Bogshoe Hike
Walking on the bogs has been suggested by Lonely Planet as one of the greatest activities in Estonia. Bogshoes have been used to walk on wetlands throughout the times. This footwear allows us access to the places on the bogs where it is hard or even impossible to reach by foot. Learning about bog species, watching the birds, maybe even some mammals. It is possible to find berries. In winter time, the bogs are covered with ice. Soomaa National Park has several bogs to choose:
– Ingatsi Trail (4,3 km)
– Riisa Bog Trail (4,8 km)
– Hüpassaare Trail (4,4 km)
– Öördi Trail (2,4 km)
From the 23rd of April to the 24th of June we are not using bog shoes and we walk on the bog by wooden path and go bogwalking on the edges of bog (with rubber boots if necessary). We are not entering deeper into the bog because of nesting birds during this period.
Serum Masterclass in the Old Wooden Manor
The Serum Masterclass begins with a sensory journey, where you'll connect with our array of ingredients, selecting those that resonate most. We'll guide you through each component's benefits, ensuring an informed choice for your personalized serum from our 50+ essential oils. This mindful selection process is complemented by soothing music, candlelight, and local herbal tea. You'll depart with a 30 ml serum, elegantly packaged in a charming box with cards, fragrant silk paper, and dried flowers, offering 2-3 months of skincare. The Masterclass concludes with a serene walk to Crane Hill, boasting stunning crane flock views. Our aim is a tranquil, introspective experience, leaving you refreshed, grounded, and deeply in touch with your inner self.
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.
Rural spa and sauna experience
The best way to restore the balance between body and mind is to derive strength from the ancient nature of Estonia, to energize oneself in sauna like our ancestors and to enjoy the healing power of sauna therapy, bathing and body procedures.
In Maria Farm it is possible to take part in a unique and interesting sauna therapy! A professional sauna man awaits you in the authentic Estonian sauna and shall arrange an unforgettable whisking session.
After that it is time to cool your heated body in cool pond water or in ice-hole during winter. After cooling off, honey-salt mask shall be applied during a light massage which leaves the skin feeling pleasantly soft.
Possible to order classical, aroma or lymphatic massage.
Bog 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!
Nature escape at Muuski Glamping
In Veclaicene, a Latvian parish next to Estonia's border, we offer a tranquil nature retreat, highlighted by its serene lakes and the quiet ambiance ideal for a vacation. In close proximity, visitors can explore the small towns of the southern regions of Estonia. The accommodation includes 16 sq.m. Safari tents equipped with quality bed linens, towels, and heated mattresses to ensure a comfortable stay. Guests can spend their evenings in a Safari tent overlooking the meadow, soak in an authentic heated outdoor bath, enjoy a meal in the kitchen or around the campfire, with all necessary cookware and utensils provided. There is a pond for swimming on hot summer days.
Additionally, there is a service house available with multiple showers and toilets, and a washing machine for guests convenience. For those interested in exploring the beautiful landscape, bicycles are available at no extra cost.
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.
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.
Stay in luxurious and sustainable boutique villas
Just 45 minutes from Tallinn, Maidla Nature Resort is nestled in the Estonian wetlands. Our tiny Nature Villas, on stilts, blend 15th-century manor charm with 21st-century design. Most villas for 2 include a sauna, outdoor bathtub, and fireplace; some feature a terrace or outdoor jacuzzi. Guests can rent canoes, SUP boards, hike in the bog, or enjoy tea and sauna rituals. A homemade breakfast is served by the house fairy. Dinner at Michelin green-starred Soo restaurant offers dishes inspired by nature and seasonal, regional produce.
Husky Dryland Adventure
An exciting 4-wheeled rig will take you along scenic trails where you can enjoy stunning landscapes with our brave sled dogs. The ride lasts at least 20 minutes and can be adjusted based on your preferences and the air temperature.
In addition to the thrilling ride, you'll get to enjoy a unique experience – meet the sled dogs, learn about their history and way of life, and even help prepare the dogs before the ride and unharness them afterward. This is a rare opportunity to dive into the world of sled dogs, even without snow.
This adventure is perfect for anyone who wants to experience the strength and beauty of sled dogs on dry land. It offers the same close-up and unique experience as our winter adventures.
