Brown Bear Watching from a Hide
Spend a night at our Brown Bear and wildlife-watching hide. Situated in Alutaguse, an area covered with western-taiga forests and vast bogs in Northeast Estonia, it is home to about half of Estonia's 1000 Brown Bears. The hides have windows on both sides offering a view of the taiga forest and a stream and flooded meadow. Here you can spot a variety of wildlife such as raccoon dogs, elk, wild boar, roe deer, and otters. You can also listen to the soundscape of the surrounding wildlife through the sensitive microphone outside the hide.
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.
Sea Kayaking in Estonia's Archipelago
Sea Kayaking and wild camping expeditions and tours with British Canoeing certified leaders on the stunning archipelago of Estonia.
Two days of kayaking and wild camping in the bird and seal paradise of the western Estonian archipelago. Fully guided with transfers, 1 night wild camping.
Walking nature trails in Latvia and Estonia
Explore the journey from Riga to Tallinn, a blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Discover 15 nature trails through marshlands, meadows, and coastal forests along the Baltic Sea, including pristine nature reserves. Birdwatching enthusiasts will appreciate the trails equipped with viewing towers. Randu meadows near Ainazi boast one-third of Latvia's plant species, accessible via a boardwalk with scenic views. Saaremaa island offers a unique natural landscape with dolomite cliffs, juniper heaths, a meteorite lake, and rugged shores. Experience traditional coastal villages and farms. Hiumaa island exudes a laid-back Estonian ambiance with Käina Bay's vital bird reserve. Explore Paldiski peninsula for a glimpse into recent history with its former Soviet military base.
Early spring birding tour
This is one of the most popular tours amongst UK birders allowing to combine seeing wintering Steller’s Eiders plus breeding Woodpeckers, Owls and Grouse in just one short holiday! Best timing for this tour is from mid March until second week of April.
After arriving to Tallinn airport we will be heading to Northwest Estonia to look for the Ural and Eurasian Pygmy Owls in the forests around Leidissoo Nature Reserve.
Birding on Saaremaa island will allow us to see one of the most wanted seaduck in the Europe – Steller´s Eider. In the early spring birds often flock in the harbours there they are sometimes just 50-100 meters from us. Other seaducks here include thousands of Long-tailed Ducks, good numbers of Velvet Scoters and Scaup.
Our last part of the trip takes us to the western taiga forests in the Soomaa National Park. It´s a Woodpecker heaven. Often we manage to see 7 species of Woodpeckers on this tour, including Three-toed, Grey-headed, White-backed and Black. Soomaa is also known hotspot for the Capercaillies while it´s smaller cousin – elusive Hazel Grouse are breeding also here.
Berside birds, early spring trip is often also good for mammals. Moose are seen in most trips while Lynx activity is also at it´s peak and with very good luck we might see one while birding in the forests!
SUP and Kayak expedition in the Abava River
Begin your SUP and Kayak expedition with a stroll and warm-up at the scenic Abavas Rumba Waterfall on the Abava River. For the daring, take on the challenge of navigating the whitewater of the waterfall. Along the way, discover the ruins of the Svente mill and try your hand at the classic zip-line over the Abava river, first installed in 1948. The journey culminates in Renda, where you can capture stunning photos, share your experiences, and admire the Īvande waterfall. Don't miss out on this unforgettable adventure through Latvia's natural beauty.
Luxury brown bear hide
The Alutaguse luxury bear hides offer an excellent opportunity to watch bears and other wildlife from luxury conditions. In addition to the brown bears, the hides are frequently visited by raccoon dogs, occasionally by moose, badgers, wild boars, roe deer, and rarely by wolves and lynxes, as well as numerous bird species.
In the luxurious hide, you can observe bears through a floor-to-ceiling mirrored window, even while lounging on a spacious double bed. The elegant interior, crafted from high-quality materials, is inspired by the surrounding nature, creating the feeling of being immersed in the wilderness while still enjoying a secure and luxurious retreat.
It is like a fully equipped hotel suite in the heart of nature among bears, featuring a large double bed, comfortable chairs, a table, a shower, a refrigerator, a toilet, and other amenities for an exclusive getaway.
