Soomaa National Park Guide
Embrace the Fifth Season: Explore Soomaa's Wilderness Guide
Welcome to Soomaa National Park, a haven of untouched wilderness in southwestern Estonia. This unique park is renowned for its "fifth season" – a period of extensive flooding that transforms the landscape into a watery wonderland. Soomaa offers a chance to immerse yourself in nature, experience the tranquility of vast bogs and forests, and witness the remarkable adaptations of life in a dynamic environment. Soomaa's history is intertwined with its natural features. For centuries, the area's remote location and challenging terrain provided refuge for people seeking isolation. The park's bogs, formed over thousands of years, have preserved archaeological evidence of early human settlements. Traditional practices like haymaking and bog iron extraction have shaped the landscape and continue to be part of the local culture. The park was officially established in 1993 to protect its unique biodiversity and cultural heritage. Visitors to Soomaa can enjoy a variety of activities. Hiking and canoeing are popular ways to explore the park's diverse ecosystems. Marked trails lead through forests, bogs, and along riverbanks, offering stunning views and opportunities for wildlife spotting. During the "fifth season," canoeing becomes an essential mode of transportation, allowing you to navigate the flooded landscapes and experience the park from a unique perspective. Guided tours are available to learn about the park's ecology, history, and cultural traditions. Birdwatching is also a popular activity, as Soomaa is home to a wide variety of bird species.
Transportation
Reaching Soomaa National Park requires a bit of planning due to its remote location. The nearest major city is Pärnu, from where you can take a bus to smaller towns closer to the park, such as Tori or Tipu. From these towns, you'll likely need to arrange local transportation, such as a taxi or pre-booked transfer, to reach the park's visitor centers or trailheads. Renting a car in Pärnu or Tallinn is the most convenient option for exploring the park independently.