THE TRAVEL BLOG OF BALTIC TOURS

Tucked away in Northern Europe, the Baltic countries conceal some of the most untouched natural landscapes. While many travelers visit the Baltic countries for their historic cities and medieval architecture, their national parks also protect and reveal the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. Deep forests, sand dunes, and winding rivers can create a simple escape from busy everyday life, so why not come here and explore them better?

Lithuania

Lithuania has 5 national parks, making it a particularly green country with forests covering 33,9% of its area. However, we would like to recommend two parks for you to visit!

Žemaitija National Park is one of the most beautiful protected areas in Lithuania, famous for its deep lakes, hills, forests, wetlands, and traditional Samogitian heritage. At the center of the park lies Lake Plateliai, the largest and deepest lake. Visitors can enjoy hiking and cycling trails, kayaking, and birdwatching. The park is home to rare wildlife and protected bird species, while its dense forests and wetlands are part of the protected Natura 2000 network. Žemaitija National Park offers an authentic glimpse into Lithuania’s natural and cultural identity.

The Curonian Spit National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site well-known for its massive sand dunes, coastal forests, and prime birdwatching location. One of the most fascinating features of the park is the moving sand dunes, which are constantly shaped by wind and were once capable of burying entire villages under sand centuries ago. Located between the Baltic Sea and the Curonian Lagoon, the narrow peninsula offers visitors breathtaking views, beaches, and cycling routes. Travelers can visit fishing villages such as Nida and Juodkrante, explore nature trails, or learn about bird research at the Juodkrante Ringing Station, where thousands of birds are ringed every year!

Latvia

Latvia has 4 national parks, making it one of the most forested countries in Europe, which covers 52-53% of its area. But, we would like to recommend these two parks for you to visit!

Gauja National Park is the largest national park in Latvia, famous for its sandstone cliffs, caves, dense forests, and the panoramic Gauja River valley. One of the park’s captivating attractions is Gutmanis Cave, the largest grotto in the Baltic states, whose walls are covered with historical inscriptions from centuries ago. Visitors can enjoy hiking, kayaking, cycling, watching wildlife, and participate in more extreme activities such as bungee jumping or riding the Sigulda bobsleigh track. The park is also home to medieval castles, ancient settlement sites, and picturesque towns like Sigulda and Cesis. It’s a perfect spot for travelers interested in both nature and history!

Slitere National Park is known for its peaceful atmosphere, wetlands, forests, and rich biodiversity. The most interesting place in the park is Cape Kolka, where the waters of the Gulf of Riga and the Baltic Sea clash, creating dramatic waves and a unique view. Birdwatching is also popular here. Migratory birds pass through this area every year, especially during spring and autumn migrations. The park offers hiking and cycling trails that pass through forests, bogs, and traditional Livonian fishing villages, which have a boat cemetery. Visitors can explore the historic Slitere Lighthouse, enjoy long walks near sandy beaches, watch a sunset or wait for the sunrise, and taste local traditional foods, like smoked fish and sklandrausis – a sweet Latvian pastry.

Estonia

Estonia has 5 national parks, making it a notably green country with forests covering 57% of its area. But we would like to recommend two parks for you to visit!

Soomaa National Park is best known for its unusual “fifth season”, when spring snowmelt or heavy rain causes water levels to rise and flood forests, roads, and meadows. During this period, boats become the most reliable form of transportation. Visitors can experience guided canoe trips or paddle through flooded forests and open wetlands. In winter, visitors can skate on frozen rivers or ride a kick-sled through a snowy park! The park offers hiking trails and wooden boardwalks that lead through bogs, rivers, and untouched wilderness. Soomaa is also recognized for sustainable tourism and has received a quality label from the EUROPARC Federation for protecting nature while supporting eco-friendly travel.

Karula National Park is Estonia’s smallest national park, known for its dense forests, hills, bogs, and lakes that formed after the Ice Age many years ago. The park protects several rare species of plants and animals, making it one of Estonia’s ecological natural areas. Visitors can enjoy hiking, cycling, canoeing, birdwatching, and relaxing near Lake Ahijarv, the park’s largest lake. While hiking in the area, there are also ancient burial sites, traditional farm buildings, and smoke saunas that keep centuries-old Estonian traditions. Park’s calm atmosphere and diverse landscapes make an ideal escape for nature enthusiasts!

From the moving sand dunes of the Curonian Spit to the peaceful flooded wetlands of Sooma, each Baltic national park offers a unique experience shaped by nature, history, and local traditions. Travelers can discover a deeper connection to the natural world through the different activities each park provides. Although beyond their beauty, these protected areas play an important role in environmental conservation, helping protect fragile ecosystems and endangered species for future generations. Experience the unseen landscapes of the National Parks and create your own unforgettable journey in the Baltics!