Butterfly 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 day-flying butterflies: Old World Swallowtail – Papilio machaon, Large White – Pieris brassicae, Small White -Pieris rapae, Cranberry Blue – Vacciniina optilete, Green-veined White – Pieris napi, Common Brimstone – Gonepteryx rhamni, Amanda´s Blue – Polyommatus amandus, Woodland Brown – Lopinga achine, Chestnut Heath – Coenonympha glycerion, Wood White – Leptidea sinapis, Arran Brown – Erebia ligea, Grayling – Hipparchia semele and others, Purple Emperor – Apatura iris, Lesser Purple Emperor -Apatura ilia, White Admiral – Limenitis camilla, Red Admiral- Vanessa atlanta, Small Tortoiseshell – Aglais urticae, and other Nymphalidae, Lycaenidae and other butterflies. At night, we may see owlet moths, inchworms, Arctiidae, spinner moths, etc. In total, we will see about 60 different species of butterflies.
Snow shoe hikes
In the region of North-Kõrvemaa our trips trace the secrets of the swamps as we travel through Kõnnu Suursoo and Koitjärve bogs, it's known for its attractive landscape and a lot of lakes. The bog-shoes can be used in Estonian bogs throughout the year!
Cable Car Ride Over the Gauja Valley
The Sigulda cable car offers a ride over the Gauja valley, enjoying the view of a wonderful landscape over a distance of multiple kilometres. In a height of 43m above ground the Sigulda cable car connects both sides of the river Gauja in a width of 1020m and excites with a picturesque valley of Gauja, three medieval castles – Sigulda, Turaida, and Krimulda, the bobsleigh track, and Gauja bridge. The cable car is the oldest vehicle of its kind in the Baltic States.
Nature escape at Apple Manor & Garden Complex (Silajanu manor)
Escape to Apple Manor & Garden Complex for a perfect nature retreat in Latgale. Our historic estate blends the charm of a manor with a 1939 stone building, set in serene natural surroundings.
Indulge in one of our 25 elegant rooms, featuring hand-painted murals inspired by Latvia’s beauty. Enjoy our expansive forest trails, sports grounds, traditional Charm Black Sauna, and nearby Feimanka River for relaxation.
Experience seasonal activities like apple picking, painting workshops, aroma creation, and sauna rituals. Additional amenities include a self-service grill, horseback riding, and lake trips. Book your escape today to enjoy nature and luxury in harmony.
Cycling in the Latvian Countryside
This guided cycling tour unfolds along small country, seaside, and forest roads, allowing you to explore villages and small towns of Latvia with their charming authentic architecture and laid-back, peaceful way of life. Throughout the tour, you will stay in country guest houses and small town hotels, which will enhance your nature experience with local cuisine and warm hospitality.
Wilderness Day Trip to Soomaa National Park
A guided trip in Soomaa national park that combines bog-walking and canoeing on the river. Lunch in the wild is included. Soomaa National Park is an extensive wilderness area, home to vast peat bogs, thick forests, and numerous rivers and floodplains. It's best known for its high-water season, considered the fifth season of the year when in a relatively small area between the bogs and swamp forests, several local rivers from surrounding uplands converge, creating a unique and breathtaking spectacle.
Hiking Tour with a Picnic in Gauja National Park
This trip in Gauja National Park combines a guided hike and a picnic meal in a forest restaurant. The hike starts at the Zvārtes Rock, a scenic sandstone outcrop situated on the banks of the Amata River. As you make your way along the hiking trail, you'll be treated to beautiful river views and the serene natural surroundings. At the end of your hike, you'll be treated to a delicious picnic provided by local family entrepreneurs. The food is locally-sourced and showcasing the region's culinary delights.
Boating on the Gauja River
Discover a premium selection of boats crafted by the finest manufacturers globally, offering diverse sizes and unique characteristics. Tailored for families, sports enthusiasts, and leisure seekers longing for a tranquil river escapade. Effortlessly secure your booking online to receive the ideal boat size equipped with all necessary gear, conveniently delivered to your chosen starting point. Arrive at your designated time and location, with all arrangements impeccably arranged for an adventure of a lifetime. Upon journey's end, our dedicated team will greet you and provide chauffeured transport back to your vehicle. Extend your stay to relish a delectable meal at our outdoor restaurant "MUNO" if desired.
Forest Therapy Hiking Experience
On a forest bathing hike in the woodlands of Gauja National Park with a knowledgeable nature guide, you will recharge your batteries. Through easy and positive conversation, you will find your own path for improvement:
• raise awareness - well-known, but underrated, simple, but at the same time crucial lifestyle principles.
• open up and find your inner peace and joy, take a break from the daily rush, and get energy and positivity.
• learn how to be in the moment and accept yourself and others.
• stop, listen to yourself, your emotions, and trust yourself.
• find answers to the questions you might have.
