Plein-air painting
Unleash your creativity in our painting workshop, led by an experienced instructor. You'll explore various techniques and styles, capturing the manor's splendor on canvas. Suitable for all skill levels, this workshop offers a relaxing and inspiring atmosphere.
Bring comfortable clothing, water, and personal art supplies if preferred. We provide year-round plein-air painting with a professional artist. In winter, enjoy a charming workshop in our outdoor gazebo with optional hot beverages, or move indoors to paint with a view of the Latgalian winter landscape from the comfort of the Apple Manor & Garden Complex.
Family adventure tour
On our wildlife watching and soft adventure tour for families we observe different mammals and birds. To discover them we take a boat trip on Beaver river, walk in a wild swamp using bog shoes, canoe down the river in the wetland and look for the seals in a fishing boat on our way to Saarnaki islet. At the end of our journey Estonian capital Tallinn welcomes us. The child-friendly and charming Hanseatic town is packed with lovely cafes, thrilling museums and a long history.
Multiple day bird watching in Matsalu National Park
Welcome to Altmõisa Guesthouse, a warm and tranquil hideaway on the edge of Matsalu National Park – one of Europe’s top birdwatching destinations. During the migration season, tens of thousands of birds pass over our house, forage in the fields, and settle into Matsalu Bay each evening. Our season begins in April with the arrival of migratory birds and lasts until October, when the flocks move on. In the summer months, nature enthusiasts can marvel at wild orchids in bloom. Beyond birds, Matsalu is also home to many fascinating mammals, including lynx and elk. Wake to the sound of warblers in the reeds, spot sea eagles from our garden, and rest in individually designed rooms filled with local character.
Comfortable accommodation for up to 37 guests in 12 peaceful and comfortable rooms, each including a private bathroom
Home-cooked seasonal meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner and picnic baskets on the go), with over 50% of ingredients from local organic farms, supporting a sustainable approach to food. Local guide recommendations for birdwatching and wildlife experience.
Soft Adventure Tour in Gauja National Park
Experience Gauja National Park's hidden heritage through an active tour starting in Strenči. Cycle past local breweries at Brenguļi and Valmiermuiža, hike through enchanting forests and along the Sietiņiezis sandstone cliff to the medieval Old Town of Cēsis. Canoe from Cēsis to Līgatne along the picturesque River Gauja, with its sandstone banks and charming farmsteads. Explore Līgatne's historic center with its paper mill and visit local wine and handicraft producers. Walk the Līgatne Nature Trails to spot wild animals. Conclude your adventure by cycling from Līgatne to Sigulda, where medieval castles and scenic views await.
Total distance cycling 90 km, walking 28 km, boating 17 km.
Pop-up Forest Restaurant
Surprise your group with gourmet food in the middle of nature! The pop-up Forest Restaurant is a special experience where a plentiful meal is prepared in a natural setting – this adventure is aimed at your senses! Dishes are prepared by renowned chefs. We use as much local raw produce as possible. The food is served on reusable dishes and tables covered with white tablecloth.
Self-drive and hiking tour in Latvia and Estonia
This grand hiking tour includes some of the best and most beautiful parts of the Forest Trail in Latvia and Estonia. Hikes in the forest trails and villages are combined with trips and excursions in cities, as well as other popular tourist sights in both countries.
Safari trip through the nature reserve "Ance swamps and forest" roads.
We will have a trip through the nature reserve "Ance swamps and forest" roads. Driving occurs primarily on the forest roads, as well as tank roads. Along the way we will look at the forest lakes, swamps, radio telescope in Irbene and one of the best mushroom and berry places in Nothern Kurzeme areas. Great chance to see wild animals and their traces. In the middle of our trip will be lunch outdoors.
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.
Tailor-Made Smart-Guided Tour
The biggest advantage of a smart-guided tour is flexibility. Therefore the easiest way to set it up is by writing to us when and for how long would you like to stay. Which species and habitats would you like to see? Through the given information, we will organize a fitting tailor-made tour specially crafted for you. You can concentrate only on birding, or mix it with mammal observation, or even mix the two together with searching for rare orchids in Estonia’s wooded meadows. In case you want to get more in touch with the local history and culture, we can also add the best or most fitting sightseeing locations. If you want a more active tour, we can add walking trails to your tour and if you are interested in photography, we can arrange stays in various photo hides.
March and the end of April are the best times for seeing wintering arctic waterfowl. During the mentioned period, there’s a great chance to observe Steller’s Eider and hundreds of Long-tailed Ducks, feeding on the west coast of Saaremaa island. In the meantime, the spring migration is slowly starting and every day brings new species. Usually, the early arrivals include species like Cranes, Skylarks, and Northern Lapwings. Commonly it is also the best time for seeing arctic passerine birds like the Snow Bunting, Arctic Redpoll, or even Lapland Longspur.
On warmer days the woodpeckers get more active and then it’s possible to hear the drumming of species such as the White-backed Woodpecker, Three-toed Woodpecker, Black Woodpecker, Lesser-spotted Woodpecker, and Grey-headed Woodpecker. In the evening, there’s a chance to see or hear the Pygmy Owl, Ural Owl, or Tengmalm’s Owl. Black Grouse are already on their lekking grounds and Western Capercaillies and Hazel Grouses are just starting to. March and April are also good months for Elk spotting.
In April the migration is getting stronger every day and then there’s the chance to see new arctic species such as the Greater Scaup, Common- and Velvet Scoter, different Loons, Geese, and Swans. In the meantime, new and new nesting birds are arriving. April is also the best time for spotting woodpeckers, owls, and Galliformes.
