The Riisa Nature Trail runs through bogs and forests along the Navesti River. In Soomaa National Park, the vastness of the landscape can also be grasped through numbers: it covers 17,500 hectares of flood meadows, bogs, forests and rivers. It is home to Kuresoo, Estonia’s largest intact bog complex. Soomaa brings together different types of landscape across a vast area; the region’s trails and nature experiences each have their own focus.

Discover bog landscapes and trails

A shorter, clearly described circular route is the 2.2-kilometre Rannametsa-Tolkuse Nature Trail. It runs through pine forest and the Tolkuse bog. The section from the car park to the bog lake and back is also accessible to wheelchair users and people with strollers; you should check accessibility again before your trip. The trail leads to the largest bog lake in the Tolkuse bog, where visitors can swim. Swimming is seasonal. This lets you explore the trail as a nature walk and enjoy views of the bog lake, without equating the circular route with longer hikes.

The Baltic Coastal Hiking Trail offers a different perspective: it passes through Pärnu County and is part of the European long-distance trail E9. Those interested in hiking trails can explore a specific route through the county; the Riisa Nature Trail and the Rannametsa-Tolkuse circular route, by contrast, each offer their own nature and landscape themes. Guided beaver-watching tours are also offered along the rivers in Soomaa National Park. For these tours, it is advisable to confirm bookings or availability before your trip.

Traditions and regional history

Cultural discoveries in Pärnu also take different forms. Woollen handicrafts are a distinctive symbol of Kihnu culture. Preserved traditions also include songs, games, dances and wedding ceremonies. The Kihnu Museum offers guided tours and workshops about the island’s traditions. Since schedules and opening times may change seasonally, it is worth checking current dates before your visit.

At the Kabli Visitor Centre, the permanent exhibition brings together themes related to the landscape and its use: it covers southern Pärnu County, forests, bogs and coastal meadows, as well as bird migration and forestry in North Livonia. The centre also runs nature education programmes for children and adults on various topics. The renewed exhibition at Häädemeeste Museum focuses on different themes. It covers the region’s history, the development of sailing, fishing, and the history of churches, schools and culture. Discussions and events there focus on preserving and passing on local heritage and culture.

The Estonian Railway Museum in Lavassaare is Estonia’s only narrow-gauge railway museum; its collection also includes an operational steam locomotive. In summer, the museum is open daily, and on weekends a steam or diesel train runs along a two-kilometre route. Check the current timetable before setting off if you plan to take a train ride. The combination of the museum and train rides offers different ways to experience railway history here.

Other historical points of interest include Tõstamaa Manor, founded in the Middle Ages, and Allikukivi Manor, a historicist brick building with Neo-Gothic features. Estonia’s oldest horse-breeding farm is in Tori. Estonian and Tori horses are still bred and kept there; the stud offers rides on its grounds and in the forest. These places span architectural history, horse breeding and a hands-on activity—and show how varied a stay in Pärnu can be.

Discover more destinations: Pärnu, Paikuse, Pootsi, Uulu, Leina, Võiste, Kuiaru, Treimani, Kabli, Varbla Vald, Sauga, Häädemeeste, Kihnu Vald, Tõstamaa, Are, Saulepa, Surju, Saarde, Reiu, Salu, Kurgja, Papsaare, Lavassaare, Audru, Vändra, Tori, Koonga Parish, Sindi linn, Tahkuranna, Tammiste

Go to the main travel overview: Estonia.