Immerse yourself in the nature of Läänemaa

In the romantic small town of Haapsalu and small villages, hospitable people await you, surprising you with their sincerity and interest in history and culture. The guests who stayed here are remembered again and again with great respect.

VisitEstonia has produced a brochure introducing Estonia’s national parks:

Kayaking in Haapsalu

The Gulf Tagalaht and its surroundings in Haapsalu are an ideal place for kayaking. It’s also a great place to see many different bird species. Kayaking in autumn is a spectacle in itself because you can watch the migration of geese and common cranes. On the other hand, kayaking in summer is very pleasant in the sun. Often the water is too shallow even for kayaks, fortunately the route can be changed according to the group and water level. In addition, various sights can be seen, for example Haapsalu Kuursaal, different harbours, Suur Viik Bay, old Kalakombinaat, etc.

At the beginning of the kayaking trip, we always talk about water safety and teach basic paddling skills.

Winter ice fishing on Lake Veskijärv in Läänemaa

Our guided ice fishing trip takes place on the picturesque, species-rich Lake Veskijärv, a well-known fishing spot in West Estonia.

Ice fishing means catching fish in a completely new way. Our fishing guide will provide you with all the necessary equipment and tips to enjoy the experience in the best possible way. If you are lucky, you might catch perch or pike. If you are not lucky enough to catch a fish, you can enjoy spending time outdoors in winter and learn how to drill ice holes.

The fish you catch are usually released back into the water, but you can also take the catch with you to make a delicious dinner later.

Haapsalu Stadium tennis courts

Haapsalu Stadium has two tennis courts with artificial grass surfaces. Court hire includes use of the changing rooms and shower facilities, and for an extra charge you can enjoy the services of the Haapsalu Water Park. You can also hire all of your tennis gear on site. Game times can be booked at the information desk in the Haapsalu Water Park by the hour.

Haeska birdwatching tower

The Haeska birdwatching tower on the north shore of Matsalu Bay is the best one in Europe – the coastal meadows and shallow bay are a popular spot among migratory birds.
Many species have been recorded in the vicinity of the Haeska birdwatching tower and Finnish birdwatchers have also set a European record – 128 different bird species were seen from the tower in one day. The birdwatching tower and recreation area are situated on a private land and therefore staying on this object is allowed from sunrise to sunset.

Liivanõmme study trail

Liivanõmme trail starts from Nõva Nature Centre, runs along a stone-paved road dating back to World War I, then passes Allikjärve lake and then runs towards west to river Uuejõe. From there go along the beach range back towards Peraküla, over the Vanajõe riverbed and then you reach Lake Toatse and then back to Peraküla. The trail is suitable for those interested in forests, nature and local cultural heritage.
Good to know: The trail is dry, very suitable for walking. The length of the trail is 7.5 kilometres and it takes about 4 hours to complete it. You will find places for picnicking near Allikajärve and Uuejõe.

Gulf `Tagalaht` and birdwatching tower in Haapsalu promenade

For most of the year the Gulf Tagalaht in Haapsalu is an exciting place for birdwatching. There is no need to leave town, simply visit the 15-metre high birdwatching tower on the Promenade. When visiting the tower you will get a full overview of birdlife in the area between Haapsalu and Noarootsi. When the ice breaks in April and May, the gulf is filled with swans and different types of ducks. In autumn – in September and October – it is interesting to witness the departure of geese and cranes.