Around a dozen national parks and protected areas provide opportunities for nature lovers to explore the countryside.
Information centres at each reserve can provide advice and maps.
Popular among both Estonians and tourists is Lahemaa National Park , the country's largest national park. Situated on the northern coast, it contains limestone cliffs, waterfalls, lakes and forests. Bog walks can be undertaken in this area. Walkways on wooden boards give visitors the opportunity to observe the special flora and fauna of the deep peat bogs. Good hiking and cycling spots include Saaremaa Island , which has remained particularly unspoiled, owing to the fact that in the Soviet era even Estonians required a visa to visit it.