Lahema National Park in Estonia

Some national parks were created to preserve the land in its natural state, untouched by human hands. Lahemaa National Park, however, is a showcase for both nature and Estonia’s folk culture. This corner of northern Estonia was chosen as the first national park for its shoreline, islands and coastal villages - all representative of the country’s natural diversity. Lahemaa is also known for its Baltic German estates and manor houses, which once numbered nearly 20. Many are still standing and one, Palmse Manor, is home to the park’s information centre. This is Estonia’s best developed and most tourist-friendly park. To get there, watch for sign to Palmse Manor on Tallinn-Narva highway, 8 km north of highway toward Võsu.