Please choose clothing carefully – the dogs' paws may be muddy, and they could get your clothes dirty.
Diving in Latvia (quarry)
The 2.5-hour scuba diving experience begins with a thorough introduction from the instructor, covering diving techniques, safety procedures, and underwater swimming. Participants then practice swimming on the surface while using the scuba system to become familiar with breathing underwater. The activity concludes with a guided dive to explore key areas of interest within the quarry, providing an opportunity to observe unique underwater features in a controlled and safe environment. This experience is designed to combine practical skill development with an introduction to underwater exploration
E-Bike Salacgrīva-Vitrupe
Departing from "Tači," we'll explore the Nēģu (lamprey) dunes. Then, crossing Annasmuiža Bridge towards Svētupe, we'll ride through a beautiful pine forest to Svētupe and along the river to Lībiešu Upuralas (Sacrificial Caves). The first rest break awaits in the scenic Svētupe bend. Continuing, we'll head towards the Vitrupe River to Brīdaga (one of the Soviet-era "zero zones"), riding on gravel roads. From the Vitrupe River into the sea, a splendid coastal ride awaits to Svētupe rivermouth, with nearly constant chances to ride alongside the water and enjoy e-bike advantages. We'll also see Lāņi Manor along the way. From Svētupe rivermouth to Salacgrīva, we'll ride a forest bike path, exploring interesting spots. Upon entering Salacgrīva, we'll explore some intriguing bends before returning to "Tači."
Dewberry picking trip on Sorgu island
Sorgu is a small uninhabited island in Pärnu Bay, near Kihnu and Manija islands. The most valued aspects of the island are its untouched nature and the abundance of seabird species, including cormorants.
If you love berry-picking, then August-October is the ideal time to come on the trip because that's when the dewberries are ripe! A lot of berries grow on Sorgu island because ferries don't regularly come here, and therefore there are only a few berry pickers. We will take you and your group to the island by a kayak, a motorboat or a sailboat, where we will fill our buckets with berries, have a fresh jam sandwich, and take a look at the island with a tour guide!
Wild Cranberry Picking Tour
A 45-minute car ride from Tartu takes you to the remote Peipsiveere Nature Reserve, one of Estonia's wildest and least populated areas. This expansive and pristine wetland, recognized as a Ramsar site, is a sanctuary for many endangered, privacy-seeking species. Additionally, Estonia's largest cranberry reserves are hidden here. For Estonians, picking wild berries is a cherished tradition passed down through generations. Join our guided berry-picking trip to taste freshly picked cranberries and experience the satisfaction of gathering them. Cranberries thrive in the unique bog landscape, rarely found elsewhere in Europe. The bog is soft and moist, with a distinctive aroma from wild rosemary. After berry picking, we'll light a campfire and serve dishes made from local forest ingredients, including cranberries.
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.
Golden and White-Tailed Eagle photography in winter
The majestic but cautious Golden Eagle is considered to be the absolute pinnacle of Estonia’s bird kingdom, and the opportunity to see it undisturbed, up close, and for a long time offers an unforgettable nature experience.
The Eagle hide is heated and situated from car parking lot only 250 meters to walk. You should enter the hide at least an hour before sunrise and not leave the hide before it is totally dark (about an hour after sunset). One option would also be to go there on the previous night/evening. In the hide are WC and kitchen.
Besides the Golden Eagle, there’s a good chance of seeing White-tailed eagle, Goshawk, Jays, Ravens and various tits. With a bit of luck, also Pine Martens and Red Fox are visible.
There are 4 photography holes in the wall and plenty of space for 2 photographers, maximal 4 photographers. The background is mostly an open landscape and some trees.
BeTriton Amphibious Camper-Trike
BeTriton, an innovative Amphibious Camper-Trike, offers rental service to make your outdoor ventures sustainable. Combine land and water exploration, designing your own extended journeys or weekend escapes. Enjoy unique adventures and deep nature connections, from open-fire cooking to lakeside movie nights. Share peaceful moments in nature with your partner and immerse yourselves in the world's beauty. Renting BeTriton allows you to explore creatively, combining a hard-top motor boat, cargo tricycle, and cozy camper for two, ensuring continuous and immersive outdoor adventures.