The migration lasts until the middle of May and that is also the time when it is possible to see the greatest number of different species. By that time, late arrivals such as the Common Rosefinch, Blyth’s Reed Warbler, Greenish Warbler have just arrived. Earlier nesters are still active and the waterfowl migration has not ended yet.
May is also the best time for seeing local mammals – the Elks feed on fresh grass and leaves and are easy to spot. Bears start visiting the bear watching hide and also sightings of foxes and raccoon dogs will become frequent. Estonia has also a good number of Wolves, Lynx, Jackals, Wild Bore, Otters and other mammals and May is a really good month for accidental observations. In this month, Flying Squirrel tours can also be planned, as there is sufficient light even in the woods. The end of May is also a good time for looking for the first blossoming orchids, such as the majestic Lady’s Slipper. The best time to see as many orchids as possible is at the end of June and in the beginning of July.
While the summer is quite calm in terms of nature observations, it again gets more interesting from mid-August, when the waders start migrating. The greater migration starts in September. During the autumn migration, there are not so many different species, but the masses are greater, as the migration takes place during a shorter period. From the middle of September onwards, thousands of Cranes will start gathering on the fields, later accompanied by various species of geese. When the nights get colder, Hazel Grouse and Western Capercaille get more active again and for the Black Grouse, it signifies the beginning of the (false) autumn lek. Besides the Galliformes, autumn is also an active period for owls and woodpeckers. In terms of mammals, Brown Bears and Raccoon Dogs will be actively looking for food as they need to fatten up for the winter and the chances to spot them are much greater than during summer. Colder nights and shorter days trigger the rutting period of the Elk, which normally lasts from the end of August until the middle of October. The end of the elk rut signifies also the end of our autumn season.
Bogshoe hike in Rubina Swamp and Bog in Mulgimaa
Rubina is the largest, most valuable and best-preserved bog in the area that nature enthusiasts know for its many bird species.
We hike from the moss-covered swamp to a swamp island that is covered in gigantic trees. There we will have a picnic. During the entire hike, we are surrounded by swampy landscape, many waterbodies of the swamp, swamp islands and the traces of animal and bird life.
We do not hike in the marsh during the bird nesting season and during the summer!
Possible to join the planned hikes, look up from the calendar!
Hiking trails in Villa Pillapalu
Villa Pillapalu offers their guests an opportunity to spend time hiking in the beautiful Estonian nature. Bogshoe hike to Koitjärve bog accompanied by an experienced guide - a hike starting next to the villa, covering varying landscapes which takes you through forests and a bog. Suitable for all ages.
Self-guided cycling from West Estonia to Latvia
These two Baltic countries are similar in many ways – they share a long common history, traditions, nature, yet they are so different – each country having its own distinctive cultural traditions and historical heritage. There is a whole lot to see in Latvia and Estonia that you don’t know about until you come here and experience it for yourself. Tour takes you to West-Estonia and its romantic islands Hiiumaa, Saaremaa and Muhu and continues to summer resort Pärnu and to the shores of Liivi Bay through small towns Häädemeeste and Treimanni to Latvia.
Bird Watching in Slītere National Park
Experience one of the finest bird watching spots in Europe – the Cape Kolka on a guided bird watching tour in western Latvia. The 370km bird watching route follows the scenic Baltic Sea coast, where you can spot a variety of birds, such as seven species of woodpeckers, six species of owls, two species of crossbills, and at least 14 species of raptors, including the Lesser-spotted eagle, as well as various waterfowls. The route is divided into sections and can be tailored to the group's preferences.
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.
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..
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.
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!
Authentic Estonian Smoke Sauna Experience
A former winter tavern in the forests of the Kõrvemā region, Estonia, offers a glimpse into life in Estonia a century ago, showcasing local traditional architecture and serene natural surroundings. During a guided two-hour tour, you'll enter an archaic threshing-dwelling where people lived without electricity for centuries. You will relax and unwind with a traditional smoke sauna experience, followed by indulging in delicious, locally sourced farm-to-table cuisine.
Rural Living and Wild Foraging Experience
Depending on the season, your nature guide and a hostess on a small-scale farm will take you on a herb, berry, or mushroom foraging tour. You will learn to prepare food using natural ingredients, including herbal teas and treats, and cook soup over an open fire. The hostess will provide insights into traditional sustainable living.
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
Adventure during the Spring Flood Season
Spend two full days outdoors boating and hiking in the Dviete Floodplain in southeast Latvia. The floodplain meadows are flooded by the waters of Daugava, the largest river in Latvia, usually between mid-March and the beginning of May, with the water rising by 4-6 meters. During high waters, we go kayaking over the flooded meadows. When the water is low, we explore the area by hiking. Be prepared to challenge your outdoor survival skills as we will be building our own shelters for overnight stay. At nighttime, we might hear the neighing of wild horses and, with a high probability, the howling of wolves. The Dviete Floodplain is located on a bird migration route of European importance, and in springtime, gathering waterfowl can be observed.
SUP adventure in Riga canal
Enjoy SUP adventure in a very center of Riga. We will guide you trough Riga canal, to see canal lights, mystical lanterns and historical and illuminated buildings. You are very welcome to bring your own lights or lamps to brighten it up even more.
Following the adventure, we'll treat ourselves with the best eclairs in Riga from Raunas dārzs (Raunas garden) and savor homemade mulled wine from us - Boards You.
Our paddleboards are really steady, so you'll feel safe and comfortable in the calm canal waters. You'll get a new view of Riga's center, starting at the passenger port and ending at the lively Origo shopping center. Come and have a great time with us!
Golden and White-tailed Eagle Photography
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.
The hide is open from the 1st of January until the 9th of March or until the Eagles show themselves.
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.