-guided hiking trail through Latvia's awe-inspiring Gauja National Park. This journey harmonises natural wonders and cultural exploration, ensuring an incredibly memorable experience.
Adventure Therapy - Exploring Boundaries
Join our Adventure Therapy retreat deep in Soomaa National Park at Sea Kayaking Estonia Basecamp. Over three days:
-Bonfire Night: Learn practical skills like fire-making, water filtration, and crisis preparedness. Enjoy a discussion circle led by community crisis exercise organizers, focusing on mental and physical resilience. Experience a smoke sauna and river dip.
-Water Day: Challenge yourself in solo canoeing, rain or shine, learning resilience and new skills. Engage in guided discussions on adventure therapy's benefits. Enjoy dinner and a surprise activity.
-Swamp Day: Explore Estonia's largest bog, expanding your mind and presence with a sunrise trip. Conclude with a discussion group and lunch.
Customize this retreat for your group’s needs. Contact us to plan your adventure therapy experience.
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!
TAKA Kaņieris Mindfulness Walk
The TAKA Kaņieris Mindfulness Walk unfolds in the open landscapes surrounding lake Kaņieris, combining meadows, ancient oak trees and lakeside paths.
Through slow, silent walking and guided breathing practices, participants are invited to reconnect with the body and the natural rhythm of the environment.
The experience includes grounding barefoot walking, body awareness meditation in the meadow, mindful tasting, and moments of reflection and sharing in a calm, supportive space.
This walk encourages deep relaxation, presence and a sense of connection with nature.
Kicksledding in Estonia on Otepää Lake Pühajärv or snowy forest roads
A Finnish sledge hike is perfect for enjoying the outdoors during the colder winter months. Basic kicksledding is easy to learn. Just stand with one foot on the runner, hold on to the handlebar, and kick with your free foot.
The Finnish sled has gone through a great transformation and looks sleek and modern. We use new Finnish sleds on light aluminum frames for an even better experience. We’ll be sledding along snowy nature trails, hiking paths, or even across frozen lakes.
If Lake Pühajärv is properly frozen and the weather allows, you’ll have the exciting opportunity to sledge between its islands — familiar to you from your canoeing trip.
Finnish sledge hikes are for everyone, regardless of fitness level. No physical preparation or prior experience is required!
Soomaa hiking tour with bogshoes and a canoe
Estonia's largest bogs and most beautiful hiking trails are located in Soomaa National Park! Come and discover the most beautiful places in Soomaa National Park!
Accompanied by a local tour guide, you will get a genuine and complete Soomaa experience - we will hike with bogshoes and a canoe (or kayak), enjoy a light meal in the middle of nature, and tell stories about local life and nature. In the summer we will swim in the bog lake to refresh ourselves, in the spring and autumn we will make a campfire and enjoy a warm drink!
"There's no WiFi in Soomaa, but we'll promise you'll find a better connection with nature!"
Dragonfly watching tour
Estonian nature offers numeros of insects, dragonflies, butterflies and all this you will find on splendid landscape. About half of Estonia is covered in forests and here you will find more coastal meadows, alvars and woodlands than in any other European country. Here is located also one of the largest meadows in Europe – Kasari meadow of 4,000 hectares. Many of the abovementioned habitats are vitally important for rare butterfly and dragonfly species.
We may see the following dragonflies: Beautiful Demoiselle, Small Spreadwing, Common Spreadwing, Siberian Winter Damsel, Common Bluet, Moorland (Common) Hawker, Blue (Southern) Hawker, Brown Hawker, Migrant Hawker, Baltic Hawker, Yellow-spotted Emerald, Four-spotted Chaser, Black-tailed Skimmer, Black Darter, Yellow-winged Darter, Ruddy Darter, Common Darter, Moustached (Vagrant) Darter, etc. Ofcourse we will see also many butterflies and rare types of plants- like the most important protected plant species that can be found here: White Adder`s Mouth, Lesser Twayblade, Early Coralroot, Fly Orchid, and Brown Beak Sedge (protection category II). Also, several plant species which belong to the protection category III can be found here. These belong mostly to the orchid family.
Forest fine dining
Our kitchen and restaurant nest deep in the heart of nature near the ancient manor ruins and are surrounded by old forests and loops, full of interesting food. The forest restaurant uses raw materials picked directly from nature to add exciting and innovative nuances to its dishes, while offering both an unforgettable experience and closeness to nature.
We can also provide catering in the location of your choice. For those who prefer to enjoy the tastes of Estonian nature in a less wild place, we offer cooking lessons or a presentation in cooperation with the kitchen restaurant Köök in the Old Town of Tallinn.
ÖÖD hotels stay in forest luxury
In Estonia, ÖÖD Hotels provide tranquil retreats in the country’s most stunning locations. Enjoy modern comforts and breathtaking views in lush forests, serene coastlines, or ancient valleys. Each location, from the forest views at Rannamõisa and the enchanting pine forests of Laheranna to the untouched nature at Rooslepa, offers the perfect escape for nature lovers and birdwatching enthusiasts.
Most ÖÖD Hotels come with private mirror house saunas, and some with a hot tub. Please check individual destinations before booking.
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.
Ice-Fishing Experience
Ice-fishing is to try fishing in a whole new way. Our fishing instructor will provide you with all necessary equipment and tips so you can enjoy the experience in the best possible way. If you are lucky, you may catch perch, or even pike.
Hiking Adventure in Gauja National Park
Hiking in this area involves climbing up and down countless hills while enjoying the scenery with Gauja river valley views, wonderful sandstone outcrops, big and small caves, wild flora and fauna, and natural springs.
The highlights of the hiking route include Sigulda town, the medieval Sigulda Castle, the historical paper-mill village of Līgatne, the Āraiši Archeological Park, featuring a reconstruction of a 9th-10th century settlement on a lake, the scenic Līču-Laņģu sandstone cliffs, and the Baltic Sea coastline with its fine sandy beach and untouched scenery.