Early Spring Birding Tour
Join one of the most popular tours among UK birders, allowing you to combine sightings of wintering Steller’s Eiders with breeding Woodpeckers, Owls and Grouse in just one short holiday. Our 6-day birding focused holiday in West-Estonia takes place from mid-March until the second week of April, the best time to visit. Our professional guides will take you on a tour to Leidissoo Nature Reserve to search for the Ural and Eurasian Pygmy Owls, followed by birding on Saaremaa Island, where we can spot the endangered Steller´s Eider. Our last leg of the trip will take us to the western taiga forests in Soomaa National Park, known for its woodpeckers, including Three-toed, Grey-headed, White-backed and Black. We may also spot the elusive Hazel Grouse and Capercaillies in Soomaa.
Nature Hikes on Finnish sleds on the winter trails of Pühajärve
The Finnish sled has gone through a great transformation and looks sleek and modern. We use new Finnish sleds on light aluminum frames. 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. A Finnish sled hike is perfectly suited for enjoying the outdoors in the winter.
We will be sledding on snowy nature trails and hiking trails or on frozen lakes. If Lake Pühajärve has properly frozen over and the weather permits, you will have the exciting opportunity of sledding between the islands of lake Pühajärv.
Finnish sled hikes can be enjoyed by anyone at any level of fitness; they do not require any physical preparations or prior experience.
Hiking Lovers Tour in Lahemaa National Park: Three Waterfalls
Lahemaa National Park has numerous bays and peninsulas, countless spectacular hiking trails, and many historical manor houses. Lahemaa is also loved for its beautiful waterfalls. Tucked in the deep forest you’ll find Valgejõgi (White River), Loobu river, and their three cascades – Vasaristi, Nõmmeveski, and Joaveski. In the wintry peace, we take on a longer hike and discover the icy art created by mother nature. It truly feels like you’ve found yourself in the Estonian Lapland. Keep an eye out for deer and water ouzel (dipper)!
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.
Kayaking Tour in Riga
This self-service city kayaking tour provides a unique and enjoyable way to explore Riga. With our pre-planned kayaking routes and GPS-enabled kayaks you will navigate the city's canals and waterways at your own pace while admiring the scenery of parks, bridges, and secluded islands. Simply follow the route map on your phone and take in the beauty of Riga from a whole new perspective.
Ethnic-inspired Mindful Retreat Experience
Immerse yourself in our curated experiences blending folkloric rituals, workshops, and treatments for mindful living. Tailored to your preferences and schedule:
-Herbal Crafting: Explore local flora's healing properties.
-Sauna Sensation: Experience the Latvian sauna ritual.
-Ancient Power Songs: Discover centuries-old folk verses.
-Latvian Symbol Exploration: Decode traditional symbols.
We arrange transfers, accommodation, and meals, suggesting journeys beyond Riga for deeper exploration. Travel options include public transport, bikes, or eco-friendly Teslas. Extend your stay in rural guesthouses or camping. Meals showcase local flavors, enriching your Latvian adventure amidst scenic landscapes.
Hiking Adventure in Alam-Pedja Nature Reserve
The Alam-Pedja Nature Reserve is located approx. 25 km from the Estonian second biggest city Tartu. It was established in 1994, the reserve was created to protect an intact hydrological regime in a cohesive landscape complex. It features large bogs, various forest types, expansive rivers and broad meadows. As one of Estonia's largest nature reserves, it is distinguished by its very low human population density. The bogs of Alam-Pedja are serving as habitats for many rare plants and endangered bird species. A true gem of biodiversity! The well-marked Selli-Sillaotsa trail in Alam-Pedja Nature Reserve is winding over a bog, through the forest, and on a gravel road, with plenty of information boards, is flat and easy to navigate. From the 12 m high Suuretüki observation tower built of massive logs, you can enjoy beautiful views of the bog in any season!
Nordic Ski tour in the largest bog
Explore the wild Soomaa National Park on a Nordic Ski Tour this winter. Glide across the largest bog system and take in the breathtaking winter scenery that surrounds you. Our experienced guides will lead you on a journey through the park, pointing out the unique history and tracks of wildlife that make this area so special. Perfect for beginners and experienced skiers alike, this tour is a must-do for anyone looking to experience the beauty of Estonia's winter landscape.