Go with the flow: Follow the water from bogs to the Baltic Sea

From serene bog lakes to the Baltic Sea, explore Northwestern Estonia’s waterways and see for yourself how water shapes the land and local culture.

Anneliis Jool

Harju-, Rapla- ja Läänemaa DMO

Wind your way from tranquil bog lakes to the storm-tossed Baltic Sea

This journey invites families to explore the varied waterways and seascapes of Northwestern Estonia. This is more than just sightseeing; it is a chance to feel the water flow around your feet, to see how it shapes the landscape around it, and to share special moments of discovery with your littlest travel companions.

Designed especially for families with school-age children, the route offers a chance to explore nature, satisfy your curiosity, and relax away from the city's hustle and bustle. This holiday will enrich your mind – step by step, along the water’s edge or in the water itself. And, of course, you can travel the same route again and again or try one way in summer, another way in winter — you'll always be surprised by something new.

What to expect along the way:

Main attractions: Mukri Bog, Loosalu Bog Lake, an overnight stay on a raft in Parveküla, Keila Waterfall, the singing sands on the beaches in Laulasmaa and Nõva, spa and sauna experiences in Laulasmaa or Haapsalu, Rummu Quarry & Haapsalu’s seaside promenade
Distance: About 250 km if covering the entire route
Duration: At least three days and two nights, allowing for one day per county
Visiting season: All year round – each season offers a different water-based experience
How to get here and around: Best by car or caravan; walking is required on beaches and in bogs
Suggested starting point: The route is designed for visitors coming from South Estonia or Latvia; for those coming from Tallinn, the recommended itinerary is Harju County, then Lääne County and finally Rapla County.
Green travel tips: This route is a sustainable choice, as it leads visitors away from Tallinn to less crowded parts of Estonia. Moreover, year-round visits reduce the environmental load, support local businesses that offer food and accommodation, and provide opportunities to try seasonal forest produce or purchase goods directly from farmers.

Welcome to Rapla County!

Day 1

Your journey begins in the verdant and somewhat mystical Rapla County, where you can roam its bogs and sail in a raft sauna on the Vigala River.

Mukri is one of Estonia’s oldest bogs. Its 2.5-km-long nature trail, replete with boardwalks, is suitable even for the youngest members of the family. Along the trail, you'll find an observation tower and several spots that are perfect for picnics. At the Mukri campfire site, a fire pit, grilling equipment, and seating are available.

Those seeking a longer walk can head to the Loosalu-Paluküla nature trail (7.7 km). Here, you can take a dip in Estonia’s largest bog lake, Loosalu. Alternatively, why not explore the lake by kayak or stand-up paddleboard?

Further aquatic adventures await in Parveküla, in a floating raft sauna on the Vigala River. Here, you can also ride a water bike, go canoeing, or fish – everything designed for a perfect family holiday!

After your water-based adventures, enjoy a lovely family meal in the town of Rapla. The Vigala River promenade is a great place to stroll afterwards to take in the relaxed atmosphere of the small town.

View of an Estonian bog from above with a wooden boardwalk and bog lakes

Photo author: Elen Juurma

Onwards to Harju County

Day 2

Harju County is a region where you can discover the beauty of nature, cultural heritage, and fun water-based experiences at every turn. Marvel at a mighty waterfall and watch the sun’s rays play in the blue depths of Rummu Quarry.  As you continue your journey, the landscape gradually transforms from quiet fields to something more coastal. However, the first stop on Day 2 is one of Estonia’s most beautiful waterfalls, Keila Waterfall, which is surrounded by parkland and walking trails.

This waterfall is one of the county’s most striking sights and makes an ideal rest stop for families. Just a short walk from the parking area, a wide curtain of water flows over a limestone escarpment. A marked trail leads through the surrounding park, with suspension bridges and scenic views of the river. The site is suitable for strollers, and its walks will not tire out little feet. 

Continue your journey by heading towards Laulasmaa. Laulasmaa Beach, with its white sand and shallow water, surrounded by a pine forest, is a perfect place for children to play and swim safely. Nearby is the LaSpa water and sauna centre, a family-friendly complex with numerous pools and saunas. The kids can splash about in their own dedicated pool while their parents relax in the aroma or steam saunas and take part in guided sauna rituals.

Rummu Quarry and its former prison area offer families a unique combination of a special natural environment and exciting activities. The crystal-clear lake, created by flooding a former limestone quarry, is perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, and, for the truly bold, scuba diving. The water is so clear that adventurous swimmers can also go snorkeling to explore the underwater ruins.

Photo author: Virgo Haan

Slow down in Lääne County

Day 3

In Lääne County, be sure to visit the Nõva area, the town of Haapsalu, and Paralepa. Nõva is a true oasis for those who value scenic views, peace and quiet, and quality family time. The seaside town of Haapsalu is often referred to as the "Venice of the North." This calm, picturesque resort is ideal for families seeking a balance of nature, culture, and adventure. In Nõva, on the Noarootsi Peninsula, you will find beautiful forests, hear glorious birdsong, and experience the famous "singing sands" — walk barefoot along Peraküla Beach and listen to the sand sing with every step! 

When it is time to head off, the coastal road will lead you to one of the county’s treasures: the romantic town of Haapsalu and its bird-filled bays. Haapsalu is a pearl of the Baltic coast, boasting quiet, picturesque streets that are perfect for true romantics. A walk along its seaside promenade showcases historical views. Take a moment at Tagalaht Bay to watch swans glide through the water and soak up the relaxing silence.

Just a short walk from the town’s center lies Paralepa Beach, a green oasis on the sandy shores of Haapsalu Bay. Nestled between pine forests and the sea is the family-friendly Fra Mare Thalasso Spa Hotel. Here, you can enjoy spa treatments, including a variety of saunas and pool areas.

Photo author: Visit Haapsalu

Ready to go? 

Pack your car and gather up the family for a three-day journey through bogs, forests, beaches and bird-filled bays. Discover the magical tranquility of bogs, the singing sands of local beaches, and Haapsalu's promenade with its flocks of birds. Add in a picnic, swimming, sandwiches, and a climb up a birdwatching tower, and you are ready for an unforgettable family trip!