A Walking Hike with Sled Dogs
Arrival at Small Lapland and a short introduction to our fairytale forest park. Getting to know our dogs, cuddling, malamute stories, instructions for hiking with the dogs.
Equipment preparation: belt, bungee leash and harness
Hot tea and cookies, on request it is possible to order homemade food or a campfire picnic – the possibility of grilling sausages and marshmallows on the fire.
Some beautiful photos by our photographer in the cozy dog barn and during the hike
Sauna ritual at Smoke sauna
The smoke sauna is a good example of our ancient sauna traditions. It gives sauna enthusiasts an opportunity to enjoy the same sauna pleasures as our ancestors did. Enjoying a smoke sauna is much more than just relaxation – it’s a step back to the time when our ancestors experienced a sauna session as a deeply personal and spiritual experience. A smoke sauna is a unique experience that connects you with nature, history and your soul. During the ritual, we pamper the senses with the soft touch of aromatic sauna towels, nourish the skin with moisturizing honey and treat ourselves to soothing herbal tea, creating a pleasurable and relaxing experience at the same time.
SUP or kayak rent for a 1-7 day trip along the Gauja River
Rent a SUP or a boat for a 1-7 day trip along the Gauja River, considered the most beautiful river in Latvia. Your rental will include all necessary inventory, bedding, kitchen items, route maps with accommodation and shops marked, and transportation to ensure an unforgettable holiday. If desired, an accompanying guide and photo/video services can also be organized for the entirety of your trip. This comprehensive rental package has everything from A to Z covered to make your trip seamless and stress-free, allowing you to focus on exploring the stunning natural beauty of the Latvian countryside.
Sauna rituals in nature villas
A sauna ritual offers a glimpse into Estonian traditions while relaxing and detoxifying your body in a modern setting. Experience the authentic sauna by making your own viht, practicing old traditions, and enjoying muscle relaxation through vihtlemine. Your skin will be scrubbed and nourished with forest plants. Sauna rituals, integral to Estonian life, provide numerous benefits including detoxification, increased metabolism and blood circulation, improved sleep, better immune function, and overall relaxation.
Speed boat rides
Summer speedboat rides are a fun and adventurous way to make a warm summer especially memorable. The boat rides we offer are perfect for celebrating a birthday, bachelor party, or company department summer days. Whether you want to explore Tallinn’s famous shard box view against the background of the setting sun from the bay of the capital or visit the beautiful small islands of Estonia – every adventure is possible. Our team is open to different options on how to combine the most exciting sea adventure for your group. Take a look at the boat trip packages we have developed below and feel free to contact us so that we can combine the most memorable sea adventure based on your wishes.
Possibilities:
Exploring Tallinn's famous splinter box view and the city's history from the sea
Getting to know the skyline and history of the city of Tallinn with a visit to a small island
Small islands of Estonia
E-bike Tours/ Rental
Experience the "SMART BIKE" electric bicycle motor propelling you to speeds up to 25 km/h, covering over 60 km on a single charge. These additional "muscles" assist the Sigulda landscape, conserving energy for nature appreciation. Ideal for Gauja National Park exploration, the Smart Bike suits long distances, aligning with eco-friendly transport. Opt for Sigulda's bike routes and embark on joint adventures for sports enthusiasts, families with children and the elderly.
24 Hour Raft Mission with Adventure Therapy elements
The 24 Hour Raft Mission is an amazing opportunity to experience Latvian nature in a raw and intense way. The main focus is on practical learning - how to build a raft with your own hands and later use it to spend a night on a river. You will experience how important it is to work in a team to reach the goal, you will get out of your comfort zone and you will experience the flow of Latvian nature first hand. To make this experience even more valuable, we as trainers, will use some adventure therapy methods to help you link your experiences with your daily life challenges and current struggles.
We believe that a real adventure is not only adrenalin filled, but mainly something what has happened and moved in you as a person - your thoughts, emotions, beliefs.
The nights before and after the mission you will spend in an idillic old Latvian house in the middle of amazing nature.
Tea ceremony in nature villas
Tea ceremony is a beautiful way to escape from the fast pace of life and ground yourself in nature. During this meditative tea drinking session, you will experience the effects of tea leaves carrying ancient wisdom, affecting your body and soul.
Tea has been a ceremonial drink for centuries in both Chinese and Japanese cultures. The process of making tea is ceremonial and thought through from picking the leaves all the way to pouring and drinking it. At the same time, it is strongly intuitive and in deep harmony with the rhythms of nature.
Depending on the season, tea ceremony can take place in the area of Maidla Nature Resort in the wild or in the indoor space of the Servants House.