Lahemaa National Park, National park in Kuusalu, Estonia
Lahemaa National Park is a large protected area in northern Estonia with ancient forests, expansive bogs, and rocky shorelines along the Gulf of Finland. The territory spans several municipalities and combines natural habitats with hiking trails and restored manor buildings.
The park was established in 1971 and became Estonia's first national park. This milestone marked the beginning of organized nature conservation in the country and paved the way for future protected areas.
The four manor houses within the park—Palmse, Sagadi, Vihula, and Kolga—showcase stone buildings and carefully maintained gardens from past centuries. Walking through them reveals how wealthy families once lived and the craftsmanship they invested in their estates.
The area features several visitor centers, marked hiking trails, and accommodation options that make exploring straightforward. Regular bus services connect the park to Tallinn, so visiting is possible without a car.
The name Lahemaa means 'Land of Bays,' referring to the numerous inlets along the coastline. The wetlands here provide space for moose, wild boars, bears, and lynx to roam freely.
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