Baltic National Parks Escape

There are only a very few places in central and northern Europe that could offer a nature enthusiast as many pristine habitats and as much natural serenity as the Baltic states (Latvia, Estonia and Lithuania). After seeing and exploring the untouched nature of the Baltic States, many visitors may return home with the impression they have just spent their horseback riding holidays in Europe’s biggest nature park.

Three very different and diverse wonderlands are located along a north-south axis in the neighbouring countries of Estonia and Latvia: Lahemaa and Soomaa National Parks in Estonia and Gauja National Park in Latvia. All are blessed with pristine nature, each in their own way.

Tourism associations of Gauja National Park in Latvia, Lahemaa National Park and Soomaa National Park in Estonia are celebrating the European Day of Parks by joint marketing activities and working on creation of new tourism products.

Gauja National Park was established in 1973 and it stretches across more than 90,000 hectares. The Park protects the rich nature of the ancient Gauja River valley and its surrounding areas as well as the vast diversity of plant, bird and insect species found here. But that’s not the only reason to visit the country’s oldest and largest national park. Today, the park is a place where legends of the past live alongside modern and cosy guest houses, restaurants and leisure spots. Here you can enjoy the aura of antiquity in old castles, receive a burst of energy at one of the ancient sacred places or experience the healing properties of the nature.

Baltic States is blessed with an extraordinary number of scenic and spectacular national parks. Parks are close to each other and all three national parks are easily accessible from the country's capitals and major cities (Rīga, Tallinn, Parnu).