The best hiking routes in Lääne-Viru County

Lääne-Viru County offers a distinct transition from the flat limestone plateau of northern Estonia to the forested coastal lowlands. Walking here is defined by this geological step, where the land drops toward the Gulf of Finland. You will not find steep mountain climbs or deep gorges; instead, the terrain consists of gently rolling glacial moraines, pine-covered sand dunes, and vast peat bogs. Underfoot, the paths vary from soft pine needles and sandy tracks along the coast to wooden boardwalks laid over wet peat moss.

In Lahemaa rahvuspark, the landscape splits into distinct walking environments. The northern peninsula fingers feature stony shores piled with massive glacial boulders, while the interior of the park is dominated by dense spruce forests and open muskeg. Walking in the bog areas, such as Viru raba, means following narrow timber paths over dark water pools and stunted pines. In contrast, the coastal stretches near Altja offer firmer sandy paths under tall canopy, where the sound of the sea is constant.

Choosing where to walk depends on your preference for forest cover or open wetland. The well-known boardwalk trails in Lahemaa rahvuspark can be busier with visitors, especially during the bright summer month of July. For a quieter experience, the inland forest tracks on clay and gravel soils offer longer, uninterrupted stretches through managed and natural woodlands where you are more likely to encounter forestry tracks than other walkers.